House Sitting in West Dorset

About: I have 10 years experience caring for dogs, including my own dogs, and dogs of family members and friends. I have my own dog, Larry, who I absolutely adore. He will stay with my husband whilst I dog sit in other homes. I work full time as a speech therapist, however, much of my work is done from home. Aside from dog sitting, I am available for evenings for dog sitting and walking. My husband Will works from our home, and also has a rover account. He is available to take bookings during week days and also weekends. We have a secure fenced back garden for rest breaks. We are very lucky to live near many open fields for long dog walks, but can also accommodate for older or less mobile dogs.

“Ro filled us with confidence from the moment we met him, he was calm around the dogs which was lovely to see. I had no concerns leaving them with him and they were happy and relaxed when we returned. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ro as a dog sitter.”

Rupert & Lizzie

“Tianna was fantastic and catered for our dog Bennie’s needs brilliantly, we can tell that he had so much fun whilst staying with her as he’s been curled up asleep ever since he got back! Excellent communication and provided us with lovely updates to keep our minds at ease! I’d recommend Tianna to anyone and will certainly be using her again!”

Bexley T.

About: I've been around dogs my entire life as family pets and I have been dog sitting since I was 14 for friends and family. Myself and my partner Miça absolutely love dogs and as we don't have any of our own, we are looking to help others. I currently work from home so I am able to look after dogs every day during the week if needed. Work is very flexible so I am able to break regularly for walks and even take work calls when out. I am available for overnight stays as well during the week or at weekends (availability permitting). Very flexible. I have a fenced garden for fresh air and I have 45 acres of land to walk in. Dogs will have free reign to wander in the house (training dependant) and I will set up space in my office for socialising! We have 3 dogs in the house currently (Bramble and Cully both black Labs and Larry a Saluki). All 3 dogs are extremely friendly.

“I highly recommend Edita, she looked after our puppy for us this weekend and has done a fantastic job. She has been kind, loving and taken her out for some lovely walks. It means a lot to trust someone with your dog, but Edita made us feel comfortable about leaving our puppy with her and it was clear to us that she’s a dog person and spent lots of time doing nice things with her. Thank you so much ❤️”

Lauren S.

“Incredible, this is the 4 or 5 time we've used Agata as our dog and cat home sitter, and each time it's been perfect. This time we were away for a whole week the longest we've left them. And they loved it. Pictures and updates everyday to keep you in the know. Amazing thanks again!! And booked her again for October. Couldn't recommend highly enough.”

Iain C.

About: I love animals very much, and most of them never refuse petting and treats; for such cases, I always have long artificial nails on my left hand, and treats are kept in my desk drawer. I understand perfectly that every living creature has its own character, interests, and needs, and I am happy to satisfy them. Dogs first appeared in my house about 4 years ago, 2 Labrador mixes, aged 7 and 12. My mom took them from a shelter where we used to volunteer, walking, grooming, and photographing the dogs. In general, we spent time with them in every way possible, helping them socialize and find a home. By that time, I already had 2 cats and 2 rabbits living with me, and we also periodically took in 1-2 cats for treatment or temporary care. Then I moved in with my boyfriend, who has 2 wonderful dogs: a European husky and a Shepherd mix. I spent a lot of time with them since I wasn't working; we walked for at least 4 hours every day. When needed, I bathed and brushed them, never forgetting to treat them with snacks. They would take every free moment to get as close to me as possible so I wouldn't stop petting them. I looked after my friend's cat at his home while he and his wife were on vacation. I followed all recommendations and regularly sent photos and videos of the happy cat. I also occasionally go to help walk dogs and socialize puppies, giving them warmth and attention. Most of the time I spend at home writing a book and drawing, but for that I need inspiration, and every minute that it is absent, I am happy to devote to walks, games, and any other whims of your pet. I would be happy to follow all recommendations for caring for your pet. In case you wish to leave him/her with me, there is a guest sofa, as well as a place for a bed, blanket, or cage if the pet needs one (I do not have my own cage). From the room, there is always access to exit into a fenced garden, and there is also a wonderful park for walks right across from the house. A cat and a rabbit also live with me, but if your pet is not happy with company, I have the possibility to separate them from each other.

About: I have 6 years of experience training my own dog at home. I love dogs, they are my favourite animals in the world and one day I hope to own a dog sanctuary where I can rescue countless dogs across the country and the world. This is the start of my journey towards that. I believe that a happy dog is a well-managed dog. My approach is Force-Free and focuses on Positive Reinforcement to build a bond of trust and mutual respect. Here are the 8 core pillars I use to ensure every walk or visit is a high-quality learning experience: • The "Continuous to Variable" Method: I use treats to "bank" good behavior. For new skills, I reward every success; once mastered, I switch to random "jackpot" rewards to keep your dog focused and motivated without needing a bribe every time. • The Three D’s of Mastery: I help dogs bulletproof their commands by gradually increasing Distance from the dog, the Duration of the task, and the level of Distraction in the environment. • The "Be a Tree" Policy: I never allow a dog to pull. If the lead goes taut, I stop completely until it slackens, teaching them that a loose lead is the only way to move forward. • Tiered Reward Systems: I use "Standard" kibble for easy tasks and "High-Value" treats (like chicken or cheese) for emergency recall or high-distraction situations. • Short, High-Intensity Bursts: Dogs learn best in 5–10 minute sessions. I keep training short and always finish on a "win" to keep their confidence and engagement high. • Positive Reinforcement Only: I focus entirely on rewarding desired behaviors. I never use aversive equipment like choke chains or prong collars. • The "Watch Me" Check-In: I train dogs to respond to a "Watch" cue, allowing me to regain their attention immediately if a squirrel or another dog appears nearby. • Capturing Calmness: Beyond active commands, I reward "Settle" behaviors. If a dog chooses to relax while we wait at a crossing, they receive a calm reward to reinforce a relaxed default state. I balance a professional part-time role in Dorchester with a disciplined morning routine of market analysis, which I typically conclude by 11:00 AM. This structure allows me to dedicate the vast majority of my day to taking dogs on high-energy adventures through the Dorset countryside. While my professional shifts can vary, I am consistently available all day Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday. I pride myself on reliability and clear communication, ensuring your dog's routine is never disrupted. My long-term goal is to transition into full-time animal care, so I treat every walk as a commitment to building a lasting bond with your pet. I ensure that every pet has their own dedicated personal space, including their own bed, food, and water to maintain an stress-free environment. Your dog will have easy access to a secure, fully fenced garden for play and relaxation. During our outings, I strictly limit my groups to a maximum of 4 dogs at any one time. I believe that maintaining total control is the key to a safe and enjoyable walk in the Dorset countryside. For dogs that are less social or require more focused attention, I also offer specialized solo walks. To provide a truly comprehensive service, I can also incorporate basic training during our walks and offer grooming services, such as baths and brushing, to keep your pet looking and feeling their best. I will eventually get the license to have dogs at my property if you would prefer that as well.

About: I've taken care of all types of dogs from the age of 18, looking after my parents small dogs (Cavaliers) and large dogs (standard poodles) for months at a time when they would go on holiday. I have carried numerous dog / house sits for friends and family, ranging from small to big dogs, puppies and cats. In 2025 and early 2026, I travelled for 10 months around Europe, New Zealand and Australia and was hired for 5 x dog sits in Australia over the last 2 months of my stay. Two 10 day sits, and three 3-6 day sits. I have experience with handling and administering medication, with a recent sit, all three pets requiring AM and PM medication. I work remotely from my laptop full time, so can give around the clock attention to your beloved pets & take great care of your house. I am incredibly organized, neat and tidy. Early morning person who can adapt to any pet's routine. I am great at sending updates during a sit, so if you wish to only receive one update and one photo please let me know and I'll make sure not to send any more than this! If you have a particularly shy or harder dog to deal with then please do not hesitate to contact me as I am confident and love a challenge. Barking does not bother me as it is just them expressing how they are feeling. I work remotely from my laptop full time, so can give around the clock attention to your beloved pets & take great care of your house. I am incredibly organized, neat and tidy. Early morning person who can adapt to any pet's routine. I work remotely from my laptop full time, so can give around the clock attention to your beloved pets & take great care of your house. I am incredibly organized, neat and tidy. Early morning person who can adapt to any pet's routine.

“Nina looked after our french bulldog Bella in our own home for the weekend (Friday-Sunday) whilst my family & I went to a family wedding. Beforehand, Nina gladly came over to meet Bella, finding out everything she needed to know in order to look after her well. This included checking Bella's routine, diet, habits etc. We knew that Nina would be popping in throughout the weekend but we feel that she went above and beyond. As we felt Bella did not need overnight visits, Nina came first thing in the morning to let her out etc and stayed for every visit at least 2-3 hours - visiting throughout the day for extended periods, before settling her for bed. Nina also sent us regular photos and videos which reassured us that Bella was being well cared for. In addition, Nina helped to train Bella which was definitely an added bonus. We 100% trusted Nina & could not have found a better dog sitter. We would absolutely recommend Nina to anyone requiring a pet sitter. Thank you so much for taking care of our family dog so well x”

Melanie K.

About: I’ve grown up around animals and have experience caring for dogs, cats, chickens, fish, and hamsters. I’m reliable, love animals, and will make sure your pets are well cared for and exercised I’m flexible and able to fit pet care around my daily routine. I’m happy to spend quality time with your pets, including feeding, playing, walks, and giving them attention and company. I will always make sure your pets feel safe, comfortable, and well cared for in your home. I’m responsible, trustworthy, and will follow any routines or instructions carefully.

“I was delighted to have Olivia stay at my home for 2 nights and look after my adopted Rescue Dog, Riley. He has only been with me for 2 weeks and I had never planned to leave him so early in the process but Olivia came to my rescue! She has so much experience with dogs and in particular rescue dogs so I knew Riley was in good hands. She kept me up to date with how he was doing and I was able to have those 3 days away without worrying. Olivia was supposed to finish her responsibilities last night at 8pm but my travel was delayed by over an hour and she was happy to stay on until 9pm. I have no hesitation in recommending Olivia for her kindness and patience in dealing with Riley. It’s obvious that she loves animals and wants to do what’s best for them”

Olive B.

About: Reliable and conscientious, caring and pro-active with 20 years experience in dog walking and dog sitting for friends and family. Based in Dorchester, Dorset. Access to a private garden and a multitude of walking routes, green spaces and bridleways, ideal for dog walks in the countryside, year round. Dependable and attentive = available to help with dog walking, boarding or general pet care. I provide daily feeding, walks and playtime, and take care of grooming and health needs on a weekly basis. Located in Poundbury, Dorchester, with access to a private fenced garden and a wide variety of walking routes, green spaces, and bridleways—perfect for countryside dog walks all year round. The household has no other pets.

“We were a little worried about having a house sitter for our two pugs. We found Karen on Rover.com and she was trustworthy, bonded with our dogs very quickly and really looked after them very well. We received photos every day whilst away and Karen was the perfect house sitter. We could see that our dogs were very happy on our return. Thank you Karen”

Kim H.

“Joe was amazing! Reliable, trustworthy, so great with my anxious pooch and took really good care of my house. Couldn't recommend more strongly!”

Tom W.

About: I’ve been taking care of animals since I was 6 years old. I’ve had lots of different breeds of dogs in my life and love them all! Being a very patient and present person, dogs and cats seem to get used to me quickly. Working part time and on a freelance basis, I’ve got lots of time to look after pets! I’m very flexible and excited to meet new pets across the city. Unfortunately, where I live I’m not able to have a pet of my own as I don’t have any outside space, so Rover is a great way for me to get my animal fox, as well as helping out pet owners. As I mentioned before, I’m not able to have animals in my home, but I will ensure to be incredibly vigilant of any quirks/rules for your pet in your home.

About: I grew up on a dairy farm with all kinds of animals and domestic pets and have had a lifelong love of dogs. I was trusted to look after pets for other people from an early age and regularly look after the dogs of friends, neighbours and work colleagues. I absolutely walking and my morning and evening walks are always the highlight of my day. I am currently working full time in a school five minutes from home, and walk my dog every morning before school and in the afternoon after school. I live in the beautiful Dorset countryside and have some wonderful varied woodland walks on my doorstep. At weekends I usually take dogs to the beach, always the highlight of the week! I am off work for half terms and school holidays and love being able to spend more time looking after pets. I have a fenced garden with room to play and run around and a super friendly cockapoo called Paddington who adores the company of other dogs. I stick to a routine of regular feeding times, two walks every day and regular play time and cuddle time! I will work to the routine of your dog to make them feel safe and welcomed.

About: My family had a boxer dog called Charlie before I was born until I was 6. My grandparents also had a dog until two years ago, who I walked and played with. My neighbour also would being their cocker-spaniel Poppy to our house a few weekends a year, for us to look after, including taking on regular walks, out to the toilet, etc. I would like to petsit a few weekends a year, probably once a month, and am happy to travel to a variety of places for this. I will ensure the safety of your pet at all times, ensuring I follow the instructions you provide to fulfil the individual needs of your pet. I have high attention to detail, and have worked in environments where responsibility and caring for others is of extreme importance (I worked in a nursery for 3 months over the summer 2021).

About: I raised my 5 year old cocker spaniel, who loves ditch-the-bowl training. I'm a freelance outdoor instructor offering stimulating, long winter walks with new scents to enrich happy dogs. My two dogs enjoy morning and evening walks. With the garden always open, I provide 1-2 long weekday walks and adventurous weekend outings away from Sherborne. My garden is fenced, so they cannot escape. My two dogs will keep your dog company who are both very friendly and are used to other dogs staying. If they were to travel in the van I have seat belt clips, clips and a crate in the rear. I have a crate if your dog needs it's own space in the house too (Rusty sleeps under the stairs and Indi can sleep in our bedroom, so your dog can either sleep in the kitchen or living room). If you needed me to stay at your house, then I don't have to bring my dogs as my partner also works from home. We love dogs! We don't have children so they get a lot of fuss. I tend to use kibble/treats on their first walk with a retractable lead, to get a sense of recall and connection with the dog.

“Ieuan was absolutely perfect for looking after Raffie, our 4 year old rescued failed sheep dog. They had a lovely walk together and Ieuan then kept him company for the rest of the day. Ieuan was extremely prompt in replying to my enquiry and very helpful with my questions regarding Rover as this was our first time of using them. I shall definitely use Ieuan again- if he is available!! Thank you so much. It made my day away so much more enjoyable knowing that Raffie was in safe hands.”

Jill L.