Dog Walking West Newton

“Kathleen walked our 2 dogs while we were away on vacation--we are so grateful! Our dogs are sometimes territorial and slow to warm up to new people but they love Kathleen. She has such a nice way with them!”

Ellen K.

About: I grew up with a variety of different pets; dogs, cats, fish, etc. I also rode horses and volunteered at my local humane society from the age of eight. I love animals of all kinds and am currently working on my wildlife rehabilitation certification. I have an active lifestyle and am at my happiest immersing myself in nature in rain or shine. I have two cats of my own and frequently care for my friends' and family members fur-babies. I look forward to getting to know yours also! I am a freelance violinist and violin teacher, so my schedule is self-built and fairly flexible! A lot of my work is individual practice (I even have a special mute that I attach to my instrument which dampens the violin sound for the more sensitive pet ears.) I am an active person and love to go on walks, trail hikes and runs with an animal companion, ideally a couple times a day. I have a station wagon with a dog-friendly back hatch so I can drive reasonable distances with your pet, to parks or to the vet in an emergency. Since I grew up with animals in my family, it is second nature for me to incorporate animals' daily needs into my schedule and I do not consider it a burden. I am a neat, respectful and handy person. If I am invited into your home, I will treat it with the utmost respect and ensure that your household routines and expectations are consistently met. I am flexible and will be happy to adapt to a schedule that fits the needs of you and your pet in a non-disruptive way. Your pet will be in safe hands, and I will communicate with you as frequently as you wish, sending updates and pictures on request or at a pre-determined frequency that suits you.

About: Along with growing up with two dogs and helping to raise a puppy as a teenager, family friends and neighbors have relied on me to take care of their dogs and cats since I was ten. I've worked with all types of dogs, from Shih Tzus to Pit Bull mixes. I'm the one in my family who takes the dogs out on long hikes (or for short walks around the block once they get older), brushes their teeth and fur, gives them baths, and trims their nails. I'm a regular volunteer at cat shelters in cat care, and as a student on the pre-veterinary track, I have shadowed and volunteered at vet clinics to better understand the care that goes into your pets' health. Besides dogs and cats, I also have experience with a myriad of animals, such as hamsters, rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs, mice, fish, hermit crabs, geckos, snakes, tortoises, and turtles. I have experience in preparing special diets for pets and other animals with specific health needs, and in senior dog care. I'm a college student, so I fit bookings around my classes and workload. My classes start at 8 am on weekdays, so my general availability is as follows: Monday/Wednesday/Friday: Available after 11:30 am Tuesday: Available after 6 pm Thursday: Heavier on classes, but I may be able to do a quick drop-in in the morning/evening if needed Weekends: Unavailable 8-10 am Saturdays, otherwise available As a lover of all creatures, I take the safety of both pets and wildlife seriously. As such, I will always supervise pets that are outside in yards and keep them on leashes outside fenced-off areas so they are not a danger to others or themselves. If transporting pets in my car, I will keep them safe and secure in a carrier/crate. As a college student who has shared living spaces with new people before, I understand the importance of respecting others' belongings and boundaries. During drop-in visits, I will be sure to respect your home and any rules you may have for your comfort (i.e. no shoes in the house, specific dishes/silverware for pets only, general cleanliness, etc.).

About: Hi, my name is Meghan! I have loved animals my entire life and have always been the person who stops to say hello to every dog, cat, and animal I meet (while always respecting their boundaries). My love for animals started as a child when I spent my school years reading every animal book I could find and watching every animal movie and documentary I could. That lifelong passion has grown into a career caring for pets and learning what makes each animal unique. I have over 4 years of professional animal care experience, beginning in dog daycare in 2022 and currently working as a Veterinary Assistant in an emergency veterinary setting. Through my experience, I have cared for dogs and cats of many ages, breeds, personalities, and needs from playful puppies and kittens to adult pets and senior companions. At home, I care for my own pets, including Thor, my 12 year old Chihuahua mix, Xena, my 8 year old Lab/Hound mix, and Sage, my 11 year old cat. Caring for my own pets has taught me the importance of patience, routine, understanding body language, and recognizing that every animal communicates differently. My experience includes:
 • Puppy, kitten, adult, and senior pet care
 • Medication administration (oral medications, eye drops, and injections) 
• Diabetic pet care and pets with medical needs 
• Understanding animal body language and stress signals 
• Providing enrichment, playtime, exercise, and individualized attention 
• Helping pets feel safe and comfortable in their own environment I understand that pets are family, and leaving them with someone new can feel stressful. My goal is to give you peace of mind by treating your pets with the same love, patience, and care I give my own. Every pet has their own personality, routine, likes, dislikes, and comfort level. I take the time to learn what makes your pet happy and what helps them feel secure. You can expect clear communication, updates, and plenty of photos so you always know how your pet is doing while you are away. Whether your pet loves long walks, playtime, cuddles, enrichment, or simply relaxing in their favorite spot, I want them to feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while they are with me. I am currently an online student, which gives me a flexible schedule and allows me to plan my day around the pets in my care. Whether I'm providing drop in visits, dog walks, or house sitting, I make it a priority to follow your pet's normal routine as closely as possible. I always make sure pets receive the attention, exercise, companionship, and care they need while you're away. Your pet's safety, comfort, and well being are always my top priorities. I take the time to learn each pet's routine, personality, and any special instructions before every booking. I follow feeding schedules, medication instructions, and exercise routines carefully while respecting your home and your pet's space. With my professional experience in dog daycare and as a Veterinary Assistant, I understand animal body language and recognize signs of stress or discomfort. I use positive, patient handling and never force interactions, allowing pets to become comfortable at their own pace. You can also expect regular updates and plenty of photos throughout each visit or stay, so you can have peace of mind knowing your pet is happy, safe, and well cared for.

“Caroline was FANTASTIC! She was attentive to my dog and understood his needs within the first walk. Highly recommend her! She was communicative and great to work with!”

Janine B.

“Michelle is amazing! She's everything you'd want in someone taking care of your fur baby - attentive, responsive, thoughtful, communicative, and reliable. She took the time to really understand our dog's personality and needs, and she's fantastic about communicating the timing and details of every walk. We couldn't recommend her more highly!”

Mariko L.

“Claudia was great with our dog who is very anxious by nature. She was on time and very responsible in communication with me through Rover. I felt great peace of mind knowing our dog was walked and well taken care of while we had a couple of long days at work. Highly recommend!”

Dana S.

“Julia was great! Totally reliable, pleasant and kind. Our dog can be wary around new people, but he warmed up to her just about instantly. She knows how to work with “nervous” mutts. I’ll definitely request her again if I need a dog walker.”

Robin S.

“Ilana is a great dog walker! She is very responsive, reliable, and on time! Our dog really enjoys his walks with her. We definitely recommend Ilana.”

Naomi Z.

About: Local dog (and cat!) experienced sitter/caregiver in Waltham MA with 9+ years of experience in walking, boarding, basic training and care for dogs of all types, breeds and personalities. Ready and excited to meet your special friend and help care for them over a visit, day, night boarding or week as needed. Excited to make new friends, human and canine, and expand our network in the community! References can be provided for experience and character. Prefer a short visit beforehand to get to know owners and pets. Can provide transportation by car to/from locations if required. Boarding longer than a week or dogs with special medical needs unfortunately not accepted at this time. Most visits/boardings will be one dog only for now. Looking forward to meeting you all soon! : ) I have a flexible work schedule at present so have time to take care of animals at home on a daily basis and am glad to take them in for just a night or longer-term as availability allows! I live in a third-floor walkup condo but there is plenty of open space and areas for walks right nearby and in an animal-friendly building allows great care and environment for your pets to stay with us! I currently work from home so we are very open to schedule activities/walks etc. according to your pets needs! Always available over text or phone for any questions, arragements or changes... If staying at your place to care after a dog, cat or other pets, we take utmost care to follow your instructions, needs and care for both your property home and pets and always available for communication.

“My family and I made a great choice picking Carol. We were at ease knowing that she would show up everyday as requested. We will book her again for sure. Thank you Carol!!!”

Stephanie A.

“Scout had a great first week with Aaron - she seemed happy with the walks and very comfortable with him. From the human side, he's a good and responsive communicator, and responsible around scheduling and closing up the house. He clearly loves dogs and has a good way with them. Thumbs up!”

Claude D.

“Deirdre is an amazing dog-walker! She’s incredibly responsive, communicative, and always makes sure Franklin has what he needs for a great walk. We love working with her!”

Susanne D.

About: I’m not just a dog lover—I’m a proud dog mom of 9 years! I know how much your pup means to you because I feel the same way about mine. I bring the same care, attention, and love to every walk and drop-in as I do with my own dog, Dobby. I currently have a hybrid work schedule and work from home Mondays and Fridays. So Mondays and Fridays are pretty open. Tuesdays and Thursdays I would be available after 6pm so please feel free to message me if interested. Weekends I am available! When I drop in to care for your pet, I treat your home and your furry friend with the same respect and love I give my own. I always follow your care instructions closely—whether that’s feeding, potty breaks, playtime, or medication. I keep things calm and comforting for your pup, so they feel safe and happy.

“Maria is wonderful! Always very thoughtful and caring when she is walking my 9yr old French bulldog! Making sure she takes it easy when it is very hot outside. And putting her rain coat on and coaxing her outside in the rain.”

Erica F.

About: I have experience taking care of dogs from young pups through dogs in their final years, as well as cats of various ages. I grew up with 1-2 dogs in our household at all times, several bunnies for which I was the primary caregiver as a kid and teenager, and frequent interactions with my friends’ cats. I am a responsible oldest daughter and love meeting and caring for animals!! I work in an elementary school, so once the school year starts I will be away from the house from approximately 7am to 4pm each week day (depending on where the house is located). I have a lot of availability on weekends and more daytime availability during the summer and school breaks, including over winter vacation. I always follow the pet parents’ instructions closely because they know their pets best. I treat all pets with care and love. In particular, with dogs, I enjoy taking them on long walks if they are up for it. While pet sitting, I make sure to spend time with the pets while I am not at work (not coming back simply for their care routine).

“Amy is the best dog walker in town! Our pup absolutely loves walking with her. She’s efficient, friendly and we always know Chili is in good hands.”

Casey S.

About: I’ve taken care of dogs for friends and family over the last 5 years. Responsible for 1-2 dogs at a time of all sizes 15-75lbs + cats. I’ve done walking, feeding, and over night stays up to a 10 days. Currently Hybrid work schedule which offers lots of flexibility to dog walk/sit. Most availability is from Friday-Monday. I go into the office located in Stoughton Tuesday-Thursday from 8-5pm and cannot provide afternoon drop ins on those days. I have experience caring for dogs in their own home (current apartment does not allow me to have dogs). I am clean and respectful and will follow alol instructions given.

“Chuck walked my dog Wally for me for five days when I was in the hospital and did an excellent job. He was patient and friendly and wrote adorable little notes updating how each walk went. He took really cute photos of wally each day and varied the route, often walking longer than we even asked for and taking interesting paths around the neighborhood rather than the boring round the block walks! Thanks for the help and professionalism Chuck!!”

Sarah G.

About: I’m looking to be a reliable contact for you, and to build a relationship with your dog so that they can trust me! That means I’m looking for 1-2 regular gigs (best case scenario) so that you and your little pupper can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands! Life can be busy, and we all want the best for our pets, so know that is what I’m trying to do! I’m in law school right now and it doesn’t support having a dog full time, but I hope to rescue one next year once I graduate. I had a dog growing up (dachshund) and dog-sat full time for my professors (about 8 months) this year. After that gig was up, considering I don't have the time as a law student to have my own dog right now, I'd love to be able to spend time with your baby/dog and walk them around! I'm a law student with a lot of free time when I am not in class, looking for a way to decompress and that always happens when I'm around dogs! I can come over to your place to care for your dog as my apartment is not pet friendly. It is something I have done before, and would have a list of questions for you about your dog so I can best take care of them.