Ellen, a 23-year old graduate of Purdue University, has started her own small business as an independent dog walker and caretaker after returning home to Hawthorn Woods. She offers her services to fellow neighbors, which include dog walking, feeding, playing, and sitting for $15-20 per hour depending on the day, as well as transporting dogs to and from vet appointments, groomers, and doggy day care for $10-15 each way depending on distance. Her training methods promote time, patience, mutual respect and understanding without harsh tactics or choke collars.