Local Woman's Career Goes to the Dogs

Linda Stevens left her career in the construction business just in time—before the housing market crashed.

After 20 years in the business, the wife and mother found herself on new, shaky ground after quitting her job in 2005. Stevens was looking to live her dream of having a career, without sacrificing time with her family. She had always loved animals, and when an opportunity arose to start her own franchise of a national pet sitting and dog-walking business, she was intrigued.

"My son was younger, I wanted to spend time with my family," Stevens said. "I had to change my lifestyle."

Six years later, the Tinley Park resident manages a team of dog-walkers and pet-sitters across seven locations in the Chicago area. Since opening in 2005, Linda has expanded her franchise of Fetch! Pet Care to seven territories, including Oak Forest, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Frankfort, New Lenox, Mokena, and Homer Glen. Fetch! is a national company with localized franchises that offer pet-sitting and dog-walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents across the country. 

Stevens and her team offer dog walking for owners who work long hours, or pet sitting for traveling owners. She works from home, managing her team and serving customers. Stevens and her employees will visit owners' homes, caring for animals in-house.

"People want to leave their animals in their own home environment," Stevens said. "People want them in their own home, where they're safe."

Each employee is carefully vetted before Stevens takes them on, she said. Sitters are background checked, bonded, and insured pet lovers. With the holidays approaching, Stevens is looking for some extra hands. Sitters and dog walkers also care for other pets, including cats (if not allergic) and other small creatures. Employees also provide security checks on customers' homes if they're away. Interested pet lovers can apply through the Fetch! website.

"I won't hire anyone that I wouldn't want taking care of my own animals," Stevens said. "I'm very particular about who I have aboard."

After years of managing her own business and home life, Stevens is still satisfied with her decision to leave her previous career.

"I couldn't be happier," Stevens said. "It's the best decision I ever made."