Meet Our Team
We pride ourselves on being the best dog walkers in Chicago. Click around get to know our Windy City Paws staff a little better! Want to join our team? Find out how to apply for dog walking jobs with us.
We pride ourselves on being the best dog walkers in Chicago. Click around get to know our Windy City Paws staff a little better! Want to join our team? Find out how to apply for dog walking jobs with us.
Alex hails from Chicagoland, having grown up in Clarendon Hills, IL. Growing up, Alex had a hamster but has been a lifelong animal advocate and environmentalist. Alex finally got a rescue dog of their own, Daisy, in 2015. Through their relationship and Daisy’s rehabilitation, Alex’s passion grew, and they spent several years as a dog walker/sitter, animal hospital receptionist, and vet assistant throughout Chicago. Alex still has Daisy and after moving in with their partner, Daisy now has a step-sister in 4-year-old Junebug. If Alex could be any breed of dog they would want to be a Great Dane but they admit they are probably more of a Golden Retriever – active, loyal, and optimistic to a fault. When not walking dogs, Alex enjoys cosplay, puppet making, and performing in theater. Alex loves learning new artistic skills and finding creative ways to use them. What Alex enjoys most about walking dogs is the relationship. Alex loves getting to know a dog, and learning how they can support and nurture them to be their best selves and have the best time they can. What Alex loves most about animals in general is their love and overall capacity for love. As Alex puts it “It’s an emotionally intelligent language, unique to each individual, and I really think it’s what connects us all as living things.”
Amy spent the majority of her life living in Michigan, in several different areas before moving to Chicago! Amy grew up with animals her entire life. Her parents bred basset hounds when she was young and her dad currently has six dogs – 4 dachshunds, a cocker spaniel, and a shih tzu. While she doesn’t currently have any pets of her own, Amy spends a lot of time with her father’s dogs and her brother’s angelic little calico. Amy hopes to adopt a rescue pet soon and also start raising snails! If Amy could be any breed of dog, she’d probably be a sheepdog because her hair is also too long and always in her face. Outside of walking dogs, Amy enjoys drawing, playing video games, and collecting plushes and Tamagotchis. What Amy enjoys most about walking dogs is having the companionship of a cute little friend while also getting some fresh air together! What Amy loves most about animals is how rewarding it is to befriend an animal and earn their trust! “It’s a great feeling, to love an animal and know they love you in return.”
Anusha originally hails from Tennessee but has been living in Illinois for about 10 years. Having moved to Chicago about a year ago, Anusha has been enjoying all that the city has to offer! Anusha has been pet-sitting for friends and neighbors since the age of 15, and volunteered at a local animal shelter for two years, mainly walking dogs. During her time volunteering at the shelter, Anusha learned how to handle a variety of dogs and learned to love their unique personalities. Growing up, Anusha’s family had a beagle named Ace and a couple of fish. Currently, Anusha owns a cat named Salem, who is a playful black cat. Anusha hopes to own a dog someday in the future and their ideal situation is one dog and one cat. If Anusha was going to be a dog breed, she thinks she’d be a mix of a miniature pinscher and a basset hound. The mini pinscher is due to their small and strong build and the basset is because of their love of relaxation and gentle nature. In the end, though, Anusha would prefer to be a cat because of their acrobatic flexibility and independence. When not walking dogs, Anusha enjoys exploring a variety of forms of art, tending to her plants, entomology, yoga, nutrition, reading, aerial hoop, movies, biking, motorcycles, and cooking. What Anusha enjoys most about walking dogs is being able to explore the city while having a furry companion along for the journey – just Anusha and a four-legged friend enjoying each other’s company and surroundings. Anusha finds pet care very satisfying in knowing that she can help an animal in need, and their human too! Anusha’s favorite pet characteristics are their endless goofy reactions and the sound of their paws tapping on the ground.
Bailey hails from the shores of Lake Michigan, having grown up in a small Michigan town named Leland. Bailey has owned several cats, dogs, and a guinea pig throughout her life. Bailey has been walking dogs here in Chicago since 2019. If Bailey could be any breed of dog, Bailey would be a Golden Retriever mixed with a Dachshund. When not walking dogs, Bailey enjoys writing, listening to music, going to the movies, swimming in the lake, and camping in the woods. What Bailey enjoys most about walking dogs is being a bright part of their day and a source of exercise and care, while enjoying the outdoors. What Bailey enjoys most about animals in general is how playful they can be about their daily routines. Bailey finds that getting to know what kinds of treats a pet likes, what their favorite toy is, and where they like to be scratched the most always makes Bailey happy.
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 teaches music lessons!
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.
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.
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!
Erie is originally from the suburbs of Minnesota but has been in Chicago for the past 6 years. Erie has worked at a grooming salon for pets and has lived with several dogs and cats. Erie also currently has a their own named Mitty Kitty. If Erie were a dog, they feel they would be a Golden Retriever, loyal and friendly! The thing Erie loves most about walking dogs is seeing the lovely sights of Chicago with the pups. Outside of dog walking Erie enjoys reading, watching documentaries, singing in their church choir, and watching musicals. The thing Erie loves the most about animals is the way they offer unconditional love!
Evin hails from Appleton, WI! Growing up, Evin had all sorts of animals – dogs, cats, even one tarantula! Currently, Evin owns one cat named Hippolyta and she’s been with Evin since the 4th of July, 2019. If Evin was going to be any breed of dog, he would be a German Shepherd because they are smart and loyal dogs. Evin had a German Shepherd growing up so they hold a special place in his heart. When not walking dogs, Evin can often be found performing on the stage, reading Shakespeare or comics, or enjoying older films. What Evin enjoys most about walking dogs is being able to meet and know so many different dogs and their unique personalities. As Evin puts it, being able to earn the dog’s trust simply through the act of walking is a wonderful feeling. What Evin enjoys most about animals, in general, is their honesty; each relationship with an animal is straightforward and simple. If you demonstrate that you’re a person worth their trust, they’ll trust you and enjoy being around you.
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.
Hayley hails from St. Louis Missouri. Hayley grew up with several dogs, including a Bichon Frise, Maltese, and 3 different Maltipoos. Hayley has also petsat for dogs of all ages and sizes! If Hayley could be any dog breed she’d like to be an Australian Shepherd, as they have beautiful eyes and tend to be very smart. The thing Hayley loves most about walking dogs is getting to take the pups out for an adventure they have been waiting on daily. Outside of dog walking Hayley enjoys doing improv at Second City and stand-up! The thing Hayley loves the most about animals is how genuinely excited they can get about getting to see you again, no matter how long or short the amount of time since they last saw you.
Hillarie is originally from Central Virginia, but has lived in Philly, DC, and Rochester, NY before she moved out to Chicago in 2017. Her family always had cats and dogs, with the occasional bird and guinea pig! While Hillarie was in college and after she graduated, she did volunteer work with a cat rescue. She would help in any way that she could and made sure to socialize with all the different kitties! Hillarie currently has a sweet black cat named Sweetie whose favorite things to do are to cuddle and fart! If Hillarie were to be a dog, she would probably be a mutt; just a little mix of everything! What Hillarie loves most about dog walking is being able to see all the different types of dogs and being able to bond with them! In addition to walking dogs, Hillarie spends her time as a freelance Props Designer and has worked for theaters through Chicago and Evanston. She also enjoys spending her free time with tabletop role-playing games and painting with watercolors! The thing Hillarie loves most about animals is that they can be very transparent and show what they are feeling without any cover-up. She enjoys that honesty!
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!
Jason is a born and raised Chicago native, having lived in Uptown for most of his life. Jason owns a Doberman Pinscher named Smokey who he raised since he was a puppy and is now 10 years old. Jason is also an uncle to a Dachshund named Benny. Jason hopes to expand his pet family and get a Corgi and a cat in the near future. If Jason were going to be a breed of dog, he would be a bloodhound to experience their fantastic sense of smell. When not walking dogs, Jason enjoys watching and reviewing movies from all time periods and countries. He also enjoys working out and hiking. What Jason enjoys most about walking dogs is their curiosity – it’s fun to watch them sniff around and interact with the world. What Jason loves most about animals in general is how human-like they can be – despite being so different, many pets can understand emotion and body language.
Jeff is originally from Morton Grove but has been living in Chicago for most of his adult life. Jeff grew up with all sorts of pets – a collie/cocker spaniel mix, a parakeet, and a goldfish. Jeff adopted his first cat just after college and immediately loved their unique personality. Since then, Jeff has had 3 cats and a dog of his own, a beagle/chihuahua mix that was sweet as could be. Unfortunately, she passed last year and Jeff misses her every day. Throughout his life, Jeff has cared for the pets of family and friends, some of which had special needs. Like with his own pets, Jeff would do anything to help them have the best life possible! If Jeff could be any breed of dog he would be a Beagle. Outside of walking dogs, Jeff spends his time exploring Chicago, finding new & unique restaurants, visiting Chicago’s many theaters and museums, and the occasional walk by the lake. What Jeff enjoys most about walking dogs is connecting with them and watching them enjoy their adventure time outside. What Jeff loves most about animals is their unique personalities and the ways in which we as humans connect with them.
While Jessica has lived in many different places, Jessica originally hails from Atlanta, GA. Jessica grew up with a sweet little Beagle and a big, excitable black Lab who currently lives with Jessica’s parents. While Jessica doesn’t currently own any pets, Jessica plans to get a dog in the future when she moves to a larger place. If Jessica was going to be any breed of dog, it would probably be a Huskie or a Labrador. When not walking dogs, Jessica is an artist and animator! Jessica enjoys drawing, reading, writing, cooking, and trying new foods as well. What Jessica enjoys most about walking dogs is being able to spend time with animals because they are so sweet and their love is unconditional. Jessica also enjoys walking outside, seeing the world, and appreciating nature alongside a furry companion. What Jessica loves most about animals in general is their ability to bring more love and joy to the world and how they brighten the lives of everyone that interacts with them.
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!
Kaitlyn hails from Michigan and has had dogs their whole life. Currently, Kaitlyn owns a Dachshund named Buddy who uses a wheelchair. If Kaitlyn could be any breed of dog they would be Dachshund, though Kaitlyn admits they are a little biased. When not walking dogs, Kaitlyn enjoys running (Kaitlyn ran a half marathon in the spring!), going to baseball games with her husband, and hanging out with her dog, Buddy. What Kaitlyn enjoys most about walking dogs is being able to spend quality time with them outside in nature, doing their favorite thing – walking! Kaitlyn’s favorite thing about animals in general is their unconditional love for people.
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 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.
Mackenzie hails from the Minneapolis area. Growing up, Mackenzie had a beloved Cavalier King Charles spaniel that she adored. Although she doesn’t currently have any pets, Mackenzie loves animals and if she were a dog breed, it would be a golden retriever. When Mackenzie isn’t out walking dogs, she works as a Case Manager at a homeless shelter. In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys crocheting, reading, and figure skating. What Mackenzie enjoys most about walking dogs is being able to spend time outside and making new furry friends. For Mackenzie, the thing she loves most about animals is their unconditional love.
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.
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.
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 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 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!
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!
Nate C. hails from Crown Point, IN. He grew up with 4 dogs, all differing greatly in their personalities. He’s also dog and cat sat here and there as well, so he’s no stranger to caring for pets! While Nate doesn’t own any pets currently, he often cares for his roommate’s cat, Clementine. If Nate could be any breed of dog, he’d be a boxer. Outside of dog walking Nate enjoys singing and playing the piano. He tries to hike every chance he gets and is always on the lookout for cool rocks. What Nate loves the most about dog walking is discovering the quirks of each dog. Plus, being able to spend time outside with the best kind of company – the four-legged kind! The thing Nate loves most about dogs is their sense of loyalty.
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!
Neil moved to Chicago in 1991, he attended lab school in Hyde Park. Neil previously was a vet tech and has always loved animals. He also attended The Art Institute of Chicago. Neil previously had two Golden retrievers, Ellie & Eco. Neil currently lives with his partner and an orange tabby cat named Rhône, a spider friend Harold, and a red-eared-slider turtle named Jalapeño. If Neil could be any dog breed he would be a Blue Heeler, he is loyal to a fault and a true ranch working dog. Neil loves that walking dogs is such a bonding experience. Outside of dog walking Neil is a visual artist and in a rock band. Neil loves to write novels and poetry. Neil loves animal behaviors and finds them very fascinating
Nicolasa (Nikki) was born and raised in Chicago. Growing up Nikki had her cat Missy who was very much her best friend until passing. Nikki does not own any pets at this time but wishes she could. If Nikki could be any dog breed she’d like to be a Maltipoo. Nicolasa’s hobbies are photography, baking, and antique shopping. The thing Nikki loves the most about animals is how loyal and loving they are! It’s never a dull moment with our pets! Nikki truly feels we need them just as much as they need us.
Ornella originally hails from Ghana but arrived in Chicago in 2006 and grew up in Rogers Park. Ornella has tons of experience working with cats, having had one while growing up. Ornella often volunteers at local animal shelters, walking dogs and spending time with cats. While Ornella does not currently own any pets, she hopes to adopt a boxer in the future due to their sweet and goofy nature. If Ornella was a dog breed, she would probably be a bulldog because they enjoy sleeping just as much as her! When not spending time with animals, Ornella enjoys roller skating, reading, and watching films, especially thrillers. What Ornella loves about walking dogs is exploring the city with a curious and furry companion. What Ornella loves about animals in general is how playful and open they can be.
Born and raised in the bustling city of Chicago, Savia has had two adorable canine companions – a Maltipoo and a Chihuahua Mix. Though Savia does not currently own any pets, if they could be any type of dog breed they would be a Chihuahua. As Savia puts it “just like a sour patch kid, they have a sassy side but are undeniably cute and endearing.” When Savia is not walking dogs, she enjoys baking, working out, and binge-watching the latest Netflix show. What Savia loves most about walking dogs is being able to support a dog’s health with daily exercise which not only increases their serotonin levels but hers as well! Seeing them happy and excited for their walk always brings Savia joy. The thing that Savia loves most about animals is their unique personalities and the amazing traits they pick up from their owners.
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!
Tony hails from right hear from the Chicago suburb of Carol Stream. Tony owned a wonderful labrador retriever named Bella for 13 years who came with him from Carol Stream to be his running partner in the city. Currently, Tony owns a sweet Black Mouth Cur pup named Daisy. Daisy has lots of energy and Tony enjoys training her. If Tony could be any breed of dog, he’d probably be a St. Bernard – big, loveable, and always down to chill. When he’s not walking dogs Tony enjoys exploring his passion for theatre and making short films and parodies with his brother on YouTube. What Tony loves most about dogs is being able to bond with them as they both connect with nature. The thing that Tony loves most about animals, in general, is their ability to sense when a person is sad or feeling down and they are there to come to cheer you up.
Travis originally hails from Dallas, Texas, but has lived in several states before moving to Chicago. Travis has extensive experience working with dogs, having spent 4.5 years being a dog counselor at a dog daycare and boarding facility, where he fine-tuned his dog care skills. He also spent several years volunteering at a local animal shelter during his college years. Currently, Alex and his partner own a 14-year-old Chihuahua/Daschund mix named Boomer. If Travis was a dog breed, he’d be a Goldendoodle because he loves their energy and carefree spirit. When not walking dogs, Travis enjoys working on building his personal training business. He also enjoys spending time on his hobby wood shop business that he runs on Etsy, making wood art. What Travis loves most about dogs is how they always bring a smile to his face, light up his day, and let him forget about other things for a while. Travis’s favorite characteristic about dogs is that they don’t seem to care what anyone thinks and they act so goofy. It always makes Travis feel younger.
Trey has lived in multiple cities in the USA and has been working in the dog-walking industry for over 19 years! Trey loves working outdoors, exploring the city, and spending as much time as possible with any and all pets. Trey takes great pride in being able to provide the highest level of care and customer service for all his clients. Having recently moved to Chicago, Trey looks forward to learning more about the Windy City and spending time with all his furry friends.
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!
Zach originally hails from Lubbock, TX – the birthplace of Buddy Holly! But in 2016, Zach moved to Chicago and never looked back. Growing up, Zach’s home was filled with pets! Most consistently three dogs and two cats. For a while, there was even a grumpy parrot who feuded with the family cats. Zach’s first dog, who he got in kindergarten, was named Snowy and was Zach’s best buddy for 12 years. More recently, Zach has been dog-sitting for friends when not taking care of his own dog. Currently, Zach owns a 10-year-old mini-Aussie named Scout. Zach describes Scout as the Grande Dame of the home – a diva with a lot of very strong opinions that Scout is not afraid to share, but overall is the sweetest and best dog there is (in Zach’s opinion)! If Zach were to be a dog breed, he’d be a Bernese Mountain Dog because they are big, laid back, and enjoy spending time with loved ones. When not walking dogs, Zach enjoys writing and performing improv comedy! Zach also enjoys a good nonfiction book and flexing his amateur film buff muscles. What Zach enjoys most about walking dogs is getting to build a bond with each individual dog. As Zach puts it, “You learn a lot about each other walking the sidewalks of the city. It’s fun going on adventures together!” Zach’s favorite thing about animals, and dogs in particular, is their capacity for unconditional love – they make the world so much richer with their love and presence in our lives.