ABOUT GLAD WAGS

Owned & operated in Lakewood Ranch, FL, The Glad Wags Team is an experienced and dedicated team, with a genuine love for all animals. We provide services for dogs and cats of all sizes and breeds, caged and aquarium pets, as well as special needs pets that may require insulin injections, subcutaneous fluids, and other types of medication.

Owner, Chris Cooper, is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International (PSI), the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters and the gold standard within the pet sitting industry.

Glad Wags hires employees only, not independent contractors. We contribute to medicare, social security, unemployment, and provide workman’s comp. Our sitters all receive the same training for continuity of care and daily field support. Our clients enjoy further peace of mind knowing that we carry liability insurance, and bonding, as well as provide clear background checks for each sitter.

Our team is confident that we will always provide the level of care that you expect for your furry, feathered, finned, and scaled family members! Visit us on Nextdoor and Google!

MEET THE PACK

  • Pack Leader
    Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS), Pet Sitters International

    Originally from Michigan, I moved to Lakewood Ranch to accept a position within the Wellness industry as a clinical exercise physiologist. While I’ve enjoyed caring for human clients over the years, my real passion is working with animals.

    I grew up surrounded by many Siamese cats, our Brittany Spaniel, and my hamster Gwen. I’m always grateful for the time I can spend with animals. They teach us how to live in the moment and of course unconditional love.

    My Vizslas are my constant companions, whether swimming at the beach, rollerblading at Benderson, or hiking the trails in Lakewood Ranch.

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I’ve lived in the Lakewood Ranch area for 15 years, originating from the Boston area. I have my Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and Supervision, and a health and wellness certification for personal training. Animal care and fitness are a true passion of mine, so why not combine the both?!

    I have three of the sweetest cats, and pup, who definitely keep me entertained, and have all the love to share. Being able to come home to such sweet faces, is truly a blessing.

    I work with rescues in both Manatee and Sarasota County as well to ensure found and stray cats are receiving the love and care they deserve, all while finding them a good home.

    I enjoy power lifting in my free time, and learning new food recipes to experiment with.

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitteraring

    Caring for both dogs and cats has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have a calm, loving presence and take the time to understand each pet’s unique personality and needs. Whether it’s a walk, playtime, or quiet companionship, I treat every pet as if they were my own—making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and truly cared for. You can rest easy knowing your furry family member is in kind, trustworthy hands.

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I’ve called Florida home for the past 12 years after relocating from snowy Utah, and I truly enjoy the slower pace and quality of life here. I’ve lived and traveled in many places, which has given me a deep appreciation for adaptability, responsibility, and connecting with people—and their pets—wherever I am.

    I share my life with my 12-year-old black lab, Darby, whom I’ve had since she was a puppy and who is absolutely my heart. I’ve always grown up around animals and have loved ones with pets as well; my children both have cats, and I care for them whenever needed. Because of this, I completely understand how important consistent, loving interaction is when a pet parent is unavailable.

    I’ve previously worked with a dog-walking and animal-sitting service and truly loved the experience. Being around animals every day is something that brings me real joy—from the happy faces that greet me at the door to building trust and companionship with each pet. I genuinely enjoy talking to, engaging with, and caring for all fur babies as if they were my own.

    In my free time, I enjoy reading, going for walks, and traveling to spend time with friends and family.

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I moved to Lakewood Ranch from cold and snowy Rochester, NY. I ventured here for the beautiful weather with my boyfriend and two dogs, Larry and Alfie. Larry was rescued as a puppy from Tennessee. Alfie is also a rescue; he is a Beagle–Australian Shepard mix. Luckily, my full-time job allows me to work from home, so I get to spend most of the time with my boys.

    I fell in love with dogs at a very young age. Growing up, we always had multiple pups. I’ve always been the friend or family member everyone calls when they need a pet sitter. I enjoy caring for animals and ensuring they are at their happiest.

    In my free time, I like to go on long walks with the dogs, travel, and explore new areas.

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I was born in Florida and moved to Sarasota at a young age, I have lived here for 27 years and love the warm weather!

    I have always had a love for animals, growing up we always had dogs and cats. My first dog was a rescue cocker spaniel named Scruffy. I currently have 2 pugs, Loey and Pudge, they are my babies. I have worked with animals since 2016.

    When I am not spending time with my furry friends I enjoy reading, cooking and enjoying the beautiful Florida outdoors! 

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I was born and raised in Naperville, Illinois, and later moved to Sarasota in 1994.

    Growing up, I had a Pekingese named Charlie who was my cherished companion. In my adult years, Joey, my first chihuahua, passed away at the age of 18. Tia Marie, my current chihuahua, brings so much joy with her playful and social nature.

    I am now retired after a fulfilling career as a pet groomer. Working with animals has been incredibly rewarding; their innocence, especially in their eyes, is something I deeply appreciate.

    I enjoy watching baseball and going to the games. Go Rays! I usually go to a few concerts a year as I love live music. 

  • Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

    I’m originally from Pennsylvania but have lived in the Sarasota-Bradenton area for over twenty years.

     I have always been an animal lover and found my passion when I began volunteering at the Humane Society of Manatee County as well as mentoring at Nates Honor Rescue. I currently have three rescue dogs from local animal shelters. My fur babies are Scruffy, (Poodle mix), Rowdy (Shih Tzu mix), and Dallas (Pitbull mix).  

    I enjoy going to concerts, attending sporting events, and traveling.

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