About These Paws

How it all started

In 2005, I recognized a great need for quality, in-home dog care and exercise services in Minneapolis. I had been searching for a suitable place to take my dogs for vacation care, and couldn’t find any place I felt comfortable leaving them. So I left advertising and decided to go into business for myself to provide a premium dog walking and pet sitting service that would allow clients to leave their homes worry-free, confident that their animals would be in good hands. I have since dedicated myself to hiring and maintaining a truly remarkable staff, who are trustworthy, reliable, fun – and most importantly – have an amazing connection with and great love for animals.

I have been lucky enough to have 7 soul dogs in my lifetime but I currently have Huckleberry (11-year old Australian Shepherd rescue) and Billie (6 year-old Basset Hound rescue) and they keep life exciting!

I feel so fortunate that I get to spend my days outdoors, making other people's dogs happy, in the most fulfilling profession I can imagine. A million thanks to all the clients and employees who have made owning These Paws for the last 19 years an absolute privilege and honor!

Our Goal

Our goal is to bring added happiness, health and fun to your dog's life. We want to reduce the anxiety your dog feels while you are away, and at the same time, reduce the anxiety you feel when you leave your dog home alone!

It's our job to be your dog's play date – whether it’s walking, playing fetch, practicing commands, or just giving tummy rubs and kisses – we'll do whatever makes your dog happy (and tired). What sets us apart from other dog walking companies is our commitment to giving your dog 100% of our attention during our visits – we walk your dog alone, never in a group or pack. We believe this gives your dog a more connected and fulfilling experience (us too!).

Our Mission

To make our neighborhood a place where every pet parent has peace of mind and every dog is tired and happy at the end of the day.

How we can help

Dog Walking

Whether you’re at work or home working, let us give your dog the attention he or she deserves!

Pet Sitting

For when you have to leave town and can’t take your best friend with you, give them a fun staycation with us!

Cat Care

Cats get lonely too! We can give your kitties lots of love, as well as feeding, meds, and cleaning litter boxes.

  • “From the craziness of puppyhood to the special needs of a senior dog, the communication, patience, and care of Betsy and her amazing crew over more than a decade have been incredible.”

    Sarah & dogs Leo, Bailey & Maddy

  • “It’s obvious Betsy and her team love our little devils to pieces and we and the pups feel the same way. They’ve even picked up on changes that needed vet attention before we noticed anything.”

    Josh, Eric & dogs Kona & Hawi

  • “We’ve been lucky to work with These Paws for over a decade. It's my hounds' favorite time – a best friend and a walk cannot be beat! I can count on them to send pics and updates after every walk.”

    Rebecca & dogs Jolene, Frankie & Coltrane

  • “We've worked with Betsy and her walkers for years and trust them completely in our home. They handle our dogs’ silly and weird quirks with ease and difficult dog behavior with grace.”

    Tessa, Matt & dogs Emma & Wanda

  • “Eleven stars out of 10!! Our older dog literally danced at the window when spotting his walker. The team was patient with our timid rescue and earned her trust. Now she happily walks with them.”

    Ginny, Doug & dogs Ilsa & Samson

  • “Betsy is our favorite cat sitter of all time. We love her daily photo updates – our cats always look so happy and relaxed. She’s the best!! You will be lucky if she takes care of your cats.”

    Jen, John, Otto & Lila and cats Kosmo and Koal

Are you ready? Let’s start walking!