I'm Julie (Jules), a graphic designer and creative director. I own a design and branding company in the Chicago/Milwaukee area that services clients locally, nationally and globally. I love all creative pursuits, including writing music for piano and singing. I've always loved all dogs, especially larger breeds (though the smaller pups are super cute and sweet and steal my heart equally!). My pup, Bella, a black lab mix, was a very kind, sweet and gentle dog. She passed in 2016 at age 14, having had a very nice life. I would love to help other fur babies who need caregiving while their humans are away or need a daily walk or check-in. I'm at home working during the week and have access to a wonderful backyard, an amazing neighborhood, and parks nearby. I love all outdoor activities, especially hiking and swimming. Would love to take your pups to the beach or on any sized walk they desire!! :) I offer these services because I love dogs, not to make a living. It's a great win/win to have a sweet fur baby around from time to time. Yes, it's nice to have some extra cash to work on the house, but my primary career more than covers my income needs. I share this info so you can be sure no other dogs will share your pup's time with me.* I keep to a strict policy of one-on-one care and up to two dogs from the same family... if you have more than two, please reach out, and I may be able to make exceptions. My rates reflect this customized care and focus for your sweet puppers! *In mid-2024, I started pairing up dogs that requested having another pup present from a different family. Please let me know if you are open to having a playmate for your pup. If you prefer no other dogs in the home while yours is here with me, I strictly adhere to your preferences and take this quite seriously. I specialize in customized care for dogs with behavioral issues such as not getting along with other dogs. Since my dog passed in 2016, I have been able to devote all my time to your pup when they're in my care. They will be carefully cared for and pampered, with every need catered to. The only thing I won't abide is a pup who isn't house-trained. If your dog/pup has never been left with a sitter before and you'd like to ensure they're a great house guest, I do suggest booking a 1-2 night stay much in advance of your trip so we can see if your pup has any specific issues to call out, and if I'm a good fit for them/you. I have found this to be of great benefit to you and me! I charge a cleaning fee IF your pup has "surprise" issues with incontinence, as this behavior can happen; however, I don't take on dogs with this issue unless we have a solution, like a doggy diaper or pee pads (for puppies). Severe separation anxiety can also be challenging, as my own pup had this issue. If there are situations such as this, I ask that you bring a crate, and the pup must be trained and be OK to be in their crate as needed. If no issues like these exist, they need to have their own bed or spot where they like to sleep. I don't allow dogs to sleep upstairs with me. Snuggling up on the sofa with a couple of pups is one of my favorite things to do. I know most dogs like a comfy bed. As noted above, please bring a fresh bed for your pet, either a cleaned dog bed from home or a new one. I have blankets for the floor and a lovely sofa that I cover with a blanket for the occasional daytime snooze. If you have an elderly dog, I know just what to do to provide the best care. As my dog Bella aged, I learned how to adapt every year. Listening to your dog and providing the best care is my priority. I realized that leaving an ailing or elderly pup in another person's care can be stressful. I would treat your dog like my own and hope to put your mind at rest. I welcome all questions as part of our meet + greet. I only sit for dogs I know or can meet during our meet + greet (unless out-of-town circumstances or timing prevail). I can sit at the last minute only for pups I've sat for previously or know well. If you are traveling from out of town and cannot sync up for a meet + greet, please reach out to discuss your situation. As far as breeds go, I have experience with an extensive range of breeds—larger breeds with special needs like an elevated dog water/food bowl due to how they process food or other breeds that are great with humans and not so wonderful with other dog breeds. I've had great results with training. I have experience with smaller breeds as well. As mentioned, I only sit for house-trained and well-behaved dogs in the home. I book up early... sometimes six months before a planned trip. Please plan ahead to secure your desired dates. I look forward to meeting your amazing pups soon!! Jules