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Karen T.

5.0 out of 5 stars
1 repeat client
Profile image

Karen T.

5.0 out of 5 stars
1 repeat client

Contact for Boarding

from $50 per night

Highlights

Enhanced background check
40 years of experience
Home full time
Can administer medication
Senior dog experience
Accepts 1 client at a time

Pet care experience

Second best only to you!

** NOTE: Rover has increased the amount they are taking from our income so I have been forced to raise my rates. I’ve been an animal lover and hands-on pet caregiver for as long as I can remember. Over the years, I’ve cared for dogs, birds, rabbits, and fish—so I’m comfortable with a wide range of personalities, needs, and routines. My heart dog was a golden retriever I raised from just 8 weeks old through nearly 16 wonderful years. She was family in every sense of the word. I walked with her through every stage of life—including serious health challenges like cancer—and made sure she was surrounded by comfort, love, and dignity until the very end. That experience shaped how I approach pet care: patient, attentive, and deeply compassionate. Since then, I’ve opened my home to fostering and have cared for a variety of breeds and temperaments, including a small German Shepherd mix, Aussie, Border Collie, Plott Hound mix, and others. I’m comfortable with just about all dogs, shy or anxious, and those who just need a steady, calm presence. However I don't currently accept dogs over 50 pounds. When considering boarding, my situation is best for small- to medium-sized dogs or older dogs that don't require a lot of outdoor space for play would be best if they are staying with me. I am only accepting dogs that can be crated when I am not at home. When your pet is with me, they won’t just be “watched”—they’ll be cared for like family. Whether that means walks, playtime, sticking closely to their routine, or simply giving them a safe, relaxed environment, I adapt to what your pet needs most. I want to clarify that my living situation is in a condominium. The only choices in the app are house or apartment and my situation is neither. I live in a small four-unit building in a condominium complex, not far from Cantigny. I am on the board of the homeowners association as well. My unit is on the first floor with a patio and lovely grounds to walk right outside the door. This is a very quiet community. I understand what it takes to entrust your pet to someone you've just met, and I take that trust very seriously. My goal is simple: for you to feel confident and for your pet to feel safe, happy, and loved.

Qualifications

1 repeat pet parent
100% response rate
Usually responds in under half an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards
40 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Senior dog experience

Ratings and reviews

5.0
stars
4 ratings
Anne S.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Doggy Day Care • Jun 24, 2026

We have been very comfortable leaving Rusty with Karen. He has always been happy and very well cared for. Karen’s love for animals is apparent and appreciated.

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Sel R.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • Jun 18, 2026

My dog stayed for a whole week with Karen and she was absolutely AMAZING ! My dog was very well loved and she provided amazing updates ❤️

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Anne S.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Doggy Day Care • Jun 09, 2026

This was Rusty’s first experience with day care and he loved it! Karen has a wonderful way with pups and we were totally confident leaving Rusty with her. We were comfortable all day because we left him with someone who is loving and competent. We will definitely be back!!

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Boarding • May 31, 2026

Karen T. cancelled a booking 3 days before it was scheduled to begin.

David D.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Boarding • May 25, 2026

Karen was very responsive and took very good care of old boy! He had a great time

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Karen R.
May 06, 2026

I trust Karen with my dogs, which says a lot! She has know several generations of my dogs and each and every one of them has simply adored her. Karen has had them stay at her house as well as staying with them in my home. I highly recommend Karen!

Calendar and availability

Available
Not available
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Available
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Schedule

I work a sporadic part time schedule at The Morton Arboretum which involves no more than 8 hours per week at this time. I have a lot of free time to dedicate to your pet.

Where your pet will stay

Home characteristics

Lives in a house
Has an unfenced yard
Non-smoking household
Has no pets
No children present
Dogs not allowed on bed
Dogs allowed on furniture
Potty breaks every 2-4 hours

Safety, trust & environment

When I am with your pet, I will be 100% focused on your pet. I will take no chances with your pet's safety, carefully monitoring the space they are in, toys they play with, etc.

A typical day

A typical day would entail at least two walks (not counting the times we step outside for a quick potty before bedtime!) And of course there will be lots of play time and cuddles...I will read the cues your dog sends regarding what they want in terms of attention or quiet time.

0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
Dogs over 1 year old
Spayed and neutered dogs only
No females in heat
Crate-trained dogs only
Takes only 1 client at a time
Karen can host up to 1 pet per night
It will be important for me to know ahead of time your dog's typical habits. The kinds of things they enjoy doing and things I should avoid. I will need to know their feeding schedule, allergies, and if they are allowed any treats or snacks. Please let me know your expectations regarding whether or not your dog can be on my furniture.
Each sitter joining Rover needs to pass a background check. And by booking on Rover, you can get photo & message updates, 24/7 support, and reimbursement for eligible vet care.