There hasn't been a time that I wasn't a pet sitter or caretaker. Starting in CA when I was ten years old, my folks involved me in the process of rescuing, fostering, rehabbing, training, and caring for dogs (along with cats, and some birds too!). We also owned many dogs in our home (never less than three dogs and two cats at any point). What I love most about taking care of animals is that they are always happy, positive and they give unconditional love. From my time in high school through my years in college I worked in, and eventually co-owned a pet supply store. It was wonderful getting to know all my regulars and see their happy faces. I also provided dog sitting services for college professors in Colorado for 4 years, one professor even had two gigantic mastiffs. I continually educate myself on best practices for training and caring for animals - including managing and working through many common behavioral issues. I have also experience with senior dogs and cats (including my own first sheltie who lived to be seventeen, and my current sheltie Da Vinci who is thirteen, as well as several of my current clients are between fourteen-eighteen years old). I have been providing dog walking, sitting, boarding, and cat & bird care, in Chicago for the last ten years. When I am not spending time with animals, I love traveling. I've explored beautiful places like Costa Rica, the Mediterranean and much of Europe. I hope to one day travel through Australia. I love meeting new people (and pets) and can't wait to meet you and yours!