Pet Care That’s Licensed, Loving, and Local
Safe, fun, and reliable pet care serving Burlington, Lexington, Wakefield, Waltham, Winchester, and Woburn.
Services Your Pet Will Love
Dog Walking Services
Solo and small group walks matching your pet's energy needs
Home Boarding Experience
Individual attention in a comfortable, kennel-free home environment
Pet Sitting Services
Reliable, in-home care to keep your pet comfortable and cared for while you’re away
A Bit About Me
Hi! I’m Marianne. I’m Mom to JoJo, a tiny, speckled, eighteen year old chiweenie. We met online where, between his soulful eyes and massive ears, it was the very definition of love at first sight. Since friends and I picked him up in Connecticut a little over seven years ago, he’s truly been, in the words of Edith Wharton, “my little dog—a heartbeat at my feet.” I’m also proud Auntie to Oliver, a most regal dachshund.
Animals have always been a big part of my life, and for as long as I can remember I’ve always been passionate about their health and welfare. I grew up with a number of rescue and shelter dogs, all of whom were beautiful, quirky, and lovable in their own way.
I started doing pet care for friends, family, and neighbors about fifteen years ago, and given the positive feedback, relationships with clients, and the sense of satisfaction I receive caring for animals, creating Barks and Recreation Pet Care seemed a natural next step. With Barks and Recreation I’ve built a reputation based on trust, reliability, and the kind of personal attention that makes pets and their people feel at ease.
When not caring for animals, I’m a traveler, teacher, tennis player, gym goer, book worm, music nerd, and volunteer for organizations like the Animal Rescue League of Boston and the MSPCA/Angell.
Certified
Pet CPR and First Aid Certified through the American Red Cross
Personalized Care
We’ll discuss the kind of care that you’re looking for, then meet to make sure that your pet is comfortable.
Safe & Trusted
Fully insured through the Pet Sitters Association
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Memberships
- Center for Women and Enterprise
- Pet Sitters Association
- Pet Sitters International
Some of My Happy Clients (and JoJo!)
What My Clients Say
Marianne has taken care of our dog Ciara with consistent caring, reliability, playfulness, and kindness. We call upon her to take care of Ciara, our three year old Bichon, for daily care and for overnights. We highly recommend her!
Dyhanna N.
Waltham
At the last minute, I found myself in urgent need of a dog sitter for a two week trip. The anxiety I felt about finding safe, reliable care for my beloved Zoey had me in tears. Thankfully, a dear friend introduced me to Marianne, and from the moment we met, my worries melted away. Marianne has such a soothing and caring energy. I immediately sensed her deep sense of responsibility and genuine love for animals. Throughout my trip she sent regular updates and photos of Zoey-on walks, exploring nature, and being lovingly cared for.
Jamey M.
Brighton
We always thought of our dog as a member of our family, he was our fifth son. We trusted Marianne completely with our baby. She took care of him as if he was her own. Her love of animals is so evident. She is trustworthy and reliable. It's been almost four years since we lost our little one, and we are now ready to find another puppy to bring into our home. I would trust no one other than Marianne to watch our next little one during our absence.
Lorraine M.
Waltham
I highly recommend Marianne as a dog sitter and boarder. She took great care of my dog while I was on vacation, giving me complete peace of mind throughout my trip. My dog was happy, well looked after, and clearly loved the attention and care she provided. We used to live in the same community as Marianne, and I've always known her as a kind, trustworthy, and well-respected person. Her genuine love for animals shows in the way she treats them-with patience, warmth, and responsibility.