"Our pets are family — companions we love and trust unconditionally."
The Heart Behind Monterey Dog
Leah’s passion for animals is deeply rooted in her childhood, where she grew up with dogs and helped raise Zoey, her mom’s rescue dog. Found as a stray in rough shape, Zoey was transformed into a confident and happy pup through kindness, positive reinforcement, and unwavering consistency—a journey that taught Leah the powerful recipe for a healthy, happy pet.
While she always dreamed of having a dog of her own, it wasn’t until Malibu came into her life that the dream became a reality. Her experiences raising Malibu deepened her understanding of the joys and challenges of pet parenthood, as well as the difficult circumstances that sometimes lead people to surrender their pets.
Leah’s work in shelters further solidified her commitment to animal welfare, teaching her about Fear Free training and the unique needs of shelter animals. These combined experiences inspired her to create Monterey Dog—a resource designed to help pet parents thrive with their furry companions while promoting compassion, well-being, and a deeper connection between pets and people.
Shelters & Rescues
Leah’s extensive experience with shelters and rescues has shaped her deep commitment to improving the lives of animals. From rebranding adoption campaigns to leading impactful design projects for organizations like the Calgary Humane Society, she’s seen firsthand the challenges homeless pets face and the transformative power of care and compassion. These experiences fuel her passion to create a better world for pets—one where they feel safe, loved, and understood. Through her work, Leah combines her creative talents with her love for animals to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Leah in the Media
While working for the Calgary Humane Society’s Communications department, Leah regularly appeared on local news segments to spotlight adoptable animals and promote shelter initiatives. These appearances raised awareness about the needs of shelter animals, dispelled misconceptions about their behavior, and emphasized the importance of adopting a “who,” not a “what.”
Only Certified Fear Free Professional Pet Sitter in Monterey Bay area
What is Fear Free?
Fear Free, founded in 2016, 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 in pets.
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.