Shani M.
Roseland, Chicago, IL
Services
Shani can host
Shani can care for
Availability
I'm currently home during the day with a very flexible schedule. I have plenty of time, space, and love to offer pets who need calm, consistent care while their owners are away. Pet care fits easily into my routine and brings so much joy into our home.
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About Shani M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I approach every client's home with the same respect I would want someone to have in mine. I've worked in private homes as a section 8 inspector and a home care aide, so I'm comfortable operating professionally in someone else's space. I follow all house rules, keep things clean, and ensure pets feel safe and at ease while you're away. We live in a pet-friendly neighborhood, and I often take walks around the neighborhood, so any pet will get the benefit of fresh air, familiar sights, and friendly energy. We have a peaceful, fenced yard, and a couple of unoccupied spaces for rest or separation when appropriate. I'm very aware of animal behavior, neighbor pets, and how to make pets feel safe and seen. This is a calm, kid-friendly, and pet-loving home.
Home
Information Shani M. would like to know about your pet
I always want to know the basics: feeding, schedule, potty routine, and whether they take any meds or have allergies. Beyond that, I like to understand their personality: 1. How do they react to new people or new environments? 2. Are there any triggers, fears, or habits I should be aware of? 3. What comforts them when they are anxious or upset? 4. What are their boundaries, off-limits list? 5. Are they comfortable riding in vehicles? 6. Are there any house rules they are used to or working on? The more I know ahead of time, the more I can make them feel safe, respected, and understood. My goal, unless otherwise agreed upon, is to match the care they're used to while you're away.
A typical day
I tailor activities to each pet's energy, comfort level, and personality. For dogs, that might look like walks, fetch, tug-of-war, belly rubs, or practicing basic commands. For cats, it could be gentle play with feather toys, laser pointer time, brushing (if they like it), or just chill companionship while they explore or nap nearby. I approach pet care as more than just feeding or walking; I focus on trust-building through sensory engagement. Many animals respond well to certain music, tones, rhythms, or ambient sounds, so if your pet has a favorite playlist or soundscape, or even a TV show they like, let me know. Building trust starts with making animals feel seen, heard, and safe, on their terms. I believe good pet care involves good communication with the owner. I'm here to support your expectations, not rewrite them. My care is collaborative, not controlling.
Location
Chicago, IL
Shani 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.
Fenced Yard, High-Quality Dog Care
Pet care experience
Fenced yard, structured routine, and attentive care in a real home environment. I provide clean, consistent boarding with clear expectations so dogs can settle quickly and feel secure. I’ve worked with a wide range of breeds and temperaments, including Afghan Hounds, Rottweilers, Pitbulls, Cockers, Min Pins, Weimaraners, and Akitas. I’m comfortable handling both easygoing dogs and higher-energy or more strong-willed personalities. My home is set up for structure and safety. I have multiple crates in different sizes, a dedicated space for separation when needed, and a fully fenced yard for secure outdoor time. If your dog does best with a quieter environment or needs to be the only dog, I can accommodate that with advance notice and adjusted pricing. Dogs aren't just welcome here, they're remembered.
Cat care experience
Shani also cares for cats. Learn about their cat-specific care experience.
Reviews
Shani was so great! This was our first time leaving our dog Lucy and Shani made us feel comfortable providing daily updates with photos and videos. Lucy loved being at her home and we will definitely return!
So glad I found Shani. Wyatt is enjoying daycare!
Shani was the best choice for our fur baby! I was worried about leaving our baby, Stone, for so long, but Shani made me feel comfortable. She sent me pictures and communicated with me continuously throughout the stay. I could see Stone opening up and enjoying himself. I’m so grateful for her loving care and warmth. Shani is definitely like extended family now, and Stone won’t be staying anywhere else. If you care about your fur baby and want them to be well-loved, book with Shani.
Shani (and her kiddos☺️) LOVED on my pup while I was away. Shani was an excellent communicator and sent update photos and videos, too. I really appreciated such good communication and how well Lady was taken care of. When you see your dog smiling in the update photos, you know it’s real. I’ll be looking to book Shani for my next trip away.
About Shani M.
Communication
Dog skills
Safety, trust & environment
I approach every client's home with the same respect I would want someone to have in mine. I've worked in private homes as a section 8 inspector and a home care aide, so I'm comfortable operating professionally in someone else's space. I follow all house rules, keep things clean, and ensure pets feel safe and at ease while you're away. We live in a pet-friendly neighborhood, and I often take walks around the neighborhood, so any pet will get the benefit of fresh air, familiar sights, and friendly energy. We have a peaceful, fenced yard, and a couple of unoccupied spaces for rest or separation when appropriate. I'm very aware of animal behavior, neighbor pets, and how to make pets feel safe and seen. This is a calm, kid-friendly, and pet-loving home.
Home
Information Shani M. would like to know about your pet
I always want to know the basics: feeding, schedule, potty routine, and whether they take any meds or have allergies. Beyond that, I like to understand their personality: 1. How do they react to new people or new environments? 2. Are there any triggers, fears, or habits I should be aware of? 3. What comforts them when they are anxious or upset? 4. What are their boundaries, off-limits list? 5. Are they comfortable riding in vehicles? 6. Are there any house rules they are used to or working on? The more I know ahead of time, the more I can make them feel safe, respected, and understood. My goal, unless otherwise agreed upon, is to match the care they're used to while you're away.
A typical day
I tailor activities to each pet's energy, comfort level, and personality. For dogs, that might look like walks, fetch, tug-of-war, belly rubs, or practicing basic commands. For cats, it could be gentle play with feather toys, laser pointer time, brushing (if they like it), or just chill companionship while they explore or nap nearby. I approach pet care as more than just feeding or walking; I focus on trust-building through sensory engagement. Many animals respond well to certain music, tones, rhythms, or ambient sounds, so if your pet has a favorite playlist or soundscape, or even a TV show they like, let me know. Building trust starts with making animals feel seen, heard, and safe, on their terms. I believe good pet care involves good communication with the owner. I'm here to support your expectations, not rewrite them. My care is collaborative, not controlling.
Shani M.
Roseland, Chicago, IL