Jeanne Labonte

Through my interest in animals I have always wanted to start my own business and in 2001 I opened Paw-zn-Around Doggy Daycare. Prior to starting the daycare I got involved with Search and Rescue with canines in which I am still a present member of the" Maine Wilderness K-9". Also, in my home town a new program had developed called Project Impact in which I became a member for "Animals in Disaster". I have recieved my certification in Animal Behavior from Cornell University. I have a lifelong interest in animals and nature, I currently own three dogs of my own and two horses. I feel like I was put on this earth to help people have a better understanding of their pets. That's why I decided to offer different events such as obedience classes and rally classes. I want people to know that there are many activities out there that can be enjoyed with their pets. One thing I hope to accomplish is to put the word out - dogs are pack animals - why leave them alone? I Iove my daycare dogs!

Julie Belair, Canine Appearance Tech

I have over 14 years experience in the grooming industry; 10 of which I was the owner/operator of my own Grooming/Boarding facility which I sold after the adoption of my son. I have always enjoyed grooming dogs and take pride in my work. My little black cocker spaniel, Raven is the inspiration of the “Raven Cut”. I am thankful everyday to have found a career that I love and all the more so, having the opportunity to work with Kathy and Sara.

Denise, Dog Handler

I’ve been at Pawz for so long I can’t remember being anywhere else! I spend my days with the small and older dogs and those who need an extra dose of TLC. More mornings than not – I’m the one who will greet you and your furry buddy at the door; I really look forward to seeing both of you every day! It doesn’t seem to matter if it’s sunny, rainy, snowy, hot, cold or anything in-between the dogs just can’t wait to come here! We play hard and at the end of the day, these guys are tired, come to think of it.. so are me and my precious 3-year old cockapoo, Mimsy. I honestly can’t think of a better way to spend my days – well . . . maybe some time in Aruba, Tahiti or . . . someplace sunny and warm with fresh fruity drinks that have cute little umbrellas sticking out!

Sara Gay, Canine Appearance Tech

I am the Rookie of this group. I’ve been grooming for a shorter time; having started my training as Kathy’s protégée in 2008; I completed my apprenticeship early in 2009 officially earning my grooming certification. I continue to attend college while enjoying grooming with talented people in a great environment with my best bud “Jake” by my side; Jake is Sara’s 3 year old Westie.

Kathy Hartigan, Canine Appearance Tech

After 7 years I still consider myself blessed to have made a career out of a hobby. Grooming can be challenging and rewarding, that’s what makes it so unique. This has been a great journey for me; working at Paw-zn-Around is a great opportunity to observe dog behavior and learn different handling techniques which goes a long way towards making grooming enjoyable. I am very committed to pampering your pet with skill and compassion every day.

I am proud to be part of such a cohesive team of caring professionals in an environment where our four legged friends are always our priority. It makes coming to work something I look forward to every day. Bringing a smile to a pet owners face is a great feeling.

Lynn, Dog Handler

I'm a massage therapist and want to learn how to work on the dogs too. I love working at Paw-zn-around because the people are great and I also love being with your dogs! I have a German Shepard that I bring to work, her name is "Ryot", trust me the name fits. I love the outdoors, especially when it snows, I love to watch the dogs roll in the snow and bury their heads down under it. I also get to throw a few snowballs at the dogs and of course a few at the staff. I can do that, I supervise the staff in the afternoon.

Randi, Dog Handler

I've been working here at PawZ since November 2009 and I absolutely love it! In addition to joining a team of wonderful people I always seem to have excellent groups of dogs to work with. I began working with dogs a couple of years ago after my husband and I moved to Alaska, achieving one of my lifetime goals. We returned to Maine with our Wolf-Hybrid "Nanook" and I could think of nothing else but finding my way back to working with dogs. Luckily Paw-zn-Around was looking for a dog handler. My future goals include becoming a licensed trainer and eventually a certiied behaviorist. Until then I will continue to enjoy working with your dogs and happily welcoming new dogs into our packs.

Samantha, Junior Handler

I have been working at Paw-Zn-Around since September 2009. I chose Paw-zn-Aroud because ever since I was a little kid I would always drive by and say "I will work there some day". And here I am now, I love working with dogs which i why I chose a doggy daycare. Other than working here I pet-sit two other dogs, both are beagles. I currently attend Biddeford High School - class of 2011 and will be going to college to become an Animal Rescue Officer. I love the people I work with, that are so much fun to be around - just like the dogs who come to daycare!

Sharon, Office Administrator

I have a wonderful husband and three amazing adult children; and our two dogs: Chester Bear and Baby Baxter our 6 and 4-year old Pomeranians – who just love it here. We also have 6 grand-dogs two of which come to PawZ for daycare - the other 4 live in Colorado. I had always planned my early retirement plan as one where I would do what I want, when I wanted and with whom I wanted. I’ve been very lucky to be able to achieve that. About 5 years ago I resigned from a Management position, continued going to college while substitute teaching, and clerking in a Kennebunkport dog-lovers gift shop during the summers. When I saw the ad for Paw-Zn-Around I knew it was mine… it took me just a few minutes to convince Jeanne she would never regret hiring me. I feel truly blessed to use my skills and expertise in such a quality environment. Since I’ve been here I’ve learned so much by watching, listening and interacting with everyone here plus I can honestly say that I laugh everyday!

Tiffany, Dog Handler

When I’m not here I’m home tending to my 4 children with my fiancé. Otherwise I’m with my 4 dogs; Tonka and Grim my one and a half year old pit bulls, Tyson a 10-month old pitbull we recently rescued and our newest member Zena, my 8-week old pug. In my spare time I’ve been studying to become a veterinary assistant and plan to graduate this July. I had planned to use this education to open a shelter of my own after having volunteered at animal shelters and the wolf rescue but that all changed when I started working here. I love my job and can’t imagine working anywhere else. I feel at home with all my daycare dogs – I just love them!