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Maria M.

Star Sitter

Montclare, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
18 reviews
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Services

Maria can care for

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

Availability

I am currently a work from home mom so I am available to meet most schedule demands. This is also makes it easier to be available on shorter notices.

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Drop-In Visits Cancellation Policy:

About Maria M.

Communication

9 repeat pet parents
72% response rate
Usually responds in around an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

16 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

Walks and drops in are available daily. The option for roller blading or biking also available. In home the option to be part of our daily life, with our two dogs and daughters is up to the temperament and request of the dog parents. We also have the ability to keep our guest dog separate from our current dogs at the request of the dog parents. Both crated and free range dogs welcome. In home our dogs often walk, bike, roller blade or hike nearby at the Des Plaines River Trail. We practice basic commands daily and enjoy structured daily toy time. This can be separate or together with our family as defined above.

Information Maria M. would like to know about your pet

I am completely against breed-specific legislation. I am open to working with all dogs. I have worked with food aggression, leash aggression, dog aggression, and pulling and tugging on the leash.

A typical day

Walks are always the best part of any dogs day. Walking is a form of bonding and so I usually read the dog to see what direction they want to go. I'm in no rush and neither are they! My completely open schedule usually allows for extra time and in these cases we will usually head to the park.

Location

Chicago, IL

Maria M.'s Neighborhood

Pets

Maria M. has Star Sitter status

The Star Sitter program highlights responsive sitters who deliver highly rated care and have a history of listing accurate availability and preferences, making it easier for pet parents to find the best care for their pets.

Extra Care Dog Specialist | Chicago

Pet care experience

Hi! I’m a lifelong dog lover based in Chicago with hands-on experience caring for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. I currently volunteer with PAWS Chicago and Chicago Animal Care & Control, where I’ve worked with everything from high-energy puppies to nervous and reactive dogs. Through this, I’ve developed strong skills in dog body language, safe introductions, de-escalation, and building trust with dogs who need a little extra patience. I’ve also cared for dogs for friends, family, and clients over the years—offering walking, boarding, medication administration, light grooming, and basic training support. At home, I’ve raised and cared for my own rescue dogs, Starlord, Archie and Harlee, so I understand how important it is to have someone you can trust who truly “gets” your dog. Clients often tell me I’m the closest thing to them when they’re away—and that’s exactly how I approach every dog in my care. Whether your pup is social, shy, or needs structure, I tailor my approach to make them feel safe, comfortable, and loved. What I offer: • Experience with reactive, anxious, and high-energy dogs • Safe management of multi-dog households (or separation when needed) • Reliable, communicative, and attentive care • Basic Obedience Lessons If you’re looking for someone who will treat your dog like family, I’d love to help.

Reviews

Rodlester Q.
Dog Walking • Jul 03, 2026
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Maria was great with Sandor. Fantastic walker!

Tricia M.
Dog Walking • Jun 14, 2026
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We are a repeat customer with Maria, who did twice a day walks for a week while we were out of town and our dog was being cared for by a family member who was unable to do walks. Our dog loved Maria and always excitedly waited for her arrival. She was very communicative and flexible when plans needed to change to work around inclement weather. Would definitely work with her again.

Brandon W.
Drop-In Visits • Jun 07, 2026
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Maria is very experienced with many types of dogs. She took very good care of my anxious pup and I will definitely contact her for her services again! I would recommend her to anyone that I know who is in need of a dog sitter or walker. My dog had a great time with her!

Leslie M.
Drop-In Visits • Jun 06, 2026
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Maria has been wonderful with our fur babies!!! She came through in a bind, took great care of them and provided full updates. We can’t thank her enough!!!!

About Maria M.

Communication

9 repeat pet parents
72% response rate
Usually responds in around an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards

Dog skills

16 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

Walks and drops in are available daily. The option for roller blading or biking also available. In home the option to be part of our daily life, with our two dogs and daughters is up to the temperament and request of the dog parents. We also have the ability to keep our guest dog separate from our current dogs at the request of the dog parents. Both crated and free range dogs welcome. In home our dogs often walk, bike, roller blade or hike nearby at the Des Plaines River Trail. We practice basic commands daily and enjoy structured daily toy time. This can be separate or together with our family as defined above.

Information Maria M. would like to know about your pet

I am completely against breed-specific legislation. I am open to working with all dogs. I have worked with food aggression, leash aggression, dog aggression, and pulling and tugging on the leash.

A typical day

Walks are always the best part of any dogs day. Walking is a form of bonding and so I usually read the dog to see what direction they want to go. I'm in no rush and neither are they! My completely open schedule usually allows for extra time and in these cases we will usually head to the park.

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.
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Maria M.

Star Sitter

Montclare, Chicago, IL

5.0 out of 5 stars
18 reviews