Hi, I’m Stephanie, and I’ve been exactly where you are.
Figuring out how to juggle work, life, and a brand-new dog in the middle of a busy city? Yep. I’ve lived it, with a leash in one hand and a coffee in the other.
For over a decade, I ran a dog walking and cat sitting business in Chicago called Chicago Urban Pets, caring for hundreds of pets while building strong relationships with their humans. Now, I’ve shifted gears to focus on sharing everything I’ve learned — the real-life, trial-and-error kind of knowledge that actually helps when you’re raising a pet in an apartment, managing long workdays, or wondering why your dog suddenly forgot how to “sit.”
This blog is for first-time dog moms (especially city gals like you!) who want practical tips, thoughtful guidance, and the occasional “you’re doing great” reminder. I write with you in mind — because you’re not just a pet parent, you’re also a busy human with a lot going on.
When I’m not writing or walking our spunky little Yorkie, Roxy, I’m teaching architecture at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and online at Arizona State. I live with my husband and our homeschooled 7-year-old son, and we’re always figuring out how to make home feel like a good place for all of us — paws and all.
Thanks for being here — I’m so glad you are.