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Maria M.

5.0 out of 5 stars
12 repeat clients
Profile image

Maria M.

5.0 out of 5 stars
12 repeat clients

Contact for Drop-In Visits

from $15 per visit

Highlights

Maria has Star Sitter status!
Enhanced background check
16 years of experience
Can administer medication
Special needs experience
Senior dog experience

Pet care experience

Extra Care Dog Specialist | Chicago

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.

Qualifications

12 repeat pet parents
84% response rate
Usually responds in under an hour
100% bookings with photo updates
Sends updates with Rover Cards
16 years of experience
Oral medication administration
Injected medication administration

Pets

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.

Ratings and reviews

5.0
stars
22 ratings
Noah C.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dog Walking • Jul 26, 2026

Maria made it feel like having a friend checking in on your dog! Her communication after each visit was super helpful, and she even brought in packages for us while we were away. Our dog is very shy, and the way she introduced herself made Bella feel safe right away. It’s clear she’s worked with dogs before, and we’re so happy to have found someone we trust to watch her in the future!

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Leslie M.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Drop-In Visits • Jul 18, 2026

Maria was excellent with our babies!!! She is the dog whisperer that we needed and our babies absolutely LOVE her!!!

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Kelly W.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dog Walking • Jul 16, 2026

Super amazing with walking my puppy Zelda. She got the energy out so I could chill and watch love island when I got home! Will book again.

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Rodlester Q.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dog Walking • Jul 03, 2026

Maria was great with Sandor. Fantastic walker!

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Nancy B.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dog Walking • Jun 25, 2026

Best dog walker ever!!!

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Tricia M.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dog Walking • Jun 14, 2026

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.

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Calendar and availability

Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
Available
Not available
SMTWTFS
SMTWTFS

Schedule

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.

Cats
0 to 15 lbs
16 to 40 lbs
41 to 100 lbs
over 101 lbs
Maria can host up to 8 drop-ins per day
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.
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.