Personalized care for your dog or cat - Santa Cruz
Highly-rated overnight sitters - Santa Cruz
Prices are estimates per night for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“We are so grateful for Yajaira's care of our little dog. Our dog is shy with new people but within just an hour or two Yajaira had already won her over, taken her for a walk and sent photos of our little dog relaxing in the house. We loved getting the cute photos and updates while we were away. Yajaira has excellent communication and it's no wonder why she has many 5-star reviews from pet parents. We'll gladly book with her again when we need a reliable and caring pet sitter. Thank you, Yajaira!”
“Susie was very informative, responsive and kind. She sent lots of pictures and updates which helped feeling comfortable with a new sitter for my grandpup. Milo was very well taken care of and we already have her booked for upcoming dates. I strongly recommend her to sit, walk or care for your pet.”
“Nancy and her husband welcomed our dog with open arms. She responded very quickly to our request and we were able to set up a meet and greet that same night. She took very good care of our fur baby Chloe. We got pictures and updates every day. She was very flexible with the pick up and drop off times, which is a ++. We will definitely use her service again. She is highly recommended.”
About: I've had dogs for over 10 years and have taken care of dogs and cats with all sorts of needs/medical care such as diabetic, arthritic and eye-sight impaired animals. I trained both of my dogs in agility and behavior classes so I have experience with training and extended behaviors. I volunteer at the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter and have taken multiple classes on dog behavior and dog walking safety. I am currently a UC Santa Cruz student but my schedule is fairly flexible since I commute/live off campus. Currently I only have one class per day, Monday through Friday so I can be present to provide majority of the care with minimal outings. I always ask clients about their yard and preferences for their animals safety in the yard especially at night. Depending on their circumstances, I will scan the yard for any unusual activity and safety concerns. As well as always being in close proximity when the dog wants to go in the front/backyard.
“Hannah was amazing. She was able to accommodate us last minute for a holiday weekend. She sent us updates along with videos of Archer doing all his favorite activities. We know he was in great hands and will definitely call her for any future needs”
“We arrived for a trip to Santa Cruz and found out our Roz was not allowed at the hotel due to her size. We started searching local pet hospitals, dog walkers, boarding facilities and the only place that could take her was all the way back in Santa Clara. As a last resort we checked Rover and Meghan came through for us. In the end Roz probably had as much fun as we did with her new friends during our weekend in Santa Cruz. Thanks Meghan!”
“Michael and Patti were so helpful in a time of crisis. They were available with very little notice, which we were very lucky and grateful for. Our dog really has a good time with them and their dogs, causing mischief and hilarity! We really lucked out meeting them. We know Jethro is in good hands and our minds and hearts are at ease. We actually feel guilty taking him away from his playmates. They are a treasure!”
“Teresa was so kind and energetic. She sent us pictures of Otoro the whole time we were gone - he went to walks and hikes and played and came back tired (in the best way!) I will definitely be booking with Teresa again the next time we are looking for someone to hang out with Otoro!”
“I’m so glad we found Jenna! Our beloved English Mastiff rescue needs a lot of love and attention which is exactly what he got staying with Jenna and her family. We were updated everyday with how he was doing along with pictures throughout his stay. It gave us peace of mind while we were away. We’ll definitely be coming back :)”
“Cynthia was a wonderful sitter for my Esta girl. We had a meet & greet before hand. She was friendly & lovely. She was flexible with drop off and pick up times. She communicated & sent pictures during our trip. We will definitely rebook soon!”
“Kelsey was very communicative and shared pictures of our pets lounging with them and having fun. She was understanding about a few issues our pugs have and we wouldn't hesitate to leave our dogs with Kelsey again. Thanks so much Kelsey!”
About: I have been taking care of my Labradoodle Mokka for the last 7 years! We have grown up together and she’s taught me so much. I helped train her when she was a puppy, and still help her daily now after she’s grown up. Along with that I have spent time around many different dog breeds amd sizes, and I have yet to find a dog that I can’t get along with. I love to walk , cuddle, and play with these pups any chance I get! Although I currently am in high school, I have time almost everyday after school. I am very flexible, so most times after around 3 works perfect for me! If a problem comes up, I will push to find a solution that is best for the client and myself. Overnight dog sitting or house sitting will not be possible except on weekends, because of school. I’m a very diligent person, and I follow directions carefully. I will give each client 100 % effort, both the owners and their loving pets. I want the pets to feel safe and comfortable, because that is my top priority. Although I will be responsible and careful with all my clients, I will make sure the animals are happy and recirving tons of love as well!
“Angelika did a great job watching my dog. She provided regular updated videos and pictures of how she was doing during her stay. My puppy who is intimated by larger dogs made a friend as well as a result of Angelika! I’d recommend her to any pet parent! :)”
“Shannon treated my dog like family, taking him on fun walks and hanging out on the deck. She’s fantastic at communication and sent pictures of their adventures. We will definitely book again. Highly recommend.”
“Elizabeth and Coco were so welcoming to Rocky. I appreciate Elizabeth's flexibility in watching Rocky while I attended a wedding nearby. She was in regular communication about how Rocky adjusted, and sent pics of her cuddling with both dogs. She took great care of my little guy. She lives in a beautiful beach home.”
“Yu is the best! She goes way above and beyond with my dogs. Her family spends so much time with the dogs and takes them on adventures all around Santa Cruz. I know that my dog is going to be happy and safe while I’m away. Yu sends lots of pictures and updates. Highly highly highly recommend!!!”
About: I’ve been taking care of dogs and cats for about 8 years, whether it be neighbors, friends, or clients. I’ve done week long petsitting and simple day long care as well. I currently have 20 hours of dog walking logged at Santa Cruz animal shelter, working with dogs of all kinds. I am a full time student at UC Santa Cruz, but have a pretty flexible schedule! I mostly attend university in the morning and early afternoon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I’m located in a safe neighborhood great for walks. My yard is unfenced, so I would supervise any pets that were to go outside, all depending on the owners comfort with this condition. My home is large, so there’s plenty of room to roam around.
“Marta took wonderful care of our dog while we were out of the country for one week. He experienced a health issue when we were away, and Marta handled it with careful attention. She worked hard to make sure our boy was comfortable and at ease. She administered medication with confidence and communicated clearly with us as to how he was doing each day. I am thankful that we found Marta and recommend her to anyone looking for a capable, kind, dog-loving caretaker.”
About: After 14 beautiful years with my Maltese, I’m taking some time before finding my next dog. In the meantime, I would love to shower your little one with that same level of devotion. I work from home in a calm, pet-free, and child-free household, so your dog will have my full, undivided attention in a safe and peaceful environment Because I work from home, my weekly routine is incredibly flexible and perfectly suited for a dog. Pet care isn't something I have to squeeze into my schedule; it naturally becomes part of my day. Whether it's our 7 AM morning neighborhood strolls, hanging out by my desk while I work, spending a little time outdoors enjoying the garden, or snuggling up on the couch for our 9 PM bedtime, your little one will be by my side, safe and cared for 24/7. Since I work from home, your pup will be my trusty desk companion during the day, with plenty of breaks for potty trips and short strolls. In the evenings, they'll join us for cozy TV time before we all head to bed around 9 PM. Our days start bright and early at 7 AM with a morning walk to greet the neighborhood dogs, followed by breakfast. Rest assured, your little one will be safe, comfortable, and completely spoiled!
Over 4.1 million dogs curled up for a sleepover in a sitter's home on Rover1
Cat caregivers near you - Santa Cruz
Prices are estimates per visit for 1 cat. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“Jaden was a great pet sitter. She communicated well with detailed information each day. She even took the time to call me when one of our fur babies decided to hide behind our washing machine. Lucky due to Jaden going above and beyond our cat was able to get back out after Jaden moved the dryer out a bit from the wall so our boy Stormie was able to climb back out after Jaden left.”
“Jasmine was great, our plans changed so we had to contact her last minute but she was able come through for us and watch our cat. He’s a shy guy who usually takes a while to warm up to people but she managed to get him to be friendly right away”
“Kai did a great job cat-sitting for me! He was very gentle with Rose (which she needs as a slightly timid cat) and made sure to document her food intake as I requested. Rose is on the shyer side, but from Kai’s photos it looks like she really warmed up to him! Kai also went above and beyond in fully cleaning Rose’s food mat, which is a task I know I need to take on more often myself.”
“Jennifer was amazing with our cat Maca! From the start, she was super sweet and easy to communicate with. She went above and beyond every day — sending us updates, photos, and making sure Maca was happy and taken care of. It was such a relief knowing our kitty was in good hands while we were away. Maca is a shy cat with new people and we really appreciated Jennifer’s patience in making her feel comfortable and gaining her trust while we were gone. We would 100% book again with Jennifer and highly recommend!”
About: I have experience consistently cat sitting and dog sitting for weeks, routinely taking care of their needs. I love taking care of pets and pride myself on being reliable for them. I currently walk my dog daily, sometimes including walks to the park to play with other dogs, as well as care for her around the house. I plan on best taking care of pets by thoughtfully observing what they want or need, and taking care of their needs in the best way I can.
About: I’ve been a cat lover since high school when I got my first cat, Daisy. She’s been my best friend ever since, and caring for her has given me valuable hands-on experience in cat care. From feeding and grooming to cleaning her litter box and ensuring she feels loved and comfortable, I understand the dedication and attention cats need. Whether your cat is playful and energetic or more independent and reserved, I’ll provide personalized care to keep them happy and comfortable while you’re away.
“Mamoo took very good care of my two cats and sent updates with pictures and comments. I had a worry free trip away. Mamoo provided in-home care. Mamoo is sensitive and perceptive regarding cats' preferences and communications and adjusts his care to meet your pets' needs. For instance if your pet is too nervous to come out to regular feeding area, he will bring food to the cat and approach slowly and respectfully. My cats warmed up to Mamoo and he gave them lots of love and attention. My cats were not showing any signs of stress after my return which is unusual for one of my cats! I highly recommend Mamoo as your service provider.”
“Kim was great with my senior kitty! She came prepared at the meet and greet and I knew my cat was in good hands while I was gone. She was communicative and kept me updated after every drop in visit. I highly recommend Kim!”
About: I’ve grown up with cats for my whole life. From being with cats all the time, I’ve learned their habits and how to take care of them without disturbing their peace. I also have a year’s worth of past experience as a PetsHotel Specialist at PetSmart, so I have plenty of experience taking care of and playing with dogs and cats of all sizes and ages!
About: I have experience with cats of all temperaments and abilities! I grew up caring for two gorgeous long-haired kitties. One of them was disabled and required extra attention and cleaning. In the past few years, I’ve cat-sat for a number of friends. I’m the go-to for my friends and family when it comes to pet sitting. They trust me with their fur babies and appreciate how I maintain the routine their pet is familiar with.
About: What sets me apart as a pet caretaker is the genuine attention and patience I give every pet I care for. I have hands-on experience caring for dachshunds, and much bigger dogs, including both a senior dog and a younger dog, so I understand that every pet has different needs depending on their age and personality. I am a student at UC Santa Cruz, but will be home for the summer working a part time job, ready whenever to take care of your pet. Safety and trust are my top priorities when caring for pets in a client’s home. I always make sure pets are supervised, comfortable, and kept in a clean, calm, and secure environment. I have experience administering medication carefully and following specific care instructions to make sure each pet stays healthy and comfortable. I’m also familiar with crate training and maintaining consistent routines that help pets feel safe and reduce stress. I pay close attention to each pet’s behavior, needs, and comfort level so owners can feel confident their pets are being cared for in my care.
About: I have cat sit off and on for the past 8 years and completed tasks such as litter box cleaning, playing, and feeding for many different cats of all different ages and energy levels. I have a very calm energy that I think cats respond well too and I have never had any problems with management even though I have never had a cat of my own.
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Perfect for high energy dogs - Santa Cruz
Prices are estimates per day for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“Leo was great! He was easy to communicate with, flexible and accommodating, and our pup had a wonderful time with him. We’d happily book with Leo again and definitely recommend him to other dog parents.”
“Sophia was really good and kept me updated hourly, it was easy to book and basically took me at the last minute.. Pumpkin went on a long walk and seemed really happy and like she got her energy out!! 😊 highly recommend and would book with her again!”
“Nancy was the perfect match for my little guy. And her home environment was like little dog heaven on earth. Everything worked out seamlessly. I would definitely rebook with Nancy without hesitation! Many thanks!”
“Natalia was a great rover host for my girl. It's never easy finding and trusting a new sitter in a new area when traveling but she was fantastic! A safe home environment for my girl while I worked. I'll most definitely be using her again when I'm in the area.”
“Arrow had a great time with Anna and her pup! She took the time to meet with him at a dog park she thought would be a good space for them and when they went there during their play date, they had a great time. Our dog needs some extra care sometimes, as he can be very high energy and over excited with other dogs and in new situations, and we appreciate Anna's calm demeanor and flexible attitude with him! I fully recommend her <3”
About: Hello! My name is Anna, and I am currently studying to become a veterinarian in Santa Cruz, CA. I have worked professionally with animals for the past nine years and always treat every fur baby as if they are my own. I have built this experience through my independent pet-sitting business, my four years as a sales consultant at Pet Food Express, and my volunteer work as a cat and kitten socializer at a local shelter. I am also a mama to both my wonderful cat, Lemon, and my 16-year-old dog, Leo! I am currently very flexible with my schedule and am available for both day and overnight pet sitting. I strive not only to make your pet(s) feel as comfortable as possible, but also to help every owner feel as though they left their pet in the right hands. I love to provide as many updates and photos of your fur baby as you may want! I have the most experience with cats and dogs, but I do have limited experience with reptiles as well. I have additionally worked with animals of all temperaments, and I understand that new faces can be anxiety-inducing for some. I will always tailor each experience specifically to the needs of your animal and what will help bring them the most happiness :) Specific areas of expertise for me that may not be found elsewhere include caring for senior pets and animals who may have special needs. Through my studies, I have developed a strong foundation in primary veterinary concerns and how to properly care for an animal when they may not be feeling their best. As a current undergraduate student who pet-sits as my primary job, I am very flexible and open to caring for your animals! At most, I drive up to campus once a day for approximately two hours in the afternoon. I leave the rest of my day open to keeping your fur baby the best possible company. Pet safety is always my number one priority! I currently live in an apartment complex that contains a fenced yard, a dog park directly behind my apartment, and plenty of dog-friendly walking trails nearby. Our apartment is fairly spacious, and I have found that animals tend to love the large windows and amount of light we receive. For cats, I always ensure that all windows and doors are locked, and there are no possible escape routes (I know how sneaky cats can be)! I do currently have a very friendly cat living with me.
About: What sets me apart is my 6 years of professional dog care experience, including boarding, energetic walks, and feeding, plus references from satisfied pet owners who trust my attentive service with all breeds and ages, even assisting with puppy training and senior pet comfort. 🐾 I'm pretty flexible! I have pretty much free time, so I'd love to fit in pet care. I can do early morning or late afternoon dog walks, and I'm totally game for boarding or longer visits on weekends. Whatever works best for you! My home is a cozy getaway, spaces to snooze, a big fenced yard to play, and all the love in the world. Each pet gets personalized attention, playtime, and snuggles tailored to their vibe. Think of it as a furry sleepover with lots of TLC!
“Kimberley was so quick to respond when we needed last minute care for our pup! We felt so comfortable leaving Hazel with her for the afternoon. She had a little set up for Hazel as soon as we arrived and took her to the park. We would trust her to care for Hazel anytime!”
“So glad we found Shannon and Chris!! They are clearly dog people and made our pup feel right at home. He can have his quirks so we’re grateful that they were so understanding and easygoing. We’ll definitely book with them again!”
About: I’ve got experience dog-sitting, and dog-walking, as well as living with dogs and love when I get the chance to take care of them. I’ve had a dog my entire life until her recent passing and have loved and cared for all animals even before I got one. I’m incredibly comfortable with dogs of all sizes, types, and temperaments. This includes sick dogs with medication, senior pups, and various exercise needs. I have saved my dog from a life-threatening attack and provided intensive care, so I work well in a potentially contentious environment. I’m a full time student but my schedule is incredibly loose. I get to choose when I work on my senior project and go to class so I’m available whenever essentially. I only have to be in class Monday and Wednesday from 5-7! Other than that feel free to schedule me. I have a wonderful medium sized fenced yard and live close to Westlake park which has ample grass and play area. My roommates do live with me but are comfortable with the situation and all dog-friendly!
About: I have loved and cared for all types of animals ever since I was a little kid! I’ve had senior dogs, puppies, all types of cats, and even rats and fish! I have also volunteered at multiple animal shelters throughout the years, and have also walked and helped take care of friends and families pets. I currently have one cat of my own and help take care of two other cats and a bird! (: I am currently a wedding planner, which gives me tons of free time during the week since I don’t work and some weekends! My schedule allows me to be super flexible I will always make sure your animal has a clean and safe space (and of course tons of love) I will always keep an eye on them and give them all of my attention, I’ll even send you updates and photos (:
About: Growing up, I had a golden retriever named Daisy. Daisy is was from an organization I worked with called NorCal Golden Rescue. We fostered her for a couple of weeks but fell in love with her undeniable love and decided to adopt her. NorCal Golden Rescue mainly rescues golden retrievers who have been neglected and abandoned from the streets of Taiwan and bring them to the San Francisco Bay Area where they are paired with a fur-ever home. I have with dogs of all ages and temperaments from young lively puppies to old mellow senior citizen doggos. If need be I have experience with delivering oral and topical medication to dogs; as well as putting on the cone of shame :(. I love taking dogs out for adventures so if you don’t want your dog to be board, I’m your guy!
About: Offering beach walks, customized care, regular updates with photos, flexible scheduling, and loving attention. Ensuring your dog's safe, fun seaside adventure with peace of mind. 🐾 Dog Walking & Daycare Dog walking and daycare fit perfectly into my schedule because I do this full-time. It’s more than just a side job for me — I love what I do and am proud to make a living doing something I genuinely enjoy. My days are built around caring for dogs, getting outside, staying active, and making sure every pup gets plenty of attention and exercise. I’m always ready to take on the next walk, playdate, or adventure! 🐶🌊🐾 I offer 30-minute to 1-hour walks tailored to your dog's needs. Whether your pup loves a leisurely neighborhood stroll, playing fetch at the park, or running on the beach, I'm happy to make sure they get the exercise, attention, and care they deserve. I'm also available for dog/cat boarding during the week and on weekends if you need reliable, loving care while you're away. If you work over the hill, have long workdays, or just need a little extra help during the week, I'd love to help keep your dog happy and active while you're away. Feel free to message me with any questions or to discuss your dog's needs. Thanks, and I look forward to meeting you and your furry friend! 🐶❤️ — in Capitola.
More than 1.6 million pets enjoyed cuddles and care from sitters on Rover1
Adventure-ready dog walkers - Santa Cruz
Prices are estimates per walk for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“Evelyn is very professional, kind and a lovely person who my dog Oliver adores! He’s very sweet and loving but also not the easiest pup to handle. Evelyn does great with him. Very happy!”
“Skye , is a lovely professional dog walker. My dog Scooby warmed up to her right away. After just a few days of service Scooby is now very excited to see her knowing a good walk is on the way. He can tell she’s an animal person. Skye is easy to communicate with, friendly and very professional. Can’t say enough of what a find skye is on rover. Happy new customer, highly recommend!”
About: I have experience consistently cat sitting and dog sitting for weeks, routinely taking care of their needs. I love taking care of pets and pride myself on being reliable for them. I currently walk my dog daily, sometimes including walks to the park to play with other dogs, as well as care for her around the house. I plan on best taking care of pets by thoughtfully observing what they want or need, and taking care of their needs in the best way I can.
“Sofia was such a pleasure to work with! My dog is big and active so I chose Sofia based on her large dog experience. She walked Maple on a hot day and made sure she had water and shade breaks. I got photos to enjoy while we were away and was happy she went out of her way to also give our other dog a little attention when they got back to the house. I am new to the area and glad I found Sofia in our neighborhood so I will be sure to rebook next time I am looking for a dog walker!”
About: I’ve always loved dogs and was overjoyed when my family adopted two chihuahua-terriers when I was 10. Now, as a college student, I miss taking my dogs for long walks and fun hikes and would love to continue my love for animals by caring for others’ pets. As a fellow pet parent, I will treat your dog’s safety of the utmost importance. I will make sure that your pet, no matter their energy level or age, gets the care and attention they need. I'm currently a student, so I have plenty of time to care for pets! I am generally free on weekends and most weekday afternoons. I can be flexible with timing, so please reach out if you have any questions. While petsitting, I will follow any pet care instructions carefully. I have experience administering oral medications. Since I have a flexible schedule, I will also ensure that your dog is walked often and/or let outside. Most importantly, I will dedicate my attention and care to your pet while you're away!
“Rachel is a great walker. She has been walking our 2 10 month old GSC pups for about 6 months every day now and has been aiding in training during walks. We definitely reccomend Rachel for her above and beyond efforts, dependability, and character! Keep up the great work and thank you for everything your doing!”
About: Hi there! I love dogs and would love to have one of my own but have to settle for dog sitting since I don’t have a big place for any right now. I have had my account rover account in the past that I’d be happy to share. Made a new account since sin moving locations. Please reach out with any questions! I’m part-time in college, so I have plenty of time. I’m free basically all day everyday. I’d be happy to dedicate my time to your cutie :). I enjoy taking long walks, which I’m sure your fur baby would be happy to tag along. In your house, I can drop by whenever you need, or even stay for long periods of time if needed.
“Liv was very sweet and communicative with me while taking care of Iroh (my very particular husky) last minute. Would definitely recommend to a friend/book her again for my pup in the future!”
About: I currently have 5 amazing big dogs that I’ve been taking care of since I was in middle school. I am patient, responsible, friendly, and caring. I am available for pet walking and drop ins Monday through Thursday at any time just before 4pm! I am also available every other weekend! I have 5 dogs myself who I care for everyday. I run or walk them multiple times a week and play with them at the house!
“Jade is an absolute gem to work with! She was so attentive to our elder dogs many detailed needs. She communicates frequently, asking questions and letting us know how our little ones are doing. She sends plenty of sweet photos and really exhibits so much care. I recommend her without hesitation!”
About: I have pet care experience of at least 8 years, and I really enjoy taking care of pets, they bring me so much joy. And if you need someone who is energetic to take care of your pet, just let me know! I am currently enrolled at UCSC, so I am unable to take care of pets when I have class Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:20-2:25pm and Wednesdays 5:20-6:25pm. I am also unavailable on Saturdays all day. Other than that, I can fit pet care in between my schedule every day of the week except Saturdays! Since I live in an apartment with roommates who have a dog and a cat, I am unable to take care of pets at my home. However, I can pet sit at anybody’s home! I have experience doing overnight pet sitting without any flaws in making sure they’re fed and that they’ve been consistently played with throughout the day.
About: I have experience with dogs of all sizes and all ages! I grew up training and caring for a strong and stubborn German Shepherd. In the past few years, I’ve lived with a Retriever puppy - training him to be a sociable young man that goes potty outside. I’m the go-to for my friends and family when it comes to pet sitting. They trust me with their fur babies and appreciate how I maintain the routine their pet is familiar with. I work fully remote, so I have lots of flexibility when it comes to walks, playtime, and housesitting! On weekdays, I’m most available after 11:00am PT. I’m occasionally available on weekends! I want to care for your pet in the way you do! Please fill me in on their routine and their sensitivities! I want them to care for them in a way that feels familiar and safe.
About: Hello! My name is Anna, and I am currently studying to become a veterinarian in Santa Cruz, CA. I have worked professionally with animals for the past nine years and always treat every fur baby as if they are my own. I have built this experience through my independent pet-sitting business, my four years as a sales consultant at Pet Food Express, and my volunteer work as a cat and kitten socializer at a local shelter. I am also a mama to both my wonderful cat, Lemon, and my 16-year-old dog, Leo! I am currently very flexible with my schedule and am available for both day and overnight pet sitting. I strive not only to make your pet(s) feel as comfortable as possible, but also to help every owner feel as though they left their pet in the right hands. I love to provide as many updates and photos of your fur baby as you may want! I have the most experience with cats and dogs, but I do have limited experience with reptiles as well. I have additionally worked with animals of all temperaments, and I understand that new faces can be anxiety-inducing for some. I will always tailor each experience specifically to the needs of your animal and what will help bring them the most happiness :) Specific areas of expertise for me that may not be found elsewhere include caring for senior pets and animals who may have special needs. Through my studies, I have developed a strong foundation in primary veterinary concerns and how to properly care for an animal when they may not be feeling their best. As a current undergraduate student who pet-sits as my primary job, I am very flexible and open to caring for your animals! At most, I drive up to campus once a day for approximately two hours in the afternoon. I leave the rest of my day open to keeping your fur baby the best possible company. Pet safety is always my number one priority! I currently live in an apartment complex that contains a fenced yard, a dog park directly behind my apartment, and plenty of dog-friendly walking trails nearby. Our apartment is fairly spacious, and I have found that animals tend to love the large windows and amount of light we receive. For cats, I always ensure that all windows and doors are locked, and there are no possible escape routes (I know how sneaky cats can be)! I do currently have a very friendly cat living with me.
About: I’ve been taking care of dogs and cats for about 8 years, whether it be neighbors, friends, or clients. I’ve done week long petsitting and simple day long care as well. I currently have 20 hours of dog walking logged at Santa Cruz animal shelter, working with dogs of all kinds. I am a full time student at UC Santa Cruz, but have a pretty flexible schedule! I mostly attend university in the morning and early afternoon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I’m located in a safe neighborhood great for walks. My yard is unfenced, so I would supervise any pets that were to go outside, all depending on the owners comfort with this condition. My home is large, so there’s plenty of room to roam around.
“Megan is the best. She is responsible, respectful and a total pup whisperer for our black lab, Duchess. In fact she is the only person, us included, who can coax Duchess into her harness. We began with the plan to do just a couple of walks but it has worked out so well that Megan is now on a regularly recurring weekly schedule. Speaking of which, she has kindly accommodated some last minute changes in walk times. Thanks Megan.”
About: I grew up in the country with many different animals, mostly rescues. I am very familiar and comfortable with caring for and training many different animals. I currently do independent work dictated by my own schedule. I am usually pretty flexible and able to take last minute requests for walks, pet care and training. I don't offer pet care in my home but I try to accommodate the unique needs of every animal with sensitivity and compassion. I'm very used to a wide range of animals, mostly rescues and some formerly abused animals.
About: I raised my dog from a puppy by myself and trained her to be a nice respectful playful dog. I took care of all her needs so I am more than ready for anything the job entails. I am a Robotics Engineering Student at UCSC, I have class for a few hours midday, but other than that I am free to take care of your pets. I have a dog back home and I miss being around her, It would be a joy to take care of your pets, hang out with them, make sure they are well-fed, taking them on walks, and much more.
About: I have taken care of both dogs since I was 12 and I am now almost 22 so I have 10 years of experience caring for dogs. I love dogs so much and have always had one of my own and have experience taking care of older dogs particular, but have walked and sat for dogs of all different ages and energy levels. I am a very active person and a runner, so I can also take your dogs on runs ranging from 2-10 miles. I work in the mornings from 8-1 at a day care and am ready and able to care for your pets anytime before or after those times on Sunday-Friday and some occasional Saturdays. I do not care for pets in my own, but I will provide attentive, loving care to your pets in your own home. I am great at following the directions you will give me about your pets and bring both playfulness and responsibility into my help with your pets.
Over 980,000 dogs traded couch time for play time with Doggy Day Care on Rover1
Large dog specialists near you - Santa Cruz
Prices are estimates per night for 1 dog. Pricing may vary based on your search and includes a booking fee of 11%.
“We are so grateful for Yajaira's care of our little dog. Our dog is shy with new people but within just an hour or two Yajaira had already won her over, taken her for a walk and sent photos of our little dog relaxing in the house. We loved getting the cute photos and updates while we were away. Yajaira has excellent communication and it's no wonder why she has many 5-star reviews from pet parents. We'll gladly book with her again when we need a reliable and caring pet sitter. Thank you, Yajaira!”
About: I've had dogs for over 10 years and have taken care of dogs and cats with all sorts of needs/medical care such as diabetic, arthritic and eye-sight impaired animals. I trained both of my dogs in agility and behavior classes so I have experience with training and extended behaviors. I volunteer at the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter and have taken multiple classes on dog behavior and dog walking safety. I am currently a UC Santa Cruz student but my schedule is fairly flexible since I commute/live off campus. Currently I only have one class per day, Monday through Friday so I can be present to provide majority of the care with minimal outings. I always ask clients about their yard and preferences for their animals safety in the yard especially at night. Depending on their circumstances, I will scan the yard for any unusual activity and safety concerns. As well as always being in close proximity when the dog wants to go in the front/backyard.
“Hannah was amazing. She was able to accommodate us last minute for a holiday weekend. She sent us updates along with videos of Archer doing all his favorite activities. We know he was in great hands and will definitely call her for any future needs”
“We arrived for a trip to Santa Cruz and found out our Roz was not allowed at the hotel due to her size. We started searching local pet hospitals, dog walkers, boarding facilities and the only place that could take her was all the way back in Santa Clara. As a last resort we checked Rover and Meghan came through for us. In the end Roz probably had as much fun as we did with her new friends during our weekend in Santa Cruz. Thanks Meghan!”
“Teresa was so kind and energetic. She sent us pictures of Otoro the whole time we were gone - he went to walks and hikes and played and came back tired (in the best way!) I will definitely be booking with Teresa again the next time we are looking for someone to hang out with Otoro!”
“Valentina was amazing. I didn't want to leave my dog Bowie behind on my road trip up north around my cousin's wedding. I did a lot fo research and always get apprehensive when I leave my dog with someone new. Valentina was the perfect choice. She was responsive, has a great area for dogs to safely play and sent regular pictures and updates. Bowie came back EXHAUSTED and slept the entire 8 ride home. Book with Valentina!”
“I’m so glad we found Jenna! Our beloved English Mastiff rescue needs a lot of love and attention which is exactly what he got staying with Jenna and her family. We were updated everyday with how he was doing along with pictures throughout his stay. It gave us peace of mind while we were away. We’ll definitely be coming back :)”
“Kelsey was very communicative and shared pictures of our pets lounging with them and having fun. She was understanding about a few issues our pugs have and we wouldn't hesitate to leave our dogs with Kelsey again. Thanks so much Kelsey!”
“Alice & Thiago were incredible with our dog Akela. This was our first time with them and they made us feel so comfortable leaving Akela and throughout the weekend. Alice sent photos/updates daily and I’m so grateful for how much they seemed to care about our babe. We will 100% be working with them again!!”
About: I have been taking care of my Labradoodle Mokka for the last 7 years! We have grown up together and she’s taught me so much. I helped train her when she was a puppy, and still help her daily now after she’s grown up. Along with that I have spent time around many different dog breeds amd sizes, and I have yet to find a dog that I can’t get along with. I love to walk , cuddle, and play with these pups any chance I get! Although I currently am in high school, I have time almost everyday after school. I am very flexible, so most times after around 3 works perfect for me! If a problem comes up, I will push to find a solution that is best for the client and myself. Overnight dog sitting or house sitting will not be possible except on weekends, because of school. I’m a very diligent person, and I follow directions carefully. I will give each client 100 % effort, both the owners and their loving pets. I want the pets to feel safe and comfortable, because that is my top priority. Although I will be responsible and careful with all my clients, I will make sure the animals are happy and recirving tons of love as well!
“Angelika did a great job watching my dog. She provided regular updated videos and pictures of how she was doing during her stay. My puppy who is intimated by larger dogs made a friend as well as a result of Angelika! I’d recommend her to any pet parent! :)”
“Shannon treated my dog like family, taking him on fun walks and hanging out on the deck. She’s fantastic at communication and sent pictures of their adventures. We will definitely book again. Highly recommend.”
“Lauren was great! She was flexible, communicative, and went out of her way to help us out by picking Bodhi up from our house. Will definitely reach out again next time we go out of town!”
“Yu is the best! She goes way above and beyond with my dogs. Her family spends so much time with the dogs and takes them on adventures all around Santa Cruz. I know that my dog is going to be happy and safe while I’m away. Yu sends lots of pictures and updates. Highly highly highly recommend!!!”
“We are so happy, or, more importantly, Falafel is so happy with Kathleen and her family. She is great with accommodating us and sends lots of super cute pics and videos. He really seems to have a nice time there and he comes home relaxed and happy. Thanks so much, Kathleen☺️”
About: I’ve been taking care of dogs and cats for about 8 years, whether it be neighbors, friends, or clients. I’ve done week long petsitting and simple day long care as well. I currently have 20 hours of dog walking logged at Santa Cruz animal shelter, working with dogs of all kinds. I am a full time student at UC Santa Cruz, but have a pretty flexible schedule! I mostly attend university in the morning and early afternoon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I’m located in a safe neighborhood great for walks. My yard is unfenced, so I would supervise any pets that were to go outside, all depending on the owners comfort with this condition. My home is large, so there’s plenty of room to roam around.
“Kimberly is everything you could ask for in a dog sitter! She was available to board my large, high energy dog in her home on short notice and gave him the same amount of love and care as if he were her own. I was able to trust her taking my dog to the park, around other dogs, and in off-leash areas. I would recommend her to anyone and will absolutely be using her services again!”
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1Global data from Rover (November 2025)