Meet Our Team
#ThePawPalsGals!
The hearts (and hands) behind Perth’s most trusted Enrichment-based Dog DayCare
At PawPals, we’re more than just a doggy daycare – we’re a close-knit family, and your dog is a truly valued part of it. From the moment they trot through our doors, your pup is greeted by a team that knows them – their quirks, their play style, their confidence level, and when they need a cuddle or a calm moment.
Our team is trained in enrichment-based care, dog body language, and positive behaviour support – meaning your dog is in the hands of professionals who are both passionate and purpose-driven.
Whether it’s leading group play, guiding enrichment games, or creating a structured rest routine, we’re here to help every dog settle, socialise, and shine.
We don’t just supervise.
We lead. We guide. We care – deeply.
With a focus on safety, emotional well-being, and tailored enrichment, our mission is to make sure every dog leaves happier, calmer, and more confident than when they arrived.
✨ It’s not just a job for us. It’s our purpose. And your dog will feel that – every single day.
Laura
Founder &
Big Dreamer
At the heart of PawPals is Laura – the dreamer who built it all from her rescue dog, Hank. What started as a way to ease the guilt of leaving Hank home alone has grown into one of Perth’s longest-running and most loved dog daycares.
Rescue dogs remain close to Laura’s heart, and in Hank’s honour she created Hank’s House – a PawPals project that raises funds for local rescues each month. It’s her way of giving back to where it all began.
With a degree in Advertising and Media, plus certifications in Canine Behaviour and Canine First Aid, Laura blends business know-how with a deep love for dogs. She is the driving force behind PawPals’ enrichment-led model, paving the way for how daycares should be run – safe, structured, and filled with purpose.
Laura’s vision is to keep raising the standard of care, while expanding PawPals with the right people by her side – those who share the same passion for safety, enrichment, and creating a space where every dog can truly thrive.
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Kmart. It’s my kryptonite! 😂
What did little-you want to be growing up?
As a kid, I always thought I’d become a vet because I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember. But once I realised the harder side of that role, I knew my heart probably couldn’t handle it.
What I did always know, though, was that I wanted to run my own business one day. So when the idea of creating a doggy daycare came along, it felt like the perfect fit, combining my love of dogs with my passion for building something meaningful. And honestly… it’s been the ultimate win-win 💜
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Flying business class back to Ireland 😍 The kids can happily stay in economy 😂 Also, going to see the Northern Lights with my dad.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Talking to animals. Full Dr Dolittle style 🐾
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
That one really hits home for me because it’s exactly what PawPals became. I genuinely love this business more than words can explain 💜
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Purple… obviously 💜 Hence the logo 😜
What’s your coffee order?
Almond flat white, 2 sweetners!
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
Knowing we’ve created a place where dogs are genuinely safe, happy, and understood. There’s something really special about building a community of dog people who care as deeply as we do 💜
Danni
Branch Boss &
Grooming Guru
Danni has been with PawPals for over 6 years and truly knows the business inside and out. She works closely alongside Laura, understanding not just how things run day-to-day but also the bigger picture of what makes PawPals special. With her calm, caring nature and strong leadership skills, Danni is the person who keeps everything flowing – supporting the team, the dogs, and the systems that make it all work. On top of her leadership role, she’s also a talented groomer with a gentle touch, making dogs (and their owners!) feel at ease.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To never be sick.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Find a man that’ll break your headboard not your heart!!!!
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Pink – its’ pretty.
What’s your coffee order?
I’m English – drink tea!
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
Staffy, a little bit feisty but full of love and loves a nap.
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
Puzzle solving or learning a new trick.
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
The PawPals community and happy owners.
Darcy
DayCare Supervisor
& Calm Queen
Darcy is one of those people who makes you feel at ease straight away – with the happiest smile, a caring nature, and a genuine love for dogs.
She has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Sydney, majoring in Animal Production with a minor in Animal Health, Welfare and Disease, and years of experience leading large teams and managing busy groups of dogs in boarding and daycare.
Here at PawPals, Darcy uses her knowledge, leadership, and calm confidence to guide the daily flow of daycare. She has a wonderful way of balancing structure with fun, making sure every dog feels safe, happy, and included.
Our team love working alongside her, and the dogs adore her too!
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Dymocks or QBD.
What did little-you want to be growing up?
Little me wanted to be a zookeeper.
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
To volunteer in Borneo with the orangutan’s or swim with the whale sharks.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
The ability to shape shift in to animals.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I can’t think of advice but I have a favourite book quote “without fear there cannot be courage” – Christopher Paolini.
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Green – it makes me feel very calm and relaxed. Reminds me of nature.
What’s your coffee order?
Dirty chai latte
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
A beaglier because I love food, but I’m definitely a bit of a worrier.
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
My favourite enrichment activity is agility I love watching the pups try and figure out how to compete a course and watching the confidence of a shy pups grow as they learn how to do it.
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
I love watching our new pups grow, seeing them when they first start all shy and little nervous and then in couple weeks they’re running around with their new friends and joining in on all the activities. I find that part of our job incredibly rewarding.
Megan
Canine Coach &
Irish Dog Whisperer
Megan brings a wealth of experience to PawPals, with years spent working in a doggy daycare in Ireland where she helped run the daycare, led puppy classes, and developed a strong understanding of dog behaviour, social dynamics, and confidence building.
Her formal qualifications include Canine Husbandry, Canine Studies & Management, and Professional Dog Training, giving her both hands-on experience and a strong educational foundation in canine care and behaviour.
Originally from Ireland, Megan brings so much warmth, fun, and heart to the team, but what really stands out is her calm, kind approach with the dogs. She has a beautiful ability to read what each dog needs, whether that’s guidance, confidence-building, gentle encouragement, or simply a calm and reassuring presence. She’s the kind of person dogs naturally gravitate towards 💜🐾
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Kmart or Chemist Warehouse.
What did little-you want to be growing up?
A vet or animal welfare office.
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Skydiving!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To be able to fly.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“What’s meant for you won’t go past you”
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Purple – it makes me happy and it was the colour of my first car.
What’s your coffee order?
Matcha latte.
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
A springer spaniel – happy, affectionate and a bit goofy.
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
Anything that gets dogs sniffing – I love seeing their noses working.
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
Getting to know the dogs personalities and all their little quirks, different friendships and seeing shy pups come out of the shells. Also working with a team who love and care for the dogs like their own.
Niomi
Canine Coach &
Reformed Groomer
Niomi originally joined us from the grooming world, but somewhere along the way, daycare completely stole her heart… so for now, she’s officially thrown in the scissors in favour of the playground 🐾😂
She has such a genuine love for dogs, and one of the things we adore most about her is how eager she is to learn. Niomi is an absolute sponge, always asking questions, soaking up knowledge, and wanting to understand more about dog behaviour, enrichment, and how to become even better at what she does.
The dogs absolutely adore her (which says everything really 💜), and she’s just a total dote to have around the team, warm, caring, fun, and always ready to jump in. Watching her grow in the daycare space has been so lovely, and we have a feeling she’s only just getting started 🐶✨
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Any bubble tea store
What did little-you want to be growing up?
Little me wanted to be a farmer because I loved the idea of being outdoors, around animals and away from the hustle and bustle.
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Seeing the Northern Lights is definitely on my bucket list. There’s something so magical about them – just standing there under the sky watching something that beautiful and surreal would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
My superpower would be teleportation because I’d love to instantly travel anywhere in the world, see family and friends whenever I want, and skip traffic forever.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Small daily habits change your life!
What’s your favourite colour and why?
My favourite colour is orange because it feels warm, positive and full of energy. It reminds me of sunsets and summer.
What’s your coffee order?
Bubble tea!!
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
One thing I love most about working at doggy daycare is honestly the dogs themselves. No matter what kind of day you’re having, they’re always so excited to see you and bring so much happiness and energy. Every dog has their own little personality, quirks and ways of showing affection, and getting to spend my day around that is pretty special. It never really feels like “work” when you’re surrounded by wagging tails, cuddles and happy dogs all day.
Sarah C
Canine Coach & Labrador Lover!
Sarah has been part of the PawPals family since 2019, and her wisdom and experience shine through every day. Before joining us, she spent 5 years working in another Perth daycare while completing her Cert III in Companion Animals at TAFE. She has also completed IMDT Canine First Aid course & IMDT Canine Body Language along with currently study a dog training, behaviour and psychology course. Also she has run many puppy school classes and adolescent/adult dog obedience classes
She has a special love for Labradors, but her real gift is her incredible knack for understanding dog behaviour.
With years of knowledge behind her, Sarah has a natural ability to read dogs, guide group play, and create calm, happy spaces where every dog feels safe and supported.
Her caring nature and steady presence make her a much – loved member of our team both by the dogs and by everyone here at PawPals.
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Merch stand at concerts.
What did little-you want to be growing up?
Little me only knew she wanted to work with animals.
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Travel & seeing more of the world
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Flying seems pretty fun
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Protect your peace like you protect your dog.”
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Black – it goes with everything!
What’s your coffee order?
Vanilla latte or caramel macchiato if it’s Starbucks.
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
Probably a Rottweiler – a bit reserved at first but once you’re in you see another whole other side; fun, silly and loud. Also very loyal, calm & steady.
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
I love working with the dogs on things like obstacle courses – seeing them connect with the handler, have fun, learn some new skills and gain some confidence.
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
The joy the dogs bring me; cuddle time with them, playing with them, seeing shy dogs find their feet and watching others learn to slow down and regulate. And the labbys of course!
Taliah
Canine Coach & IMDT Trainer
Taliah has been part of the dog industry for over 5 years and brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team.
She’s a qualified IMDT trainer and has completed PawPals’ own in-depth training programmes in canine care, behaviour, and enrichment. Her love of dog behaviour really shines through — she has a natural ability to read dogs, understand their needs, and help them settle happily into group play.
Beyond her skills on the floor, Taliah is warm, caring, and dedicated to continuous learning. She’s always building on her knowledge so she can give dogs the best possible experience here at PawPals.
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Tunnel Vision Clothing.
What did little-you want to be growing up?
Little me wanted to be a vet!
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Backpacking around Europe.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Either Telekinesis or Time Manipulation.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“The time will pass anyway.”
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Dark Cherry Red – I just love to wearing it.
What’s your coffee order?
Iced latte with no sugar.
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
My friends said a scruffy terrier mix because I’m feisty and might catch a critter if unsupervised!
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
I love seeing the pups enjoy sensory curtains (and making them!)
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
Working with a team that’s passionate about what they do and how we problem solve.
Susan
Canine Coach & IMDT Trainer
Susan brings a strong background in customer service and a genuine passion for animal care to her work in the industry.
She is a qualified IMDT trainer, holding a Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training, as well as a Certificate III in Animal Care Services, which included hands-on experience through a work placement with the RSPCA.
With a calm and reassuring presence, Susan has a natural ability to connect with dogs. She combines a solid understanding of canine behaviour with a deep commitment to enrichment, helping to create positive, engaging experiences for every dog in her care.
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Kmart
What did little-you want to be growing up?
I wanted to be a Vet.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Able to read minds (including dogs!)
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
When you know better, do better.
What’s your favourite colour and why?
All shades of pink – it just brightens up the world!
What’s your coffee order?
Caramel iced latte.
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
Labrador – eager to please everyone!
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
I love sniffing enrichment for the dogs. A nice way for them to use their nose and settle them into the day.
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
I love working along side other passionate animal care professionals and hanging with the dogs!
Ash
Canine Coach & IMDT Trainer
What store would you happily max out your credit card?
Jami
Groomer & Makeover Magician
Jami has been working in the animal industry since she was 16 – starting out in a pet shop, then moving into vet nursing before discovering that her true passion is dog grooming. With over 10 years of grooming experience, Jami has a gift for making every dog look and feel their best. She never gets tired of the rewarding feeling when owners see their dogs after one of her makeovers.
At PawPals, Jami is our Makeover Magician ✨ Her gentle, caring nature makes dogs feel calm and safe in her hands, and her styling skills turn scruffy pups into polished superstars.
Jess
Groomer & Soft Touch Specialist
Jess has had a passion for animals since she was small and is always happy in the presence of animals. She has completed her Masters in Zoology and has had experience working with all animals, great and small.
Jess has previously worked in boarding kennels and volunteering at the Dog Refuge, thus she gained knowledge about dog behaviour, health and handling. Jess found her passion for dog grooming by assisting the salon while working at a pet store.
She completed her Cert 3 Diploma in Professional Dog Grooming with distinction.
Jess is calm and patient and strives to make the grooming process as comfortable as possible for every dog.
What store could you never walk past without buying something?
Ally or valleygirl, depending on the shopping centre.
What did little-you want to be growing up?
I wanted to own a zoo!
What’s something still sitting on your bucket list?
Seeing my AFL team win a grand final live. Watching it on the TV isn’t enough!
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Extending the lifespan and quality of life of animals.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Don’t worry about something that probably won’t happen”
What’s your favourite colour and why?
Pink because it’s bright and fun!
What’s your coffee order?
Coffee frappe when hot. Cappuccino when cold. Top quality coffee beans only no instant coffee.
If you were a dog breed, what breed would you be and why?
Great Pyreneese. I’m calm, trustworthy and good with animals. Will always protect my people and animals in my care.
What’s your favourite enrichment activity at PawPals?
Social interaction as it’s nice to see the dogs interact with each other and make friends. Also any enrichment that involves bubbles!
What’s one thing you love most about working at PawPals?
Working with an amazing team who love their job and the dogs in their care. Also working with all the beautiful dogs of course! Such a warm and positive space for both dogs and people.