Aisling R

Aisling grew up in Park ridge, a northwest suburb of Chicago. They have lived in Chicago the past 8 years. Aisling grew up with Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, their first one was Snickers and the second one was Shamrock. Aisling has been working in pet care for years and is the go-to for all of their family and friends’ pets.

Aisling current does not have her own pets, but she is working on it though! They see dogs in her near future. Aisling isn’t exactly sure what breed of dog they would be but they lean toward the terrier group. Aisling feels like terriers have the best sense of humor. Outside of dog walking Aisling enjoy riding their bike everywhere, painting with watercolors, playing their Nintendo Switch, or out to see live music. Aisling’s favorite thing about dog walking is observing her puppy friends. When Aisling was a kid their dad would make them be quiet so they could listen to their dog drink his water. Aisling think little things like that shaped them into their love of dog behavior. When Aisling is out with a dog they are always taking note of what makes the dogs sniff and wondering what the dogs are noticing. Aisling loves just seeing a dog just do their thing. Aisling’s favorite thing about animals is the way that you can connect and form relationships with each other animal thru so many barriers. Aisling thinks people and animals can just observe each other and coexist and learn from each other.

Anna G.

Anna has lived all over, from Pennsylvania to California, and just moved to Chicago in the summer of 2021! Anna grew up with at least 2 cats in the house at all times, as well as various other pets, and has been around them her whole life. She has also worked for Wag and Rover since 2017 and currently has a Greyhound of her own, named Ringo! If Anna were a dog, she feels she would definitely be a Labrador Retriever, playful, social, energetic, and getting along with everybody. Anna’s favorite thing about walking dogs is being outside, helping people, and being around dog energy! Outside of dog walking Anna enjoys working on her fitness, running, going to the beach, and playing sports! What Anna loves most about animals, in general, is their innocence and genuine loving qualities.

Ben K.

Ben grew up in Waukesha, WI. His family has had dogs since before he was born. They’ve owned a Golden Retriever, a Cockapoo and a Goldendoodle. Currently, Ben owns a black cat named Wednesday. If he could be a dog he would be a Golden Retriever. Ben’s favorite part of dog walking is building relationships with so many different dogs. What he loves most about dogs is how honestly they express their emotions. In his spare time, Ben enjoys reading, making music, and watching movies. He also runs a gallery and performance space in Humboldt Park and teachs music lessons!

Christine T.

Christine grew up and still lives in Chicago. Christine has had animals in her life forever. In the picture you can see one of Christine’s three grand pups who visit her often, she has regular family pups who often stay with them. If Christine was a dog, she would be a mutt, that way she can be many lovable breeds all at once! What Christine loves most about dog walking is being outside. Outside of dog walking, Christine loves decorating, running, and most importantly spending as much time as possible with her family. What Christine loves most about animals is their loyalty and honesty, if they don’t like something they let you know.

Damon M.

Damon is from Canton, Mississippi, they grew up back and forth between there and Chicago. Damon worked at a no-kill shelter in Schaumburg, IL to help rehabilitate dogs who were aggressive or frighten from abuse. Damon grew up with 7 dogs. Damon currently has a 7-year-old pup named Banka. If Damon was a dog… wait, no Damon identifies more with a wolf, a Lycan! Damon’s favorite thing about walking dogs is their love for dogs, but also the motivation of walking. Outside of dog walking, Damon enjoys drawing, building computers, 3D animation, gaming or just chilling with their hubby Bear and puppy!. What Damon loves most about animals is that they are honest! They want to love you and hope to get that love back!

Daria L.

Daria is originally from both Chicago and Seattle. Daria has always been an animal lover, she is a vegan for the animals. Daria has worked with service dogs in rehab hospitals as well as pet sitting and dog walking for friends and family. Daria has a dog named Boo, he is a super mellow rescue. If Daria was a dog, she would be a curly coated retriever because she has curly hair and loves to be active and swim. Outside of dog walking, Daria is a personal trainer and occupational therapy grad student. Daria loves traveling, dancing, and scuba diving. Daria’s favorite thing about dog walking is helping the dog get their exercise in while seeing their personality really shine through. What Daria loves most about animals is how they are all so unique and each has its own personality and way of communicating.

Dylan W.

Dylan is a native Chicagoan from the Rogers Park area. He has volunteered at numerous animal shelters, caring for both dogs and cats, as well as taking care of the birds at the Knox College Biology department! Now he has a wonderful Black Lab named Night. If he were a dog, Dylan would be a Labrador like Night! His favorite part about walking dogs is seeing how much they enjoy being out and about, as well as helping them get the exercise they need. What Dylan loves most about cats is the feeling of gaining their trust as they rub up against you purring and demanding pets! If Dylan could have any one trait of cats it would be to be as graceful and surefooted as cats are on any surface. Dylan feels if he were a cat his name would probably be either Garfield or Hobbes! Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Dylan enjoys reading, writing, and making funny videos for his friends. He hopes to make his own YouTube channel from his experiences with these videos! His favorite thing about animals is that they are honest and unafraid to express themselves.

Elexa P.

Elexa was born and raised right here in Chicago. Unfortunately due to a family member’s allergies Elexa does not have any pets of her own but has helped in the care for animals of extended family and friends, including overnight and general pet setting cats, dogs, and guinea pigs. If Elexa was a dog, she feels she would be a German Shepherd, large and scary looking, but truly big dogs with bigger hearts, so playful, kind, and protective! Elexa’s favorite thing about walking dogs is being able to spend time with the dogs themselves, it’s like meeting up and hanging out with friends! Outside of dog walking, Elexa spends her free time reading comic books, playing video games, and digital illustrating. What Elexa loves most about animals is how we love them and they love us back tenfold and that they can be very human in their emotions!

Ella R.

Ella was born in Russia but moved to Chicago in 2017. Ella grew up in a family where animals played a huge role. Throughout Ella’s entire life, she was always accompanied by cats or dogs! Her grandfather was a huge dog lover and he had as many as 5 dogs at one time, in which she especially bonded closely with his St. Bernard Grisha. In Russia, Ella also volunteered to rescue and find homes for stray cats and dogs. When Ella moved to Chicago, she brought her cat Bucephalus with her! If Ella were to be a dog, she would undoubtedly be a St. Bernard: compassionate and a rescuer! What Ella loves most about walking dogs is being able to enjoy the outdoors with a canine companion! She loves being able to observe their behavior during these walks. What Ella loves most about cats is how even if they’re just as affectionate to their owners as dogs, only the cat decides when and where it’s going to do something! If Ella could have any one trait of cats it would be their persistence in achieving a goal no matter what it is. Ella feels if she was a cat her name would definitely be Sherlock. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Ella practices yoga with her husband, and also enjoys photography and mosaic art! What Ella loves most about animals is their honesty and their understanding of simple happiness. Ella believes that animals make us better!

Emily P.

Emily originally hails from Mokena, Illinois. Emily’s family has had dogs her whole life and at about the age of 15, Emily started taking charge in the care and training of her family’s dogs as well as pet-sitting and walking dogs from around her hometown. Emily has also done some volunteer work with Heartland Service dogs, and learned a lot of dog training/handling techniques from them and in the past 3 years especially, she has had pretty steady work walking dogs, caring for cats, and pet-sitting. If Emily was a dog, she feels she would be a Bassett Hound or Beagle, focused and dedicated but also chill and patient. Emily’s favorite thing about walking dogs is how excited they get about going out and just spending that time outside with them! Outside of dog walking, Emily likes to stay active in the art community, working on her own pieces and going to shows. What Emily loves most about animals is getting to see all the different personalities that they can have.

Garrett H.

Garrett moved to Chicago from Oklahoma City. He grew up with a Dachshund named Tipsy. If Garrett could be a dog, he would be a Boston Terrier. Just because they’re his favorite. What he loves most about walking dogs is getting to meet new dogs and becoming their friend. Outside of dog-walking, Garrett is an actor in the city. His hobbies include being a huge nerd in the subjects of Musical Theatre, vintage video games, and Arena Rock bands of the 70’s and 80’s.

Gary F.

Gary is originally from Santa Barbara, CA. He grew up with a chubby Dalmatian named Domino, and his handsome Siberian Husky named Yukon currently still lives with his parents in California. Gary has been walking dogs professionally for several years, and was WCP’s Walker Manager for over a year and a half before stepping down to focus on his acting career. If Gary could be a dog, he would be a Northern Inuit because at this point it seems like that’s the only way he’ll ever be on Game of Thrones. His favorite thing about walking dogs is getting to develop friendships with such amazing animals and watching how they grow, no matter their age. One of his favorite characteristics of dogs is their uncontrollable energy when they get excited; they never feel the need to play it cool. Outside of walking dogs, Gary is an actor, improviser, and guitarist around Chicago, and he enjoys regaling people with his theories about what’s going to happen next on Westworld.

Gus T.

Gus is originally from a farm in The Dalles, Oregon! Having grown up on a farm, Gus helped take care of many dogs, cats, goats, ducks, chickens, and horses. Gus’ parents are veterinarians who owned their own clinic, and Gus often helped them there growing up! While Gus was away from home, he also spent time volunteering as a walker for humane societies. If Gus were to be a dog, he would definitely be a Dachshund: long, goofy, and would just prefer to rest their back inside by the fire on a rainy day! What Gus loves most about walking dogs is being outdoors and having a canine companion along with them! Outside of dog walking, Gus is an actor, writer, teacher, and children’s parties entertainer. Gus loves being creative and having the opportunity to work with children as well! What Gus loves most about animals is their personalities! Gus loves getting to know animals and building relationships with them!

Isamar M.

Isamar is from Chicago and has been here since she was born! Growing up, Isamar had a pet rabbit and several birds. Currently, she has a dog named Paloma, two cats, and a few birds! If Isamar were to be a dog, she would either be a Basset Hound or a Bolognese! What Isamar loves most about walking dogs is being able to create a bond with the pups! She also loves seeing how excited the dogs get when they get to explore the outside world! What Isamar loves most about cats is how sweet they are! Cats are often seen as cold and distant but they are some of the biggest sweethearts ever once you earn their trust. If Isamar could have any one trait of cats it would be their quick reflexes as she would be unstoppable then! Isamar feels she would have the name Pelusa if she was a cat, which means fluffy in Spanish. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Isamar enjoys going to concerts, baking, reading, writing, and makeup artistry! What Isamar loves most about animals is their innocence and carefree nature!

Janina D.

Janina is originally from Hamburg, Germany before moving to the states. Janina grew up with cats, dogs, gerbils, horses, and bearded dragons. Janina has a rescue dog of her own named Freya and she is an Australian cattle dog mix! If Janina were a dog, she feels she would be an Australian Shepard – always looking for the next adventure and always on the go! What Janina loves most about walking dogs is being outside as well as getting to know new dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Janina is a high school science and health teacher, and a certified personal trainer, on top of enjoying hiking, Crossfit, and cooking. The thing Janina loves most about animals, in general, is how fascinating to watch they are – especially when they are learning or bonding with a new person.

Jonathan A.

Jonathan grew up in here in the Windy City with all manner of dogs! Currently Jonathan lives with his two pit mixes named Quentin and Lucy, his chihuahua named Chaparoo, and a cockatiel! If he were a dog, he would be a Labrador Husky mix. What Jonathan loves most about dog walking is seeing how excited they get before a dog walk and how they sniff around to explore their surroundings. In addition to walking dogs, Jonathan enjoys mentoring at his alma matter’s theatre and also likes to knit and crochet. What Jonathan loves most about animals is how sweet and loving they can be. He believes that animals can brighten up any day!

Kat M.

Kat grew up in Indianapolis and Raleigh before moving to Chicago in 2019! Kat grew up with two dogs, a Westie named Coconut and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Lady, and started sitting and walking professionally in 2018. Kat currently has a tabby cat named Walrus and a 4-year-old ferret named Vlad! If Kat was a dog, she feels she would be Cavalier King Charles Spaniel because as much as she’d like to be one of the lithe, graceful working dogs, she is just a lighthearted toy spaniel who likes being a couch potato, eating snacks, and hanging out with my loved ones at heart! Kat’s favorite thing about walking dogs is getting to know each dog individually as every dog has their differences and similarities, and getting to know what makes a specific dog happy always makes her smile. Outside of dog walking, Kat likes sewing, embroidering, playing video games, photography, and drawing. What Kat loves most about animals is how cute they are and how easily you can be friends with them!

Katie H.

Katie is originally from North Carolina and has been living in Chicago for 15 years. Katie grew up with turtles, cats, and dogs of all sizes and temperaments! She has also cared for neighbors’ and coworkers’ dogs from Dachshunds to Newfoundlands. Katie currently has a rescue cat named Oregon and a turtle named Spike! If Katie had to be a dog, she feels she would best be represented by a German Shepherd mix as they are loyal, caring, and hardworking. The thing she loves most about walking dogs is feeling their positive energy and getting to know their unique personalities. What Katie loves most about cats how they can be sweet and cuddly or give you some cattitude depending on how they’re feeling. If Katie could have any one trait of cats it would be their superior jumping ability. Katie definitely feels if she was a cat her name would be Phoebe. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Katie likes to spend her time writing, editing, cooking, and working on jigsaw puzzles! And lastly, the thing she loves most about animals, in general, is how empathetic they are and how attuned they are to the feelings of those around them.

Kayla G.

Kayla is originally from the small town of Imlay City in Michigan. She has always owned and cared for cats throughout her entire life and currently has an orange tabby cat named Cosmo! If Kayla were a dog, she feels she would be a Pembroke Welsh Corgi because they’re so small, cute, and goofy. Outside of dog walking, Kayla enjoys going for walks and exploring nature, watching movies, listening to music, and attending concerts. What Kayla loves most about walking dogs is getting to know each dog personally while exploring the city and enjoying the fresh air with them. What she loves most about animals is how loving and trusting they can be, and how perceptive they are of people and everything going on around them.

Keith M.

Keith is originally from London, England! He grew up in a family of dog and cat owners. They always had dogs, or cats…and sometimes both! Keith currently owns two wonderful rescue cats… who make it apparent that he and his wife are living in “their Space “ (this is no more obvious then when sleeping, and they are squashed into one tiny corner of the bed)! If he could be a dog he would be a Staffordshire Bull Terrier! Keith’s favorite part of dog walking is spending time with the dogs, and getting to know their idiosyncrasies. What he loves most about animals is their different personalities, a trait you only get to notice, and appreciate, when you spend time with them. Keith is a musician, and also enjoys photography in his spare time.

Lia R.

Lia is a Chicago native and grew up with a gaggle of pugs. She and her fiancé have two adorable Boston Terriers who are sometimes too smart for their own good. Lia lived in Denver for several years where she fostered abused dogs that could not be put up for adoption at the humane society until they had been rehabilitated. What she loves most about dogs is their resilience and capacity to love without condition. Her favorite part of walking dogs is getting to know each dog’s personality as well as getting great exercise with her four-legged friends. If Lia were a dog breed, she would probably be a Newfoundland – friendly, hardworking, and a caretaker by nature. Outside of dog walking, Lia does marketing and business development and in her spare time loves supporting the Chicago comedy scene, being crafty, volunteering, exploring the city and anything to do with fresh air and sunshine! In her spare time, she loves supporting the Chicago comedy scene, volunteering, traveling and anything to do with fresh air and sunshine!

Madison F.

Madison grew up in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. Madison had 6 cats and 2 dogs throughout her life. In the picture you can see her two golden doodles who live with her mom in Tennessee. Madison has been an animal lover for all of her life and has volunteered to take care of her friends pets. Madison recently helped her sister foster a hound who was undergoing heart worm treatment. Madison is comfortable with all breeds of dogs and cats. Madison currently does no have any pets but looks at getting one in the near future. If Madison was a dog, she would be a beagle and dachshund mix! Madison’s favorite thing about walking dogs is she loves that it gives her the opportunity to get outside and be around dogs. Outside of dog walking, Madison is currently a law student at Loyola, she also loves baking and watching a good documentary. What Madison loves most about animals is that they are able to sense human emotions and react to their owners.

Marianne S.

Marianne is from Mansfield, Texas. She had a cat when she was growing up, and later she lived with a blind poodle for a while in college. If she were a dog she would be a Bernese mountain dog, because they’re tall and super friendly! What Marianne loves about walking dogs is experiencing all the unconditional love. What Marianne loves about cats is that special moment when one decides to show you affection. If Marianne could have any one trait of cats it would definitely be the ability to always land on her feet! Marianne feels she would definitely have the name Mittens if she was a cat as it’s just the perfect cat name. What she loves most about animals is that they are just so darn cute! In her spare time, Marianne enjoys reading, writing, and binging Netflix.

Masheika S.

Masheika is a Chicago native and grew up with cats. In addition though, Masheika has experience pet sitting (cats, dogs, and a bunny) and also dog walking! If Masheika were to be a dog, she would definitely be a Yorkie. What Masheika loves most about dog walking is knowing that she is providing pups with a much needed service and that the pups truly appreciate and enjoy this. Seeing the joy a dog has when they see you coming to take them out for a walk is very rewarding to Masheika! What Masheika loves most about animals is that they are always themselves and don’t worry about what others may think of them!

Matt K.

Matt is originally from Valparaiso, Indiana, but now is happy to call Chicago home! Both of Matt’s parents are veterinarians who own their own practice, so Matt has always grown around a large number of animals. Matt primarily grew up with larger dog breeds like their German Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, and Scottish Deerhounds, but he has also had the opportunity to work with cats, fish, parrots, horses, and wildlife rescues as well! Unfortunately Matt does not care for a pup of his own at the moment, but he hopes to have the opportunity to do so soon! If Matt were to be a dog, he would definitely be a big lanky Greyhound. What Matt loves most about dog walking is having the opportunity to meet all kinds of different dogs as part of his job! Outside of dog walking, Matt is an active performer in the Chicago comedy scene, as well as a freelance photographer/videographer. You may catch Matt doing standup or improv comedy just about any given night, and he is also working on developing an original guitar album in the coming year! Feel free to follow Matt on Instagram: @reallymattkeeley. What Matt loves most about animals is that they are very clear on their likes and dislikes! Matt is a Dog Walking Specialist with Windy City Paws.

Matt R.

Matt is originally from Perkins, Oklahoma. He has been helping care for his family’s animals for many years, ranging all the way from a Great Dane, to a Boston Terrier, to some family kitties! Matt currently has a Long-Haired Chihuahua named Chi. If Matt was a dog, he would be a Chihuahua because they are fiercely loyal to the ones they love! His favorite part about walking dogs is the bond he develops with his furry companions. Outside of dog walking, Matt enjoys writing music, playing video games, and binge watching TV shows with his girlfriend and Chi! Matt’s favorite thing about animals is that they do not judge us based on superficial things. As long as they we give them love, attention, respect, and discipline, they will be the most loyal friend ever!

Matthew D.

Matthew grew up in the suburb of Elgin before making his way into the city proper! Matthew grew up helping to foster cats and grew up with a German Shepard named Nico. Matthew also currently has a pup of his own named Ripley! If Matthew was a dog, he feels he would be a German Shepherd, determined and loyal! Matthew’s favorite thing about walking dogs is getting to spend that one on one time with them and have a little adventure around their neighborhoods. Outside of dog walking, Matthew likes to play basketball and write. What Matthew loves most about animals is the unique personality each one has and getting to know them!

Meghan G.

Meghan hails from the suburbs of Hanover Park! Meghan grew up with a veritable zoo of dogs, cats, and rabbits her whole life which has helped her always feel comfortable when around animals. Although Meghan does not currently have any pets of her own, she is the happy aunt of many fur babies! If Meghan were a dog, she feels she would be a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, because although they are small and reserved, they are also charming and sweet. Meghan’s favorite thing about walking dogs is getting to know the unique personalities of each dog and creating a relationship with them. What Meghan loves most about cats is their patience and calmness. If Meghan could have any one trait of cats it would be their aloofness and how they let very little faze them. Meghan feels if she was a cat her name would be either Luna or Jinx. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting Meghan is a freelance artist and also sews! What Meghan loves most about animals is how comforting they can be and their ability to make her smile.

Melody K.

Melody is from Villa Park, Illinois, and is very familiar with the city! Melody has been a pet care specialist and dog walker for several years and she has always had pets of her own! Currently, Melody has a Pitbull mix named Mollee! If Melody were to be a dog, she would definitely be a Rat Terrier: energetic, loves to run, and isn’t always happy to be woken up! What Melody loves most about walking dogs is how happy the pooches get on their strolls throughout the neighborhood. It never fails to make her smile! Melody loves how independent cats are and also how playful and curious they can be, If Melody could have any one trait of cats it would be their ability to jump high and land on their feet! Melody feels if she was a cat her name would definitely be Ramona as she’s always loved the Beverly Cleary books! Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Melody loves going to music festivals and concerts with her boyfriend, traveling, riding roller coasters, reading, and enjoying our beautiful city! What Melody loves most about animals is the unconventional love they provide!

Michael B.

Michael is a transplant here in Chicago from sunny Sarasota, Florida. Michael graduated with a degree in theatre from Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, and then moved to Chicago to pursue a career in performance art and theatre. He is the lucky best friend of a beautiful Australian Shepherd named Apache, who unfortunately due to traveling had to stay back home in Florida. They like to FaceTime each other though so it’s all good! If Michael were a dog, he would be a dachshund. His favorite thing about dogs is the way they love unconditionally! What Michael loves about cats is that they’re very direct about what they do and do not want, even if that changes every few seconds. If Michael could have any one trait of cats it would be to land instinctively on his feet every time. Michael feels if he was a cat his name would be Cupcake or Beans as he loves food based names!

Molly M.

Molly hails from right here in the Windy City! Molly has been a lifelong dog owner and former cat owner. Growing up she has had many pets – from snakes, geckos, a tortoise, fish, frogs, hermit crabs, budgies, a lovebird, and three dogs! Molly has also helped foster dogs and cats for the past several years. If Molly were a dog, she feels she would be an Australian Shepard, active, attentive, and curious! What Molly loves most about dog walking is how relaxing and meditative it can be spending time outside with the pups. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Molly works in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, but also has a passion and love for all things food. The thing Molly loves most about animals, in general, is that the kind of comfort an animal can provide a person when they’re sad, and the amount of joy an animal can bring is priceless.

Morgan P.

Morgan is originally from Wellington, Ohio, but is now excited to call Chicago home! Growing up, Morgan cared for a Doberman Pinscher and also helped care for his grandfather’s dogs from time to time. If Morgan were to be a dog, he would definitely be a Siberian Husky: he loves the cold and he tends to throw himself deeply into his work! Morgan’s favorite thing about walking dogs is being able to make friends with the pups and people around him! Outside of dog walking, Morgan is busy acting and writing. He also does a lot of reading, drawing, and baking in his free time! What Morgan loves most about animals is how open and honest they are with their feelings!

Morgan S.

Morgan is originally from St. Louis, Missouri but currently resides in the Wicker Park area! Morgan has grown up with several pets in the past, has worked for Rover, and currently has two cats of my own named Butterscotch and Teddy. If Morgan were a dog, she feels she would definitely be a Golden Retriever and has even been described as having Golden Retriever energy in the past. Morgan’s favorite thing about walking dogs is working outside in the fresh air with a furry friend and getting both themselves and the pup exercise. Outside of dog walking Morgan enjoys singing, writing songs, playing instruments, producing music, and hanging out with friends! What Morgan loves most about animals, in general, is how they each have their own, unique personalities.

Nancy P.

Nancy is from Chicago. Over the years, she has cat-sat for friends and has walked her neighbors’ dogs. Nancy currently owns a very spoiled Maltese-poodle dog! If she were a dog she would be a Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Nancy loves that she never knows what to expect from dogs. They do so many silly things that they always put a smile on her face and make her laugh every single time! It’s just a happy atmosphere with dogs! What Nancy loves most about cats is their independent streak and that they will let you know right away if they like you or not. If Nancy could have any one trait of cats, it would be the unabashed confidence they display at all times. Nancy feels if she was a cat, she would definitely have the name Thunder. What she loves most about animals is their loyalty! In her spare time, Nancy enjoys reading cozy mystery novels, running marathons, and trying to learn other languages.

Nathan C.

Nathan is originally from St. Louis, but has called Chicago home for over a decade! Nathan grew up surrounded by animals and actually spent summers at horse camp. Although he does not have a pet of his own, he does share a home with an awesome Shih Tzu named Gizmo. If Nathan were to be a dog, he would be a West Highland Terrier! What Nathan loves most about walking dogs is getting to know each dog and their own personal traits. Outside of dog walking, Nathan is an active member of the Chicago theater community, performing in shows all over the city. He also started playing the ukulele recently! What Nathan loves most about animals is the unconditional love that they can provide!

Nathaniel F.

Nathaniel is originally from Boulder CO, but growing up he’s lived all over: Washington DC, Atlanta, Vietnam, and the Philippines! He’s lived with dogs and cats all his life. At home, he took care of two dogs, a Filipino mix and a chocolate Labrador. Nathaniel currently doesn’t have any pets as his apartment doesn’t allow them, but he hopes to have a dog or cat of his own in the near future! If he could be a dog he would be a standard Schnauzer: loyal, quick to learn, occasionally mischievous, and easily bored. What he enjoys about dog walking is how meditative it can be! Also, dogs are excellent listeners! What Nathaniel loves most about cats is how curious cats are and how they experiment with everything to better understand it! If he could have any one trait of cats it would definitely be the ability to fall asleep anywhere and anytime. Nathaniel was a cat his name would almost certainly be David Meowie! In his spare time, Nathaniel is an actor, yoga enthusiast, avid reader, and guitar player. He loves reading about spirituality, mythology (Joseph Cambell for the win!), classic plays, and graphic design. What he loves most about animals is that they just need to be loved, pure and simple. It’s wonderfully uncomplicated, and they can remind us to be the most caring and loving version of ourselves.

Olivia S.

Olivia is originally from Ohio but has spent the last 5 years living in Savannah, Georgia. Olivia has always had at least 3 dogs in her house growing up and ever since she has left home she has cats. Olivia has two cats, a chunky black female and a little tuxedo male. If Olivia was a dog, she would be a Maltipoo, this was her first dog growing up and he was her greatest companion. She used to spend her days in the sun with him sunbathing and snuggling. Olivia’s favorite thing about walking dogs is she loves staying active while exploring new neighborhoods in the city while hanging out with some amazing beings. Outside of dog walking, Olivia is a fiber artist, she spends her time knitting clothes or fine art and painting/designing abstract pieces. What Olivia loves most about animals is getting to know their personalities, every animal is so special and she can learn so much from them.

Ryan G.

Ryan is from Greensboro, North Carolina. His family owned a Golden Retriever in the past and currently owns a Bichon Frise‘ named Lucky! He has experience petsitting for friends and neighbors as well. If Ryan could be a dog, he would be a Greyhound because they are tall and Lanky! What he loves most about dog walking is getting to spend time with dogs. There’s an inherent joy he experiences from being around them, it must be their loyalty and playfulness! What he loves most about animals is their lack of insecurity. They’re free to be as they are without any societal constraints. Outside of dog walking, Ryan works in the theatre world. His hobbies include watching movies, reading, biking, and exercising.

Scott O.

Scott is originally from Pennsylvania but has lived in Chicago for the last 26 years. He had a dog, a Bichon Frisé, named Victor, as well as many cats throughout his life, named: Max, Sebastian, Bonkers, & Smokey. If Scott could be a dog he would be a Beagle. Scott’s favorite part of dog walking is how being with dogs is calming and is one of the best ways you can spend your time. They are the most loving and giving of all animals. Scott loves how incredibly affectionate and caring cats can be and loves the experience of a cat coming to sit on your chest and kneading you or laying down on your chest. If Scott could have any one trait of a cat, it would be to always be able to land on his feet! Scott feels if he were a cat, he would definitely have the name Max! What he loves most about animals are their happy souls. In his spare time, Scott enjoys acting and teaching as an adjunct professor at Columbia College. He also loves to read!

Susan G.

Susan originally hails from Elmer, Louisiana. Susan grew up with her mom owning 5 dogs at a time and having lived with all their different personalities, she developed a deep understanding of how they can be as unique as people. Although Susan does not currently have a pet of her own, she is looking to adopt a Boxer named Leroy in the near future! If Susan was a dog, she feels she would be a Chihuahua-Labradoodle mix. Susan’s favorite thing about walking dogs is how excited they get about going out and just spending that time outside with them! Outside of dog walking, Susan spends time entertaining kids’ birthday parties, learning how to sing and play guitar, and acting. What Susan loves most about animals is how we are all connected with being on the same planet, different, but the same at once.

Tessa D.

Tessa is originally from Kenosha, WI before moving to Madison for college and then to Chicago! Tessa’s family had a Portuguese Water Dog growing up named Cody and now has two cats: a Pixie-bob named Denali and a Snowshoe Siamese named Rhea. Although she does not currently have any pets of her own, she plans to get a cat in the near future and a dog in a couple of years. If Tessa were a dog, she feels she would be a Portuguese Water Dog because they are super smart and affectionate but still know how to get into trouble! What Tessa loves most about dog walking is getting to spend as much time as possible with animals while enjoying the outdoors. Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Tessa loves trying new restaurants, traveling, and attending concerts and music festivals. The thing Tessa loves most about animals, in general, is their unconditional love and the joy they bring into our lives!

Valerie C.

Valerie hails from the small town of Carterville in southern Illinois! Valerie grew up with mainly big dogs and a family of cats and helped train one of the pups as well. Valerie currently has two cat children of her own, named Steve & Jimi! If Valerie were a dog, she feels she would be a mixed breed pup full of lots of love for whoever she warmed up to. Valerie’s favorite thing about walking dogs is getting to see dogs grow and develop and all their different personalities. Valerie can’t just pick one thing she loves most about cats but loves how smart and perceptive they are. If Valerie could have any trait of cats it would be the ability to nap anywhere no matter the distractions and in any position! Valerie feels if she was a cat she would definitely still have the name Valerie as she loves human names for cats! Outside of dog walking and cat sitting, Valerie loves hiking and being in nature as well as art which she enjoys creating! What Valerie loves most about animals is their intelligence and emotional capacity and the amount of love they have for their human caretakers!

Veronica L.

Veronica originally hails from Mexico City before coming to Chicago. She grew up with several dogs and even helped rescue a dog here in Chicago that she found wandering the streets! She currently owns an adorable Pug and Rat Terrier mix named Max. If Veronica were a dog breed, she feels like she would be much like her own pup Max, a very down to earth but active dog! What Veronica loves most about walking dogs is that it can be an adventure with every walk being a little different and that both she and the dog can learn, meet people, and have fun! What Veronica loves most about cats is how independent they can be while still wanting all the affection. If Veronica could have any one trait of cats it would be their precision to know what they want and when. Veronica feels if she was a cat her name would probably be Luci! When not dog walking or cat sitting, Veronica likes to spend her free time with her daughter and Max and also running. She has participated in several marathons, half marathons, and other races! The thing she loves most about animals, in general, is the unconditional love they provide when you give them the chance!

Yoli J.

Yoli (they/them) is excited to care for your fur-baby! Originally from Oregon, Yoli has been an avid animal lover since they can remember, even raising a baby robin after it fell out of its nest until he could be rehomed in a bird sanctuary. Yoli loves animals of all stripes & sizes. They have two basset hounds and frequently pet-sit for both doggos and kitties. They raised a tiny kitten, Ita Luz, from infancy to young adulthood, and they are eager to get to know all the quirks and charms of your four-legged family members. When not walking doggos or caring for feline friends, you can find Yoli out on the dance floor–they love to dance salsa and bachata which they learned how to do while living in Central America. Yoli is also a grad student in social work at Loyola University Chicago–they love working with their students and riding their bike throughout Chicago.

Zach Y.

Zach is originally from Orange County, CA. He’s had dogs his entire life, and his two dogs currently live with his mom in Washington. If Zach were a dog, he would be a German Shepherd. He enjoys walking dogs because it gives him the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with pets and experience their individuality. What he loves most about animals is their capacity to love unconditionally. In his spare time, Zach enjoys going camping, going to concerts, playing guitar, and traveling the world.