Profile image
Profile image

Jo D.

Portage Park, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
48 reviews
Image 1 of 25
Image 1 of 25
Image 2 of 25
Image 3 of 25
Image 4 of 25
Image 5 of 25
96PhotosView All

Services

Jo can look after

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs

Availability

I have flexibility throughout the week to provide pet care, including walks and companionship. On weekends, I offer extended care with longer walks, playtime, and extra attention. My schedule allows me to integrate pet care seamlessly, ensuring your pet receives consistent, and loving care.

Available
Not available
MTWTFSS
House Sitting Cancellation Policy:

About Jo D.

Communication

17 repeat pet owners
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

22 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

I am flexible when working in pet owners' homes and always follow their guidance to ensure their pet’s routine and comfort are maintained. If space is limited indoors, I make sure to spend extra time outdoors for exercise and environmental stimulation (weather permitting). I also enjoy incorporating mentally stimulating activities, such as refreshing command training or engaging with toys and puzzles, to keep your pet’s mind active and happy. For senior dogs or those with mobility challenges or disabilities, I provide special care, focusing on their comfort and well-being, and offer companionship to ensure they feel loved and secure. My services also include providing meals, cleaning pet areas, and offering hygiene care for senior pets and those with disabilities, ensuring they receive the attention they need to feel their best.

Information Jo D. would like to know about your pet

Please describe your pet’s temperament and advise if your pet has behavioral issues (triggers/ stressors, reactivity, food aggression, etc.) physical limitations, allergies, medical needs, and specific routines.

A typical day

When watching pets, I make sure to tailor activities to each pet's individual needs, as every animal has its own personality and energy levels. I like to create a balance between mental stimulation, physical exercise, and downtime. Some pets may enjoy puzzle games that challenge their minds, while others might benefit from trust-building exercises or refreshers on existing commands. Physical exercise is also important, so I include walks and, for dogs with specific needs, physical therapy exercises. By observing each animal’s behavior and energy levels, I adjust the activities to ensure they are both fun and enriching, while also giving them time to relax and recharge.

Location

Chicago, IL

Jo D.'s Local Area

Pets

Trusted pet sitting & peace of mind

Pet care experience

Hi I’m Jo and I’m new to Rover but rest assure, I have 22 years of experience as a devoted dog owner! I’ve cared for six of my own dogs, ranging from puppies as young as 8 weeks to beloved seniors up to 15 years old. I’ve also cared for family and friends’ pets over the years (ranging from breeds, temperament, and physical abilities). My passion for animals drives me to offer personalized care for dogs and cats of all types, including those with special needs like incontinence, IVDD, high-energy breeds, and senior pups who need extra TLC. I’ve successfully fostered dogs and have extensive experience with obedience training, always setting clear boundaries while respecting each animal’s unique personality and needs. I’m dedicated to providing loving, patient, and consistent care that ensures every pet feels safe, valued, and happy. Above all, my kindness and deep love for animals shine through in every interaction, making sure your pet gets the best care possible. ❤️

Reviews

Sara T.
House Sitting • Jul 08, 2026
Profile image

Jo was fantastic with our older doggo. This was our first time leaving our dog since she began needing medication and special handling, and Jo made us feel so reassured. Jo was attentive and detailed oriented with medication, feeding, and potty instructions. She also went above and beyond for our girl who’s anxious during thunderstorms and fireworks. Jo was very respectful of our house by keeping it tidy, and was extremely responsive and flexible while we were away. We look forward to having Jo watch our girl again in the future and would highly recommend her!

Bailey D.
Drop-In Visits • Jun 28, 2026
Profile image

Jo was timely, communicative and provided several photos and videos during her drop in visit with Shiloh.

Brennan M.
House Sitting • Jun 16, 2026
Profile image
Profile image

Jo was amazing and I will absolutely be contacting her again! I travel for work and she took such special care of my two dogs. Highest of recommendations!

Liana F.
Drop-In Visits • Jun 07, 2026
Profile image
Profile image

Jo was great, patient, and very knowledgeable. Our dog is scared of people but Jo handled the situation perfectly and was playing with our normally-nervous dog in no time! She was also very professional and kind. So grateful to find someone that we can trust with our pups!

About Jo D.

Communication

17 repeat pet owners
100% response rate
Usually responds in a few minutes
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Skills

22 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration
First aid/CPR
Senior dog experience
Special needs dog experience
Can provide daily exercise

Safety, trust & environment

I am flexible when working in pet owners' homes and always follow their guidance to ensure their pet’s routine and comfort are maintained. If space is limited indoors, I make sure to spend extra time outdoors for exercise and environmental stimulation (weather permitting). I also enjoy incorporating mentally stimulating activities, such as refreshing command training or engaging with toys and puzzles, to keep your pet’s mind active and happy. For senior dogs or those with mobility challenges or disabilities, I provide special care, focusing on their comfort and well-being, and offer companionship to ensure they feel loved and secure. My services also include providing meals, cleaning pet areas, and offering hygiene care for senior pets and those with disabilities, ensuring they receive the attention they need to feel their best.

Information Jo D. would like to know about your pet

Please describe your pet’s temperament and advise if your pet has behavioral issues (triggers/ stressors, reactivity, food aggression, etc.) physical limitations, allergies, medical needs, and specific routines.

A typical day

When watching pets, I make sure to tailor activities to each pet's individual needs, as every animal has its own personality and energy levels. I like to create a balance between mental stimulation, physical exercise, and downtime. Some pets may enjoy puzzle games that challenge their minds, while others might benefit from trust-building exercises or refreshers on existing commands. Physical exercise is also important, so I include walks and, for dogs with specific needs, physical therapy exercises. By observing each animal’s behavior and energy levels, I adjust the activities to ensure they are both fun and enriching, while also giving them time to relax and recharge.

Each sitter joining Rover needs to pass an identity verification. And by booking on Rover, you can get photo & message updates, 24/7 support and reimbursement for eligible vet care.
Profile image
Verified Enhanced Background Check
Profile image
Verified Enhanced Background Check

Jo D.

Portage Park, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
48 reviews