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Meet our Amazing Team of Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters

meet our pet sitters

Urban Tailz has been providing daily dog walking, cat sitting, and pet sitting services on the North Side of Chicago since 2000, providing over 750,000 visits to thousands of happy pets. We are one of the oldest and highest-rated dog walking companies in Chicago. We have learned so much over the years, and we strive to continually improve our services for our clients. We believe technology is vital to our business, but that a personal touch is the most important thing for our clients.

Our pet sitters are employees who have been background checked and have gone through a week-long training course before providing pet care services on their own. Urban Tailz does not use independent contractors like many dog walking companies, which means our pet sitters are well-trained, held up to a higher standard, and covered by all Urban Tailz insurance. Urban Tailz is also licensed, bonded, and insured to provide pet sitting services in Chicago. 

Meet your new best friends: our managers

Kiley

General Manager

Alison

Client Success Manager

Paige

Manager

Maya

Manager

meet every pet(s) best friend: our lead pet sitters

dog walker

ANNIE

Hi! I’m Annie, and I love dogs more than anything! I grew up in Oak Park just outside of Chicago and have lived here and loved it ever since. I left for a few years to attend school in Tacoma, Washington, and while it was beautiful there I missed my dog, my city, and my people so much I had to come back.

I am so excited to be walking with Urban Tailz, can’t imagine anything better than being paid to hang out with and care for dogs all while actively exploring the neighborhoods of Chicago through fresh eyes.

I grew up with all kinds of pets, dogs being the stars of the show. Recently, I moved into my own place where I cannot have pets, so I’m extremely excited to be able to keep dogs in my everyday life. I have been walking and sitting them for almost 10 years, and am now driving a doggy daycare school bus in the mornings- I am living and breathing dog transportation and I am so grateful for the trust involved with this line of work.

Outside of being a pet sitter and driving pups around I love cooking, crafting, hiking, and vegging out watching tv- all things that are better with a furry friend around!

dog walker

BRENDA

Hi my name is Brenda!! I was born here in Chicago but moved to Michigan when I was 14. I enjoyed the fresh air and country life there but the city lights were calling me back home to Chicago. So I moved back when I was 21 and I’ve been here ever since enjoying all the great things this city has to offer.

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my fur babies and also my family. I also enjoy going to the movies, bowling and camping. I joined the urban tailz team because I’ve always actually wanted to work with dogs. So I’m excited to walk your pets! I’ll treat them as they were my own.

meet your pet(s) new best friend: our pet sitters

dog walker AJ

AJ

Hi, I’m AJ (they/them)! I have absolutely adored dogs for my whole life. Growing up in little South Saint Paul, Minnesota, I was often late to school because I would stop to say good morning to every dog along the way! I moved to Uptown last year and love it here.

I love seeing dog and cat friends every day, and it has been fantastic to get more exercise! I also love all small animals.

When I’m not walking dogs, I’m running my small business, taking photographs, in acting class (it’s my last one!), volunteering, or at home relaxing with my spouse and fuzzy friends.

cat sitter annalisa

ANNALISA

Hi! I am a long-time animal lover and certified yoga teacher. I have a day job in customer service with a special interest in health care benefits and defined contributions, 401(k) savings plans. I have a Chantilly kitty of my own named Kimiko. I enjoy hiking and traveling. I know it can be tough to leave your furry friends while out on adventures; I am happy to help with care and love 🙂

dog walker Ariana

ARIANA

Hi! I’m from central Florida originally, but moved to Chicago for the better public transportation infrastructure and to experience a season besides summer. In my free time, I love checking out a new cafe, ripping apart bad movies with friends, and spending time with my family.

I’m very lucky to have grown up with dogs and have them be such a large part of my life. So I’m very excited for the opportunity to meet and spend time with your furry friends.

dog walker Athena

ATHENA

Hey everyone, my name is Athena! I just moved into the city after growing up in the southwestern suburbs of Chicago. I graduated from College of Dupage last year and love to shoot photography, draw, and create art in my spare time! My grandmother naturally brought home animals to take care of so I spent my childhood around many pets. I love spending time with cute doggos so much I adopted my own two years ago and we’ve been inseparable ever since. I am very grateful to find a sweet job where I can meet everyone’s best furry friends! 

pet sitter Barbara

BARBARA

Hi all, I’m Barbara! Originally from Los Angeles, I moved to Chicago a little over two years ago and fell in love with the city — so I decided to stay!

Growing up, we were a very non-traditional pet family — from pigeons, to chicks, to turtles, and bunnies, we’ve had a wide variety of furry and feathery friends. As much as I love all animals, cats own my heart. I absolutely adore my two fur-monsters, Valkyrie and Theodora, and enjoy spending as much time with them as possible. When I’m not working full-time or cuddling my kitties, you’ll find me working out (I love to box), reading, or discovering hidden gems around the neighborhoods with my friends. I look forward to taking care of your fur-babies and becoming absolute besties with them!

dog walker

BEN

I grew up in rural Illinois and moved to Chicago in 2005. I now live with my girlfriend, her two kitties Bela and Gus, and our crazy rabbit Choo Choo. I started working for Urban Tailz in 2006, and it has been my home ever since.

There is nothing better than spending my day with all my furry companions! Animals are my life, and I couldn’t imagine not being around them everyday.

dog walker Celie

CELIE

Hi there! I’m Celie, and I have been taking care of pets for over 6 years now. I worked at the Humane Society, cared for animals young and old, and have handled dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles! Originally from TN, I’m comfortable handling animals of all sizes. Nice to meet you~

dog walker charlie

CHARLIE

Recent graduate from Columbia College Chicago majoring in music and minoring in music business. My main interests are music and soccer. I grew up with two cats and a small pug and I adored all of them equally. I have a special place in my heart for animals and I promise to give them all the love and attention they need when I am walking/looking after them.

dog walker Chrissy

CHRISSY

Howdy! I’m Chrissy and I absolutely adore animals. I am beyond happy to take care of your pets while you’re away. I have one cat of my own and I work at a private exotic petting zoo as well so I am around animals all the time! Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to work with animals – I decided to become vegan when I was 12, and I am super excited to finally be able to work with animals all the time! Besides my immense love for animals and time spent hanging out with them, my hobbies include playing guitar, writing, reading, and cooking!

Grateful that Urban Tailz gave me an opportunity to hangout with your pets 🙂

dog walker

EDIN

Hi! I’m Edin. I’m from Montana but moved to Chicago to attend Northwestern. After gaining a degree in Music, I’ve decided to stay in Chicago because I love it so much.

I am a huge animal lover and outdoors person. I’ve had many dogs growing up and just miss being around them since I live in an apartment that doesn’t allow pets. Working for Urban Tailz allows me to get my dog fix. I’m excited to be walking your furry children!

pet sitter Eli

ELI

Hi! I’m a Chicago west sider with a huge passion for pets! Proud mama to three cats and a self described “cat lady” but I have been blessed to have lots of dogs in our family growing up as well as rabbits so I truly have love for all animals. I am currently pursuing a degree in environmental science to help try to provide a safer world for all pets and wildlife in the future.
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EMRYS

Hi! My name is Emrys (he/they). I grew up in California and moved to Chicago for school about three years ago. I love the city and so decided to stay after graduating. I always had dogs growing up, and often fostered litters of puppies and kittens – so fun! I love meeting all different kinds of dogs and cats, and am psyched to meet yours. I also love taking care of plants, reading sci fi, and making soup!

dog walker Heidi

HEIDI

Hi, I’m Heidi! I’m a lifelong pet lover who has shared her home with a wide range of furry companions over the years, from German shepherds, to Italian greyhounds, to cats of all stripes. I currently reside with a very opinionated tabby named Ziggy Stardust. When I’m not caring for fur friends, I work as a freelance writer. I looks forward to meeting and spending quality time with the special pet in your life!

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JALINA

Hi! My name is Jalina and I moved to Chicago three years ago from southern Wisconsin. I absolutely love animals. I have two cats back home in WI. Since I couldn’t take them with me, I decided what better way to fill that void than with the pets at Urban Tailz! Absolutely love walking and sitting so far and can’t wait to meet your pups and kitties!
dog walker Jamie

JAMIE

Over 25 years ago I got my first beagle; today I have three beagles, one senior Maltese mix and a Belgian Malinois puppy. Over the years I have been involved with various rescues both locally and nationally. Two of my current beagles are former laboratory research beagles. Two of my current dogs were strays. My 25-year-long career as a Montessori Early Childhood teacher and administrator allowed me to have a hobby of beagles.

My love for dogs has led me to making dogs my full-time job. In the future I would like to study canine herbalism. For now I just want to hang out with some really cool dogs.  When I’m not walking dogs you can find me hanging out with my teenagers or working on our Urban Farm.

dog walker Jeff

JEFF

I am an animal lover who has been looking after dogs and cats since I was 10 years old. I am originally from Carol Stream, IL but have lived in Chicago for the past five years working as a Jeff Award-winning actor in musical theatre across the Chicagoland area.

When he I’m not performing, I love spending time listening to music and taking walks to the beach (if the weather allows!) I looks forward to getting to know the personalities of each pet I take care of, and personalizing each visit to maximize the enjoyment for each of your furry friends.

dog walker Jessica

JESSICA

Hello! My name is Jessica! I’m a cat mom of 4! Boots, Snickers, Pepe and Slippers. I’m obsessed with my fur babies! I love to travel in the states and also out of the country, so I know the importance of having someone you can trust with taking care of your babies. I’m super excited to meet some amazing dogs! I can’t wait to get a dog of my own to join his/her cat siblings!

joanna dog walking manager

JOANNA

I’m a freelance writer, originally from Louisville, Kentucky. I used to work at an advertising agency but joined Urban Tailz in 2016 after I realized I’d much rather hang out with animals than ad execs. I grew up in a house full of pets––dogs, cats, rats, chickens, bearded dragons, the works––and currently have two cats of my own. In my spare time, I enjoy doing improv and stand up, and watching an ungodly amount of Real Housewives with my cats.

dog walker

KATHY

Hello, I’m Kathy! I grew up in a small town in Illinois and went to NIU for my Bachelor degree. I moved down south for 8 years where I worked in fitness and raised two beautiful Labradors.

Now that I’m back up north, I’m an in-home personal trainer and help take care of my clients pets when they are out of town. I’m very passionate about all animals and their happiness so this is absolutely the best job for EVERYONE involved.

dog walker

KELLY

Hi, I’m Kelly! I grew up in Iowa and moved to Chicago in 2013. My husband and I currently live downtown with our sassy mini-goldendoodle Olive. I love dogs, walking, and being outside, so I’m thrilled to be able to explore the city with new furry friends!

When I’m not doing something dog-related, I enjoy hiking, reading, listening to podcasts, and eating an inadvisable amount of pizza.

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KIMBERLY

My name is Kimberly, but Call me Kim. I was born in Illinois, grew up in Jakarta Indonesia with 2 dogs; a German Shepherd and a Maltese mix. Being active is very important for my health and well being and so are dogs! I do all kinds of sports but some of my favorites are gymnastics and weightlifting.

dog walker Kirsten

KIRSTEN

Hi! I’m Kirsten. A transplant from Minnesota, I am exploring my way through Chicago one dog at a time. I love dogs and learning each of their unique characteristics. As an only child, our family dogs have been my only siblings. I have had three Airedale Terriers throughout my life and have loved their goofy characteristics.

I wanted to be a vet growing up, and while my career took me in a different direction, Urban Tailz allows me to get that quality time with animals. I am a graduate of DePauw University and I currently work in marketing at an engineering firm.

In my free time, I enjoy stopping people on the street to pet their dogs, cooking, trying different restaurants and bars around the city, and working out!

laura dog walker

LAURA (dog walker)

I’m a lot of things…north-sider, social worker, cyclist….but of all, I’m thrilled to spend time with your dear pup while you are away.

I’m new to Urban Tailz, but have had dogs all my life. I was heavily involved with PAWS, and eventually adopted my own sweet girl who stole my heart and changed my life forever.

Whether your pup is ready for action, or on the shy-side (my favorite!), all dogs are very special to me, and I look forward to giving them lots of love and a good time outside. 

I look forward to meeting you!! 

cat sitter laura

LAURA (cat sitter)

Hi, I’m Laura! I moved here to Chicago from Indiana to study visual art. Like many of the creative persuasion, however,  I have not made my field of study into a career…Instead I turned my long-standing passion for thrifting and vintage into an online, pop-up, and brick-and-mortar business and have been selling vintage clothing and home furnishings for 13 years.

When I’m not on the hunt for treasures at estate sales and thrift shops, I’m also performing vocals and/or keyboards in two bands, and eating my way through the vegan-friendly restaurants in Chicago. I’m also a longtime multiple cat owner and black cat aficionado. 

I’m so happy to be working with Urban Tailz! Visiting and caring for all the client kitties has been a dream job for me, and the management staff are incredible to work for!! 

dog walker Lily

LILY

Hello! I’m Lily, and I was born and raised on the far north side of Chicago. Currently, I attend Columbia College, studying film, but hope to someday become a teacher! 

I’ve always had pets in my life, some dogs and a couple cats, and adore taking care of people’s furry friends. For several years I did occasional freelance pet-sitting, and was so happy to join the Urban Tailz team to do so on a regular basis! 

In my free time, I love to bike, sew, watch movies, read, bake, and go to the beach, but I enjoy spending time with animals most of all. 

dog walker Lindsey

LINDSEY

Hi, I’m Lindsey! I’ve lived in Logan Square since 2005 and love exploring the neighborhood with the animals of Urban Tailz! I am an animal- and nature-loving artist who recently shifted careers to get some sunshine and fresh air and grow my handmade craft business, made by Q. 

I love meeting new four-legged friends, exploring the neighborhood with them on our walks, and giving them all the pets they want. They make me laugh and keep me on my toes, and I try to snap a picture of their best moments! I grew up with all kinds of pets and recently adopted a Boston Terrier – Chihuahua mix named Chuy. 

When I’m not out on walks, you may find me tending a local community garden, hunting for vintage at thrift stores, exploring the hop options at breweries across the city, or selling my handmade eco-friendly goods at local craft shows on the weekends.

I look forward to taking good care of your favorite furball!

dog walker mallory

MALLORY

Hi, I’m Mallory! I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago but lived in Tampa, Florida for the last 6 years. I just moved back to the Chicago area and I am excited for this next chapter in my life! 

I grew up with a variety of pets so taking care of animals has always come natural to me! I have been dog walking and cat sitting for years now. Professionally , I am a therapist but taking time to hang out with furry friends throughout my week is amazing!
 
I’m looking forward to meeting many more of your pets and giving lots of love!!!  
dog walker Mary

MARY

Hey! I’m Mary. I recently moved to the city from Minneapolis and am so excited to explore the town while spending time with fluffy friends. I’m a comedian and writer currently studying at Second City. When I’m not walking dogs I enjoy looking at pictures of dogs, talking about dogs, and face timing with our family dog, Dorothy- pictured above on her first birthday. 

dog walker

MATT

I moved to Chicago in 2006 from Nebraska, and strangely enough, was not a football fan. I joined Urban Tailz in 2007, and I’ve become so fond of all my doggie friends. Going on long walks, teaching new tricks, and giving good scratches behind the ears are my specialty. When I’m not playing with my furry friends, I enjoy painting and creating things.

cat sitter mackenzie

MACKENZIE

Hey there! My name is Mackenzie, and I’m super stoked to be a part of this amazing team of pet-sitters. I’m originally from Cleveland, Ohio, but I’ve called Chicago home since 2013. I primarily work as a therapist for a Medicaid-funded, community-based mental health agency. In this role, I get to spend time with awesome young people, talking about the hard stuff, the fun stuff, and everything in between. 
 
When I’m not working as a therapist, I enjoy working on art projects, spending time with friends, and, of course, hanging with all the sweet cats I meet through this role! I’ve lived with cats all my life, and I’m currently a cat-mom to a sassy Calico gal named Slater. (She’s named after a character in the movie Dazed & Confused! ) I’m looking forward to caring for, and spending time with, your fur-babies soon!  
dog walker Mike

MIKE

Hey everyone!  I grew up on the North Shore, moved to the city when I attended DePaul for my bachelors, and currently live in Logan Square.  I’m a life-long animal lover and am super excited to meet some new furry friends!  I’ve been around dogs my entire life and am currently the proud papa of Moose, our brindle pittie/snuggle monster.
 
When I’m not obsessing over my own dog, you can usually find me playing volleyball on the beach in the summer, or traveling to warmer locales as much as possible in the colder months.  I’m pumped to spend time with your four-legged family members!
dog walker Owen

OWEN

Hi! I am a lifelong animal lover and Chicago resident who honestly cannot remember a time when I did not have a pet in my life. I look forward to meeting your furry family members and caring for them like they are my own. When I am not rooting on the Seattle Mariners, I am collecting baseball memorabillia, performing on the stage, or hanging out with my favorite four legged friend, Harry.
dog walker Rachel

RACHEL L.

Hello there! My name is Rachel, and I’m a part-time dog walker / full-time dog gawker. A Hoosier born and bred, I graduated from Indiana University and moved to Chicago to pursue theatre. Rest assured, I will fulfill your pet’s daily quota of scratchies and show tunes.
 
Although my current apartment is furless, I grew up with a houseful of critters– including cats, dogs, love birds, fish, turtles, and even chameleons! 
 
When I’m not walking doggos, you can typically find me planning trips, eating my full weight in white cheddar popcorn, or endlessly binge watching RuPaul’s Drag Race.
dog walker Rachel R.

RACHEL R.

Hello! I’m Rachel! I am new to Chicago, transplanted from the Pacific Northwest. Pet-sitting became my profession while I pursued my undergraduate in Fine Arts at Eastern Washington University, it was my saving grace during the pandemic and since then.

There’s never been a time in my life where I haven’t had pets, from cats and dogs to snakes and lizards. Currently, I have two feline companions, my foster-fails Bastian and Pixie.

I am grateful to have found a place here with Urban Tailz and excited to have all the cool cats and dogs of Chicago show me the town.

dog walker Sara

SARA

I am a Michigan native who moved to Chicago eight years ago. In addition to giving the utmost love and attention to your furry family member, I also work at a K-8 school district north of Chicago as an instructional technology coach. I am a cat lady at heart but grew up with dogs and absolutely love getting to know them. I currently have two beautiful senior cats with big attitudes (Otis and Theodore). I know just how to speak “sassy cat”. 
 
My heart and soul is attracted to helping animals in need. I have rescued several strays (including baby squirrels!) in my spare time. I love nurturing and caring for animals and getting to know their different personalities and needs. I am eager to meet your furry family member(s) and ensure they get the love and attention they deserve while you are away.
dog walker Sarah

SARAH

I am a veterinary assistant in Chicago and Tulane University graduate. I love working with animals and spent four years volunteering at Heartland Animal Shelter in the suburbs!

dog walker

SEAN 

Hi there! My name is Sean and I originally hail from way out west in Phoenix, AZ. I moved to Chicago 8 years ago to pursue music as an audio engineer, songwriter and producer. I’ve had the good fortune of being able to travel the country playing music to hosts of wonderful people and find that making real human connections in the world is such a rewarding passion.

That’s also something I love about being able to walk dogs in the city! It keeps me on the move and engaged with the world outside. And of course there’s always the companionship you get hanging out with your pups every day! I feel that creating strong, trusting bonds with animals is often just as rewarding as with people.

sireena dog walker

SIREENA

Hello! I’m Sireena, a young Chicago native. I live with two dogs, my (m) lab pup Odin and 5 y/o (f) pit named Nala. As a graduate from Columbia College, I’m pursuing a career in the music industry by night and relieving stress with my besties at Urban Tailz by day.

I look forward to taking adventures with my new friends, clearing my head and boosting my mood. It’s hard to have a bad day with all the kisses and happy dances awaiting every greeting! I in return, give them the same energy back, lots of affection, compliments and playtime.

When I’m not with my furry friends, I enjoy cooking, longboarding, and performing at or booking live music events.

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YULIA

Hello! My name is Yulia, and I’m thrilled to live in the beautiful city of Chicago working with your pets. In Ukraine, I grew up surrounded by a variety of furry companions, and I’ve found myself dearly missing them since moving here. I’m excited to share my love and care with your animals. I can’t wait to meet your furry friends and provide them with the love and attention they deserve!

dog walker Zach

ZACH

Hello there! I’m Zach. Im originally from Indiana but moved here 4 years ago. Ive got 2 turtles at home right now named Flo and Eddie after the 2 of the leads in the band The Turtles. Theyre one of my greatest joys in life as well getting outside and going on long walks and being in nature.
 
I like to design board games with my best friend in my free time and also play guitar in my band. I grew up with both dogs and cats and look forward to getting to explore the city with your pets!