Meet the Team Behind Wags Walks n Whiskers LLC
Professional, dependable pet care built on trust, consistency, and genuine relationships. We give pet parents peace of mind.
Cherie Van Zile
Owner/Founder
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Cherie is the heart behind Wags Walks n Whiskers and has been a devoted pet owner and animal lover her entire life. Known for her calm presence, connection to animals, and genuine care for both pets and their people, she built Wags Walks n Whiskers to provide dependable, relationship-based pet care families can trust.
What began as caring for pets for friends and family quickly grew from a small dream into a professional service grounded in consistency, communication and compassion. Today, Cherie leads a dedicated team that shares her commitment to keeping pets safe, happy and comfortable in their own homes.
As a lifelong North Haledon resident, Cherie takes pride in serving her local community and building long-term relationships with clients who value reliable, high-quality care.
When she’s not working, Cherie enjoys spending time with her family, listening to music, and- unsurprisingly- being surrounded by pets of all shapes and sizes.
Tania
Operations Manager
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Where is your hometown?
North Haledon, NJ
What inspired you to join our team?
I’ve always loved animals and knew I would enjoy being able to be around them on a daily basis.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m a former roller derby player and radio DJ
What is a hobby/interest you would like to share?
I love college basketball! UConn is my favorite team (both women’s and men’s) and March Madness is my favorite time of the year!
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
After living in London, UK for a while, I absolutely fell in love with the city. I have been back many times since, but I would still choose to go back.
Tell us about a special pet that holds a place in your heart?
We have a fur baby named Rockstar. He is an 18 year old rescued Chihuahua. He used to be quite the fireball when he was younger, but has settled down in his senior years. He was actually a Valentine’s Day present from my husband. Rock is the gift that keeps on giving. We love him so much!
Yvonne
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Where is your hometown?
Hawthorne, NJ
What inspired you to join our team?
Our passion for dogs and cats!
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a catcher in four softball leagues.
What is a hobby/interest you would like to share?
I love gardening.
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Definitely Italy.
Tell us about a special pet that holds a place in your heart
A very special Chihuahua named Joey holds a furever place in my heart.
Evan
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Where is your hometown?
Wyckoff, NJ
What inspired you to join our team?
My love for all animals and my desire to help care for them in a meaningful way. Being able to spend time with pets and make sure they are happy, safe and well cared for is incredibly rewarding.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m a vegetarian
What is a hobby/interest you would like to share?
I enjoy movies
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Hawaii
Tell us about a special pet that holds a place in your heart
My childhood dog, a yellow lab named Kelcy. She was an incredibly special soul and sweetheart who was my best friend for all of our time together.
Melissa
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Where is your hometown?
Saddle Brook, NJ
What inspired you to join our team?
Animals always had a special place in my heart and dog walking lets me combine that with staying active, my love for the outdoors and spending time with so many different pups….it’s so good for the soul.
What is a fun fact about you?
I played on the men’s soccer team in college.
What is a hobby/interest you would like to share?
So many but here are a few… I always have a book (with a backup ready), hiking, the outdoors and proud supporter of my daughter’s soccer journey… life’s best adventure!
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Every country that touches the Mediterranean.
Tell us about a special pet that holds a place in your heart
My first rescue, Mugsy, a loyal shepherd–pit mix who was always by my side and made every day brighter.
Susan
Dog Walker & Pet Sitter
Where is your hometown?
North Haledon (born & raised!)
What inspired you to join our team?
My need to love and care for animals.
What is a fun fact about you?
I recieved a mayoral commendation for providing life-saving skills to a senior citizen on a boat trip.
What is a hobby/interest you would like to share?
I love crafting!
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Italy.
Tell us about a special pet that holds a place in your heart
My two poms, Gio & Fendi. I love teaching them unusual tricks like saying “I love you”, waving and yoga poses. They are so smart and loveable!
Staff photos by Arlene B. Cruz Photography.
