MEET THE TEAM


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Jill B, Happy Paws Founder & Momma - PetSaver™, Pet CPR and First Aid Certified

Hey there! I'm Jill, founder and #1 cheerleader of The Happy Paws Pet Nanny.
Currently, my husband and I have two fur children, Phoenix, a Golden Retriever, and Apollo, a Havanese, both can do no wrong. We also have three wonderful sons together, 2 of which are married, and the other graduated high school last year. We also are expecting our first grandchild in 2024! Yay!

I believe in a healthy lifestyle- mind, body and spirit. I love my life and strive for it to be exciting and filled with sunshine that I can spread to humans and pets alike! That's why I chose dog walking/pet-sitting as my career and founded Happy Paws in 2009.

In September 2022, I sold it to Jess, as she shares the same passion & vision I do for Happy Paws. In the time she has owned it, she has continued its great success.  Happy Paws Pet Nanny continues to have one goal in mind; to provide top-quality, reliable, and professional pet care to the Northern Virginia area. After 14 years, the goal post only moves higher. We pride ourselves on developing life-long personal relationships with all of our clients and their pets. When you choose us, you can have peace of mind knowing that we take our job very seriously and your pets and homes well-being is our top priority.

I happily chose to remain part of the team, as a dog walker, after selling the business because I love our pets and clients so much! I hope to see you on the next walk! Be well, friends! ☀️✌🏼💚

Jess B, Owner & Pet Lover PetSaver™, Pet CPR and First Aid Certified

Hello, I am Jess. I live in Gainesville with my son and 2 sister black labs. I have been with Happy Paws since 2016 and it’s number one fan. I started as a Pet Nanny and then was promoted to Head Walker and Team Lead. From there, I became the Business Manager that transitioned me into my new role as Owner.

I grew up in Nokesville with several large dogs and have always loved helping neighbors with their pets while away. My dogs: Butch, Dakota, Maverick, Ramsey, and now my Luna and Mia have given me tons of experience caring for dogs. I understand the importance of finding a trustworthy pet sitter so you can relax knowing your fur baby is getting the best care while you’re away. I love animals and can’t wait to meet your pet!

Happy Paws Nannies love and care of your pets as if they were our own and will treat your home with the utmost respect that it deserves. The devotion and level of care is unsurpassed. You’ll feel it right away upon our visits.


Jenny G, Office Administrator

Hello, I’m Jenny. I live in Warrenton with my 3 children, 2 dogs (Jackie, a Westie and Amelia, a Cairn), and 2 guinea pigs. I grew up in Pennsylvania but moved around a bit before settling here in 2018. We love it here! I am retired Army and have been with Happy Paws since 2021. I have tons of experience with pets and love every single one of them. I can’t wait to meet your fur baby and love on them too!

Samantha U, Office Administrator, Head Walker

Hi friends! My name is Sam, born and raised in Fairfax county I have been lucky enough to be an honorary auntie to your pets for two years now! Happy Paws has allowed me to be a full time Mama to my 2 year old little boy Benjamin while getting out to play with all your fur babies!!!!! If you catch me in your home chances are I’ll be singing to them with my own lyrics, hey they like it. Former singer turned nurse turned Mom and now your pets best buddy! Thank you for sharing your furbabies with us!

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Lynn M, Head Trainer & Team Lead - PetSaver™, Pet CPR and First Aid Certified

Hi there! My name is Lynn and I was born and raised in Nokesville Virginia. I was lucky enough to have grown up on an active farm. I had the opportunity  to experience caring for all types of animals. Currently I have two fur-buddies - Spud, an American Bulldog, and Lucy, a long hair miniature daschund.  I am very passionate and caring to all animals. I am honest and have a very high standard for service. I believe you should treat every animal as your own and give them the  best care possible. I am also a  Mom of two amazing  boys and my hobbies are coaching and playing soccer


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Stacey W, Team Lead PetSaver™, Pet CPR and First Aid Certified

Hi there! My name is Stacey, I am a proud military wife and a mother of five. I love animals and am so excited for the chance to get a workout in with your pet. I currently have 4 furry friends; Cash (Black Lab), Zola (rescue mix), Saide (mini-Daschund), and Duke (Scottish Fold). I am honest, responsible, reliable and have a high standard for service. Can't wait to meet your buddy!

Dana M, Head Walker

Hi. I am Dana. mother,wife and coach. I have 2 boys and beautiful black lab named Bella. I have had dogs and cats my whole life. st Bernard,golden retriever,black labs, dachshund, and 2 cats. I love working with animals and giving my love and time to them. I look forward to playing and hanging out with your babies.

Brenda W, Head Walker

Hi y'all! My name is Brenda and I've lived in NoVA for 23 years but I'll always be a Texan at heart. Yes, that means I cheer for the Cowboys!
My husband calls me the animal charmer. I have a soft spot for all of God's creatures and have been known to bring home a stray or two (cats, dogs, fish, mice, even a rat!).  Along with my three kids, I'm also Mom to three cats, two hamsters and a Pitbull named Kimber who is my hiking buddy!  I have a lot of experience with llamas, goats, mice, birds and chickens, as well.  Before I was a part of the Happy Paws team I was a client and am excited to be able to provide the same amazing service to others and their animal babies!   Please know your pets are so very loved and cared for when I visit!!


Emily J, Head Walker

Hello, my name is Emily! I was born and raised in Bristow, Virginia, though, I’ve spent lots of my time working on a farm in Midland, Virginia since I was a young kid. At the farm, I worked with horses, goats, pigs, dogs, cats-you name it! This gave me lots of experience in pet care and a love for animals. I’m also a nursing student at George Mason. When I’m not in class, I hope to spend my time providing the best care I can to your sweet fur babies. As a pet owner myself, I understand how important it is to leave our babies in the right hands!

Jordan M

Hi there, my name is Jordan! I grew up in the Gainesville area. I grew up with pets and have loved all animals ever since. 

Caring for any type of animal is a very important part of my life, animals deserve all the love in the world and more!  I have a little fur baby of my own, she is a 6 year old border collie mix, and she is just the sweetest!! Pets might be a big part of our lives but we are their entire life, they deserve our respect, patience and love. 

I am currently in the process of finding a training school for service dogs, so I can do my part as much as possible! I can’t wait to spend time with your fur babies :) 

Amber H

Hello there!  My name is Amber.  After moving to New York to go to grad school…and then spending 20+ years there…I returned home to Virginia.  And after 25 years as a corporate event planner, I now look forward to taking care of your fur babies as if they were my own during the time I spend with them.  I live with my life partner, Jim, and our 4 pups (a GSP, German Shepherd mix, Collie mix and a Shih Tzu) and am lucky to have my Dad, 4 siblings and 10 nieces and nephews within an hour of home. Outside of loving all animals, I enjoy playing golf, gardening and traveling. 


Carter M

Hi! Happy Day!! I’m Carter. I’m originally from NC, and though I’ve lived in NOVA most of my life, NC will always be “home”.
I’ve been with Happy Paws since 2016, with a year or two “off” while recovering from back surgery, and have loved every single day of it! If you see me out-and-about, I’ll be covered in dog and cat hair, my own hair will be up because I’m having a hot flash, and I’m probably driving a kid to a sports practice. I’m an early bird, so chances are pretty good I’ll be seeing your fur babies for breakfast and early morning walkies while you’re on vacation. Here at home, I have 2 German Shepherd Lab mixes, 2 kitties, a bunny, and a snake, all of which are totally spoiled rotten! My incredible husband is a PWC Firefighter, our two incredible human children are teenagers, we all narrate the thoughts of our pets, we have specific voices for each of them, and we’ll give up our seats on the sofa when asked by one of our fur babies.  

MaryBeth P

Hello! I am MaryBeth, your friendly neighborhood English major, folklore minor, and fantasy/sci-fi enthusiast. I was raised in Gainesville and I still live here! Besides being a nerd, I love animals. When people ask if I am a "cat person" or a "dog person", my answer has always been an affirmative "I'm an ANIMAL person!" Even though I grew up with three cats, had a redbone coonhound mix, named Chrissy, who was my love and taught me a ton about rescue dogs.

I am so ecstatic to go outside my house to spend time with your animals! As Bilbo sang, "roads go ever on!"

Sally C

Hi there!  I’m Sally.  I’m the mother of four girls, ages 13, 11, 6 & 4, and to Bosley the Wonder dog, a black lab mix. I’m lucky enough to work from home and have a very flexible schedule, so when I’m not working or taking care of my family, I love helping the Happy Paws team provide the very best care for your pets!  I am hardworking, honest, caring and compassionate and I strive to treat your pet and your home the same way that I’d treat my own. I look forward to meeting your fur-baby!


Yvonne F

I’ve worked with animals for over 25 years in the rescue world.  In January of 2023 I began a career in vet med working as a Vet Assistant while pursuing her Vet Tech License through online school.  I currently own and operate a cat rescue in PWC as well.  

Kelsi M

Hey there! My name is Kelsi. I live in Warrenton with my parents, older sister, 2 dogs and cat. I love being able to spend my time off of school and sports with all of your animals! My favorite part of my day is taking care of everybody’s pets, they always put a smile on my face! 

Holly K

Hello! I’m Holly and I live in Warrenton with my husband and four children.  When not tending to my business as a full-time realtor, I relish in taking care of pups and cats and any other creatures with Happy Paws! Many of my children have pet allergies, so I cannot own any unfortunately, which is why taking care of others' special family members is so enjoyable and such an honor to be entrusted with.  It's the best!


Lexi G

Hi! I’m Lexi, I live in the Catharpin area and have been an animal lover ever since I was a kid after getting my first rescue pup. I’m currently pursuing to get my nursing degree soon, in the meantime I work as a veterinary assistant. I have experience with farm animals as well and am just an all-around animal lover! I currently have 2 Australian Shepherds of my own and boy do they keep me active!! I feel so fortunate to be able to work for Happy Paws, it’s the best job in the world & always brightens my day. I am so excited to meet all your fur babies!! 

Mandy H.

Hi there! My name is Mandy and I live in Warrenton with my parents and basset hound, Milo. We've had dogs all my life and Milo is like a best friend. I love getting to spend time with everyone's sweet pets between school, sports, and my other job. I care for them as if they are my own, and seeing so many fur babies is the highlight of my day!

Maren J

Hello! My name is Maren and I live in Warrenton with my parents, two sisters, and my dog, Angus. I love animals and plan to study Animal Science in college next year. Getting to see your pets between school and sports always makes me happy. I look forward to meeting and caring for all of your fur babies!


Emily A

Hello! My name is Emily and I’ve lived in the Bristow area all of my life! I’m currently a college student pursuing a Bachelors in Nursing. In my free time I enjoy fitness, drawing, and the outdoors. I have an 11 year old Shichon named Miley! She’s been a big part of my life and brings me so much joy! I love meeting new fur babies and spending fun times with them, I can’t wait to spread the love to your furry ones!!

Sarah M

I was born and raised in Centreville, VA.  I currently reside in Manassas.  I graduated from GMU in 2012 with a Bachelor’s in Health & Physical Education. I've been teaching HPE for 10 years at Unity Braxton Middle. I enjoy singing, dancing, exercising, archery, playing rugby and the guitar.  My wife and I have 4 cats together and would love a puppy soon :) 

Lindsay M

Hello! I am a junior at the University of Mary Washington, but am currently doing online at home in Manassas. I am a sociology major and look forward to graduating!  I have two kitties named Tuna and Finn, who are my world. I absolutely adore all fur babies though and can't wait to meet all of them! 


Michelle L

Hi there!  My name is Michelle, and I'm currently a stay-at-home mom of an 11-year-old daughter. We've lived in Bristow and Haymarket for the past 9 years, but I'm originally from Dallas, Texas.  I've loved animals my entire life, and our house is currently home to our cats, Higgins (15) and Pumpkin (7), and our dog, Dizzy (8).  I also love working with horses, although it's been several years since I've had my own.  Our pets are true members of our family, and I know what it's like to want them to be happy and healthy while we're away.

Katlyn W

Hi everyone! My name is Katlyn, I grew up in Bristow for my whole life and I just moved to Haymarket this past July. I graduated from James Madison University in 2019 with a bachelors degree in Health Science. I am now a graduate student studying Occupational Therapy at Shenandoah University. I have had animals my whole life, name a pet, I’ve probably had it (the most exotic of them being flying squirrels from my grandmas attic in PA). I am so passionate about animals and cannot wait to care for yours! 

Anne C

Hi!  My name is Anne. I am a dog lover but not a dog owner so by taking care of your doggies, I get to get my dog fix every day. I recently moved to the Gainesville area from Fairfax to be a little closer to my kids, grandkids and grand puppies (a Lab, a Golden and a German Shepherd). I’m loving this area and loving walking your dogs and loving your kitties.


Kyra B

My name is Kyra, I am 23 years old and I am currently pursuing my BA in Anthropology at UMW. I love to go hiking and be out in nature in general. I have had many animals over the years ranging from axolotls to geckos and now to two dogs! My dogs Apollo (Black Lab) and Draco (Cattle dog) are the loves of my life and are the best cuddle buddies. In my free time, I like to draw and read and watch nature documentaries. I can't wait to meet your fur baby (babies) in the near future and give them lots of love! :)

Katie A

Hi there! My name is Katie and I’ve lived in the Bristow area for all my life now. In my free time, I enjoy running, painting, exploring, and spending time outside. I am attending JMU to study and become a math teacher. Although, growing up, I have always wanted to become a veterinarian to help animals. I love animals of all types and I love getting to meet and spend time with new furry friends!! I have one pup of my own at home named Miley. She is an 11-year-old shi-chon, and she gives me and my family so much joy! I really adore working with Happy Paws and I look forward to giving lots of care and love to your pets!!!

Sam H

Hi! My name is Sam and I am a senior at Patriot High School this year. I have two pets currently: Duke (shown here), and my cat, Rusty, though I’ve had many animals over the years. I’ve played soccer for VSA most of my life, and I have quite an interest in photography. I always love to be around animals and I’ve done a lot of pet sitting for my neighbors. While I am young, I have a mature and hardworking mindset and I’m excited to learn! I can’t wait to meet and care for all of your pets!


Ellie C.

Hey there! I’m Ellie, I grew up in Bristow in happy, hectic home with my family and all sorts of pets. Growing up I had a huge black lab, Bosley, a hundred fish, and 5 hamsters. Today, I have a pit bull and jack Russell, Charlie and Cooper. I am attending VCU in the fall, and can’t wait to meet your sweet furry friends.

Mykala D

Hi fellow furry friend lovers! My name is Mykala and I am currently a college student at JMU pursuing a Masters in Elementary Education. I absolutely love animals of all shapes and sizes, always have and always will! I have one rescue dog of my own, named Harley, and she is the light of my life! I also have one cat named Honey, that I adopted as a kitty during the pandemic to keep me company at school. I don’t have much free time, but when I do, I like to spend it with my dog either walking her or playing with her. I ADORE the Happy Paws team and being able to love your pets as much as you do!

Skyler D

Hi, my name is Skyler and I’m from Manassas. I’ve played soccer my whole life and now play in college at Bridgewater College. I am a triplet and have a younger brother as well. I’ve had pets my entire life and for the past 8 years, I’ve cared for others in addition to my own. I have experience caring for dogs and cats with special needs, and of all different sizes and breeds. I also have experience taking care of donkeys, horses, goats, cows, fish, and hamsters. I enjoy giving your pets walks/runs and playing with them while you are away.


Isabella L

Hi! I'm Isabella. :)

I've lived in Northern VA my whole life and grew up on a farm with numerous pets. I've had dogs, cats, fish, snakes, goats, chickens, gerbils, and even pigs for a short time. I'm a huge animal lover and enjoy every interaction I have with them. I believe they are an important part of bringing joy to so many people, and I love to being a part of that.

Zachary R

I’ve always loved animals. They’re just the sweetest and they never grow up to not need us anymore. I was always the neighbor kid who watched the dogs while families went on vacation. I love them and they love me back I am lucky to be a part of this amazing Happy Paws Team! I promise to care for your pets like my own!

Kaitlyn O

Hello Everyone! I was born and raised in Gainesville, Va. I am currently studying Environmental Resource Management and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech, Go Hokies! I love being outdoors and hanging out with all kinds of furry babies. I have grown up with having Boxers in the house, and currently have one white boxer named Ghost, who has my heart! In addition, we have a rescue Rottweiler/Pitbull mix named Coco, who is the sweetest girl and brings the adventure into our lives. Also I have an white/gray angora rabbit named Phoebe, haha yes she was named after Phoebe from Friends. Thank you for welcoming me into your home to meet your furry babies!

Emma T

Hi! My name is Emma. I live in Haymarket and go to school in Warrenton. I am the youngest in a family of four, with one older sister who also works for this organization. At home, I have a pekingese poodle named Bailey who is an old girl now but sweet as can be. I love all types of animals with all types of personalities. I’m excited to work with animals that are sweet and high energy. I love every animal I meet, but I especially like working with dogs. I can’t wait to spend some time with your pets!

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