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Happy Tails Pet Care
A happy dog in a green bandana and an orange tabby cat sitting together on a cozy front porch

In-home pet care · Rockford, IL

Home is where the happy tails are.

Overnight sitting, drop-in visits and walks across Rockford and nearby towns, by Ivy. Real photo updates every visit.

Book a meet & greet(779) 423-5382

Overnights $60Visits & walks from $25

Simple rates, no surprises.

The same prices as Ivy's printed rate card. Every new client starts with a free meet & greet at home.

Now booking

Limited availability, and returning clients get first pick. Start with a meet & greet.

Book a meet & greet
Ivy, owner of Happy Tails Pet Care, holding a fluffy tabby cat

Hi, I'm Ivy!

I'm the one who'll actually be at your house. I come meet your pets first, figure out their routine (and their quirks, everybody has a few), and then it's me at every visit after that.

I've been taking care of dogs and cats around Rockford for over 6 years now. Shy rescues, old guys who need their meds, puppies with way too much energy, I love them all. I only take on so many clients at a time so I'm never rushing through a visit.

And yes, you'll get lots of pictures.

More about Ivy

A few of the regulars.

Every photo is from a real visit around Rockford.

See the whole gallery
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care
  • A pet cared for by Happy Tails Pet Care

Reviews from local pet owners

“I can't recommend Ivy enough. She stayed overnight with our pups while we were away and went above and beyond in every way.”
Jessica M.

  • “Treats them like her own.”

    Ivy watched our three dogs for the night and she was absolutely wonderful. She kept us updated the entire time and I could tell she genuinely treats them like her own. I will definitely be using her again and recommend her to anyone who wants true peace of mind when they're away.
    Marisol R.

  • “Reliable and consistently wonderful.”

    Ivy is very reliable and great with my pup Otis. I've needed her help several times and she has been consistently wonderful. She always gives me updates and is incredibly quick to respond. As active as my dog is, I know he's in good hands and will be well taken care of.
    Jen P.

  • “Kept me in the loop the entire time.”

    I had never used a pet sitter for my best friend Cannoli in over five years. I was anxious about leaving him for five days, but Ivy was incredible about keeping me in the loop on how he was doing and all the adventures they went on together. He had so much fun he slept for three days straight after.
    Eric S. · Rockford, IL
Read all reviews

How it works

From first hello to happy pets, in three easy steps.

  1. Step 1

    Send a request

    Tell Ivy about your pets and the dates you need. She'll get back to you within a day.

  2. Step 2

    Meet & greet

    Ivy comes by to meet your pets at home, learn their routine and answer any questions you have.

  3. Step 3

    Relax while you're away

    Your pets stay home and happy, and you get photos and little updates along the way.

Questions, answered.

Based in Rockford and caring for pets in these towns:

How much does pet sitting cost in Rockford?

Overnight pet sitting at your home is $60 a night, plus $15 for each additional pet and $20 on holidays. Drop-in visits are $25 for 30 minutes or $35 for 60 minutes, plus $7 per additional pet. Walks are $25 for 30 minutes or $35 for 60 minutes, plus $10 per additional dog. Rates can vary with your pets' needs, and Ivy confirms everything at the meet & greet. See full rates and what's included.

What areas do you serve?

Happy Tails is based in Rockford, Illinois and serves Loves Park, Machesney Park, Roscoe, Rockton, South Beloit, Belvidere, Cherry Valley and Pecatonica. If you're nearby but not on the list, ask anyway.

Is a meet & greet required?

Yes, for every new client. It's a relaxed, free visit at your home where your pets get to know Ivy and she learns their routine, feeding, quirks and anything else she should know.

Where does the pet sitting happen?

At your home. Overnight sitting means Ivy stays at your place, so your pets keep their own space, schedule and smells instead of going to a kennel.

Do you take care of cats?

Yes. Drop-in visits are a great fit for cats, who usually prefer to stay put. Ivy handles feeding, fresh water, play and company, and sends you photos.

Will I get updates while I'm away?

Always. Ivy sends real photos and short videos during visits, so you can see how your pets are doing.

Can you care for anxious, senior or high-energy pets?

Yes. Ivy has years of experience with anxious, reactive, senior and high-energy pets, and can give medication. Mention it in your request and at the meet & greet.

How far ahead should I book?

As early as you can. Availability is limited and returning clients get priority, especially around holidays. Send a request with your dates and Ivy will confirm.

Ready when you are.

Send a request with your dates. Ivy replies within a day to set up your meet & greet.

Book a meet & greet(779) 423-5382