Meet Our Team

My dream one day is to have an animal shelter or sanctuary for cats, dogs and farm animals. I want to be able to help as many animals as I can. I am very grateful to be a part of The Zen Pet team and I look forward to meeting your pets!

For the past 4 years, Rachel has volunteered with The Animal Pad, working with dogs of all backgrounds, including those needing extra patience, structure, or confidence-building. She’s experienced with medications, recovery support, and a wide range of temperaments.

Rachel believes walks should go beyond basic exercise. She brings a balance of structure, enrichment, and fun to help reinforce training, build confidence, and support happy, well-balanced dogs—while giving their owners peace of mind.

Howdy! my name is Tanner Henderson and I’m very grateful to be a dog walker and pet sitter on the wonderful Zen Pet team. I grew up in San Diego and am very familiar with lots of fun routes and adventures to take new clients on all across town. Ever since I was a child, I have felt such a strong connection to animals and I’m amazed by the unconditional love they share with us. Each pet is truly special in their own individual way, and I make it my priority to bond with them on a personal level, getting to know their unique quirks and habits. My greatest passion is to improve the quality of life on earth for all sentient beings, and I feel accomplished when I am able to utilize my strengths in an effective and beneficial way.

I have previous experience working at a dog daycare, as a dog bather, and volunteering at an animal shelter. I gained a lot from those different experiences and thoroughly enjoyed my time with all the dogs, especially the moments where I was able to slow down and go at their preferred pace. From this I discovered pet sitting and walking which would allow me to interact one on one with the pets in a comprehensive manner that respects all their needs. With the luxury of choosing my own schedule with Zen Pet, I have the ability to treat each and every dog with the love and patience they deserve. I make plenty of time so that each pet can be my only focus when I am lucky enough to get the opportunity to help out an owner. I absolutely love spending time with the clients I meet, tailoring my interactions for all breeds, sizes, and temperaments. I have worked with all ranges of dogs for years now and truly see the beauty in each and every one of them. One of my favorite parts of the job is capturing their personalities in the photos I take and keeping close communication with the owners while they’re away.

When I’m not on the clock, I’m often out in nature or at the beach enjoying the many blessings of San Diego. My little buddy is pretty much always by my side, even down for a spontaneous skate ride or early morning yoga. I love him more than words can explain and he’s a 4 year old shih tzu named Buddha 🙂 Besides that I enjoy art, music, dancing, and other forms of creative self expression. If I had to describe myself in 3 words I’d choose compassionate, honest, and adaptable.

Karin has had a passion for animals since childhood. Growing up, she was surrounded by an Alaskan Malamute, a Chocolate Labrador, and Newfie mixes. With years of experience in dog walking, dog training, and pet sitting, she’s familiar with many different breeds and their personalities. Additionally, Karin is certified in Pet CPR and First-Aid. As a dedicated animal advocate, she has actively fostered pets for a reputable local rescue group. Her own dog, Rhubarb, was one of her fosters, and their bond has been incredible ever since. She is thrilled to be part of The zen pet team, and we are thrilled to have Karin with us!

Steve is the father of three beautiful college-age daughters. He lives in Rancho Bernardo and enjoys writing, hiking, and hanging out with his daughters. A published author and gallerist, Steve has a BA from the University of California, Berkeley. He is an avid dog-walker, tennis player, fly fisherman, and backpacker.

Nancy has always been an animal lover!

She finds great joy in walking doggies & getting to meet new doggies!

Nancy loves up your babies like her own. She is thrilled to be a part of The zen pet team. When not pet sitting or walking Doggies for The Zen Pet, Nancy help her clients with their mortgage needs. Nancy cannot wait to meet your pups & kitties!

Hello, I was born and raised in San Diego and love all animals 🥰 I’ve been dog sitting for friends and family for years. I am thrilled to be on the Zen Pet Team. I am told I have that dog-parent energy.

Every dog communicates differently, and I truly enjoy getting to know each one and finding what works best for them so we can build a strong, trusting relationship.

I have been working for The Zen Pet for 8 years come October 2025. I have my own dogs at home and have had mostly dogs and cats in my house all while growing up. During this time I have learned the world and language of dogs if you will. Working with dogs of many backgrounds, breeds, environments and character traits, I have learned how to adapt to the needs of the animals through observation, play and nurturing. My experience with dog walking and dog sitting has become a passion for serving the San Diego community of dog owners and their dogs. With much practice, I have full faith and confidence in myself to be able to provide the level of reliability and excellence in service that our clients ask for and deserve. I always look forward to the meeting of new dogs and clients!

Since Paola was six years old animals have been a part of her life. At one point, living in the country, her family had 13 dogs. Growing up she’s had dogs, cats and birds. Paola has witnessed puppies and kittens being born and raised baby birds fallen from their nests. She cares for all creatures and she
not like to kill anything. She has rescued dogs from the streets, fostered them and taking in elderly dogs that nobody wanted.

I enjoy caring for dogs and cats so much for all the pleasure and laughs and hugs and kisses I get to give and receive. I feel so much joy when the dogs are running and playing with each other and having the times of their lives.

I want to thank you for entrusting them in my care.rward to meeting you and your fur babies!

Marilyn grew up with pets, she is very patient, kind, and an extremely loving person, dogs and cats sense this from Marilyn. Marilyn is steadfast and sweet, the pets just love her and so do we.

Allie’s love and natural way with/ for animals started when She was a little girl, her dad always made sure they had a dog her family could grow up with, he taught Allie and her siblings to respect and to love animals; She has a fondness for dogs because they are so innocent and so easy to fall in love with!

As a zen pet dog walker Allie is so thrilled that she gets to do that every day and She enjoys her time with the pups more than words can describe— for Allie it’s always hard to say good bye to the puppy eyes when the walk is over, but if there is a walk the next day and they greet her with happiness as they always do- her day is complete.

We are so fortunate to have Allie on the Zen Pet team she is a great asset to the team, she cares for the animals greatly & we couldn’t be happier with her!