Personalized care for your dog or cat - Ames
Highly-rated overnight sitters - Ames
“We were nervous leaving our semi-newly adopted puppy anywhere, but also wanted to visit family for the holidays that we had not seen in awhile. We couldn't have chosen a better family! The whole family took such great care of our Mango with lots of love, runs, and snuggles. Thank you for all the pics! Helped my kids make it through our trip!”
“Samantha was easy to communicate with, she followed my preferences, our dog came home happy and healthy. Our return flights were late and Samantha allowed us to pick up at 10:00 pm!! We definitely recommend!”
“This is our first Rover booking and we couldn't be happier. Brooke did an excellent job of making sure our "new to us" rescue dog had a good experience. Amee got to read stories at bedtime and take walks with the family. She'll be back for more fun.”
“Jenna is a great caregiver! She was very friendly and accommodating. She went out of her way to work with my schedule and was super sweet about it. Luna also seemed quite happy and comfy staying with her.”
About: I have nine years of pet care experience. I raised and showed Rex rabbits for 4 years. Personally I have trained and care for my own dogs. After High School I work in an Animal Hospital. My duties there included receiving the animals for appointments, prepping and assisting in surgeries, keeping accurate records, cleaning and sanitation of the facilities. I am available to care for pets full time as I am looking to make a career out of caring for pets as I pursue a position as a Veterinary Assistant or Technician. I would be able to care for the animals in their own homes keeping them safe in the comfort of their own space and environment.
“Nothing but stellar things to say! Meagan is a wonderful caregiver and even with other dogs - she made sure my pup was safe, relaxed and well cared for! Highly recommend!”
“Great sitter. It was a GR party of 3! My dog was worn out, happy and well taken care of. Daily updates with a picture was sent. Thx for your care! Would recommend and use Kayla again.”
“Roxy was amazing watching Jack, they treated him like one of their own dogs. We will absolutely be coming back! She sent pictures and updates which helped make his first stay easier on me.”
“They took great care of our pup! We loved receiving the photo updates and it was clear he was happy, comfortable, and well loved the whole time. It gave us so much peace of mind knowing he was in such good hands. We would absolutely trust them again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for someone reliable to care for their pet.”
About: I have several years of training by and experience with handling and caring for pets. I have experience with all different animals from being a dog trainer, working in vet clinics to working with large farm animals. I’m currently looking for early morning opportunities and evening opportunities. I’m also open to overnight stays as needed. I can be flexible in those early and evening hours! I provide lots of care for your animals, if they need any maintenance (nails clipped, ears cleaned, medications, etc.) I’m totally comfortable with that from my work experience. I love to spend lots of quality time with your pet and get to know them and what they need!
Over 4.1 million dogs curled up for a sleepover in a sitter's home on Rover1
Cat caregivers near you - Ames
“Brianna obviously loves cats and knows how to interact with them. My cats warmed up to her right away. I felt they were well-cared for, and that was reassuring. Brianna was understanding and took care of my super senior’s special needs. I would definitely have her sit for my pets again.”
“Izabelle is very kind and I felt very confident that she was going to take care of Rex like she would her own pet. We told her she might not actually see him because he hides from strangers but the very first night she sent pictures of them sitting together in his favorite recliner. We will ask Izabelle to cat sit for our next trip!”
“Angela and her family were wonderful with my two babies. They look great, supplies were returned nice and clean, and the pictures Angela sent from their stay made me feel a lot better about leaving them”
“Allyson was an absolute lifesaver! She was able to watch our cat on very short notice and accommodated us so quickly and kindly. From the start, she was thoughtful, prompt, and followed all of our directions perfectly. This was our first time leaving our little fur baby, and Allyson immediately put us at ease. She truly is a cat whisperer. Our cat is usually shy and hides from new people, but he came out right away when she arrived for her drop ins! That alone says so much about her calm, welcoming presence. She made our cat feel completely comfortable. Allyson also sent us daily updates with multiple pictures, which we really appreciated. She was a joy to work with, and we will definitely ask her to pet sit again in the future!”
“Samantha is communicative, prompt, and thorough! My cat was in good hands while I was recovering from an illness. I could get to his litter box and food and Samantha made it so much easier on me and my cat!”
“More than adequate updates and great attention to details. Very considerate house guest, appropriately inquiring about house rules as needed. Our cat obviously enjoyed her care.”
“Ava was an excellent caretaker for my two kitties! She was always on time and consistently sent timely updates on how they were doing. She was reliable, affectionate, and clearly cared for them. I came back from a work trip to find my babies happy, relaxed, and well taken care of. Thanks, Ava!”
“Emma was very caring and attentive to our kitties while we were away. She gave great updates and pictures! I highly recommend and trust her to take care of our kitties again! Thank you, Emma!”
“Alexandra is an excellent sitter. She followed instructions perfectly, and even made sure my plants stayed alive while I was gone. Brad was happy and healthy when I returned. 10/10 recommendations!”
“Michelle did a fantastic job for us during our trip. Our cats are shy around new people, and she really worked to make them feel comfortable and happy. Michelle went above and beyond to help our pets and check on our house as well. The pet photos she sent us daily meant a great deal to our family. I will definitely ask Michelle to take care of our two cats anytime we need to be away. She is wonderful!!”
“We are beyond grateful for Olivia! She took such amazing care of our cat, Mochi, and truly went above and beyond. Her communication was wonderful, she sent frequent photo updates that made us smile every time, and it was so reassuring to see how happy and relaxed Mochi looked with her. When a snowstorm hit, Olivia even stayed overnight to make sure he was safe and could be fed! We felt completely at ease on our trip knowing Mochi was in such loving, capable hands. Olivia is the best, and we cannot recommend her enough, 10/10! We will absolutely be booking with her again :)”
“Jenna is amazing!!! She put our minds at ease knowing she was there with our cats! She did exactly as we requested. She is very flexible. She took keepsake photos of my cats! She will be requested each time we need a sitter. We are extremely pleased with Jenna’s services. Thank you Jenna!!!”
About: I adore cats (having two myself), and have provided care for neighbors, family, and friends for years. They get daily play, cuddles, and excercise on their excercise wheel. One is very social while the other is reserved, so I am prepared to meet the unique needs and boundaries of your furry friend. Whether it be over vacation, or just a check in during a long work day, I’m excited to meet your best friend!
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Perfect for high energy dogs - Ames
“This family is so wholesome and adorable it feels like dropping your dog off in a Disney movie for the day. Angela took great care of my dog and is very responsive to messages. 10/10 will be using her again.”
“Katrina and both of her kids were wonderful with my dog, Ella. She had so much fun playing with their dogs. Ella played so hard yesterday that she slept until 9:00 the next morning. She usually gets up around 6:00! This is our first time with Katrina, although I have known her for a few years. We will FOR SURE be booking with her again. She is the BEST!!”
“They are so lovely! A massive yard for Ace to run in which he definitely needed. Her dogs are so friendly and playful. Her children are also very helpful and respectful in asking if they can give my dog one of their dog toys. Will definitely be coming back!”
“Samantha is so great to work with! She follows directions perfectly and takes excellent care of all the (3) dogs we’ve had her sit for (doggie day care). She communicates effectively and timely and we never have to worry.”
“I was visiting town for a work trip and was beyond impressed by the care and communication! My pup Barley is older and just had surgery - it was so wonderful leaving him without worry, knowing he would be extra loved and cared after during the day!”
About: I love all types of pets. I’m very affectionate, attentive to details, responsible, high energy. Pets make me feel less anxious and I love them in my lap I am available any after before 8 am and after 4 pm for a walk or feed the pets. All day during the weekends to watch them. Any day during the week for overnight care I take them everyday once a day and let them go outside to pee and poo because I have a danced yard. I feed my dog twice a day, and give a bath every 2 weeks. I these her every other day. Control fleas and worm every month, and take her for nail trim every 3 weeks.
About: I’ve taken care of fur babies of all kinds since before I could walk. I grew up with a dog and cat always in tow. I lived in the country, so learned fast that the world can be hard for an animal, thus beginning my rehab ‘career’. As I got older, I pet sat for neighbors and family friends. In my mid 20s I trained as a vet tech, prepping animals for surgery, giving vaccinations, nail trims, etc. Until the ISU Wildlife Clinic closed, I volunteered there, learning more care for wild native animals. I’ve had dogs and cats my entire life, I can’t imagine life without animals. I currently have a senior border collie named Lola, she has arthritis so sometimes she needs help getting around and I’m always willing to help my girl. I also have a senior cat. Currently I’m a doordash/grub hub driver, so I literally am free 24/7 to care for your pets! I will prioritize Rover over delivery, so I can work with any schedule you need. I’m available for repeat needs (several walks a week, drop ins, etc). I live in a duplex with a yard. For me to board a pet, they would need to get along with my dog, and she can honestly be a bit grumpy meeting new dogs, so I feel going to the client’s home would be best. I will respect your home and follow whatever instructions you have for the care of your pets.
About: I've grown up with pets my whole life - dogs, cats, cows, horses, hamsters, mice, you name it I probably had it at one point. I have a dog of my own as well. I like to say I've had animal experience my whole life, but formally I have had over 8 years of experience in the animal care industry. I have spent time in veterinary clinics, grooming, boarding, doggy daycare, dog training, permanent sanctuaries, rehabilitation facilities, and farms. I have also fostered multiple dogs from local rescues. I recently earned a bachelors degree in animal science and currently attend veterinary school at ISU. I really really love animals and everything about them, and I would love to spend some time with your pet when you're not able to! Pet care is built into my schedule and comes as second nature to me now after being immersed in it for so long. On average, a minimum of 3-5 hours of my day are dedicated to my animals. I enjoy taking my dog on multiple walks a day, of varying lengths, to ensure he has enough mental stimulation and exercise to meet his needs. Training is also a constant in my household, whether that be scheduled training sessions, or simply consistent work throughout daily tasks. I find it important to build a bond with my animals as well as those I meet, and training helps strengthen that bond. Outdoor activities (walks, meeting friends dogs, swimming, fetch, etc.) and training exercises are my primary methods of exercise and activity with my pet, and would be with clients pets as well. On days it's not so nice I like to work on training inside or find new enrichment activities to keep my pet occupied and stimulated. I take pride in keeping my environment and my animals’ clean, so I regularly bathe and brush my dog, as well as clean food and water bowls. I will care for my clients pets as I would care for my own.
“Kelley did a wonderful job taking care of our 15 year old dog, including mealtime and medicine. Kelly is kind and responsible and we could tell that Adi felt comfortable in her home. 5 out of 5 stars. We highly recommend.”
About: Hi! My name is Roxy, and I’m a dependable, compassionate pet sitter who loves caring for animals of all kinds. Whether you’re away for a weekend or an extended trip, I provide loving care to help your pets feel safe, comfortable, and happy in their own environment. I have experience caring for dogs, cats, and other small pets, including feeding, walking, playtime, administering basic medications, and giving plenty of attention and affection. I understand that every pet has their own personality and routine, and I make it a priority to follow your instructions carefully. My services include: • Dog walking and exercise • Feeding and fresh water • Playtime and companionship • Overnight or drop-in visits • Litter box and waste cleanup • Photo and text updates while you’re away I’m trustworthy, patient, and committed to treating your pets like family. Your pet’s safety, comfort, and happiness are always my top priorities. I have used trusted care for my pets and understand how important it is to have someone to help when needed. I have two friendly Australian shepherds and experience with many breeds, sizes and ages. I have grown up with pets my entire life and owned multiple dogs for 20 years. I’d love the opportunity to meet you and your furry family members! I’m currently working a hybrid schedule and am home 2-3 days during the week. I have availability for in home and drop in visits or walks during the weekend as well. I have a fenced in yard with two friendly and fixed dogs to give yours company while away. Open to in home or drop in visits as needed along with walks and needed exercise. I have two children that have been raised around pets that respect them and enjoy playing with them. If your dog prefers a crate we are a crate trained home.
“Meagan has just the right amount of communication for our family regarding our dog. We know he is in good hands when he can't get out of the car fast enough! Thanks for opening up your home to our sweet boy!”
“Beth is AWESOME!!!!!!! Beth was so welcoming from the start! I had a very unusual need as I was traveling across the state and needing a dog sitter for just a few hours so I could take my wife on a side trip that didn't accommodate dogs and she not only graciously accommodated my plan but she was willing to switch gears at the drop of a hat to change things from one planned time to a different planned time! This is not to say that she should be able and or expected to do this all the time, just that she is awesome and helped make our perfectly special trip become an awesome trip!! And the dogs clearly loved her and felt VERY comfortable with her!!! Thank you Beth!”
“Kimberley was a PERFECT choice for us! Such a sweet person and she kept him 8.5 hours for his first visit which is a long time to have a 4 month old puppy! She sent several photos and videos which was so reassuring.”
About: I live in ogden iowa but can travel to the des moines area to pick up pets! This is what I do for a living, so I will always be home with your pets! I live on an acreage with a large fenced in back yard. I was born and raised a farm girl! Have 25+ years of experience with all types of animals including livestock, dogs, cats and small animals!!! Animal lover to all big and little! Im an energetic person who will give your pet all the loving and play time they need!! I do not take pets who are not house broke or unnutured male dogs. I'm a full-time college student getting my degree online in psychology. I'm home all the time and love to cuddle with fur babies. I'm a home body so don't travel or go places very often. I have a fenced in yard. I give dogs lots of walks and play time. I also have a very large finished basement that is wide open for playing in when the weather is bad.
“Alexandra is great with Winnie and very communicative. She understood concerns I had and ensures Winnie gets a good mix of play and rest time. I’m not sure Winnie wants to leave when I come pick her up! She clearly enjoys her time here.”
“Cynthia took great care of our dog, Maizy! She went above and beyond to make sure was Maizy was comfortable and engaged. Maizy can be a picky eater and Cynthia even got her to eat a full meal. She was lovey to communicate with, was very responsive, and sent lots of pictures. We will definitely be dropping our pup off with her again!”
“Angie was so great with our guy! She’s extremely accommodating to schedule changes and was exactly what we needed while back visiting family. If we come back this fall she will be the first one we check for availability!”
More than 1.6 million pets enjoyed cuddles and care from sitters on Rover1
Adventure-ready dog walkers - Ames
“Angela is fantastic to work with. She has a deep understanding of dog behaviors and how to navagate them. Our Beagle mix has a judegemental diva personality and she is always excited to see Angela. Angela is a great communcator as well, keeping me update on anything important and that helps me relax knowing our dog is in good hands.”
About: I am a current Iowa State pre vet student interested in experience taking care of animals. I have grown up having cats and dogs and currently have 9 pets. I am comfortable with dogs of all temperament and have worked with anxious and reactive dogs. I have years of experience from watching my own animals as well as friends and families. I am currently in school and have plenty of time especially in the afternoons as well as am flexible and able to make mornings work as well as plenty of time on weekends I am very patient and love to make sure I stay long enough to give pets the attention and play that they want. I am very flexible with any and all instructions or requests that will make you most comfortable when caring for your animal(s)
“Brianna did such a great job with Pluto! Pluto is very high energy and working on leash manners and this did not faze Brianna one bit. She was so patient and you can tell she loves working with dogs. She had great communication and spent quality time with Pluto.”
“Hailey was incredible with our dog Ralphie! She helped us out with short notice and she took her time making sure Ralphie had great walks :) Highly recommend Hailey!”
About: I have experience in feeding, grooming, and dog sitting. I am good with connecting with all sorts of dogs no matter the age, size, or personality. I’m patient and will make sure all animals feel safe and comfortable around me and I will make sure to keep the owners updated. I am a student in College student looking for some extra animal experience! I am free every morning, in the earlier afternoons, as well as most evenings! I will try my best to make my schedule work for all types of different schedules! I will schedule my day around feeding, walking, playing, and a plenty of check ins throughout the day to make sure the pets are doing good! I am also up for any cuddle time if that’s something they really enjoy!
About: Everyone knows me as the dog-obsessed friend. I've never met a dog I didn't have a connection with. Dogs seem to sense that something is different about me and that I'm the one to go to for extra love and pets. I have particular experience with and compassion for senior dogs. My husband and I rescued an 8 year old black Lhasa Apso in Chicago and got to spend 4 wonderful years making sure her remaining time was filled with love and happiness. That experience opened our hearts and minds to just how special a relationship with an older dog can be, and is what inspired us to open our home to fostering animals. When I'm not fostering or dog sitting, I'm playing with my neph-pups, seeing what the neighborhood dogs are up to, or watching funny dog videos online. I work from home full time as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer. I am able to set my own schedule allowing me the flexibility to be available for all your pet's needs. Our home has a spacious fenced-in backyard for lots of running (plus some daring squirrels and rabbits around that seem to want to be chased). We have an adjustable crate for varying sized fur babies that I line with comfy blankets and padding. We keep the crate in our guest room with a noise machine and overhead fan so they feel comfortable and safe. For dogs who are used to sleeping in a bed, we forego the crate and just let a pup snooze right on the guest bed. If it's your home, I follow your instructions to make sure your pet is as comfortable and happy as if you were still there. I'm also a big photo taker! I will provide pup-dates multiple times a day until you tell me to stop.
About: Multiple employments at veterinary practices >8000 hours working and handling all sorts of pets, mostly cats, dogs and small mammals. Dog training experience as well, not certified and mostly with police K9s I work full time, but once a month I work from home so I can very flexible those weeks, however, able to sit after work and on weekends. I will work around the pets needs and what you allow the pet to do at home as well. Very flexible here with whatever is needed.
About: I have always loved animals and caring for them. I grew up taking care of mostly dogs, but I have experience with other animals like cats, goats, guinea pigs, and hamsters. I love meeting new animals and helping care for them. I am finishing my degree at Iowa state and will graduate in August. I am not sure what I want to do after I graduate, so I’m filling my schedule with pet sitting. I have a very open schedule for a while until I figure out what’s next for me. I can visit pets or stay throughout the day with pets at their homes, but I am not available to stay overnight. I treat animals as my own and truly love getting to meet and work with animals. I make sure to ask questions before giving treats or doing anything that pet owners might differ on. I make sure to stick to whatever schedule pets are used to and follow specific instructions regarding their needs. I provide daily updates and pictures so you know what’s going on and how pets are doing.
“Emily came to the rescue unbelievably fast and with great kindness when our other pet sitter irresponsibly abandoned our pets. So utterly grateful for her quick action and professional attitude. Calmed me down considerably. So grateful.”
About: I have nine years of pet care experience. I raised and showed Rex rabbits for 4 years. Personally I have trained and care for my own dogs. After High School I work in an Animal Hospital. My duties there included receiving the animals for appointments, prepping and assisting in surgeries, keeping accurate records, cleaning and sanitation of the facilities. I am available to care for pets full time as I am looking to make a career out of caring for pets as I pursue a position as a Veterinary Assistant or Technician. I would be able to care for the animals in their own homes keeping them safe in the comfort of their own space and environment.
About: I have two years of pet care experience and work comfortably with all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. I’m reliable, detail-oriented, and experienced with puppies, seniors, and routine care. My focus is providing safe, consistent, and trustworthy care so your pets feel comfortable while you’re away. I’m a student at Iowa state and have a part time job but my hours are flexible and can work around my schedule if needed I take the time to play with your dogs to get energy out I let them out to go potty and I feed them when needed i try my best to keep them on the routine you have for them
About: My family has had two different dogs since I was born. I also owned my own dog starting when I was 17 years old, and got another dog 4 years ago. Neither are no longer with us. I have taken care of cats for neighbors (changed litter boxes, fed wet and dry food). I also owned a rabbit and turtle growing up. I work from home but I am available before 6:30a and after 4:30p Monday-Friday and open anytime on Saturday and Sunday. I no longer have any dogs of my own so I’m looking forward to spending time with animals again, when I have free time. Following your rules for your pets is important to me. Feeding, walking, brushing/petting, and play time are all things I can provide for your pet.
About: For several years, I’ve cared for friends dog while they are away and needing someone to provide care, either extended in home stays or just popping in. I had a dog when I was growing up, and I loved being able to take her on walks and little adventures, now I just have cats. I enjoy walking dogs and taking them to the park for some enrichment and exercise! Providing some time during the day to keep your pet company is something I love to do. As a pet owner, when I'm away for longer than normal, it always makes me feel better knowing my pets have someone to check in on them, so I love to do that for others when I can! I currently have a very flexible schedule, so I am available for daytime care during the work day, as well as last minute care needs! I am happy to take dogs on walks, or to the dog park, and provide engaging play and attention. For cats, I'm happy to follow their cues, hanging out nearby, providing opportunities to play, and come get some affection if they want. I pay close attention to animals and their needs, responding quickly to any cues they are giving me about what they may want or need. If a dog seems stressed, we will head back home and get back to a comfortable space. With cats, I always let them set the pace and get comfortable.
About: I have had pets ever since I was little! Anything you can think of I have probably had as a pet from Dogs and Cats to Guinea Pigs and Reptiles. As an Animal Ecology major, I have a strong understanding of animal behavior and care. I love spending time with all kinds of pets and making sure they feel safe, happy, and loved while you’re away. I am currently in college, but I have plenty of time to give a helping hand when needed! I have a lot of availability, whether that’s before classes, in between, and after! I am available to care for your pet whether that be Feeding, Potty Breaks, Playtime, Walks, or just some Quality time needed! Although I am not able to take animals in since I am residing on campus, I am able to go wherever I am needed!
Over 980,000 dogs traded couch time for play time with Doggy Day Care on Rover1
Large dog specialists near you - Ames
“We were nervous leaving our semi-newly adopted puppy anywhere, but also wanted to visit family for the holidays that we had not seen in awhile. We couldn't have chosen a better family! The whole family took such great care of our Mango with lots of love, runs, and snuggles. Thank you for all the pics! Helped my kids make it through our trip!”
“Samantha was easy to communicate with, she followed my preferences, our dog came home happy and healthy. Our return flights were late and Samantha allowed us to pick up at 10:00 pm!! We definitely recommend!”
“This is our first Rover booking and we couldn't be happier. Brooke did an excellent job of making sure our "new to us" rescue dog had a good experience. Amee got to read stories at bedtime and take walks with the family. She'll be back for more fun.”
“Jenna is a great caregiver! She was very friendly and accommodating. She went out of her way to work with my schedule and was super sweet about it. Luna also seemed quite happy and comfy staying with her.”
“Nothing but stellar things to say! Meagan is a wonderful caregiver and even with other dogs - she made sure my pup was safe, relaxed and well cared for! Highly recommend!”
“Great sitter. It was a GR party of 3! My dog was worn out, happy and well taken care of. Daily updates with a picture was sent. Thx for your care! Would recommend and use Kayla again.”
“Jessica watched Tripper for us during our most recent trip out of town. It was our first time boarding Tripper anywhere, and he had a blast. He met and played with her dog Rip and cat Ghost as well as the other dogs she watched during his 5-day stay. He came home tired and happy. She communicated and was flexible with drop-off and pick-up, and sent us updates to let us know how Tripper was doing. We would absolutely love to board with her again. We highly recommend her!”
“Roxy was amazing watching Jack, they treated him like one of their own dogs. We will absolutely be coming back! She sent pictures and updates which helped make his first stay easier on me.”
“They took great care of our pup! We loved receiving the photo updates and it was clear he was happy, comfortable, and well loved the whole time. It gave us so much peace of mind knowing he was in such good hands. We would absolutely trust them again and highly recommend them to anyone looking for someone reliable to care for their pet.”
“Christopher been nothing but amazing with our pups. He’s gone above and beyond what we expected and that’s why he will always be our go to person. He’s done an amazing job I would definitely recommend him to anyone that needs a sitter to watch over ur precious loved one”
“Lara and Cary took excellent care of our two poodles. One of our dogs had a recent medical issue that needed extra attention. They handled it with no problem. We had two happy poodles upon our return. We will definitely ask them again to care for our dogs when we go out of town. Thank you for caring for them as if they were your own.”
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