Dog Sitting in Winfield

About: I grew up in a big family , we always had pets from dogs-hamsters! And we took care as if they were part of the family . I am compassionate, and I would love your animals and care for them and treat them with kindness as if they were family. As a mom of 5 older kids, I’ve gotten really good at balancing routines and staying organized. Now that they’re more independent, I have lots of free time in my day to dedicate to caring for pets, giving them attention, exercise, and a reliable schedule. I did have 3 cats and 1 dog at one time before. They still are part of the family they live with family members and I visit them time to time and they come to my house as well. I love walking dogs and taking care of animals that are only comfortable in your home. I am a trust worthy person when it comes to someone trusting me in their home. Clients should know that their home and their pet are well taken care of and respected.

“Leila was a big help. I booked her for last minute for multiple hours, and she didn’t bat an eye. She just asked where, when and what do you need from me? (In a good way). She completely exceeded expectations and I hope she is available to watch him again in the future!”

Steve C.

“Excellent and good natured! One of my pups wasn’t very nice, and I gave my apologies. This engagement was sort of an emergency and I truly appreciate Donna agreeing to take on this assignment on just a one day notice!”

Pamela R.

“Zoe was great with my pups, they were happy and well taken care of based on all the pictures I received while we were gone. She is are new go to when out of town!”

Ashley B.

“Mollie was so good with our boys! She gave great notes and sent plenty of pics. She even added a personal touch of taking Polaroids of them for us! Definitely would recommend her!”

Fareeha M.

About: I’m a lifelong dog lover and experienced pet caregiver. Sometimes I think dogs like me better than humans do 😂😂. I have the time, patience, and passion to care for your pup as if they were my own. We share our home with a sweet, rescued pitbull who was formerly a bait dog. She’s now thriving with love, patience, and a gentle routine. I also previously owned a cavapoo, so I understand the unique needs of both large and small dogs—from high-energy playtime to cozy cuddles. Lots of cuddles and scritches. I’m a teacher in my 16th year of teaching elementary school music, and I’m looking to make some extra cash for my upcoming wedding and to fill my time over summer breaks. Couldn’t think of a better way than spending time with animals!! We have a SUPER SWEET pitbull and a very dog-like cat and both are very attached to me! I feed and groom both animals, walk the dog, play with them, tend to their bathroom needs, give them lots of scritches and luvins! They sleep with me and are at my side wherever I go, always following me around the house (but never the other people in our household! :).

“Pleasant to work with. Friendly and the dogs loved her”

James W.

“Sarah did a fantastic job with my two cats. We did 30 minute drop in visits and she was on-time and made sure to take the time to not just check food and water but to give the cats some playtime and attention. One of my cats required extra care and she handled that no problem. Would absolutely book with Sarah again!”

Christine M.

About: I’ve been an animal lover and hands-on pet caregiver for as long as I can remember. Over the years, I’ve cared for dogs, birds, rabbits, and fish—so I’m comfortable with a wide range of personalities, needs, and routines. My heart dog was a golden retriever I raised from just 8 weeks old through nearly 16 wonderful years. She was family in every sense of the word. I walked with her through every stage of life—including serious health challenges like cancer—and made sure she was surrounded by comfort, love, and dignity until the very end. That experience shaped how I approach pet care: patient, attentive, and deeply compassionate. Since then, I’ve opened my home to fostering and have cared for a variety of breeds and temperaments, including a small German Shepherd mix, Aussie, Border Collie, Plott Hound mix, and others. I’m comfortable with just about all dogs, shy or anxious, and those who just need a steady, calm presence. However I don't currently accept dogs over 50 pounds. When considering boarding, my situation is best for small- to medium-sized dogs or older dogs that don't require a lot of outdoor space for play would be best if they are staying with me. I am only accepting dogs that can be crated when I am not at home. When your pet is with me, they won’t just be “watched”—they’ll be cared for like family. Whether that means walks, playtime, sticking closely to their routine, or simply giving them a safe, relaxed environment, I adapt to what your pet needs most. I want to clarify that my living situation is in a condominium. The only choices in the app are house or apartment and my situation is neither. I live in a small four-unit building in a condominium complex, not far from Cantigny. I am on the board of the homeowners association as well. My unit is on the first floor with a patio and lovely grounds to walk right outside the door. This is a very quiet community. I understand what it takes to entrust your pet to someone you've just met, and I take that trust very seriously. My goal is simple: for you to feel confident and for your pet to feel safe, happy, and loved. I work a sporadic part time schedule at The Morton Arboretum which involves no more than 8 hours per week at this time. I have a lot of free time to dedicate to your pet. When I am with your pet, I will be 100% focused on your pet. I will take no chances with your pet's safety, carefully monitoring the space they are in, toys they play with, etc.

About: I had experience taking care of dogs as a kid. I have been entrusted with checking in on, feeding, loving and caring for dogs of friends, neighbors, and family. I am confident in my ability to handle reactive or anxious dogs. I can read a dogs language (stress, aggression, excitement). I can maintain safety such as making sure the dog is leashed in a busy environment. I keep aware of hazards such as heat, and other dogs. I am on time, and understand what it means to be consistent for routines of dogs, provide clear communication and updates and respect client homes and instructions. I pay attention to detail such as changes in dog behavior, appetite or energy, signs of illness or injury, and owner preferences for routes and pace. I am patient and adaptable. Pet care fits naturally into my daily and weekly routine because I plan my schedule around the pets in my care. I make time for feeding, walks, playtime, bathroom breaks, and regular check-ins throughout the day to ensure pets stay comfortable and on their normal routine. I’m also mindful of providing attention, exercise, and a calm environment so they feel safe and cared for. On a weekly basis, I keep my schedule organized to accommodate bookings, communicate with pet owners, and maintain a clean, pet-friendly space. I also make sure I have flexibility for longer walks, or extra visits when needed. Reliability and consistency are important to me, so I prioritize being available and attentive to each pet’s individual needs. 1) My Home- Daily care: Feed according to the owner’s schedule and instructions Provide constant access to fresh water Maintain routines (walks, playtime, rest) Comfort & safety: Pet-proof your home (no toxic plants, cords, or open exits) Give them a dedicated space (crate, bed, or quiet room) Separate pets if needed to avoid stress or aggression Exercise & enrichment: Walk dogs regularly Provide toys, puzzles, and interaction Adjust activity based on age, breed, and energy level Hygiene: Clean up accidents immediately Scoop litter boxes daily Keep bedding and feeding areas clean 2) Clients Home- Follow instructions exactly: Stick to feeding times, portions, and diet Administer medications if required Respect house rules (furniture, access areas) Routine care: Walk dogs and allow bathroom breaks Clean litter boxes and cages Provide companionship and attention Home respect & security: Keep the home clean and tidy Lock doors/windows and follow security instructions Handle keys responsibly Communication: Send updates, photos, or videos Report any concerns immediately (health or behavior changes)

“Annika is so wonderful! I could not have asked for better care for my girl. I’m so thankful for her help and I know Wink was happy to see her everyday!”

Katherine C.

“Bonnie looked after our two furbabies while we had a family emergency—she sent photo and video updates and our dogs loved her! Highly recommend.”

Jenny H.

About: Hello! I have been a dog lover my whole life having lived with and owned dogs. Currently, I have an English Bulldog & a well trained German Shepherd. I love outdoor walks and play time - no walk is too long for me with your dog! Also, love to keep them company if they do not want to be alone for long periods of time. Experienced in administering medicines to both cats and dogs. Along with my 2 dogs I live on a hobby farm with chickens, horses & barn cats. In college I worked at Danada Vet in the kennel and assisted on the vet floor with the techs and Drs! Reach out with any questions! Thank you! I’m currently working at my family business in the Wheaton area and most of the work is online or around the suburbs - never gone for more than a couple hours. I can be readily available for walks, care and house sitting. I am experienced in caring for pets in the owners home - happy to keep their routine and habits so their life is easy while you are away!

“Zhiyang is so kind and caring and takes great care of our senior dog. She sends videos and give great feedback on her videos.”

tim k.

“Glen did an excellent job taking care of Coco. He gave her a walk, made lunch and all the required water and bathroom breaks. We will leave coco again under the excellent care of Glen.”

Pv R.

“Thank you so much for all your patience and love with the boys”

Nicole P.

“Megan is fantastic! She was able to help us out on short notice & our dogs loved her. I really appreciate her help and recommend her if you need someone!”

Jake M.

“Kaitlin was great! The dogs loved her and she took great care of them! She’s very responsive and gives great feedback. Would definitely hire again! Thanks Kaitlin!”

Alexis G.

“I cannot explain the relief and lack of anxiety I have leaving my girls home and knowing Joan will be there to take care of and love them as much as I do. She is like having a favorite aunt who is always ready, willing and happy to take the kids for a weekend and they love seeing her too. I would highly recommend Joan, I have asked her to watch the girls several times now and will continue. Thanks Joan for everything!”

Serendipity M.

“Paula is amazing! She knew exactly how to approach our picky German shepherd and adjusted to his needs. She was very calm and comfortable with him. She became his best friend when she walked in with a pup cup in hand. So happy to have found someone reliable we can count on to take care of our fur baby when we go out of town. Thank you!!”

Kalah H.