Urban Out Sitters

I wish you can mark places with negative stars.. this place is ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE! NEVER bring your dogs here. All over their website, it says that they don't put the dogs in cages..yeah right! They had provided my friend with a username and password so that she can watch her dogs play while she was on vacation.. and one day it didn't work.. then she had called in and told them it wasn't working and I guess one of the workers had given her the admin password to the cameras that surveillance the entire place. What do you know.. she saw her two dogs in crates!!! This place is a scam! I think before I started writing this review.. I read in one of the reviews that someone saw the workers kick the crates that had dogs in them! Wow.. how is this place not shut down?
My friend had then called the place to tell them that she saw her dogs in crates and then the worker said "that's cause your dogs were fight with each other".. what do you know!! they were in the same cage.. What kind of moron puts two fighting dogs in the same cage.. if you want your dogs to be in the care of people that mistreat dogs and lie to your face.. then go for it!

Pros: NONE

Cons: EVERYTHING

Posted 09/02/09

I had a bad experience at Urban Out Sitters in the West Loop. The place is disorganized and not clean. But even worse they don't pay attention to your dog during daycare. There are much better places to take your dog right in the neighborhood.

Posted 09/02/09

This is reference to the post BEWARE: many fraudulent reviews... Sara Travis in fact was a former employee of Urban Out Sitters. Although her heart was in the right place; her termination in the Summer of '08 (not '07) was a result of, unsatisfactory work - she could not meet UOS growth or wanted to extend herself beyond the necessary tasks for the treatment for each dog. Her much needed release - consequently allowing her to pursue her true passions in life (photography and making coffee) - bridged the way for a generation of professionals, each one with a limitless thirst to work and attention to detail - brushing, bathing, walking and loving each animal as their own.

After much time has passed; Sara feels there is some relevance to attack UOS; A company she once had a strong, endearing liking toward. More to date - UOS has in place already - a strong connection with each client and employee - it was asked by each group on a number of dates to post a review sharing their experiences with the facility.

Post Ms Travis's termination in '08 - She is not aware of who HAS or is CURRENTLY working for UOS (a fact is there has been five employees with the name Chris, plus the one she is referring too.) and also any reviewer can generate any desired name. Her overall lack of knowledge and insight into UOS does not justify her to insinuate a charge of wrong doing.

To reference the negative posts; allegedly toward every dog daycare facility within the Chicago area - It is not surprising to most that Yelp is currently under litigation, on a downward spiral thanks to the media - warranting invalid reviews, false advertising and slanderous attacks toward a good business.

Taking an unbaised approach - Sara should spend her past time focusing on her photography and sipping lattes.
"sip knowledge at its source"

Pros: better off not working with animals.

Cons: no growth possibility. not willing to work hard.

Posted 03/24/09

I'm writing as an former employee. I'd like to preference this by saying that I am not a newly terminated disgruntled employee. I worked for UO for nearly 2 years and really did love my job. I loved all your dogs! I'll be the first to admit that I needed some K-9 companions in my life and totally used all of your pets to fill that void :O) I miss Beau and Maddie and Bella and Jake and Frankie and Jones and Boone and all the rest! (yes we love your dogs and remember them after 2 years!)

I worked at the Randolf facility in the beginning, but was thankfully transferred to Lakeview after a few months. The daycare facility at Lakeview was great! I say "was", because I can no longer give an opinion to its current state. I was last there in the summer of 07', and this is what leads me to writing this review now.

After reading reviews from this site, I have to say that most are fraudulent. Many caught me as suspicious, especially because I knew that in 07' one of the owners was caught creating fake reviews. There is one in particular that is supposedly written from an employee named Chris Tinkell on June 24th, 08. Well unfortunately I worked with a Chris while at UO who left the same time I did, and his dog Stevie was brought on occasion. He left the company when I did, and I know for a fact that the current staff does not include anyone named Chris who brings their dog daily.

So in conclusion... Please read the reviews carefully. It's very suspicious that most of them are written on the same days and are all very vague on their actual experiences. If I am completely wrong in this matter, PLEASE contact me "christinkell07" and I will retract this review immediately.

Please check out the reviews on Yelp
They are true and unbiased. Andy only adds to my suspicion when this site tells you they are a 5 star facility and those who review on Yelp see the company as a 1 star organization.

Pros: Some staff actually care

Cons: They care way more about your money than your pet.

Posted 03/14/09

This place is terrible - period. The owner cares more about creating fake positive reviews than for caring for your pet. There are so many better daycare/boarding facilities in Chicago.

Posted 11/03/08

I live near this place and tried it last week for the first time!!! Now I have a place to go to send Cali next week!!!

Posted 08/13/08

My dogs come home tired and happy! They get the fun of playing with the other dogs and the attention of a devoted and very kind staff. Personal attention, excellent facilities, reasonable costs, and a warm caring atmosphere. Have recommended them to many people, all of whom have been delighted!

Pros: Easy access on way to work.

Posted 08/13/08

I brought in my dog for a temperament test while touring the facilities. My dog did well on her temperament test and I brought her the next day. She seemed very content and happy when they brought her out to the lobby. She had never been to daycare before, so I was worried she would be traumatized. She certainly wasn't though! This place also walks your dog outside thru out the day which I believe no other place does. I would highly recommend trying out this place.

Pros: Clean, three play areas, walk dogs too.

Posted 08/11/08

I have a little dog who is fairly shy. I have lived in the area for awhile but hadn't heard about this place until the Market Days festival when I walked by. SoI decided to try with my dog there. I felt content with leaving her here and she seems to have been doing fine so far. I was afraid on the first day that she might come home shaking in fear as she did after a day at another daycare...but she seemed very content. I was told that she did not play very much with other dogs during her day their, but that she did play with the humans a little bit. Hopefully with time she will warm up to other dogs more.

Pros: patient staff

Cons: not open on Sundays

Posted 08/11/08

This daycare is so nice. I found them on the web and went in for a tour. Everyone there is so friendly. The two little receptionists Tommy and the little short one (Adam) were some of the nicest people I've ever met. Everyone truly loves animals here and I am at ease knowing my pets stay there. It's a little hard to find at first, but they have a map on google, or call and they will get you there.

Pros: Nice staff, Great facility.

Posted 08/06/08

Our golden retriever/ collie/ hodge podge rescue baby and LOVES this place! She gets to hang with dogs her size all day awaiting her friends. -Much appreciation to the staff at Urban Outsitters - you guys are awesome and a special nod to our neighbors for the recommendation! Martha & Dan

Pros: Staff attitude, vibe

Cons: It can get loud, but hey - that means the babies are happy!

Posted 08/05/08

I have been taking my Bichon Frise to Urban Out Sitters for daycare since they opened. They are fantastic! I have taken him to other places in the past who insisted they do not crate during the day, but he never came home tired. I disliked that these place kept the animals crated most of the time. I never crate him, so it was very unsettling for both of us. I have never had that problem with urban. They do an amazing job. My little Prince comes home absolutely fantastic and happy. The prices for their services can't be beat, and brush outs are free with daycare. The entire staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. I can't say enough nice things about them. They are truly great people who care for their customers (2 and 4 legged) and it shows. I trust them fully. In my opinion, there is no better place for you and your pet.

Pros: Everything! Great Staff, Great Grooming, Great facility, Great Day Care, Great Products!

Cons: None

Posted 08/05/08

I feel so comfortable taking my 2 dogs to Urban OutsItters. One is big and one is little, luckily they have rooms separating them with friends of their own size. The place is so clean and the staff is not only nice, they really seem overjoyed to be there. I like that they offer additional services such as training, lord knows the little one needs it at the end of a long day of playing. And a good long day of playing it is because they don't give naps in crates like so many of these other places that my spoiled babies will never see the inside of. I think if you are a discriminating dog owner, you will find Urban to be one of the best.

Pros: No crating

Posted 08/04/08

I absolutely LOVE this place. I used to live in Lakeview and took my babies there almost everyday. The owner is an angel to dogs and owners alike. The care given to the dogs that go there is so incredible. They takes time to know all the issues of the dogs, they don't make them go in crates for naptime in the middle of the day, and you can tell they truly care about each dog attending. Me and my doggies miss the staff so much that occasionally I will drive all the way out there for them to have a special day. It's totally worth it!

Pros: everything!

Posted 08/04/08

I know that the services that was agreed upon (pick up and doggie daycare) were delivered. My G. seemed fine. He apparently slept really well on the nights after his visits to the daycare. That said, I've had a number of exchanges with Adam at the Lakeview location - he's responsible, representing well, and he's got really great energy that works well with the dogs. I really like him, and it's clear that G, likes him a lot as well. Thanks for the opportunity to give my feedback. Glad to have you in the neighborhood.

Posted 08/04/08

We really like Urban! Our dog has been going there for about a year now. It is really nice inside and they can usually fit us in with our hectic schedule. All the dogs get along, they just let them walk around and play all day, which is much better than caging them! The prices are comparable and it is an all around good place..

Pros: good place to go to.

Posted 07/28/08

What can I say... This is the best place you could take your dog to and know that they're in good hands. I've been taking my baby boy for a year or so and I couldn't be happier with the way they treat him, it's like my guy is everyones' dog and they all love him to pieces! On our first visit to Urban , we were greeted by the owner himself which made us worried twosome at ease, the rest is history! Thank You!

Posted 07/28/08

Awesome shop, I have a siberian husky and he has been to several places and has always left frightened and stressed, he wouldn't even go back into a couple places. Then I found Urban Outsitters, who have huskys clients running around and obviously understands them. Kate is fabulous - She groomed him for me and he enjoys going to see her. This is the first place I have ever taken him where he is happy when I pick him up! The staff seem to always be having fun and the dogs absolutely feel that vibe. These guys are awesome!!!

Pros: Awesome experience.

Posted 07/28/08

My dog LOVES this place. He's 12 and sorta edgy -- ok, I'll be honest, he starts annoying other dogs in the park all the time. But he's a changed canine since going to Urban Out Sitters. Now, he's a lover, not a fighter. He drags me an entire block to get there. The staff is honest and so nice. Once, my dog had a scratch on his ear (from the park) and they called to let me know about it.

Posted 07/27/08

UOS is an amazing place! The staff is honest, down to earth and great with all the dogs! Our dog is in love with with Michael! He knows all the little quirks our dog has and has given us great advice on how to handle him in our apartment. This is a well run business and you can tell they all love their jobs. We have seen great improvement in our dogs attitude toward people and other dogs! I would recommend them to everyone! Can't beat their services!

Pros: Clean

Cons: Can't wait till the other location opens.

Posted 07/27/08

I recently adopted a rescue puppy and as soon as I brought him home I contacted several places that care for puppies and walk/exercise dogs. Urban Out Sitters got back to me the same day and set up a meeting immediately. We went over and for them to meet my puppy and seemed to be genuinely interested in the what his needs were going to be as he grew. Of course, we went through the standard forms and dollars and cents stuff too, but he spent more time asking me questions that would help his team best care for my new puppy. He explained how they were able to tailor their service to my puppy's changing needs as he grew and with my preferences as his 'Daddy'. I have had a couple of negative situations where things haven't worked out to my satisfaction or a mistake has been made. I addressed it directly and it was always handled quickly and professionally. There is no run-around with these folks. Most of all, my puppy gets to see the same person consistently and has developed a positive rapport with him. I do not trust easily - especially when it comes to my precious puppy. I do not hesitate to recommend Urban Out Sitters to anyone I talk to. In fact, I have already referred one person! Simply put...I love 'em! I love 'em! I love 'em!

Pros: Trustworthy, Responsive, Caring, Professional

Cons: Very Busy - Hard to Get Scheduled In Sometimes

Posted 07/27/08

My dog Belle has been going to daycare since 2006 and still loves every visit! She has her playmantes that go and gets a special treat at the end of the day. I adopted her after and she is the love of my life! And when Belle spends the night I like that they let her go outside whenever she wants and they give her lots of love.

Posted 07/27/08

I started with Urban Outsitters in 2004 and have been extremely happy with their service. They are extremely professional and I feel confident knowing someone will always get back to me very quickly. My dog loves her dogwalker, and since she's been going, she has lost 5 pounds. I'm constantly impressed with their professionalism- both in the office and from the walkers my dog has had. I completely trust them with my baby and I highly recommend them to anyone.

Posted 07/27/08

I have only tried this day care, but they are very good. The staff is very delightful. My dog likes it too and thats all that matters.

Posted 07/27/08

I boarded my terrier pup at UOS for 10 days last month, and I know he had a wonderful time (every time I went on the Internet and looked for him on the web-cameras, he was running around with the other dogs, and looked like he was having a blast)! This was the first time I had boarded him at a kennel where he played all day, and what a great way to get him into shape! I think he's more confident and more out-going than before. I found the staff to be very caring and helpful (I called a couple of times to be sure he was eating, and they all knew about his "hiding some for later" habit !!). I would highly recommend for anyone who isn't overprotective and who really understands that dogs LOVE to be dogs !

Pros: very clean, smells good, very safe and well maintained

Cons: since dogs play together, not good for nervous, over-protective owners

Posted 07/27/08

Our dog Winston had such a great time - the staff took really good care of him and made sure he had lots of fun. He gets so excited everytime we round the corner to go! I've watched when I drop him off - he has a blast on the play equipment. He is pooped out when he gets home - and crashes. I love the staff and so does Winney.

Pros: Great staff

Posted 07/27/08

My 7 month old puppy loves the Urban sitters. The staff is so honest. They will tell you exactly what your dog has been up to. That makes me feel very comfortable leaving my puppy there. They notice the littlest scratches on my dog and let me know if the dog has any loose stools. The care they give my baby is outstanding. Second to none!

Pros: Clean and friendly

Cons: fair pricey

Posted 07/27/08

I was recommended to this daycare by a co-worker. I can honestly say that the staff at urban is the most caring i've ever encountered. They gave me great pointers on how to train my new puppy. My dog has never seems very comfortable at this place. When my puppy sprained his leg over a weekend at the dog park, I told them this when dropping him off at daycare. They called me during the day to tell me his progress and next day with a follow up call to make sure he was doing okay. I love, love, love this daycare!

Pros: entrance is on a side street, great staff, they offer training classes

Posted 07/23/08

The staff is wonderfull, the facility is great and I really know they care. I trust my pet care to no place else.

Pros: caring, warm, knowledgable

Posted 07/23/08

I think my puppy, Ollie, loves the staff at Urban as much as he loves me! They have cared for Ollie since I got him and because of them, I come home to a happy pup every day. They are a wonderful, loving caretakers and I don't know what I would do without them.

Posted 07/22/08

uos has been sitting for my small dog since she was a baby and i know when my dog loves someone. she does! she enjoyes playing with the dogs and loves the sitters. i first brought my pet there i had a really good feeling about everything.

Pros: loving environment, good pet care, caring dog sitters

Posted 07/22/08

What a wonderful person offering her warm and expert services. Joseph and his crew is highly professional and also warm and loving to our 2 cats. When we go away for a few days, I am just so relieved knowing that they will be there to check in on my kitties and take care of their needs. What a great asset our area has.

Posted 07/22/08

I have been using Urban Out Sitters for our pet care for over 2 years. They are EXCELLENT. I have seen the way my dog interacts with them and the love they give him. I would not trust my dog with anyone else.

Posted 07/22/08

I've been using this service for both dog-walking and play dates ever since I brought my puppy home, and I couldn't ask for a better caregiver. They absolutely love my dog and he loves them! Flexible and always help me out at the last-minute. I know that my dog is getting the best possible care, and I would recommend them to anyone.

Posted 07/22/08

Urban Outsitters is the premier Dog Walking & Bordering service in Chicago! My pets were so happy and attended in their care. I also appreciated the loving personal attention they paid to my "kids". I recommend them to anyone that is looking for that extra special care and attention for their best buddies! I recommend the company to everyone I know! I absolutely will call again when I go out of town. The kids say "hello"!!

Pros: loving, flexible, dependable

Cons: none, nada, zip

Posted 07/22/08

I've been using Urbans' dog walking service for as long as I've had Sophie & am very pleased with the service. Each walker clearly loves animals & they love her.......Sophie adores them! i can always count on them if I need an extra walk once in a while. Sophie & I are soooo glad to have found them.

Posted 07/22/08

Urban Outsitters is fantastic. They are great with the dogs and great with owners as well. My dog comes home happy and well behaved! I never fear that he will play too rough with other dogs at the dog park because I know that the staff has taught him to play in a non-agressive manner.

Pros: Service, Location, Facilities, STAFF!

Posted 07/21/08

Very happy customer and we have never had anything but a great experience at Urban Out SItters. They have been our popular dog daycare for 3 years and it is because of the great staff and beautiful facility.

Posted 07/21/08

I found this business on City Search and am very impressed. I had been looking for a long time for the right fit for my pom and he loves it there. I highly recommend for anyone with small dogs.

Pros: they don't crate him ever!!

Posted 07/21/08

This month was the 3rd Anniversary of our little rescue dog joining our family. She's a high-energy girl and needs a doggie day care! The first 1-1/2 years we sent her to a good facility however this facility did not separate the dogs by personality or size - so she was still a little crazy and fearful being with the large dogs. We switched to Urban Out Sitters on the recommendation of many of our friends. (They do separate dogs by temperment and size) You know they do love your dog. My little girl has had a total personality change since going to Urban Out Sitters - she was always sweet, but now she has manners - yes really -- and she is one happy pooch! She loves playing with the little dogs and she loves the staff -- these guys are great. It's obvious to me that we made the right move when we brought her to the UOS family. Before there was always a fight getting her nails trimmed -- what am I talking about -- I couldn't even touch her feet or brush her. Now after the crew has groomed her and trimmed her nails and brushed her teeth -- she trusts them and us -- they are gently loving and caring. Taking our girl to Urban Out Siters was one of the best decisions we have ever made -- I totally recommend this doggie day care - your dog will be happier for the experience.

Pros: Dogs are well cared for and gently taught good manners -- Happy Pooch at end of day!

Posted 07/21/08

I have 2 Vislas that have been attending for years. They require more energy than either we can offer. Our lives have changed since we started daycare and I highly recommend it to anyone with dogs.

Posted 07/21/08

I have been to several doggie daycare facilities. Urban Outsitters went out of their way to help me today after I had unexpectedly acquired a rescue dog. He was in desperate need of grooming. Not only did they clear their schedules to make room for us, but they also talked to me about the specifics of caring for a rescue. Their facilities was clean, smelled great, and they had enough staff on to take care of everyone needs without anyone waiting too long. I can and will recommend them to all my fellow pet lovers!

Pros: Clean, smelled great, VERY friendly staff

Posted 07/21/08

I have looked at many facilities in the past and I liked this one the best. I am a paranoid dog mom. It was clean, it was very friendly staff and I felt good about leaving mimi there. Eversince I broke my leg I have been a stay at home mom with mim's. My plan is to to return once I recover. Thanks

Pros: facility, people, clean

Posted 07/21/08

I stumbled upon this place when it just opened. It's a doggy day care center and its totally cool. I've never seen anything like it. You drop off your dog, and they have music playing for the dogs. They get fed and walked. My dog's tail wags when I bring her there.

Pros: they really take care of my dog

Cons: place may be hard to find. I was walking by.

Posted 07/17/08

My calm, loving puppy turns into a crazy monster the minute we turn the corner on our walk to daycare. And from there it is all uphill - They do everything to get my puppy to feel comfortable - singing, petting, massage, feed lunch...they are great. They also cut her nails and groom. The fact that my puppy looked perfect after a long day of work was such a wonderful start to my weekend. I could not recommend them more. They are accommodating, warm, patient, funny and incredibly sweet! There is no way we would ever go to any place else.

Pros: Convenient, patient, caring, accommodating

Cons: None.

Posted 07/17/08

Thankfully I have not needed to call for Urban's services very often, but when the need arises, I'm grateful I found them. They are very thoughtful, dependable and very caring, and love for animals is obvious. Whenever my guy, Riley, and I run into the staff. their mutual affection is quite clear. (Especially Sara) Entrust your loved one to their care and go about your plans with peace of mind.

Cons: Not available after 7:00 pm, but I don't begrudge them for that.

Posted 07/17/08

I just had my first experience at Urban Outsitters and LOVED IT! The staff are so knowledgeable; they givie me free practical advice about my beloved best friend that was wonderful. The best part, my pup was all tired out when he came home! What a Lakeview bonus...We will keep coming back for more!!!!

Pros: Knowledge, People, Very cool looking place!

Posted 07/17/08

So glad to have found Urban Out Sitters! My fella is a special needs dog and requires a lot of gentle loving care since he was neglected in his previous home. I didn't feel comfortable bringing him to a daycare, because I have had a few issue in the past with other places. But, i'm so happy and grateful to have found this one, They do an amazing, amazing job. We love it UOS! Not only are they attentive and patient, they are also very experienced. I highly recommend them for all pets because they really take time and takes a lot of care. We trust again!

Posted 07/17/08

Tommy and Adam at Urban really know their stuff! They are great with the dogs and always keeps me informed of all of my dogs daily activities. A real passionate guys.

Pros: large inside area, air-conditioned, early hours

Posted 07/17/08

This dog daycare is really special. My pup gets excited as soon as we get near the door. The decor is really cool and the staff is super helpful. They are always full of cool tips to help care for my dog. I also love how they are always playing music -- it truly makes me happy to leave my dog there -- not something I can often say!

Pros: friendly staff, excellent grooming, convenient location

Posted 07/17/08