Senior dog sitters in Chicago provide specialized care for older dogs (typically 8+ years) who require extra attention, medication management, and mobility support. These experienced caregivers charge $45–$75 per day, reflecting their expertise in geriatric pet care.
What Senior Dog Care Includes
- Medication administration (pills, injections, topical treatments)
- Mobility assistance (lifting, harnesses, ramp help)
- Frequent potty breaks (every 2-3 hours for incontinent dogs)
- Gentle, low-impact exercise appropriate for arthritis or joint issues
- Monitoring for health changes (appetite, behavior, mobility)
- Special diet preparation (prescription foods, hand-feeding if needed)
- Orthopedic bed maintenance and comfort checks
- Immediate veterinary communication if concerns arise
Finding Qualified Senior Dog Sitters
Look for sitters with pet first aid certification, veterinary assistant experience, or specialized senior pet training. Many have personal experience with elderly dogs and understand conditions like arthritis, diabetes, Cushing's disease, and cognitive dysfunction.
In Chicago, senior dog sitters are particularly concentrated in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Hyde Park, where older pet populations are higher. Expect to pay a 15–25% premium over standard sitting rates due to the increased time, expertise, and emotional labor involved. Browse senior dog sitters or read our special needs care guide.