Meet Our Compassionate & Responsible Pet Care Staff

Ted’s passion for animal care began in 2005 when he started fostering homeless animals through the MSPCA. In 2012, after a career in healthcare client service management, Ted decided he did not want to spend his days at a desk anymore. Instead, he wanted to combine his commitment to client services with his love of pets and founded Above & Beyond Pet Services. His vision was to offer a service that felt personalized, one that was there when you needed them with employees that would build a relationship with your pet. Ted believes in hard work, doing what is right, and helping people and pets in any way he can. Continue reading for more information about the Above & Beyond Pet Services team.

Rachel has enjoyed the company of animals her whole life and owns two lovable bunnies. She decided to pursue her passion for animals and is currently pursuing her degree as a Veterinary Technician.

Sarah has always had a passion for animals. She started out by simply taking over all of her brother's pets from cats and mice to catfish and sharks. In high school, she started her pet sitting career by watching friends' dogs and quickly confirmed animals were going to be her career path in life. She graduated from Mount Ida College with a Bachelors in Veterinary Technology but decided medical wasn't the direction she wanted to go at this point in life. Instead, she went into daycare management and dog training and found her passion in training behaviorally challenged dogs. Ironically enough, Sarah does not have a dog of her own but a very sassy cat named Melody!

Forrest has loved animals his whole life, and has three cats at home: Twix, Wally, and Phoxbo! He is currently studying at MassBay for his associates in environmental science. Forrest brings love and attention to his animal care.

My name is Ana and some of the things I enjoy most are : learning about / spending time with animals, plants and the environment. Growing up I have always been fascinated by animals especially dogs and cats. I currently have a French bulldog named Booger. I also share two elderly chihuahuas named taco and chimichanga with my family members. During my free time I like to tend to my gardens and pick up litter from the streets .

Espy has only ever had animal siblings. Her and her family have the blessing of owning a livestock rescue where she gets to care for them all. At home she has 7 goats, 6 dogs, 2 cats, a parrot, a miniature horse, and too many chickens to count. As an adult, Espy has 2 furry babies of her own: Benny and Quetzali.Espy loves all animals, no matter what shape, size, or species. She sees the unique personalities in each one and is committed to giving your furry babies the best care they can have.

Krystal was born and raised in Waltham and grew up with cats for most of her life. As a kid, she wasn't allowed to have a dog, so she spent much of her time walking her friends' and neighbors' dogs. She has always wanted to pursue working with animals, and she is finally fulfilling that long desire!

Liv is a dedicated and compassionate individual whose love for animals has fueled her work in the pet care industry. With a lifetime of personal experience and almost a decade professionally under her belt, Liv has cared for countless furry, feathered, and scaly friends. Her family at home includes three cats, a bearded dragon, a snake, and even a turtle. When she isn't busy attending to her zoo, Liv enjoys creating art and taking care of her plants. Driven by her passion for nurturing and caring for pets, Liv is committed to providing top-notch service to every client who entrusts their beloved companions to her care.

Melissa is a dedicated and compassionate employee with a deep-rooted love for animals. Growing up surrounded by all kinds of creatures, Melissa developed a strong bond and understanding of their needs. Hailing from Georgia, she brings her southern warmth and hospitality to every furry friend she cares for. With two dogs of her own, Melissa knows firsthand the importance of treating pets like family. Her genuine passion for animal caretaking shines through in every interaction, ensuring that your beloved pets receive the utmost attention, care, and love during their time with her.

McGee is a Massachusetts native with a lifelong love for animals. They've grown up with dogs, cats, and rabbits, and is a proud parent to a Maine Coon named Link! They have experience pet sitting for animals of all kinds, from mammals to reptiles alike. McGee is more than excited to meet your wonderful pets and give them the utmost care and attention. When they're not on the job, they can be found animating, sculpting, illustrating, or fulfilling their cat's every need!

Nicole has always had pets growing up, and has such a love for all animals. When she was little she grew up with three beautiful cats. There was Murphy, Sasha and Bandit. When she was 12 she got her very own dog who she named Little Dude. He was a Yorkshire terrier and the runt of his litter. She had him until he was 16 years old. This past year I adopted her Norwich terrier mix Jerry, from Serbia. She got him as an emotional support animal for her son and the two of them love playing and being with one another. Nicole believes pets enrich our lives and are truly a gift.

Sophia grew up in Woburn surrounded by animals. From cats, snakes, dogs, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Growing up her father would take her to work at the local animal clinic where she would play with the animals. With growing up surrounded by animals it was no secret she’d end up working in animal care. Some of Sophia’s hobbies include reading, photography, and drawing.

Stephanie has always been an animal lover. Throughout her life, she has fostered many dogs of all breeds and sizes and grew up loving and caring for any animal that came her way. At home, she has an 8-year-old German Shepherd named Gemma and a 4-year-old hedgehog named Sonic. In her spare time, Stephanie can be found painting and also loves traveling with her family. She has such a loving nature and natural caregiving tendencies that show every time she is around both people and animals.

Adrianna had lived in Massachusetts all her life and is ready to meet your four-legged friends! She has a degree in Psychology and while as she has empathy and understanding for others, she will make sure she will constantly meet your furry friends’ needs. She always had a cat growing up and loves to hang out with friends and families’ dogs whenever she can. She has a sweet spot for sea turtles, dolphins, horses and bunnies. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, yoga, making coffee drinks and collecting crystals.

Hi! My name is Alexandra. My passion has always been dogs and cats. I spent from 2013 to 2022 rescuing street animals in Colombia, and even cared for them in my own house. Animals mean everything to me. When you look into their eyes you can see the love and loyalty in each one. Being able to work with and care for them is the best

Aleks has a great passion for all kinds of animals. Originally from Poland, she grew up in a house with a dog, cats, multiple fish tanks, and a bird! Each summer, she vacationed in the lake region, where she developed a greater love of nature and its creatures. Since moving to the United States, her house has always been full of beloved furry friends. Currently, two wonderful cats are a part of her pack. She enjoys being able to fulfill her passion for taking care of all creatures, big and small.

 Amy grew up in Connecticut with a beloved cat and rabbit.  She was the person who always walked the dogs of family, friends and neighbors.  She believes in positive reinforcement and getting to know each pet individually.

My name is Anna and I have always been an animal lover. My household has always had pets ranging from the usual cats and dogs to now guinea pigs and a hamster. I have lived in Massachusetts all my life and for the past 8 years I worked at different barns in the area, working with horses full time and being surrounded by dogs and barn cats.

Anya has loved animals since she was little. Since her other passion, more wild critters, require a more hands off touch, she has loved a variety of household friends, from hamsters to chickens! She has even spent some time as a volunteer goatherd at the local Mass Audubon Sanctuary. She’s excited to meet even more cuddly friends and give them the love they deserve!

My name is Ashley. I've grown up with animals my whole life and have always been fascinated by them. Currently I have a dog, two cats, and a bunny. Ever since I was little I've always wanted to live on a farm someday and own a whole bunch of animals. I've even volunteered on a horse farm in Tewksbury!

Carly was born and raised in Massachusetts with a lifelong love for animals of all kinds! She grew up surrounded by pets and currently has a sassy cat named Lily who keeps them on my toes. Her passion for animals led her to become a caretaker and dog walker, and is excited to meet and care for your beloved pets. Whether it's a gentle stroll or some playful fun, She'll ensure your furry friends receive the attention and love they deserve. When not playing with pets, you can find her conquering crossword puzzles, practicing aerial silks, or with her nose in a book.

Christina, a Belmont native, grew up with guinea pigs, hamsters, and a long-haired Dachshund who she still adores and cares for today. She enjoys bonding with her aunt's Golden Retriever and three Tuxedo cats. She has always had a deep love and passion for animals and believes that pets are truly family members that deserve lots of love, attention, and care. She hopes to volunteer at different animal shelters in the future, as well as adopt multiple shelter dogs and provide them with a happy life. In her free time, Christina can be found performing music, teaching Zumba fitness, and taking ballroom dance classes.

Courtney has always had a natural attraction to animals over people, even in her youth at parks her parents would find her roaming towards the chipmunks and picking open acorns to “feed the squirrels” over playing with the other kids. In eighth grade she started caring for family members' pets while they were away, which carried into her highschool days which also turned to house sitting for those pets. Shortly out of high school is when she found her first doggy daycare to work with rescues as well. When the daycares stopped feeling personable enough for her taste she started exploring more options in the animal work fields. She admires all creatures and especially those which require a bit more effort to gain the trust of as she finds that part rewarding and satisfying to say the least.

Denise comes from the pet industry with years of experience dog walking and pet care. Animals tend to like her regardless of their personalities. She enjoys working with dogs that need a leisurely walk or when tiring out a dog with boundless energy. Denise believes that it is important to take the pets individual personality and preferences into account when out for an adventure, or caring for them. Pets make Denise happy & her goal is that she does the same for them in return! 🤗

I am an avid lover of all animals, wild and domesticated. I   believe in a world where animals can all live their best life. Growing up in Mass I cared for a Morgan horse "Merry Legs," dogs, cats, and recently have experience with an amazon parrot "Kelly." I am still a resident of Mass for 25 years. I look forward to caring for your pets.

I am a proud dog, cat and horse mom. I currently own a cattle dog named Gizmo. My cat has lots of cattitude and my chestnut Arabian horse is very spicy. I have lot of experience with all different personalities. I have worked at a vet clinic and have some medical background. I did a lot of dog walking for my friends and Pet sitting.  I am passionate about providing quality care for animals. I am looking forward to meeting your furry friend!

Erin is all about animals and their well-being! Always caring for animals, she puts them first. She has had dogs and cats as pets her whole life, is no stranger to exotic animals, and has worked professionally with animals for ten years. Her expertise in animal care and behavior ensures your pet will have an incredible time! Some of Erin’s favorite hobbies outside of animal care include hiking, embroidery, and eating ice cream.

Faith’s journey in animal care has been a joyful mix of work and personal passion, shaped by her time at a lively doggy daycare and her lifelong love for her own pets! At the daycare, she enjoyed turning playtime into a fun and enriching experience for dogs of all kinds, while keeping a watchful eye on their needs and well-being!  Additionally, Faith’s lifelong companionship with her own pets has enriched her understanding of animal care, teaching her the nuances of pet behavior, training, and emotional needs. This blend of professional experience and personal dedication has shaped her into a compassionate and knowledgeable advocate for animals!

Hellen is a devoted animal enthusiast who brings a deep passion for pets to her work. Originally from Brazil, Hellen moved to the area in 2015 and has since immersed herself in the local pet community. Growing up surrounded by animals, especially horses, has given her a wealth of experience and knowledge. Back home, Hellen cherished her Mini Schnauzer, Luna, who remains the love of her life. Hellen is thrilled to combine her love for animals with her professional life, ensuring that every pet receives the care and attention they deserve.

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My name is Jaelyn and I have loved animals my whole life, in fact I have never not had a dog! Right now I have a pitbull mix named Roman and a German shepherd named Violet, they are my best friends. A lot of my time is dedicated to taking care of my own animals so having a job that takes care of other animals is just perfect for me!

Jess has always been an animal lover, but grew up in a non-animal loving household. She did convince her parents to allow small pets, and had multiple guinea pigs and rabbits growing up. She was convinced she wanted to be a vet, but after hearing her guinea pig squeal while getting her nails cut, she realized she didn’t have the heart to hear animals in pain. She spent many years riding and caring for horses, and as soon as she moved out on her own, she got a cat, Olivia, who she liked more than most of her coworkers. After a decade of working with humans, with some dog-walking and pet-sitting on the side, Jess decided to follow her true passion and work with animals. In her free time, Jess enjoys swimming, running, and chasing after her young daughter.

Jesus grew up in a home where he always had at least two dogs and a cat, which instilled in him a deep love for animals from a young age. Jesus find immense joy in caring for them and seeing how much they can brighten someone’s day in an instant. He believes that while humans need to learn how to love, animals are born knowing how, which makes them truly special. His goal is to make every pet he cares for feel safe, happy, and loved, just as he would with his own.

After graduating from the University of Vermont in 2009 with a bachelor of science degree in Animal Science, Jordan moved to Massachusetts to work at the Franklin Park Zoo. At the zoo, She gained experience working with and training a variety of animals. Jordan continued to learn a tremendous amount about positive reinforcement training, as it is the only option working with exotic animals. A lifelong dog lover, she then decided to make the change to pet care. Jordan been caring for pets professionally for more than ten years. As a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, she is continuing to care for pets and can now offer training services. Currently, Jordan offers private coaching and day training in Middlesex and Worcester counties in Massachusetts through her own company The Patrient Pup

Hi I'm Julia! I love dogs, cats, and all other animals. My first dog was a Chinese Crested named Oreo who we rubbed with sunscreen before he went outside. He was the first of many dogs I've owned and cared for over the years! I see dogs as our companions and friends, with their own emotions and needs just like us. I think walking is so important to the enrichment of their lives because it gives them an opportunity to activate all their senses and connect with the world around them.  I have worked as a dog walker, pet sitter and in doggie daycares!

Julia is the proud cat mom of three (very lazy very happy) kitties - Chester, Ruby, and Benji. All are big fans of above and beyond! Over her life, Julia has loved and cared for cats, horses, chickens, dogs, and more, and deeply cares about providing the animals around us with the best life they can live. When not caring for animals, Julia is pursuing a masters degree in business at Northeastern University, and can most often be found in the gym.

Juniper has worked with cats and dogs since they were young, and always loved walking the neighborhood dogs when they had time. At home, they have two French Bulldogs named Lilo and Stitch, a Boxer named Daisy, and a cat named Pickles. Outside of work, they are pursuing a graduate degree in Museum Education at Tufts University. 

Kati has had countless furry friends growing up and is currently owned by a cockatiel named Alfi, 2 guinea pigs named S'more and Gizmo, and 2 roaches named Bo and Jeremy. She has 2 years of experience in caring for pets professionally in the form of pet sitting and working at a doggy daycare. When she's not walking dogs, she likes to play ukulele and video games.

Katsumi, originally from Japan, grew up with rescue dogs, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, fish, and even turtles. Currently, she lives with two wonderful rescue dogs, Hershey and Kringle. She's happy to be working in a job where she gets to meet so many new animal friends!

Keke grew up helping her family raise chickens, pigs, birds, and one bunny. She liked chopping up vegetables and catching worms for the animals.  Keke lives with some pretty goldfish, colorful tropical fishes, and two turtles. She helps walk the dogs for her friends and neighbors. In her spare time, Keke enjoys reading bio-inspired scientific research. 

Kim has always had a love of animals. She grew up mainly with cats but also lived in households with dogs. Although her current home does not allow animals, she takes any chance she can to get her animal fix in, whether it’s taking care of her friend’s animals (including a pigeon and a paralyzed cat) or walking your wonderful dogs and caring for your cats. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Psychology and Cognitive science at Tufts.

Lauren is a huge animal lover and proud cat mom of 3. As a child she often got grounded because she continued bringing home stray cats; for which she is very proud of!  She enjoys rescuing & rehoming animals and working for ABPS allows her to fulfill her passion for caring for as many fur family members as possible.

Lillian, an animal enthusiast, has harbored a deep passion for creatures of all kinds since childhood. Renowned among friends as the "dog whisperer," Lillian possesses an extraordinary ability to connect with and understand dogs on an unparalleled level. Currently, Lillian shares their life with a pet turtle who still does not have a name after 8 years. In addition to their turtle companion, Lillian has also embraced the role of a cherished godparent to two furry babies, Kimchi and Bean, reinforcing their enduring love and connection with animals.

Lori has years of experience caring for her own pets, as well as extended family cats & dogs of many breeds and sizes. In her free time, she can be found hiking with her terrier Charlie or relaxing at home with Charle and her cat, Cloud.

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Maria is a passionate caregiver for people and animals alike. She is currently training to be a nurse and brings her meticulous, caring attitude to the field when taking care of pets.

Despite not growing up with any pets, Richa is a long-time animal lover and currently a proud parent of a beautiful corgi and two sweet cats. Being around animals of all kinds brings them great joy, and they can't decide whether their favourite critters are cuttlefish or donkeys! Richa currently resides in Watertown and, when not taking care of your pets, can be found hiking, biking, making music, or studying for grad school.

Rita is a West Coast native who has been pet sitting since she was a kid. She's lived many lives in many places, and has previously worked as an ice cream scooper, antique dealer, furniture designer, biochemist and scientific illustrator (among other things). She loves being out in nature and teaching sign language to her deaf Aussie/border collie Green Bean. She started out as an ABPS client, so when it came time for a job change, nothing sounded better than being outdoors, getting exercise, and hanging out with animals all day!

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Skylar grew up around 3 dogs during childhood until finally wearing down her mom to let the house get a cat as a teen. Since then her roommates have had a cat, guinea pigs, and a bird sparking love for animals she hadn't considered. After thinking and sadly having to choose one animal for now, this past year she adopted two guinea pigs who help remind her to eat her vegetables with them every day. Dusty and Maple enjoy greeting her each morning and talking in the evening. She can't get more animals yet, so she wants to help care for other people's pets.

Terry grew up in Arlington in a household with dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs and mice. He has two cats, Lisa and Bart, cuddly siblings adopted from St. Croix. After a career in newspapers and then family caregiving, he now enjoys befriending animals, wandering local forests with his camera, and tending to his pollinator garden.