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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Caring for animals has been a joyful part of my life and work for over 18 years. As a one-person provider, I offer truly personalized dog walking, pet boarding, and dog daycare, giving each pet the time, attention, and calm environment they deserve.
I focus on creating a nurturing, low-stress experience—whether that means a quiet cuddle, a playful walk, or a familiar routine that helps your pet feel safe and at home. Seeing trust grow, health flourish, and personalities shine is what I love most about this work.
I’m also a long-time neighborhood resident and parent, and I bring that same sense of reliability, care, and responsibility to every animal I look after.
If you’re looking for a warm, attentive home-away-from-home for your pet, I’d be happy to talk and see if we’re a good fit.
Overview
Hired 108 times
29 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
1 employee
18 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, Google Pay, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2021
2018
2017
Services offered
Walk duration
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Walk group size
Group walk
Private walk
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, work quality, and professionalism.
Excellent 4.9
72 reviews
5
96%
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1%
2
3%
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Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Marion M.
Oct 1, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
I couldn’t walk my puppy because of a broken ankle and Marina stepped in. She sent lots of photos and did a great Jon tiring my Rosie out so we could have a nice relaxed evening.
Details: 1 dog • 0 - 1 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • 60 minutes • Prefer a private walk for my dog(s) alone • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Walking
Massiel G.
Jul 6, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Marina took excellent care of our dog Kash while we were out of town. She sent us pictures of Kash every day, multiple times a day. She walked him three times a day at least. He looked happy and he made new doggy friends! We were really worried about leaving home again because we used a commercial dog boarding service previously and our dog came back home looking sad and he was so tired, like he had not slept well at all. We were determined to find him a home based boarding situation this time and luckily we found Marina’s Pawtrero Pack. Kash came home happy and like his normal self. We could not be more pleased and recommend Marina wholeheartedly and with no reservations!
Details: 1 pet • Dog • 4 - 7 days
Pet Boarding
Omid M.
Jun 23, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
We first met Marina because we frequently saw her walkingdogs in our neighborhood, always happy and well-behaved pups who clearly felt safe and loved. From the start, we knew we could trust her with our dogs.
She did an amazing job caring for them, especially our more nervous golden doodle, who she handled with such calm and patience until both dogs felt completely settled. Marina is incredibly friendly and easy to work with, and her communication throughout the stay gave us great peace of mind.
The best part? Our dogs clearly had a wonderful time, because now every time we walk past her street, they pull towards her house with excitement!
We are so grateful to have found her and are already looking forward to working with Marina again for longer stays.
Details: 2 dogs • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • One time only
Dog Daycare
Lana G.
Sep 3, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
We’re so thankful to have found Marina to care for our dog! She’s truly blossomed under her care. Before finding Marina we thought that Delilah was unable to interact with other dogs, but we’re so happy to be pleasantly surprised! Under Marina’s care our dog Delilah is living her best life and made a new dog best friend in Dave, Marina’s dog!
Details: Dog • 1 pet • Giving food and water • Taking pet outside • Overnight visit (10-12 hours) • Once in total • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Pet Sitting
Paul C.
Jun 9, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Marina was amazing! She cared for our little Chihuahua, Mari, with the love only a dog aficionado would provide. Marina sent us tons of pictures while we were away on vacation for 7 days. When we came home to pick up Mari, she couldn't stop kissing Marina with loving licks. We will use Marina every time we vacation, and we recommend you do the same! Thank you, Marina!
Details: 1 pet • Dog • 8 - 14 days • Feeding
Pet Boarding
Credentials
Background Check
Marina Ekman
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I charge hrly weekly or monthly rate one of the monthly rate can include sleep overs
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Depends on what client wants.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?