I’m Mel Sass-Kortsak, the owner-operator of My Dog Walks. Pictured with me is my dog Temper, who was my closest companion for 15 years. She died in 2020. I started walking dogs professionally in 2016 thinking it’d be the best thing for us both, and it really was. I had more time with her, and we enjoyed many adventures with new dog pals.
It’s been difficult carrying on without her. It’s been difficult carrying on in an ongoing pandemic that’s widely minimized. I shut down when Covid hit, reconnected with some longterm clients in 2021, and have continued part-time since then. In 2025 I’m open to one or two new clients in the Riverside/Leslieville area if the right fit comes along. I prefer to work with people who care about mitigating airborne illness and act accordingly. I wear an N95 or equivalent mask in all public spaces and in clients’ homes. We’re in community and we’re responsible for keeping each other safe.
I offer a customized experience that centers your dog’s individual wants and needs. I always start with solo walks so I can get to know your dog and your dog can get to know me! If your dog is suited to adventuring with pals we can try to set that up once we’ve established trust. I’ll send you notes and photos after every outing so you know what your dog has been up to!