Who Are We?
Our Mission
Chicago Urban Pet’s mission is to be the expert in the field of pet-care and customer service in order to offer modern day solutions that positively impact our community.
Our Values
We believe that through open communication, and a focus on emotional well-being, we can maximize your peace of mind and bring joy to your day.
Meet the Team
Scroll down to read the bio of our amazing team of cat and dog lovers.
Our team is thoroughly vetted and trained.
Stephanie Surjan
Founder
Hi, my name is Stephanie and I founded Chicago Urban Pets in 2013. I am a Mom, teacher and small business owner. Building this service from the ground up has been a real labor of love, and allows me freedom of time which is important to me.
My formal education is in Architecture and Design but animals have always been a big part of my life (I grew up with horses). So when I’m not loving on pets and chatting with their hoomans, you can find me teaching at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC).
Can’t wait to meet you!
Emma Lamke
Office manager
I am a current student at Loyola University studying social work! I grew up in Kansas City but I am now in the great city of Chicago to study and explore.
I have a two rescue pets that are my whole world. My dog is named Indira and she loves to go on long walks on the beach. My cats name is Ernestine and she enjoys to sunbathe all day long!
In my free time I enjoy being outside, creating art, or reading a good book. I also enjoy spending time fostering animals and finding their forever homes!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets since May 2022.
Kimberly Cox
Weekday Dog walker / Cat sitter
I am so glad to be working with Chicago Urban Pets. I have been a Feline Foster parent with the Oak Park Animal Care League for many years prior to fostering, I was a volunteer dog walker for the shelter.
My passion for animals motivates me to provide them with the highest level of care and companionship. Having owned many pets over the years I understand the importance of trusting someone with your beloved furry friend.
I am committed to giving the best care to both you and your furry friend. My goal is to make your day easier by ensuring that your pet enjoys a great time of exercise and loving companionship. It would be my pleasure to help you by caring for your beloved pet while you are away. I will love and care for them as if they were my own.
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets since February 2022.
Anna Cosenza
Weekday dog walker / cat Sitter
Hello, my name is Anna. I’m currently a Doctor of Audiology student at Northwestern University. I was born and raised in a northwest suburb of Chicago before moving to the city in 2018. Chicago has always felt like home to me.
I’ve cared for loads of furry friends between school and work. Pets bring me such joy and serenity! I hope to bring peace of mind to pet parents by caring for their beloved fur-babies as if they are my own.
When I’m not studying at the library, you can find me rolling skating/biking on Lake Shore path, or cozied up to the fireplace with a good book in those cold Winter months.
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets since December 2022
Victor Elting
Dog Walker / Pet Sitter
Hi. My name is Victor Elting. I’ve been a realtor for the last 25 years. I love this city and the dogs in it. Animals have always played a major part in my life.
My parents raised Shelties for a while and I had a constant stream of Sheltie companions growing up. My mother was a biology teacher so all the stray or injured animals in town were dropped off at our house. I grew up with snakes, turtles, birds, and a squirrel named Squirt.
My wife and I are empty-nesters which allows us to devote all our time and attention to our 15 year-old Lowchen named Lollipop. The highlight of my day is walking Lollipop and hanging out with her. Our family has had a variety of pets over the years, including a ball python, a leopard gecko, and even a blind squirrel named Stevie the Wonder Squirrel.
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets since November 2023
Abbi Coldron
Weekday dog walker / cat Sitter
Hello! I’m Abbi! I’m a performance artist new to Chicago, originally from a small town in North Carolina. I received my BFA in Acting from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2022, and moved to Chicago this past June. Some of my hobbies include crocheting, yoga, and teaching myself guitar and ukulele.
Juliet, my cat, is the light of my life. Caring for her has taught me so much about being a better human. I also grew up with a Great Dane for a family dog, so I’m comfortable with animals of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. Can’t wait to get to know you and your pet(s)!!!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets since November 2023
Mila Kaut
dog walker / cat Sitter
I’m a grad student in History, and my hobbies are writing, running, quilting, and I am an avid animal lover! I grew up in Des Moines, Iowa with three siblings and the best Australian Cattle dog ever. I’ve been in Chicago since 2021 and have loved getting to know and take care of some of the city’s adorable pets!
I’m excited to offer compassionate care to you and your pets. I care for your dogs and cats as if they are my own. I aim to make your day a little easier and your pet’s a little brighter!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets Since June 2024
Sophie Bright
dog walker / cat Sitter
Hi, my name is Sophie and I’m a Chicago native! I’m currently studying Economics at College of Charleston in South Carolina. In my free time I love spending time outdoors, listening to music, and trying new things.
I’ve grown up around pets my entire life, begging my mom for a dog at age 5 and Tater, our rat terrier, has been with us ever since. In addition to our three cats, I’ve learned the ins and outs of caring for all sorts of animals including hamsters, gerbils, fish, and even horses. I look forward to meeting and working with you and your furry friend!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets Since June 2024
Jennie Colville
dog walker / cat Sitter
Hi, my name is Jennie! I am a student at Loyola University Chicago studying Global Studies. I am originally from Minnesota and moved to Chicago in 2022 for school. In my free time I love exploring the city, spending time on the lakefront, trying out new recipes, and reading.
I grew up in a very pet friendly household with both dogs and cats. While I am away at school, I miss spending time with my dog Beasley and cat Roy, which I solve by constantly asking my parents for pictures, videos, and even video calls. I am very excited to meet you and get to know your pets!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets Since June 2024
Alison Maierle
dog walker / cat Sitter
I am currently a student at Loyola University of Chicago studying Psychology and Music. I am from originally from Milwaukee, WI but have been in Chicago for 3 years.
My passion for animals started at a young age. My house was always filled with furry friends and I can’t imagine it any other way! I currently have one cat named Boris and he definitely keeps me on my toes. Caring for pets has brought me so much joy, comfort, and has greatly increased my patience. I look forward to getting to know your animals!
I’ve been with Chicago Urban Pets Since June 2024