Kayla was born with an undying passion for three things: working hard, helping people and helping animals. She was raised on the naval bases of Norfolk, Virginia and as a “navy baby”, her parents’ military workload did not allow for her to have her own dog at home growing up. Kayla filled this void as a child by walking and grooming friends’ dogs and volunteering at the Norfolk SPCA.
As an adult, her obsession with dogs led her into a life filled with an array of animal related jobs and programs. Kayla was a Lead Pet Care Specialist and Dog Trainer at a large national chain for 5 years. She also taught group obedience classes and learned the fundamentals of helping families meet training goals with their dogs. All the while working part time as an American Red Cross Lifeguard during her summers and a craft bartender in the evenings and weekends.
Kayla moved to Atlanta, Georgia in 2015 and landed a job with one of Atlanta’s leading animal welfare organizations, Lifeline Animal Project. During her 3-year employment at the animal shelter, Kayla filled various roles within the organization including Adoption Supervisor, Kennel Manager and Volunteer Coordinator. Many adoptee families and volunteers trusted Kayla and would seek counsel from her when it came to decompressing and training newly adopted dogs to help solidify a foundation of obedience before going into their new homes.
Kayla currently has two shelter dogs of her own, Aiva, a 10-year-old shepherd mix and Dude, a 5-year-old Mastiff mix. In her spare time, you can find her taking her dogs on adventures around the city or looking for some delicious food. She enjoys being outdoors, swimming, and continuing to volunteer with local animal shelters.