Dog Boarding Van Meter

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Over 52
pet parents in Van Meter have booked dog boarding

Van Meter, Find top rated dog boarding

Prices are estimates per night. Pricing may vary based on your search. A booking fee of 11% and taxes will apply.

1 / 1
Sitter Profile Image: Holly T.
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Holly T.
Star Sitter
from
$35
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
• 68 reviews
22 repeat clients
35 years of experience
Norwalk, IA, 50211

“Everything went great! Drop off and pick up were super easy. She sent updates and pics over the weekend so I knew he was safe and happy. We highly recommend Holly and will definitely be using her again for our little fuzzball”

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Tara J.
Sitter Profile Image: Melanie R.
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Melanie R.
Star Sitter
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 42 reviews
16 repeat clients
40 years of experience
West Des moines, IA, 50265

“Melanie was amazing with my 2 dogs! She updated me everyday with pictures and their day in her home. My dogs seemed VERY happy and relaxed. I definitely will be booking her again when my job calls me to be out of state. It's such a relief to know that your precious kids are in good hands!”

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Sarah B.
Sitter Profile Image: Erin & Chris R.
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Erin & Chris R.
Star Sitter
from
$35
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 97 reviews
33 repeat clients
12 years of experience
Urbandale, IA, 50322

“So nice to know Copper had the comfort of a home and people to love on him while we were away! He has anxiety so having Chris & Erin around almost all the time was so wonderful for him.”

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Ruth K.
Sitter Profile Image: Hayley & Zach K.
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Hayley & Zach K.
Star Sitter
from
$30
per night
4.9 out of 5 stars
• 12 reviews
2 repeat clients
10 years of experience
Waukee, IA, 50263

“Took in our dog last minute and took great care of him. communicated often and sent photos! answered quickly whenever i reached out as well. definitely recommend and will rebook in the future!”

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Ashley R.
Sitter Profile Image: Debora K.
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Debora K.
from
$30
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 39 reviews
11 repeat clients
45 years of experience
WINTERSET, IA, 50273

“Debora, Is a very nice lady. I knew the minute we got out of the car, I found Alleys person. She left me in the wind and ran up to Debora. She was not timid and walked in like she had been there a 1K times. Debora, is very detailed, ask questions and always updates. Originally it was just a few days overnight. I definitely will e here again.”

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Sabrina D.
Sitter Profile Image: Alice b.
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Alice b.
from
$32
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 155 reviews
56 repeat clients
3 years of experience
Magnolia Park, Des Moines, IA, 50315

“Got updates with some pictures of how Kira was doing. This was the first time leaving her for more than 1-2 nights. Will definitely use Alice again.”

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Liz N.
Sitter Profile Image: Lisa S.
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Lisa S.
Star Sitter
from
$35
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 72 reviews
21 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA, 50315

“Sadie enjoyed her stay with Lisa so much, I'm not sure she wanted to come home! She even had her own Thanksgiving dinner. We appreciated the pictures and updates during her stay. Thanks!”

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M D.
Sitter Profile Image: Scott S.
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Scott S.
Star Sitter
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 676 reviews
318 repeat clients
20 years of experience
West Des Moines, IA, 50265

“Can’t say enough great things about this sitter! My dog is always so comfortable with his stays there, and actually seems sad when he has to leave to come home 😅 Scott always keeps us posted with pictures and messages to let us know how the stay is going. The house is set up perfectly to watch these dogs, and it’s such a great feeling to know your pets are safe and in great hands!”

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Kimberly W.
Sitter Profile Image: Sherilynn G.
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Sherilynn G.
Star Sitter
from
$45
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 126 reviews
58 repeat clients
23 years of experience
Urbandale, IA, 50323

“She was very nice and took great care of Sky during the six days we were away. She sent us pictures every day and kept us updated, which gave us peace of mind. Sky seemed very happy and comfortable when we picked him up, and we didn’t have any issues during his stay. Everything went smoothly, and we would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for someone to take good care of their dog!”

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Mariana M.
Sitter Profile Image: Patricia ..
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Patricia ..
from
$48
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 53 reviews
26 repeat clients
30 years of experience
Urbandale, IA, 50323

“Patricia is easily the best sitter I’ve worked with on Rover. She has great communication, been excellent at following tasks specific to our dogs needs, sends plenty of photos, and it is clear that our Boca absolutely adores her and her family. Drop off is a breeze when my dog is thrilled to be there! I highly recommend her to care for your pet!”

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Mandy B.
Sitter Profile Image: Craig & Sally A.
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Craig & Sally A.
from
$44
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 21 reviews
9 repeat clients
40 years of experience
west des moines, IA, 50266

“Craig and his wife were great! They took Ollie to the dog park and he loved it! They answered whenever I texted. Very kind and worked with us last minute over Christmas break! Couldn’t be more thankful! Will definitely book with them again!”

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Emily D.
Sitter Profile Image: Jenevieve Y.
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Jenevieve Y.
Star Sitter
from
$45
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 305 reviews
85 repeat clients
3 years of experience
Fairmont Park, Des Moines, IA, 50317

“Jenevieve took such good care of Leroy despite the bitter cold that came through during his stay. She treated him like one of her own and was very flexible when my travel was impacted because of the winter storm. Very grateful and will definitely bring Leroy back next time!”

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Joseph F.
Sitter Profile Image: Tanya & Jonathan P.
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Tanya & Jonathan P.
from
$50
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 250 reviews
73 repeat clients
17 years of experience
West Des Moines, IA, 50265

“Our dog had a blast with Tanya's family! She shared great photos and went out of her way to make sure our guy was well cared for during fireworks too. We will definitely use her again!”

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Katie N.
Sitter Profile Image: Brett E.
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Brett E.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 8 reviews
2 repeat clients
4 years of experience
West Des Moines, IA, 50265

“Brett was great with our dog, Allie!! He sent updates, pictures, and videos! He responded very quickly and was flexible with our pick up and drop off time! Will definitely be reaching out to him again!”

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Radhika P.
Sitter Profile Image: Shaelea R.
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Shaelea R.
Star Sitter
from
$45
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 26 reviews
14 repeat clients
30 years of experience
Greater South Side, Des Moines, IA, 50315

“She is amazing! Got pictures and videos while on vacation. She actually cares about animals. Will definitely use her again and highly highly highly recommend using her!!!”

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Stacey H.
Sitter Profile Image: Emily B.
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Emily B.
from
$30
per night
5 years of experience
South Park, Des Moines, IA, 50315

About: Hi, I'm Emily! I'm not just a dog lover - I've been a dog mom to just about every size and personality. Over the years I've had a Chihuahua, Lab, Olde English Bulldog, American Staffordshire amd now we have an American Bully. I’m very comfortable with strong, energetic breeds as well as tiny lap dogs who think they run the house. We currently have an 80lb American Bully named Rosco. I particularly love the bully breeds - no judgment, just structure, play, and lots of affection. I know how to read body language for both a nervous 4lb Chihuahua and an 80lb Lab who thinks they’re a lap dog. I’ve cared for a dog who required a strict daily medication routine, so I am meticulous about timing, dosages, and watching for side effects. Pills, liquid meds, special feeding schedules - I’ve done it all and I take it seriously. My home is calm with a structured routine. My husband and I are early to bed and early to rise. I keep a clean but dog-proofed home with a predictable routine for potty breaks, walks, play, and rest. We walk in the mornings and sometimes again in the evening if the weather allows. I only book one client at a time so your pup(s) will get plenty of attention! It’s also important that your dog gets along with mine so I will schedule a meet and greet before we confirm. This helps ensure it’s a good match for everyone. I promise to send lots of updates, photos, and videos so you never worry. Your pup will be treated like family here - safe, loved, allowed on the couch and in the bed and very well cared for while you're away. I have a securely fenced yard and inside my home dogs have plenty of places to lounge, with dog beds, toys, and a quiet areas for naps. My home is non-smoking, no kids. We have one American Bully named Rosco. Rosco is neutered, two years old, about 80 lbs and loves other dogs. Rosco is a high energy dog who does best with dogs who are playful but also tolerant. Rosco also does great with smaller dogs and puppies. I am open to dogs over 40lbs but not more than 75lbs. I never leave dogs unattended without them being kenneled. I am home most of the day but utilize kennels when we’re gone for everyone’s safety. We follow a twice a day feeding schedule and I will gladly follow your instructions to the letter for feeding, crate time, and walks. I’m currently between jobs and have plenty of time for pet care. My husband works during the week and is around in the evenings and the weekends to help care for our pups. I have a fenced in yard a very friendly bulldog named Rosco to keep your pup company. I can also crate your pup if needed.

Sitter Profile Image: Lorena N.
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Lorena N.
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 4 reviews
1 repeat client
10 years of experience
Waukee, IA, 50263

“My dog had a lot of fun and I felt completely comfortable leaving him with Lorena. I’ve booked with Lorena a couple times now and will continue to in the future.”

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Simren
Sitter Profile Image: Emmy D.
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Emmy D.
Star Sitter
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 9 reviews
3 repeat clients
6 years of experience
Grimes, IA, 50111

“Emmy took wonderful care of our dog! She was attentive and made sure our energetic girl got plenty of exercise and stimulation. We received regular updates and photos, and it was apparent in the pictures that our dog felt right at home. We definitely recommend Emmy!”

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Kelly B.
Sitter Profile Image: Amanda J.
Verified Background Check
Amanda J.
Star Sitter
from
$40
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 22 reviews
9 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Madrid, IA, 50156

“Amanda was so great with our pups! She was always keeping us in the loop with our pups and gave us such a peaceful trip knowing our pups were having such a great time with her and her family! Would definitely use her services again and recommend her to anyone!”

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Jackie & Griffen L.
Sitter Profile Image: Samantha D.
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Samantha D.
from
$30
per night
5.0 out of 5 stars
• 574 reviews
195 repeat clients
20 years of experience
Adel, IA, 50003

“Samantha went above and beyond to care for my fur baby during his week long stay with her. I would absolutely recommend her for boarding, daycare, and other services. I have already recommended her to two other families because her attentiveness! Samantha took care of my yorkie while I was away and took care of him like he was her own. She took note of any discomfort he was feeling and communicated with me to make my pup feel his best the entire time he was in her care. Communication 10/10 Attentiveness 10/10 Enrichment 10/10 THANK YOU SAMANTHA!”

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Sierra C.
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The median cost per night for dog boarding in Van Meter is $40

Dog parents share their Rover experiences - Van Meter

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5.0 out of 5 stars

Heidi had a wonderful experience at Cindy's house. Cindy kept her comfortable and occupied during that heat in early September. Cindy is a very nice person and we hope to use her again as a sitter.

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Marty P.
Boarding
5.0 out of 5 stars

Cindy was great! She checked in and sent pictures almost every day and found a better way to give my picky dog his pills!

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Kristin H.
Boarding
5.0 out of 5 stars

A few days before our booking Jada ended up at the vet and came home with some meds. I contacted Lucinda and she said No Problem, she'd make sure Jada got them. We had no worries on our vacation and Jada came home happy.

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Pam K.
Boarding
1 / 1
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Book with peace of mind

  • Screened pet sitters have passed a third-party background check and show verified reviews from other pet parents, like you.
  • Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 reimbursement for eligible vet care. Learn more
  • 24/7 support from the Rover team–here to help if you ever need someone to talk to.

Why Choose Rover?

  • Cashless payments

    Book and pay through Rover’s secured platform—no cash or checks required.

  • Reservation protection

    It doesn’t happen often, but if your sitter has to cancel, we’ll work with you to find a new sitter.

  • World-class support

    We’re friendly, knowledgable, and total pet fanatics. You can get in touch with us anytime.

How to book dog boarding

  1. 1. Search

    Browse profiles of sitters near you who offer dog boarding.
  2. 2. Meet In Person

    Schedule a free in-person Meet & Greet to find the perfect fit.
  3. 3. Book & Pay

    It's that easy! All payments are processed through Rover's secured platform.

Popular requests for dog boarding - Van Meter

Select a filter and find qualifying sitters offering dog boarding.

Sitters in Van Meter average 12
repeat dog boarding clients

FAQs for Dog Boarding - Van Meter

Frequently asked questions about Rover

The average cost of Dog Boarding in Van Meter is $33 per night as of November 2026. Most bookings cost between $33 and $44 per night. On Rover, sitters set their own rates based on factors such as their experience, the length of care, the number of pets, and your pet’s specific needs. As long as your booking dates and pet profiles are accurate, the price shown before you confirm is the total, including any booking fee.

As of November 2026, there are 347 sitters on Rover offering Dog Boarding across Van Meter. Enter your ZIP code to see which available sitters are closest to your home.

If you would like updates while you’re away, you can discuss with your sitter how many or how frequent you’d like those updates to be. The Rover app allows sitters to send photos, videos, and messages about your pet, including how many pee or poop breaks occurred. You can message your sitter at any time through the app and our support team is available 24/7 by email or chat if you have concerns.

The personalized, in-home nature of pet care through Rover can mean more individual attention for your pet.

Every sitter on Rover has their own routine. Depending on the arrangements you agree on before the stay, a sitter can follow your dog’s regular feeding schedule, provide a comfortable place to sleep, offer companionship, and support their usual exercise and play needs.

95% of sitters in Van Meter can provide daily exercise during dog boarding stays. Depending on the sitter, their home environment, and your dog’s needs, this may include walks, outdoor play, indoor enrichment activities, or supervised play with compatible dogs. These activities are not automatically included with every booking, so ask the sitter what a typical day looks like.

During the Meet & Greet, discuss your dog’s usual exercise and play routine, whether they can safely interact with other dogs, and any activities or restrictions the sitter should follow. You can also ask the sitter to send photo and message updates during the stay so you can see how your dog is spending their time.

Preparing for drop-off is easy when you have a checklist! To help your dog settle into their Van Meter home-away-from-home, we recommend packing:

  • Health and safety essentials such as their ID tags, vaccination records, medication, and emergency vet or secondary caregiver contacts.
  • Food and gear such as harnesses, collars, food (portioned by day), and an item that smells like you.
  • Special instructions such as a list of training cues, medical administration needs, or favorite hang-out spots in your Van Meter.

Tip: You can upload your dog’s routine and medical info directly onto their profile so your sitter always has the details at their fingertips.

Yes, you can find sitters who have experience with handling special pet needs in Van Meter. On Rover:

  • 91% of sitters can help with special care needs
  • 95% can help with giving oral medications or injections
  • 95% can help with daily exercise

You can also find pet sitters on Rover who accept only one pet at a time, which is ideal for anxious puppies, kittens, or senior pets who move at a gentler pace. Some sitters will also list availability for 24/7 care, also known as constant care, in their profiles.

Use the search filters to narrow down sitters whose specific experience or environment meets your pet's needs. When reaching out to your sitter, outline your pet's care routine and use the Meet & Greet to walk your sitter through your expectations.

You and your Van Meter sitter can schedule drop-off and pick-up in a way that works best for the both of you—and your dog. Most sitters offer flexible times for drop-off and pick-up but the easiest way to confirm those times will be through in-app messaging. Confirm your arrival time the day of pick-up and drop-off can also help keep the process smooth and organized.

The Rover Guarantee is Rover’s commitment to your peace of mind every time you book. It includes 24/7 customer support, sitter access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals for diagnostic issues, and a reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care in the rare event something goes wrong.

All bookings are backed by the Rover Guarantee, which provides up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.

Every sitter on Rover is required to pass a background check before listing their services. This process confirms their identity and indicates they are not on the Department of Justice’s National Sex Offender Public Website or have any disqualifying offenses.

Beyond ID checks, you can review each sitter's star rating, read verified reviews from other pet parents, and see how many repeat clients they have. Every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care. For more details, visit Rover's Trust & Safety page.

While each sitter sets their own vaccine requirements, staying up-to-date on your dog’s vaccines is the best way to be "boarding ready". Vaccinations help create a safe environment for all pets under a sitter’s care.

Many sitters in IA ask that dogs be up to date on core vaccines like the Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Adenovirus, Bordetella, and Rabies.

By discussing your pet's health history early, you’re adding a layer of confidence for you and your sitter before the booking begins.

If a health concern arises during a stay, your sitter is instructed to contact you and our Trust & Safety team immediately and, if needed, take your dog to the closest veterinarian. Through our Trust & Safety support team, sitters can ask for diagnostic advice from a qualified veterinary professional if your dog is showing signs of possible illness.

For extra peace of mind, you can also prepare an authorization form for your regular vet. An authorization form outlines your preferred method of care and allows your sitter to bring your pet into their regular clinic.

Every qualified booking made on Rover is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes reimbursement for eligible emergency vet care.

Adding another pup to the pack? Most sitters and walkers offer a reduced rate for additional dogs. You’ll find these exact rates listed under the "Services" tab on any sitter's profile. Since every dog is unique, final pricing may vary depending on the level of care required.

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