Dog Walking Van Meter

About: I've had dogs and cats for most of my life that are treated as family. Buster, my 16 year old Border Collie mix, recently passed. My family consists of several grand puppies who come for visits. I am retired and have a very flexible schedule. I am home most days all day long, with occasional appointments. I would love to go for walks with a dog. I have a pet friendly home with a large fenced yard. I have several grand puppies who visit. I love dogs and would welcome them into my home as part of my family.

“Reagan has been super great! We would definitely recommend her for dog walking, she was able to come and meet my dog and is great at communicating in a timely manner. She’s super accommodating and keeps me updated with lots of pictures and notes of their walk. I know my dog is in good hands, can’t ask for a better dog walker!”

Trinity B.

About: Hi! I’ve been an animal lover for as long as I can remember and have grown up surrounded by dogs. I currently have a Golden Retriever named Sayde who lives with my parents back home, and although I don’t have a dog of my own in my apartment right now, caring for animals has always been a huge part of my life. Throughout the years, I’ve cared for pets belonging to family, friends, and members of my community. While attending Iowa State University, I joined the ACE Project, where I had the rewarding opportunity to foster several dogs who had experienced trauma or needed extra help with socialization. Working with these dogs taught me so much about patience, compassion, and the importance of creating a safe, loving environment where every dog can feel comfortable and thrive. I currently work at BluePearl Pet Hospital in Des Moines, where I care for and handle animals with a wide range of medical needs, including critically ill pets. This experience has given me valuable hands-on animal care experience and a strong medical knowledge base, allowing me to feel confident caring for pets who may need extra attention, medication, or specialized care. I truly miss fostering and spending time with dogs, and pet sitting feels like the perfect way to continue doing what I love! My goal is to make every pet feel safe, loved, and comfortable while their owners are away. Whether your pet is energetic and playful, shy and still warming up, or requires a little extra TLC, I’m happy to meet them where they are and give them the individualized care they deserve. I can’t wait to meet your furry family members! I work three 12-hour shifts at BluePearl Emergency Pet Hospital in Des Moines, and my schedule varies each week. I receive my schedule monthly, so planning ahead is helpful, especially for overnight stays. On my days off, I have plenty of time to dedicate to your pets and am available for drop-ins, dog walks, and spending quality time with them. For longer stays, I appreciate at least a month’s notice so I can coordinate with work and ensure I’m available. I always want to be upfront about my schedule to make sure your pets receive the time, attention, and care they deserve! I focus on keeping pets comfortable and sticking to their normal routines while their owners are away. I follow feeding schedules, make time for walks, playtime, and cuddles, and provide plenty of attention. I live in a spacious, pet-friendly apartment in a great neighborhood for long walks, with nearby hiking areas to explore. I’m also happy to crate your pet when I’m away if that’s part of their normal routine. Through my work at BluePearl Pet Hospital, I have experience caring for pets with medical needs and am comfortable following medication instructions. My goal is to make sure every pet feels safe, happy, and well cared for!

About: I have had my own dogs for 3 years, I have 2 of my own as well as 2 with my parents. They are all Labrador retrievers. I currently work at a doggy daycare facility and have experience with administering meds, cleaning wounds, and all types of dog behavior and personality. I also would like to become a vet tech in the future. I currently work full time at a doggy daycare & boarding facility. I currently have a set schedule, so usually my days are the same. I would have time either before or after work depending on what you were looking for! I have 2 friendly dogs to keep your pup company if you would want that. If needed I do have a crate if that would be needed. I can also do check ins in your home so your pup can feel comfortable in their own space.

About: Hello! My name is Sammie and I’m a recently retired college athlete and nursing student. I’ve had three dogs in my lifetime so far with many more to come. I am 22 years old and a New Nurse. Im also a huge animal lover and obsessed with every furry friend. I had two beagles growing up… and now I have a six year-old sassy, husky named Skye… we rescued Skye a little over 6 years ago when she was 1 year old. We take her on three walks a day, short car rides, dog park trips, and we give her plenty of playtime. She has a few different husky friends in the neighborhood. Although she’s a little crazy, she’s my best friend. I recently moved to Des Moines, IA from Massachusetts and I’m excited to get started helping other families with fur babies. Every morning and every evening I walk my husky. We play with her throughout the day depending on who is around in the family. She gets weekly dog park trips as well and hangs out with her friends in the neighborhood. Plenty of playtime, cuddles and walks. I know my dog loves to take long walks in the neighborhood, play fetch with her ball and snuggle on the couch when she’s tired.

About: My family have had bernese mountain dogs for 14 years and I have dog-sat for some very energetic golden retrievers, so I have encountered both ends of the dog-energy-spectrum! I currently work full time, so I am looking for opportunities on the weekend to help out some folks with walking their dogs! I would love to incorporate this into my weekly routine! I am currently not able to provide at home services or dog sitting. I will happily take small to medium sized dogs on their walks, though!

“Helen was incredible to work with and kept us informed while we were gone! She was prompt with her arrival times and sent us fun pictures. She shared any concerns she had and communicated amazingly.”

Rochelle P.

About: Hi my name is Schae and I have my crazy sidekick Ace who is a 4 year old Siberian Husky. I got him from the ArL back in 2022 when I first moved to Iowa. He has changed my life for the better and I’ve definitely changed his. I’ve grown up with all sizes and breeds of dogs from golden doodles to chihuahuas. Cats I also have experience with as well. I actually went to the ARL wanting a cat and came home with Ace my husky.. so there’s that. I hope you will trust me in loving and treating your pet(s) like they are my own whether that’s dropping in or an overnight play date possibly! Whether your fur children just need some extra love during the day or while your away or if they need some extra fur friend socialization, Ace and I are here to help you. I am currently searching for a full time job and figured why not spend my free time helping others with their fur babies when needed. I have my Ace to keep any other canine companions company if you so wish. If not that is totally okay! I am able to provide care to your pets and send daily updates and photos! I also will try my best to make sure that their routine is stuck to, to reduce any stress that may occur.

About: Hi! I’m a reliable and patient pet sitter with experience caring for cats with a wide range of personalities..from super social and playful to more independent or shy. I understand that cats thrive on routine and a calm environment, so I always take the time to learn their habits, preferences, and boundaries. Whether your cat loves attention or prefers their space, I’ll make sure they feel safe, comfortable, and well cared for while you’re away. I’m experienced with: • Feeding routines and fresh water care • Litter box cleaning and maintenance • Playtime and enrichment • Giving space to more reserved or anxious cats • Monitoring behavior and overall well-being I’m very detail oriented and will make sure everything is done exactly how you prefer. I’ll also keep you updated with messages and photos so you can relax knowing your cat is doing well. I do work full-time as an accountant, but my schedule is very flexible in how I structure my days around watching and caring your animals and their needs! I have a fenced in backyard where my dogs can play and relax without the worry of a leash or harness, and they have free roam of my home

“Ash dropped in last minute for me and was a great help! Will def reach out again when needed. thank you!”

Nichole M.

“Racheal is such a wonderful human! We love that she is part of our lives, and she is adored by my greyhound, Bobbie Sue. We view her as family, and would recommend her to everyone for assistance with their pet. :)”

Valarie L.

About: Caring for people and pets comes naturally to me. I worked in nursing for several years before leaving to care for my father full time. Between that and being a mom giving love and care comes easy. Sadly, now my father is no longer in my home. His care was too much for an in home setting, but we still visit and he shows my dogs off to everyone in his building. I find myself with time to spare and I know it's hard to get the minutes is for our 4 legged friends during busy weeks so why not let me take some of the burden from your schedule ? I have 2 dogs of my own, both of which are friendly and love a bit of play time. I am a big believer in fresh air and exercise. Let's get those steps in for your 4 legged family member. Cats are welcome too, we have plenty of treats and love to share. I don't work a regular job, I have recently moved my elderly father to a care facility, and I am taking classes to become a certified dog trainer in the hopes of making this my fulltime gig. I am available for walking and/or drop in visits at a moments notice a lot of the time. So let's get this thing started! For walking: usually I do a meet and greet with pet parents before we actually book services. Just to make sure your furry family member and I are fast friends, and also so you can show me how you care for your pet. I like to keep with the same que words and knowing where the leash and stuff is makes getting out of the house so much easier! I do keep a few different leashes and simple harnesses in my vehicle as well just in case it is ever needed. For drop in visits: I like to pop in with big excitement and spend a few minutes with your pet just simply petting and being social. After all drop ins are usually because a pet is in the home alone for an extended period, so we meet the social need first. Then I like to tackle the need to stuff, like feeding, or medication, or whatever the tasks may be, I finish out the visit with cleaning up any supplies, or food dishes, and a quick bit of play just for fun. Ending with a double check of the pet, the tasks, and bid goodbye, check that I leave the home secure and let you know how things went, then I'm off. For Stays: combination of both those with a rinse and repeat action and some added lounging and cuddle time if applicable. With stays I do walk (assuming it's a dog or more) at least once a day but usually more.

About: I’ve pet sat since middle school with varying animals including dogs, cats, and even rabbits. I’m a big animal person hoping to ensure that your furry companions are in the hands of someone efficient and careing. I also work part time at a cat cafe in valley junction so I work with cats on a regular basis. With general pet care I am always trying to be as available as I can. Im only unavailable once a week (typically Thursday and Fridays, but it differs). I am always very flexible. I have a fenced in yard and a dog at home that is fairly well behaved around other dogs. I do not have a crate at my home and would prefer to care for your pet in your home.

“Gia loved Vanessa. Will definitely be using her again!”

Justin G.

About: Growing up surrounded by the love and joy of dogs, I’ve been a devoted pet enthusiast since my early years. With a lifetime of firsthand experience in providing unwavering care and companionship to our four-legged friends, I am available 24/7 to extend that same level of love and attention to your beloved pets. My commitment is to create a safe, happy and nurturing environment and experience for them, ensuring they receive the best care possible. With a completely open schedule, I am fully committed to providing constant attention and creating a supportive environment for your furry friend. Your pet’s happiness and comfort are my top priorities. I prioritize their care as a central part of my day, ensuring ample time for walks, play, and companionship. In both my home and yours, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing environment for your pets. Whether it’s providing cozy spaces, regular walks, playtime, or adhering to specific dietary needs, I tailor my care to match the unique preferences and routines of each furry friend. I understand every pet is different, and my goal is to ensure they feel loved, comfortable, and right at home, no matter where they are.

About: Born and raised a dog lover! I’ve have 5 dogs throughout my life that I have loved so dearly. I’ve grown up taking care of my friend’s dogs in HS and college. I love to go on walks, so why not bring your pup with me! I unfortunately do not have my own dog at this time with my significant other, but I hope to get one soon! I am a teacher who is taking a small step back in education to focus on my health. I know your dogs will help me A LOT during this transition, and they will be under great care. I currently live in an apartment in Des Moines, so I am also available for drop-ins to ensure your pup is comfortable at home! I am willing to travel to different to parts of the metro to help you and your pup!

About: My ability to love animals is a gift that I want to share with others. I have had a dog, hamster, ducks and a cat and all are the most happy animals I have met. I go above and beyond to make them all comfortable and feel loved! I currently am blessed to have a senior lab, Cokie! She is truly my soul dog and my best friend. I take care of her everyday. I also help with my neighbors, family and friends pets! I respect the household of others, if you give me rules they will be followed. Along with basic common sense of what is/isn’t ok in someone else’s home. When I have a pet over to my house, they are respected and treated just like a human guest

About: I’ve worked with dogs since an early age. I love and care for them deeply. They are extensions of myself and are the reason I come home everyday. I’m a full time worker but that wont stop me from taking care of your animals needs. I am available most days. I can be flexible. My job is to satisfy the needs of you the customer. I work tirelessly to ensure your pets happiness. This is what matters the most.

About: I grew up always having cats and being a total cat lady, however after bringing home my first dog ever back in 2017, I realized how much I absolutely love and adore dogs! I have experience with having a dog of my own (sadly he went on to the rainbow bridge), plus caring for my sisters dog who I jokingly say is my part time dog. I also have experience with all the dogs I’ve gotten to meet through Rover. I would love to have a dog of my own again but I don’t have the proper time or space to have one right now, so I’m looking to get my fix by spending time with your dog! I’m currently available any time during the week or weekends while I’m taking a break from my regular 9-5. I will be very attentive to your pets needs and making sure they are comfortable, this includes lots of outdoor time with nice walks, and giving them lots of love and attention(not to mention treats!). :) I’m taking a break from my normal 9-5 gig so currently I have availability any time of day or night any day of the week to be able to care for your furry friends:) I live in an apartment with 2 cats so any pets that stay with me need to be familiar and friendly with cats. I do have a spare bedroom that I can use for separation purposes however prefer to be familiar and good around cats if I will be watching in my home. If house sitting I will be available to stay in your home and will send lots of pictures and updates along the way.

About: I have raised multiple dogs throughout my life including Chihuahuas, huskies, german Shepard, lab, and beagle. I have also worked at different doggie day cares and animal shelter as well. I have an open schedule just need a 7 days notice. I also work full time from home Monday-friday 8am-4:30pm. Just let me know in advance before. I have only have 1 dog at my home currently a beagle. I also have fully fenced in front and backyard. I live in the bottom of a duplex