About Us
Our vision is to ensure every pet receives the highest level of care and attention while setting a standard of excellence within the pet care industry.
We want to bring peace of mind to pet owners through our reliable, caring, patient and professional team of pet care providers.
Mission Statement
Our staff is comprised of mature, professional individuals who have a history of pet ownership and look upon your pet with the same loving attention they give their own animals. The Pet Lady, Ltd. will strive to produce results that are:
One degree above in attitude, commitment and service. We give your pets the pampered care they deserve.
Lauren, CPPS
Owner
I took over as owner of The Pet Lady, Ltd in 2016, succeeding my aunt, Elizabeth Dunkle. Prior to that I had been a pet sitter with us off and on for a number of years. I love animals and I am pictured with my Beagle/Boston mix, Lola. I also have a Beagle/Jack Russel, Sassy and two Calico sisters, Regina Phalange and Phoebe Buffay. I am a member of Pet Sitters International along with the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. I am a certified professional pet sitter and am certified in pet first aid and CPR.
Sassy
Chief Dog Officer (CDO)
Sassy joined The Pet Lady in 2016 and had a small role in marketing. This year she was promoted to Chief Dog Officer! Her main duty is to ensure all pets who are cared for by The Pet Lady get the very best care. Sassy spends most of her time testing out the care our staff provides and she guarantees your dog will love us!
Lola
Assistant to the Chief Dog Officer
Lola joined The Pet Lady in 2024 after finding her furever home with Lauren and her husband, Kyle. Lola enjoys being in charge and keeps day-to-day dog operations running smoothly. She is also the first to line up to taste test any food or treats!
Maria
Evening Dog Walker - Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard
Hi everyone. My name is Maria. I'm Chicago born and raised and currently live in Addison, IL. My love for animals brought me to this line of work for I've been a pet owner (dogs) since I was a child. I'm also a CNA/caregiver for the elderly as well so I know and understand the importance of providing good quality care with integrity and compassion to all walks of life.
Thanks for your time.
Jayleen
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Naperville
Hello my name is Jayleen! I have 6 amazing years of pet sitting and dog walking experience. I've had the pleasure of watching all sorts of animals such as dogs, cats, bunnies, birds, chickens, and reptiles! I have a spunky mini rex bunny and a lovely senior cat at home! I’ve always had a huge love for animals and I'm looking forward to making new companionships with your beloved pets!
Clare
Seasonal Dog Walker/Pet Sitter - Elmhurst and Villa Park
Hi! My name is Clare and I am from Elmhurst! I have two dogs at home and I love being outdoors, spending time with pets, and going for walks! I attend the University of Dayton and, whenever I am home from school, I look forward to hanging out with all sorts of lovely pets! I have really enjoyed pet sitting for friends in the past, and I can't wait to meet your loving friends!
Kiran
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst/Villa Park/Lombard
Hi! My name is Kiran. I grew up in Villa Park/Elmhurst and have had pets my whole life. I currently have 3 dogs and two cats of my own. I attended the College of Dupage and hope to pursue a career in Sports Education/Training. I enjoy staying active and being outdoors. I am excited to meet and take care of your pets!
Tavi
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Naperville
Hello, my name is Tavi! I have an interest in history and have loved animals ever since i could remember I have worked as a vet assistant prior and love working with animals which brought me to The Pet Lady. I have a Siames cat named Gumbo at home and I look forward to meeting your furry companion and making you happy with our service :)
Lindze
Dog Walker/Pet Sitter - Lombard, Villa Park, Elmhurst
Hi! My names Lindze and I grew up in Lombard/ Naperville. My whole life i’ve had dogs and cats and helped train my own show dogs when I was younger. I’ve always had such a love for animals and I’m excited to get to know and care for yours!
Gabriella
Dog Walker/ Pet Sitter - Naperville
Hi, my name is Gabbi! My dog Josie (pictured) and I live in Naperville with my mom and her 3 dogs Jaxon, Jasper and Jemma. I’ve lived with animals my whole life growing up with dogs, chickens and a snake for a period of time. I’ve also worked closely with dogs and cats through volunteer work and a past job at an animal rescue intake center. I’m currently attending classes at College of Dupage and hoping to transfer to earn my degree in animal science, specialized in either behavior or nutrition. I look forward to meeting and caring for your furry friends!
Allison
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Naperville
Hello! My name is Allison. I was born and raised in Elmhurst and currently live in Naperville! I currently work full-time in the property management industry. I have always had a passion for animals, which brought me here! I have enjoyed pet-sitting for friends and family, I am excited to meet and take care of your pets!
Mackenzie
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst/Villa Park/Lombard
My name is Mackenzie and I am 33, work full time and live in Elmhurst. I like to keep busy, and mentor with BBBS of Chicago, like to read, take walks, and work out in my free time. Animals have always been a big part of my life, and I have a passion for giving them all they deserve and more! I am very excited to be joining the team and taking care of these important members of the family!
Ren
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst/Villa Park/Lombard/Naperville
Hello, I'm Ren! I love animals of all shapes and sizes, whether they have fur, feathers, scales, you name it! I grew up fostering large breeds with my mom. I can't wait to help you look after your non human family members!
Missy
Office Admin
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst
Hello, my name is Missy and I was born and raised in Elmhurst. My husband, Jason and I have raised our two kids here as well. Growing up, my family always had dogs and since I was young, I have always loved all animals. In recent years, I have put that passion into volunteering for Second City Canine Rescue. My family has fostered over 25 dogs over the last 4 years. We help them learn what love truly is & how to “dog” to finding their perfect family. They all take a piece of my heart but it is so rewarding to see how happy they are with their forever family. We also have two pups of our own, Brutus, a 9 year old chocolate lab/hound mix from Kentucky who we adopted 5 years ago. We also recently foster failed our Rosie, a 7 year old pittie. She was just too perfect to let go! I have a lot of experience handling all types of dogs-big and small. I am always interested in learning more about dog behavior and love enriching myself with training as well. I can promise that your pets will be taken care of just like they are my very own! In my freetime I enjoy hot yoga, hiking, kayaking, decorating, spending time with family & of course being surrounded by lots of animals!
Christine
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard
Hello, my name is Christine, I live in River Grove. My family has always loved all animals, since I was old enough to remember we had two dogs, birds, ferrets etc. Each and every one of them were always considered our family! I have enjoyed pet sitting for over 20 years for my family and friends. Behind me is my baby (Beagle mix) Triscuit, she will be 11 years young this August. I always treat every pet I meet as if they were my own. I look forward to taking care of your beautiful pets!
Jennifer
Dog Walker - Elmhurst
I have been an animal lover since ! was old enough to start grabbing tails and giving hugs. ! grew up in a house with 3 Jack Russells which helped form my energetic and tenacious personality. I am the proud parent to an 8yr old Shorkie -Rocket Rooney Riddle- when I am not walking dogs you can find me at the salon, behind a bar, in a bookstore, or watching movies.
Elle
Seasonal Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Elmhurst
Elle is a seasonal pet sitter with The Pet Lady. She comes to us with years of experience being a pet owner. She enjoys being outside and is ready to hit the pavement with our client’s pets!
Tammy
Team Lead
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Lombard
Hi, my name is Tammy. I live in Lombard and have most of my life. I have a Pitbull named Scarlett. She is 8 years young and is a rescue. She was adopted from Midwest Rescue of Illinois. They are a small foster based rescue that finds loving homes for this misunderstood breed. I also volunteer for the rescue as well. In my spare time I like to read, exercise and spending time with Scarlett. I look forward to meeting your amazing pets.
Kim
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker - Naperville
Hi, my name is Kim and I currently live in Aurora, IL with my husband, three cats and a turtle. I am a lifelong animal lover and enjoy taking care of pets part time. I'm also an artist who enjoys abstract intuitive painting and nature photography. Super excited to spend time with animals and care for your fur babies as if they were my own.
Matt, CPDT-KA
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
I’m a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. I started working with dogs 6 years ago. First, as a dog walker. I walked several dogs who struggled with behavioral issues and was able to form strong bonds with them. From there I moved on to working as a Handler in a Dog Daycare. Again, working with pups with varying personalities, befriending those who were seen as shy or problematic. Having a chance to work with these amazing creatures inspired me to learn how to appropriately help my canine companions live happier lives. I was fortunate enough to land a Training Apprenticeship with a Dog Trainer and Behavioral Consultant who had more than 20 years of experience in the industry. During my apprenticeship I worked mainly with behavioral cases; those struggling with anxiety, reactivity, and aggression. These dogs were the ones I wanted to help most and why I still focus much training on behavioral work. I’m proficient in basic obedience training and puppy training. Puppies offer rewarding experiences as I’m afforded the opportunity to help shape happy and healthy dogs from the start.
Mission Statement
To enhance the relationship between our dog’s and their pet parents through proper education focused on canine communication, behavior, and functional training. Our team of trainers are proficient in both basic obedience as well as behavioral modification techniques, thereby enabling them to provide a holistic approach to training that will ensure a happy home for both dog and pet parent. Dogs Can Do is dedicated to providing ethical care and services that will enrich the emotional well-being of all dogs and pet parents in our care.
Our History
The Pet Lady was founded in 1991 by Elizabeth Dunkle along with her mother, Mary Jean. They prided themselves on offering pampered care for pets in Naperville, Illinois. In 2016, Lauren Dunkle, Elizabeth’s niece, took over following in the footsteps of her aunt and grandmother. Lauren expanded the service area to include Elmhurst, Villa Park and Lombard, Illinois.
Certifications & Associations
As professionals in our field, we participate in ongoing continuing education and certifications. We belong to organizations dedicated to our profession.
