Meet Leah

Founder of Monterey Dog

Monterey Dog was founded by Leah Mendonca in 2024 and has since become the most popular dog walking and adventure service on the Monterey Peninsula, gaining a following of people who want more for their companions.

Before starting Monterey Dog, Leah built a career working with rescues and animal shelters. This formed her passion for animal care and influences every aspect of Monterey Dog’s services. Leah prides herself on focusing on animal well-being during all activities, going beyond basic services provided by other dog walkers to give your companion the attention and enrichment they need to live happy, healthy lives. 

Leah currently lives in Monterey, California with her husband and two dogs, Bernie the Bernese Mountain dog and Malibu the Siberian Husky.

The Only Fear Free Certified Company

serving the Monterey peninsula

As a Fear Free certified company, Monterey Dog focuses on your companion’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being, working with pet parents to create personalized care plans that build trust and nurture a strong bond with your pet.

Founded in 2016, Fear Free is an educational initiative designed to improve the emotional well-being of pets. It offers expert-developed courses for veterinary professionals, pet owners, and animal care communities, focusing on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress. By promoting enrichment and compassionate care, Fear Free equips pet professionals with tools to provide a positive experience for both pets and their humans, setting a new standard in animal welfare.

Giving Back

Leah is proud to support Peace of Mind Dog Rescue (POMDR) in Pacific Grove, California, assisting incredible dogs find loving, forever homes through taking them on adventurous outings. These outings offer new experiences, social exposure, and valuable behavioral insights while showcasing their wonderful personalities on social media, helping them find the loving homes they deserve.

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