Dog Walkers in Hometown, IL

About: I have years of hands-on experience caring for both cats and dogs with big personalities, different needs, and unique emotional backgrounds. I grew up around dogs and am very comfortable caring for them alongside cats — including understanding different energy levels, routines, and communication styles. I don’t just “pet sit”; I focus on understanding each pet as an individual and respecting their boundaries, routines, and communication styles. I’m especially patient with animals who need time to warm up or who have had rough pasts. I take a calm, low-pressure approach and let pets set the pace for trust and interaction. What sets me apart: • 🐾 Experienced with cats and dogs who are: • Shy, anxious, reactive, or easily overstimulated • Food-motivated, demanding, or boundary-testing • 🐾 Comfortable reading body language and respecting “no” signals • 🐾 Experienced with feeding routines, treat schedules, and managing food-related behaviors • 🐾 Patient with seniors and low-energy pets • 🐾 Confident with multi-pet households and managing group dynamics • 🐾 Focused on low-stress handling and emotional well-being • 🐾 Will follow routines exactly as instructed (feeding times, meds if applicable, enrichment, etc.) My goal is to make your pet’s time with me feel as close to their normal routine as possible — not just watched, but genuinely cared for in a calm, respectful way. Pet care fits naturally into my daily routine. I keep a flexible schedule that allows me to plan visits around each pet’s feeding times, walks, and normal routines. I’m able to give pets my full attention during visits rather than rushing through them. I also leave time for updates so owners receive photos and notes about how their pet is doing. Safety and trust come first for me. I follow routines exactly, keep doors secured, respect pet boundaries, and maintain a calm, low-stress environment. I pay close attention to behavior, appetite, and mood changes, and I’ll communicate any concerns promptly.

“Dara is amazing to work with. Always consistent and on time”

Lauren G.

“I recently adopted a rescue who is having a hard time adjusting to new people. Kathryn did a great job with him! Despite him growling at her she was patient with him and helped him calm down so she could walk him. She was reliable and understanding. I then asked her if she could come again last minute and without hesitation she agreed! I would definitely work with Kathryn again!”

Katherine C.

“With the busy schedules my husband and I have, we use Melissa weekly for recurring walks. She is great about picking up extra walks when we need, so our fur baby has some consistency with all traveling I do for work. Bruno loves her and I love the peace of mind she gives us! Thanks Melissa for all you do!”

Stephanie E.

“Megan was a wonderful addition to our extended pet family! She was on time and always sent every update on every walk with photos. She’s a very kind woman and my pets loved her! She took my one dog on walks and helped my senior dog go outside and was successful in keeping my escape artist cat in the house. She fed them right and was just very accommodating to their every need. I will definitely use her again and I recommend her to you! Thanks Megan!”

Mallory W.

About: I treat every pup like my own. If your dog isn't napping or resting, we'll be active and engaged. That may include playing with their favorite toy, going on a walk, or getting plenty of belly rubs and pats. I believe dogs thrive on love, attention, and activity. Therefore, I make sure they're never bored or lonely. I'm currently a student at UIC with one class online and one class in person. My schedule is very flexible, which allows me plenty time for walks, drop-ins and overnight care. Your dogs safety and comfort are my top priorities. On walks, I let your pep lead the way so they can explore at their own pace. I love finding nearby parks where they can burn energy. It I'm caring for a pet in your home, I'll always follow your instructions closely to maintain their normal routine.

About: Experienced dog walker and sitter of 7years for hotels in the downtown Chicago area. I have a Cooperative communication style that abides by owner's guidelines, backed with my own handling of the dog. I currently have open availability.Besides, what is currently listed, I am differentiated from other sitters and walker, by I have a reputation for going above and beyond for the dogs' and the owners' needs. For example,There once was a dog I watched and walked who had no toys and 1st with checking in with my boss and the owner, provided for the dog. Additionally, I am a professional, certified, and licensed massage therapist; this is relevant regarding taking care of your dog or pet because I may even assist dogs with constipation and can help soothe an anxious dog or pet. I am currently on other apps in regards to pet care.I have plenty of time to help with your pet. Just to reiterate open availability, dog walking and house sitting. I am not open yet to have dogs in my home yet, however, in the clients home abiding by the rules the pet owner sets, as well as keeping a watchful eye on the pets.

About: Hello, my name is Maritza. I’ve taken care of dogs and other pets for about 15 years. Family, friends and, neighbors have relied on me to babysit their dogs for a day or days while on vacation or business trips. I have experience on feeding them, bathing them, potty training them, and understanding the love language and their comfort zone. For me a pet is not only a pet. They are family. I’m currently working part time so I have plenty of time to babysit and play with your pet. In addition to that, my part-time job is very flexible and is only a couple of hours a day three days a week. So I could work around your schedule if needed. I live in a peaceful and safe neighborhood with lovely neighbors, and I have a fenced yard all around. Your pedal would be more than safe here.

“Sandy & her son PJ are fantastic with my high energy pup, Ace. They are on time & consistent & Ace is completely exhausted upon his return. He seems to really enjoy himself. 🐾. I highly recommend them.”

Carolyn Z.

About: I love dogs. I have had one Doberman, one mutt who was the best, and two English Mastiffs. I had a dog everyday of my life until five years ago when my 200 pound English Mastiff named Max died. It broke my heart and hasn't felt right to replace him. But I love dogs and cherish watching the relationship people have with their dogs. I say hi to every pooch on the street that I pass. Rest assured, your dog will be treated with the utmost friendliness and care imaginable. I work from home so your dog will always have a friendly companion around. A side note. No Pit Bulls, No Rottweilers, No Stafford Terriers, No Husky of any sort, and No Doodles of any sort. I'm sure if any of these five dogs are part of your family that you are a wonderful person and so is your dog. However, they are far from my cup of tea. I work from home. I'm home basically all the time. And other than that, I just work on landscaping my front and back yards. I have a fenced in yard. Your pet is in great hands. I work from home. I'm home basically all the time. And other than that, I just work on landscaping my front and back yards. I have a fenced in yard. Your pet is in great hands.

“Aileen's care for Toby was absolutely exceptional. Not only did she diligently take him for walks, but she also ensured he had plenty of water before parting ways. On top of that, she thoughtfully sent us regular photo updates. Without a doubt, I will be rebooking with Aileen in the future. Her kind and professional demeanor is truly remarkable.”

Carmen K.

“My Stella and I were extremely happy with Margaret’s dog walking services. My Stella loved her at first sight. A sixty-one pound dog can be hard to handle and Margaret handled Stella with ease. Always willing to accommodate changed walking times, extremely reliable and very friendly. I plan on using Margaret in the future. Five star service for sure!”

Carla M.

About: I personally have 3 dogs, I love fur babies. Would love to help and make your dog feel at home and comfortable. Have experience with big and small dogs Full time ESL para and seeking to take care of your pets! I’m able to help after work during the week and open during the weekends. I’m open to discuss times once booked I start by learning about each pet’s personality, schedule and diet . In your home I follow your instructions closely to maintain your pets comfort and minimize stress. Ensure fresh water, food and lots of love

About: I’ve always loved caring for animals, and I’ll treat your pets the same way I do my own! I love working smaller pets, as I have a chihuahua myself, but I’m happy to work with bigger dogs as I’m 6’4- so a big guy myself! I enjoy playing with, walking, feeding, and spending time with your pets. I also will make sure to take the time to build trust with your pets- I’m happy to cater to each pets individual needs. I am available everyday from the hours of 2pm-10pm, I can walk or house sit your pet multiple times a day within these hours, and am happy to accommodate your needs. I have a dog, a little chihuahua named Minnie, and calico cat named Kiki! They are both very different, but I love them both the same. Minnie is a big foodie, and I often have to protect my food from her :). I enjoy cuddling, walking, and giving her lots of treats. Kiki is a bit more stand offish, so I give her space- but when shes ready to play I make sure I am too!

About: Over the years, I’ve found myself drawn to caring for animals in small but meaningful ways. Whether it’s walking or playing with a family member’s energetic dog or simply offering companionship, I’ve always found fulfillment in their presence.What I may lack in professional dog care experience, I make up for with genuine attentiveness, patience, and affection. I understand how important it is to build trust with pets and their humans, and I’m committed to creating a safe, loving environment for your pets. As someone who’s cared for my aunt’s cats—including administering medication and tuning in to their unique personalities—I bring that same level of thoughtfulness and care to my work with dogs. As someone who works from home full-time, I have a flexible schedule and the freedom to work from just about anywhere—making it easy for me to prioritize your pet’s care. Whether it's a mid-day walk, potty break, or weekend with the owner's out of town, I can be present and attentive to assist you in caring for your pet's needs. Work with my schedule and I can work with your's. When providing services in your home, I will treat your space with the same respect and care I give your pets. I understand how important it is to feel comfortable with someone entering your home, and I take that trust seriously. With a patient, compassionate approach, I aim to create a calm and safe environment where your pet can feel relaxed, happy, and well cared for. As well as ensuring that the guidelines you provide are followed.

About: I enjoy being with pups and getting them outside! I have a 13 year old chihuahua mix who is anxious and dog-reactive so no stranger to dogs with specific needs. I work from home full-time with a flexible schedule. I am available to check in on your dog or take them for a walk during the day, most days. My own dog has specific needs (senior, anxious, dog-reactive) so I will be sure to follow any directions to the tee. I want to make sure you feel good about leaving your pup in my care.

About: Hi friends, my name is Carla, and I LOVE animals. Anyone who knows me, can vouch for that. I’ve grown up having a numerous amount of pets, all different sizes, and kinds! Pretty much anything my parents would let me bring home since I was a toddler. I’ve had dogs and cats of all sizes, snakes, turtles, birds, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, you name it! This didn’t stop in my adult hood, I currently have 3 dogs, 3 cats, and 2 turtles, whom are all rescues! I have been in the animal field for 6+ years, working in shelters, emergency hospitals, surgical units, and general clinics as a veterinary technician. I am highly experienced with anxious/reactive pets, senior pets, neonatal pets, or even pets with medical needs. I’m also currently a lead tech at a spay/neuter clinic so I am very experienced with surgical recovery! I understand the importance of safety of crates/kennels, and am willing to be compliant with your house rules for your pets! Wether they need to be walked around blocks, or even in your yard for a playtime/potty break, rain or shine I will be there. I also have training experience, so if allowed, I would be happy to help with leash training or command training during my visits! If there is one thing every pet needs, it someone patient and willing, and that’s me! Rain or shine, I’ll be there! I am currently working full time But I am available after 6 Monday-Thursday, and weekends I have full availability for walking, Drop ins, and boarding! I have a huge fenced in yard, and dogs that are pet friendly! I also have kitties who love dogs, and I foster shelter pets frequently, I am very experienced with proper introductions and reading body language!

About: I have have been taken care of all types of animal breeds since I was a little one (approximately 5). Neighbors, friends, and family have always relied on me to persist whenever they went out of town or even needed me to walk their dogs for them. I even specialize in caring for exotic animals (like reptiles, frogs, snakes, etc) as well. Taking care and providing the needs for animals has always been a passion for me. Anything your fur baby needs I am the one. I wanted to further this passion so I decided to further my education by enrolling into pre vet school and one day get my PhD to be a veterinarian. I am currently a student online so anytime after 1pm is fine. There’s not a specific day I am not free. I stay at home most of the days except when I take my dogs for a walk around the neighborhood or take farm visits. I have a fenced in 8 foot fence. So no worries of your babies escaping. I also have a dog that can keep your fur baby company. I have food and water bowels ready at all times. You can bring food if they have a specific diet. I don’t like crates but if you feel that it is needed then that can be arranged as well.

About: I absolutely love animals. I have previously worked at a pet store where I had the responsibility of taking care of cats, kittens, dogs, puppies, reptiles, and exotic animals. I am heavily involved in the fitness world currently and I occasionally go to the gym and do my home workouts which my schedule can always be adjusted. Pet care will be no problem at all! Spacious fenced backyard. I can accommodate to any need that you or your pet may have. Your pet will never be alone and will have so much fun in my care. Frequent potty breaks and walks.

“Suzanne is a great help walking Shiloh twice a week, she follows instructions and is very communicative. She also sends plenty of photos on their walks, and leaves Shiloh tired. Definitely recommend!”

Abraham G.