I am a lifelong dog lover who is currently dogless. I currently get my "doggy fix" by caring for other people's wonderful canines. Nothing would make me even more happy right now than to look after another family's pet. I have plenty of experience not only as a guardian, but as a volunteer at several Chicago-area shelters such as PAWS and Furry Friends Foundation (which, sadly, no longer exists). I live in a clean, roomy home in a very quiet, safe, residential community with a nearby fenced-in dog park. Free pick-ups and drop-offs are not a problem! Below is a quick run-down of my expertise, skills, experience, and passion: Volunteer Work Furry Friends Foundation, Chicago, Illinois Spring and Summer 2006 • Walked dogs of all shapes and sizes in the early morning and afternoon, rain or shine • Fed dogs and replaced water • Administered medication to dogs and cats • Maintained cleanliness in livings quarters of both dogs and cats • Discussed dogs’ availability, temperament, and health issues with prospective dog owners • Assisted in sending out mass mailings to alert animal lovers of upcoming events and general information about the animal rescue group PAWS Chicago, 2000 to 2001 • Bathed and groomed dogs • Walked dogs in urban environment while training them on basics of leash-walking • Fed dogs and replaced water • Maintained cleanliness of adoption site • Discussed dogs’ availability, temperament, and health issues with prospective dog owners Personal Experience Dog Guardian, 2002 to the 2012 • Proud co-guardian of an elderly male Shih Tzu who was adopted from Chicago Canine Rescue Group • Very knowledgeable about the care and maintenance of an elderly dog who suffers from mild heart arrhythmia and arthritis • Avid reader of books on dog breeds, canine health, animal behavioralism and welfare • Regular reader of dog magazines such as BARK and DOG FANCY • Repeated reader of the book FOR THE LIFE OF YOUR DOG by Olympic Gold Medalist Greg Louganis (co-written with Betsy Sikora Siino) Dog Friend -- all my life! • As a child, my family owned a female Lhasa Apso who had a litter of 8 puppies, that I fed and groomed daily. My love for dogs was instilled very early in life. • As an adult, I cannot pass a dog on the street without talking to the owner and asking if I can pet it • Regular donator to ASPCA and other animal charities About this sitter: I am a lifelong dog lover who is currently dogless. Nothing would make me happier right now than to look after another family's pet. I have plenty of experience not only as a guardian, but as a volunteer at several Chicago-area shelters such as PAWS and Furry Friends Foundation (which, sadly, no longer exists). I live in a large, spacious home in a very quiet, clean, residential community on the north side of Chicago. Of course, if you like, I can also come to your home and dog-sit there. Why I love dog sitting All of my life! I've recently worked in a North Side doggy daycare center and have volunteered at dog shelters in the past. I grew up with a Dalmatian-mix and a Lhasa Apso, the latter which gave birth to a litter of 8 puppies. From a young age, responsibility and love for animals were instilled. As a child, I was responsible for feeding, grooming, and playing with our dog's litter every day after school. As an adult, I have had the privilege of being the guardian of a male Shih Tzu who is featured prominently in the photo section of my profile. Sadly, he passed away last year. Currently, I am eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to care for other people's pets. Meet my pets None at the moment. This is exactly why I would love to take care of someone's pet. About my yard I do not have a backyard, but I live in a beautiful area with dog-friendly walking trails. My experience administering medication Not a problem at all.