Pal’s Place
Boutique in-home dog boarding in Chicago
Schedule an Appointment
About Samantha
My name is Samantha Springsteen and I’ve been a passionate dog lover all of my life! My first dog, Pal, was adopted when I was just six years old. He was my loyal, steadfast, cherished, and much-loved companion for over fourteen years. The bond and love we shared inspired me to want to care for dogs as a career, and his memory lives on as the namesake for the business he inspired me to create! I have been caring for dogs in my home as a full-time professional for over 20 years now. Pal’s Place Pet Care is one of just a few fully licensed and insured actual single-family homes in Chicago zoned and approved for dog care, allowing me to provide your dogs with a true home away from home boarding experience.
I began working at sixteen years old as a dog groomer, worked as a vet tech for several years, and even taught horseback riding. I’m a true animal lover all around and experienced in all aspects of dog care! My work as a vet tech means I’m familiar with and comfortable with giving medications, including injections, and caring for senior and special needs dogs as well. In addition to dog boarding, I also run a small foster-based dog rescue, Pal’s Place Foundation. I am quite proud to say the rescue cares for and places an average of 200 dogs in need a year into loving, forever homes.
I live on-premise and am hands-on in every aspect of care. My small team of very qualified dog lovers and I strive to provide your dog with all the comforts and love of home while you’re away. We are comfortable with all breeds, sizes, ages, and personality types, and every dog staying here is treated as one of our own!
Where Your Dog Will Stay
- Three-level single-family home in Avondale (near Belmont/Elston)
- Fully fenced front and back yards for outdoor time
- Owner lives on-premise, hands-on care
- Dogs have free run of home when caretakers are present
- Maximum 3-4 hours alone time
- Regular photos and updates sent to owners
The front yard is landscaped with flagstone and shrubbery, enclosed with a 4′ wooden picket fence. The backyard is all concrete for a cleaner environment, completely enclosed by a 6′ privacy fence with double-locked gates. The house and yard were designed with dogs in mind.
When caretakers are away, all dogs that do not live together are separated for safety and to allow your dog a break from socializing. They get their own space to nap and decompress. Being away from home can be overstimulating, so providing quiet time helps them stay calm. Pal’s Place prides itself on offering an environment designed to be as stress-free and nurturing as possible.
Rates
Testimonials
“I have been going to Samantha for a year now and I cannot express how amazing she is my dog is usually shy when it comes to humans but not with Samantha she is eagerly ready to start the fun. She is amazing at sending updates along with pictures of the pups activities she is the only person I trust”
— Ariolito T.
“WE LOVE SAMANTHA!!! As hard as it is to leave my pup knowing he is having the most fun ever make it so much better. She’s the sweetest human AND is so knowledgeable about everything dog. We lucked out finding her!”
— Beth W.
“Our collie is so happy at Samantha’s that we consider bringing him to her, even when we don’t need to, just so he can hang out with her and the other dogs. We have no doubts that he’s in good hands!”
— Diana B.
“Samantha is the best! Third time taking care of my puppy and he always comes home and sleeps for hours after playing so much at Samantha’s house! Drop off and pick up are always quick and easy and Samantha always sends great photos while he is there. So glad we can count on her for safe and reliable doggy care!”
— Diana S.
“We LOVE Samantha! She gives my pup so much love and attention! My pup came to her with two ear infections, and she was able to practically cure him and give him the TLC that he needed! He’s always so sad to leave her and the friends he makes there! I 100% recommend her again and again!”
— Beth W.
“Samantha was great and extremely communicative. Our dogs have had issues with anxiety when boarded at larger facilities but they came home from their weekend stay at Samantha’s really happy and calm.”
— Jones P.
Schedule an Appointment
Drop-off & Pick-up Hours
Monday through Friday: 7:30–9am and 5–7pm
Saturday and Sunday: 11am–3pm
Requirements
Your dog(s) must be current with vaccinations (rabies, distemper, and bordetella), have had fecal testing within the past 12 months, and be spayed/neutered if older than 12 months. Canine influenza vaccines, along with monthly flea and tick prevention, are not required but strongly recommended. Due to the social aspect of care, dogs staying at Pal’s Place must be social with or at least tolerant of the company of other dogs.
Questions?
Email us at palsplacepetcare@gmail.com