The Need for Dog Walkers and Pet Care Providers in Chicago
Dogs Deserve It LLC® was formed in response to the pressing need for qualified dog walkers and pet care providers in the Chicagoland area.
Owner, Lauren Pietrocarlo, identified some shortcomings in the present dog walking industry and decided to address the issues. A dog lover herself, Lauren was aware of the importance of the daily walk to the health and well being of her pet. She became determined to create a service that would maximize its potential.
Lauren worked with a well-respected dog trainer to learn the proper way to walk a dog, the way to introduce and reinforce positive canine behavior during this daily routine. Clients benefit from this special attention to on-leash etiquette. DDI dogs are not aimlessly paraded through city streets. Instead, their walk becomes purposeful and engaging.
In addition, pet CPR certification is required for all DDI walkers.
Pietrocarlo left the corporate world to share her long-time passion for dogs. She is now using her communications and public relations experience to bring a fresh, professional, accountable perspective to the world of pet care.
We Believe Dogs Deserve
Committed, loving owners who make their dogs a top priority
Plenty of exercise to promote health & well being
Adequate training & appropriate discipline
Respect, companionship, comfort & affection
Social stimulation & interaction to engage with the world
Good nutrition, adequate medical care, safe shelter
our difference
Leash Etiquette
So, what dog doesn’t love to go for a walk? For the most part, both owner and pet look forward to this “together” time. However, does the excitement sometimes turn into a battle for power? Does your dog pull on the leash and walk you, instead of you walking him?
At Dogs Deserve It®, we provide direction to reverse this frustrating behavior. Whether your dog is a puppy or a more mature dog, rest assured that this negative on-leash behavior can almost always be corrected.
Our dog walkers have comprehensive training in DDI leash etiquette® skills. We will implement simple and easy techniques so that your dog will walk better on the leash. All of our techniques are force-free and may involve the use of specific leashes and collars. The Deserving Dog Etiquette® option is not a requirement.
Dog Walker Tracking
We know that it takes a “leap of faith” to allow access to your home. We respect your trust and will not abuse the privilege.
DDI offers state of the art GPS walker tracking and Dogs Deserve It pedometers.
You receive an email as soon as the walk starts and ends, along with a GPS tracked map of the walk. Our service provides more than the typical, daily anecdotal report regarding your dog’s output. We will provide a detailed daily adventure calendar to personalize your pet’s experience, including a daily manners evaluation.
We are also proud to partner with Nest, an indoor security camera used for child or dog monitoring. We believe that Nest is a natural addition to our dog walker tracking services. We also provide Musher’s Secret Paw Wax to all clients free of charge. As always, Dogs Deserve It is committed to providing you with the most innovative and reliable pet care service!
Pride in who we employ
At DDI, we take pride in who we employ. We believe that all DDI workers should be treated as employees and not 1099 contractors. The difference between independent contractors and employees is essential to how your pet is taken care of.
Independent Contractor-based Company
Employee-based Company
Worker contracted for a specific project or time period
Worker’s employment is ongoing yet may be terminated
Worker decides when and where to work
Worker has set schedule and location
Worker does not receive skills training
Worker receives training and instruction
Worker may delegate tasks to others
Worker cannot delegate work to others
Chart Courtesy of the Pet Industry Coalition
We are proud members of the Pet Industry Coalition, an organization that requires 100% legal compliance in all operations.
We also take pride in who we are-that means the type of employer we are and the type of service provider we are. You don’t have to take this from us, though. Check out one of our former walkers turned client’s email below.
“Hey all at DDI, I just want to reach out and send a quick message about Stubs’ and my plans for the future. I don’t know how I’ll be able to keep this brief because DDI has been so important to me, but here’s my best shot:
At the end of this month Stubs and I are moving to Lake Tahoe, CA. I can’t really begin to explain how grateful I am for the relationships I’ve made through this company, and for the hard work you all do day in and day out. If it weren’t for DDI, Stubs never would have entered my life! I’ve made life-long friendships because of you. When I was 21 and looking for a way to stay afloat, you offered me a job as a walker and introduced me to experiences I’ll never forget.
I also want to reiterate how thankful I am for the special care you’ve given me the past 2+ years as a client. Welcoming a dog into my home on a tight budget wasn’t exactly a part of my plan (what are plans, anyway), but thanks to your generosity I was able to make it work. There’s so much more to DDI than what you can write in a business pitch. You’ve been a rock to me, a source of love and patience, and I can’t express my gratitude enough.
I’ll be sure to keep y’all updated on our life in the mountains. There will be plenty of pine trees for Stubs to pee on. I am indebted to y’all. “
our team
Lillian
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Lillian
Hobbies and Interests: Reading books, going to concerts and taking hikes with my dog:)
Why dog walking?: I love being outside and working with animals.
Animal Experience: I was born in Arizona and my dad ran an animal rescue there! I have two rabbits, a pitbull and a 22-year old tabby cat.
Favorite Dog Breed: Basset Hounds have my heart:)
Damian
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Damian
Hi I’m Damian! I’m a student at Loyola University Chicago majoring in Environmental Engineering. In my spare time I like to play ukulele, paint, and play volleyball with friends! At home I’ve got a pitbull, a teacup poodle, and a Yorkshire terrier. I’ve had my pitbull since I was ten. She’s very sassy but when she’s sleepy she’s a huge cuddler! She loves to snuggle under the blankets and get cozy. I’m excited to meet more dogs and see their different personalities!
Finn
Dog Walker
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Finn
Dog Walker
They/He
I have my own pets and I help friends and family with their pets, if needed.
I have my own dog so I am experienced and love dogs! On my off time, I love drawing, reading, playing games, and hanging out with friends.
The best part of the job is hanging out with the dogs and finding out their unique personality and needs!
Danielle
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Danielle
Hello!
I’m a transplant from Florida, and happy to be out! I love art, reading, swimming, being outdoors and most importantly dogs! I think they are the best thing we’ve got on this planet, so let’s give them the world. One day I hope to have a 20 dog sanctuary, but until then- I’ll settle for giving your pups the best!
Claude
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Claude
Claude likes writing and playing music (guitar, drums, keys, vox), painting and drawing, welding and fabrication. They have had a lifelong love for dogs and grew up with a Portuguese water dog from age 5-22. Claude recently acquired 2 welding certificates from AWS through CWIT, and more are on the way! They are looking forward to forming new relationships with different types of dogs, and learning how to relate to them better
Jackson
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Jackson
What are your hobbies and interests?
Photography - Video Games - Dogs
What brought you to dog walking?
I have always enjoyed being around dogs and wanted to meet all the dogs that I can.
Do you have a favorite breed of dog? What is it?
I really like any Shepherd bread and Australian cattle dogs.
If you’re a student, or you recently graduated, let us know about your school and what you study/studied!
I am currently studying Computer Science at the City Colleges of Chicago.
What is your favorite part of being a dog walker? What are you most looking forward to?
I love meeting new dogs and learning more about different breads. Meeting all the new dogs.
Alma
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Alma
Alma heralds from Indiana and enjoys reading, painting and music. She has always grown up with dogs and adored them. Impressively, Alma is currently in the DePaul graduate program getting a masters in clinical mental health counseling. When she's not out dog walking, she is at home loving her Yorkie mix.
Elizabeth
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Elizabeth
Elizabeth comes with dog walking experience and a wonderful array of talents including writing, painting and comedy. Originally from St. Louis, Elizabeth came to Chicago for Second City. She has grown up with dogs and even birds! Her favorite breeds are mutts and her favorite part of dog walking is the moment she first walks in the door. In her words, "If a happy dog stampede is how I go, then that's how I go."
Lily
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Lily
Lily comes from sunny San Diego and has her own furry beloved one, Luke, a Great Dane/Weimaraner mix.. She is looking forward to walking dogs and exploring the city she loves most and calls home now. Prior to joining DDI, Lily worked on Rover with a 5-star reputation!
Scott
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Scott
Scott comes to us from Detroit, Michigan, where he took care of his beloved family dog and watched his relatives dogs and cats as well. His favorite dogs are beagles, due to his childhood love for Snoopy! Scott graduated in 2018 with a degree in Occupational Safety & Health. He looks forward to spending days exercising and adoring your pets!
Salem
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Salem
Salem is a returning employee (the best kind!) and we couldn't be happier. Salem loves to create music and art in his offtime.
Kyle
General Manager
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Kyle
General Manager
Kyle is a Bass guitar player who studied at the Berklee College of Music. He loves playing music, golfing, and eating oreos. He has had two cats, a husky, and currently loves his two Pugs, Tito and Franco (named after dictators because they run the house)!
Yaz
Dog Walker
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Yaz
Dog Walker
I love animals of all kinds and I’ve always felt comfortable caring for them and connecting with them. I used to look after my family friends' two huskies with my dad, and I’ve had years of experience pet sitting, including joining my friend to their zoo job for a year. I’ve also cared for my own dog for the past 10 years, and at home we’ve had/have 5 cats, 2 geckos, fish, guinea pigs, and a bunny. I miss my dog especially after moving to college, so I was immediately drawn to working with doggos here.
I was born in California but mostly grew up in Wisconsin. My parents are English, so I also have memories of England. I came to Chicago to pursue my art career, and now I’m an undergrad freshman at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago!
Overall, I love interacting with animals in general, but being able to bring them happiness is huge. Walking with dogs, having a companion to enjoy the outside air with is just so rewarding.
Angelique
Dog Walker
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Angelique
Dog Walker
Each young person is faced with the inevitable choice of choosing a career that will either fulfill them or become work. Angelique chose to pursue her passion, yoga, as a life long venture. She began her teacher training in 2009 and is currently a thoroughbred yogi and delightful teacher. Angelique blessed DDI with her presence in 2012 and has been a tremendous asset since.
Paloma
Dog Walker
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Paloma
Dog Walker
What’s Your Name? Paloma Salazar. In many of my previous jobs, my co-workers had difficulty pronouncing my name. I shortened my name to the letter “P”. I am comfortable with people calling me “P” or my full name Paloma.
What pronouns do you prefer? She/Her
What are your hobbies and interests? I love baking! I will try new dessert recipes, my staple bread recipes, and anything that spikes my interest. I love complex and simple bakes. I also love listening to music any time I can. I’m artsy and like to think outside the box.
What brought you to dog walking? I actually tried being a dog sitter on the app Rover, but at the time I couldn’t develop any connections due to personal strains. I passed all the requirements, I just didn’t have the timing correct. This time around, I want to give it my all. I need the schedule flexibility of the job. Knowing that I will be helping other people relieve their pups when they need it gives me something to look forward to in my day.
Where are you from? I am Mexican. I was born and raised here in Chicago. My parents are from Mexico.
What brought you to Chicago? I live here. My parents decided to start a family in Chicago before I was born, and I have been here since.
What kind of pets do you have/have you had? I have had several dogs and cats. When I was younger, I had a white rabbit and white mice. Some years ago, my little sister wanted a turtle. She had it for a couple of months -- then realized she couldn’t treat the turtle appropriately. I was the one who took care of it at the end. Currently, I have two doggies. One is a pomsky (pomeranian-husky) who is 3 y/o, and the other one is also a 3 y/o, american pitbull.
Do you have a favorite breed of dog? What is it? I love and welcome all breeds. My personal bias is for the bigger breeds, just because they can definitely return a hug, and are the perfect cuddle buddies.
What is your favorite part of being a dog walker? What are you most looking forward to? I look forward to being part of the growth and positive reinforcement of the doggies I will have the privilege to walk. My favorite part of being a dog walker would be having time with different puppies!
Gift
Dog Walker
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Gift
Dog Walker
My full name is Watcharee Karnjanapokin but you can call may Gift! I love sports like running basketball and especially Tennis, and like to watch Wild life and Animal documentaries. I'm originally from Bangkok, Thailand but have lived in Chicago since 2017! I have a bachelors degree in Environmental Engineering. I've had 9 siamese cats, 1 German Shepard, 1 golden retriever mix and betta fishes. Border Collies and Pitfalls are my favorite dog breeds because of their loyalty! I'm excited to meet new furry friends and have fun with them, especially when they are wagging their tails knowing that they are about to get some fresh air out on a walk!
James
Dog Walker
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James
Dog Walker
James moved to Chicago from a very small town in rural Ohio to study film at Columbia College. He adores dogs, but unfortunately his landlord does not; thus, James joined the DDI team as a way of filling that void! James has had all kinds of pets over the 18 years living at his family home in Ohio: 6 dogs, 10 cats, birds, geckos, rats, fish....you name it! He's received a BA from Columbia and Wright State in Film Production and Film History and Criticism, respectively and does free lance work in film production when he's not walking your pups. His favorite part about being a dog walker? ... "How excited the dog gets when they see a leash!"
Jack
Dog Walker and Assistant Manager
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Jack
Dog Walker and Assistant Manager
Hi, I'm Jack. I moved to Chicago last year from Kansas City. I'm the biggest Kansas City Chiefs fan you'll ever meet. Also, I enjoy comedy, playing basketball, cooking, and hiking. I grew up with a dog and while I have no pets of my own, my family dog Mojo is always excited for the extra attention when I visit home. I look forward to meeting and walking your dog!
Julia
Dog Walker
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Julia
Dog Walker
Julia is a walker from just across the border in Hammond, Indiana. She came to Chicago for school and graduated, and is looking for something new! Julia loves dogs but wanted to do something more one-on-one than her previous experience of daycare and the like. Julia likes all breeds of dogs, no favorites! Julia currently has a pit mix, and a french bulldog as well. She’s had a German Shepard and other pits, and a few mixed breed dogs. In her downtime, Julia likes to paint, draw, and read. Julia is looking forward to building great relationships with all the DDI dogs she walks!
Liam
Dog Walker
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Liam
Dog Walker
Hailing from Lake In The Hills, IL, Liam is an avid dog lover with an enthusiastic attitude. He came to Chicago for college, studying Game Art at Columbia. and is enjoying the summer dog walking! He has been doing independent petsitting since he was young, and has been surrounded by dogs all his life. He loves them all, but is partial to German Shepards and Irish Setters. Liam can't wait to get acquainted with all sorts of new types of dogs along the way!
Logan
Dog Walker
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Logan
Dog Walker
Logan made his way from beautiful Minnesota to the Windy City of Chicago to be with friends and to attend college. A simple love for dogs brought him to this job, but Huskies are definitely the cutest and most loyal dogs he's ever seen and are by far his favorite breed. In general he loves being a dog walker because it allows him to get to chill with all sorts of different dogs every day. Who wouldn't love that? Logan has a cat named Amun-Ra, a true Egyptian God of Cats, and Logan loves playing video games, Dungeons and Dragons, and essentially all things "nerd."
Marti
Dog Walker
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Marti
Dog Walker
Marti is a freelance musician who plays the french horn and loves to bake! She came to Dogs Deserve It to seek out a more stimulating work opportunity and loves getting to bike around the city and spend every day outside. She’s originally from Wisconsin and grew up with many different dogs including a Samoyed, Golden Retriever, American Eskimo and Duck Toller, but also loves Vizslas and Labs! Marti moved to Chicago to attend graduate school at De Paul and graduated with a Masters in Musical Performance. She currently lives with her boyfriend and their cat Bud.
Patrick
Dog Walker
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Patrick
Dog Walker
Patrick is one of our dedicated walkers, a Cleveland native he came to Chicago for love and to experience a new city! Patrick is a dog and animal lover that sadly had to leave his German Shepard back in Ohio, so this is a great opportunity to be around dogs and fill that void! Patrick’s favorite breed is Golden Retrievers, however St Bernards are some he’d like to own one day. Patrick personally helped raise and train two dogs, an Golden Retriever and a German Shepard. Patrick can’t wait being able to explore a new city with all different types of dogs!
Rachel
On-Call Manager and Dog Walker
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Rachel
On-Call Manager and Dog Walker
Rachel hails from Highland, IL, currently residing in Pilsen. She enjoys cycling, yoga, writing, photography, and traveling. She grew up with a Siberian cat named Felix, who was dubbed as, "the cuddliest cat ever." Rachel is down for any dog with a personality and is excited to enjoy the summer with awesome dogs!
Rob
Dog Walker
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Rob
Dog Walker
Rob Byrd Is a singer songwriter, professional multi-musician and music producer. His love of life and passion for music drips from these four strings of his ukulele taking you to a world far away from work and the everyday stress of life. When he's not making music you can find him walking dogs for DDI and enjoying the love he gets back from his friends while he takes care of all their fabulous needs. He also enjoys the challenge of what it takes to make new fur-friends at work and the tranquility of walking with them around the city of Chicago.
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