Grateful Dog Walks was founded by its Sole Employee!

Austin Starks’ first dog was a Black Lab Mix named Genesis. She was the first dog he learned to Walk and care for. It was just that a Genesis into a life enhanced by the company of dogs. From a big family of dog lovers spread across Illinois, Missouri, and Tennessee. Austin grew up in Effingham IL surrounded by Dogs of all sizes and breeds. His love for animals is recognized by his family and friends. Being called on often to help out. Even fostered dogs for family and friends during moves and big life changes. He has experienced first hand how dogs enrich our lives and how a regular routine and socialization can help our K9 companions live their best lives. A walk or two a day makes the difference. If you lived or traversed through the South Wabash Neighborhood with in the last decade you may have seen him walk his dog Bo Diddle, which he did Faithfully Bo’s whole life until Bo’s passing this June. With decades of experience with dogs as family and friends pets, Immediate family dogs, His own Dog that fully imprinted on him, and lets not forget four years as a parcel delivery driver meeting dozens of dogs daily. From puppies to the teenage phase, adult dogs to senior grey snouts, and even end of life care. Austin has experience with the whole life cycle of our best friends.

Austin’s mission with Grateful Dog Walks is to provide a Premium Service. helping our Clients give there Dogs the best day every day by being a part of their dogs lives and treating them as our own. Offering custom tailored experiences for each dog based on their needs. Providing a Transparent Experience for our clients. Utilizing our App with tools like GPS tracking and maps, real time photos and live chat, as well as report cards after every walk; to make you feel like you’re along for adventure. Life can be busy and arranging Pet Care should be easy. Our app provides an intuitive portal to effortlessly schedule, update pet info, and pay for services too!

Meeting the digital demands of the world has not made us forget about the physical world. Grateful Dog walks knows that we are all apart of our community and so is your Dog. As a member of your family your pet is an extension of yourself and your dog walker is as well. We are committed to our no upset neighbors policy and always pick up after dogs on all walks in an effort to keep our neighborhoods clean.

Austin also spends his free time volunteering at the Effingham Country Animal Control and Shelter. Walking and Socializing dogs in the hopes it will help them find their Furever Homes more easily. Grateful Dog Walks offers special rates for dogs adopted from ECAC that Austin has a relationship with to help with the Transition from Shelter to Home life.

Austin is Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, Insured, and Trustworthy. Reach out today and take the first steps to reliable pet care made simple.