MEET OUR TEAM
Dog training, canine enrichment, and doggie daycare are our specialties at Bark Avenue, proudly serving clients in Bartlett, IL, and the surrounding suburbs of Chicago. Our team is committed to being leaders in staff training and development, consistently exceeding industry standards to ensure the best care for your furry family members. We offer a variety of services in a clean, safe, and fun environment, providing peace of mind to both our clients and their pets.
Michelle
Founder & Managing Partner
My journey began in finance, but my true calling emerged during my Master’s when a project led me to write a business plan for a dog daycare center. Little did I know, this step would pivot me from my corporate life in finance to the vibrant, tail-wagging world of dog care. Dogs have always been a passion of mine, and now, after nearly 18 years, I get to spend my days surrounded by them, alongside amazing people who take care of dogs for a living.
Our mission at Bark Avenue Daycamp is twofold: to provide the highest quality care for dogs, ensuring their physical and mental well-being in a fun, safe, and enrichment-filled environment; and to create a space where clients and employees alike feel heard and valued. Over the years, our small business has grown into a close-knit community. I’m proud to say that three of my long-time employees have become partners, and they’ll be taking over more responsibilities as I increasingly focus on the strategic side of things. Together, we’re committed to making Bark Avenue Daycamp a place everyone loves being a part of.
Kelly
Partner & Director of Training
Being raised with animals my whole life I always knew I was going to be involved in some way with pets. While attending the University of Illinois and getting a degree in Animal Science-Pre Veterinarian Studies I worked at Bark Avenue Daycamp on my breaks. This is where I observed and learned the nature of dog behavior and realized that training is where my real passion lay. After graduating I immersed myself into an intense dog training school in St. Louis, Missouri earning a certificate as a Professional Dog Trainer. There I learned many different training techniques and types of training including narcotic detection, personal protection, competitive and non-competitive obedience, Schutzhund training, and much more!
Throughout my life, I have had many different breeds and learned something from all of them. I not only trained for the things above, but also field training my English Setters, Weimaraner, Lab, and now my Brittany Spaniel. I have 2 dogs currently and they could not be more opposite, one being a reserved, introverted Chow mix and my other being an extroverted, wild Brittany.
Getting into dog training started with my love of dogs, but has evolved into education to dog owners. I find myself enjoying teaching people about the inner workings of their dogs and how that can often be more beneficial than some skills. While obedience is important, learning how to read your dog is crucial and I love educating people on that!
I believe that every dog has its own personality and learning curve not unlike their human companions. My goal is to preserve their uniqueness and build upon their character while positively teaching skills needed for them to be a source of joy and companionship for you and your family.
My training is not approached with a ‘one size fits all’ mentality. Dogs learn in many different ways, therefore I utilize different techniques and skills. Finding the best way your dog learns not only produces results but makes it an enjoyable and fun experience for both you and your pup.
Kelly
Partner & Director of Training
Being raised with animals my whole life I always knew I was going to be involved in some way with pets. While attending the University of Illinois and getting a degree in Animal Science-Pre Veterinarian Studies I worked at Bark Avenue Daycamp on my breaks. This is where I observed and learned the nature of dog behavior and realized that training is where my real passion lay. After graduating I immersed myself into an intense dog training school in St. Louis, Missouri earning a certificate as a Professional Dog Trainer. There I learned many different training techniques and types of training including narcotic detection, personal protection, competitive and non-competitive obedience, Schutzhund training, and much more!
Throughout my life, I have had many different breeds and learned something from all of them. I not only trained for the things above, but also field training my English Setters, Weimaraner, Lab, and now my Brittany Spaniel. I have 2 dogs currently and they could not be more opposite, one being a reserved, introverted Chow mix and my other being an extroverted, wild Brittany.
Getting into dog training started with my love of dogs, but has evolved into education to dog owners. I find myself enjoying teaching people about the inner workings of their dogs and how that can often be more beneficial than some skills. While obedience is important, learning how to read your dog is crucial and I love educating people on that!
I believe that every dog has its own personality and learning curve not unlike their human companions. My goal is to preserve their uniqueness and build upon their character while positively teaching skills needed for them to be a source of joy and companionship for you and your family.
My training is not approached with a ‘one size fits all’ mentality. Dogs learn in many different ways, therefore I utilize different techniques and skills. Finding the best way your dog learns not only produces results but makes it an enjoyable and fun experience for both you and your pup.
Marissa
Partner & Director of Operations
My love for animals started at a young age. Growing up, I was always surrounded by pets and actively involved in helping rescue animals, which taught me the importance of compassion, responsibility, and the special bond between humans and animals. That early passion has guided me throughout my life and led me to my dream job at Bark Avenue Daycamp.
At Bark Avenue, I get to combine my love for dogs with my commitment to providing exceptional care. I strive to create a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where every dog feels loved and their family feels at ease. I love getting to know each dog’s unique personality, building their trust with their owner, and seeing happy tails wagging at the end of each day.
I’m also fortunate to work with an amazing team that shares my dedication to raising the standards of pet care. Together, we work hard to ensure every four-legged guest has the best experience possible. Whether it’s meeting new people through networking or collaborating with my partners, I’m always looking for ways to grow and improve in this field I’m so passionate about.
For me, dogs are family, and being part of their lives at Bark Avenue Daycamp is truly the most fulfilling work I could imagine.
