Blog — Marybeth bittel

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About MaryBeth Bittel

Welcome to the author archive for MaryBeth Bittel. At Sparky Steps, we know that exceptional pet care is built on shared knowledge and community collaboration. The articles featured below highlight the unique expertise, personal experiences, and genuine love for animals that our contributors bring to the table.

Our Voices & Editorial Ethics

Whether MaryBeth Bittel is a core team member walking dogs on the streets of Chicago, a local pet professional, or a passionate guest writer, all of our published content aligns with our core mission. We proudly champion positive reinforcement (R+), force-free handling, and science-based animal welfare. The insights you find here are grounded in real-world experience and a deep respect for animals.

Join Our Pack

By sharing their voice, writers like MaryBeth Bittel help us give back and empower pet owners to advocate for their furry family members. Please browse the articles below to read their work! If you have a unique perspective or a heartwarming story to share, we are always looking for new voices to join our pack as guest contributors.

Choosing the Right Dog Bed to Keep Your Canine Comfy
Choosing the Right Dog Bed to Keep Your Canine Comfy
Choosing the Right Dog Bed to Keep Your Canine Comfy Sleep is so important, for humans and hounds alike. When you give...
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Six Natural Dog Anxiety Aids
Six Natural Dog Anxiety Aids
Six Natural Dog Anxiety Aids Lots of things can cause apprehension in our canines— loud noises, crowded spaces, unpredictable routines, even separation...
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At-Home Dog Grooming During COVID-19
At-Home Dog Grooming During COVID-19
At-Home Dog Grooming During COVID-19 When times are trying, loyal canines can provide much-needed companionship. But current social distancing guidelines are changing...
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Stormy Day Dog Training Games
Stormy Day Dog Training Games
Stormy Day Dog Training Games Chicago certainly isn’t the only city to experience erratic weather patterns as winter releases its grip. All...
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Canines and Coronavirus: Six Care Tips
Canines and Coronavirus: Six Care Tips
Canines and Coronavirus: Six Care Tips The term “coronavirus” is on everyone’s mind these days. As the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)...
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Tail-Wagging TLC Tips for Older Dogs
Tail-Wagging TLC Tips for Older Dogs
Seeing that beautiful white fur begin to crop up around your dog's snout can be an incredibly bittersweet milestone. As our dogs...
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Choosing a GPS Tracker for Your Trusty Canine Companion
Choosing a GPS Tracker for Your Trusty Canine Companion
We all fear the moment our dog slips out the front door or wanders off the trail. Fortunately, modern technology has made...
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Pet Security Cameras 101: Handy Shopping Guidelines
Pet Security Cameras 101: Handy Shopping Guidelines
Ever wonder what your furry best friend is up to the second you shut the front door? Are they sleeping soundly, or...
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5 Strategies to Help Overweight Dogs Slim Down
5 Strategies to Help Overweight Dogs Slim Down
We all love treating our dogs, but those extra daily indulgences can lead to serious health issues over time. If your pup...
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How to Approach a Service Dog Safely
How to Approach a Service Dog Safely
How to Approach a Service Dog Safely Here at Sparky Steps, we provide all kinds of caring pet services – and dog...
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Approaching Dogs Properly: Insights to Help Keep You Safe
Approaching Dogs Properly: Insights to Help Keep You Safe
Approaching Dogs Properly: Insights to Help Keep You Safe It’s a statistic that really makes you stop and think about what's safe...
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Storm Stress? Five Hints to Soothe an Anxious Hound
Storm Stress? Five Hints to Soothe an Anxious Hound
Storm Stress? Five Hints to Soothe an Anxious Hound The Midwest can truly be a mixed bag of weather-related spectacles. Here at...
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Help Your Dog Avoid These Outdoor Garden Dangers
Help Your Dog Avoid These Outdoor Garden Dangers
Help Your Dog Avoid These Outdoor Garden Dangers Our experienced Sparky Steps team is committed to helping your dog enjoy the great...
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Caring for Canine Teeth at Home
Caring for Canine Teeth at Home
Caring for Canine Teeth at Home Here at Sparky Steps, our dedicated dog walkers keep your canine companion safe and secure outdoors....
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Six Reasons to Re-Think Retractable Leashes
Six Reasons to Re-Think Retractable Leashes
Six Reasons to Re-Think Retractable Leashes Here at Sparky Steps, pet safety is always our primary concern. When we walk dogs, we...
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Top Five Tips to Help Maximize Dog Park Safety
Top Five Tips to Help Maximize Dog Park Safety
If you’re a canine lover from Chicagoland, you’ve probably got a favorite local dog park. These open-air, off-leash havens are popular places...
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9 Ways to Keep Pets Safe from Coyotes
9 Ways to Keep Pets Safe from Coyotes
With ongoing development across Chicagoland, urban coyotes have completely adapted to city life. Whether you live in the suburbs or downtown, knowing...
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