ur goal is to create a bond between your sitter and your pets so they feel safe and loved.
so there is always coverage. We call this our Buddy Walkers.
In the event that your regular walker is unavailable,
DWE Cross-trains all staff with our packs
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Read on to learn more about our passionate team!
Jody Rudy - Founder
Jody Rudy is the founder and owner of Dog Walker Extraordinaire. Jody has a long, deep connection with animals and is honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to work with companion animals and their human guardians. Originally from New York, Jody moved to Los Angeles in 1986 and spent over 10 years as a concierge for numerous luxury 5-star hotels, including Ritz Carlton & Shutters on the Beach.
In 2001, Jody left the hotel industry to form her own personal concierge company, Complete Concierge.
One of the most popular requests from her personal concierge clients was for dog walkers and pet sitters, and it was difficult to find reliable companies for her clients to use. Being an animal lover herself and having dogs all her life, it became apparent that there was a need to start a company dedicated to the care of companion animals.
The happiness and joy of being with animals every day was what she needed. She knew that there were other like-minded people who would partner with her in creating a solid company with a simple plan: Treat all animals as if they are your own, make humans feel completely at ease, and attract as many other animal guardians as possible to join her on her mission to benefit and care for all companion animals. In 2006, Dog Walker Extraordinaire was formed (DWE as it is so fondly called) and the rest is history.
Jody lives in Del Rey with her husband and 2 kids along with Golden Retriever Ziggy and Belgian Malenois, Bowie.
Jane
I was born and raised in Southern California. Having come from a family of 10 we always had 1 to 3 dogs whose presence we enjoyed daily. From the age of 12 I found a new love in birds and have had several, in addition to horses. My husband, daughter and I live with cats who we rescued 12 years ago.
Animals all of shapes and sizes have always been a core part of my life. My role as DWE Farmers Market Booth Manager gives me welcomed opportunities to continue to appreciate and interact with dogs regularly and other furry friends throughout the year.
Specialty Care, Birds, Cat Care, Reptiles, Fish, Dogs and Cats
Carmen
I was born in the Philippines and grew up all over the world, close to nature and surrounded by animals. I am comfortable around all animals and respect their pack mentality. As a child, I had my own little pack of three dogs & a country hare named Smokey the Bandit. I have integrated many dogs who were once fearful or aggressive into my pack and have watched them transform.
Jody and I have been working together since the start of DWE and have experienced so much that we joke about one day writing a book!
Dog Walker
Stephen
I moved to Los Angeles 8 years ago and shortly after I moved here I encountered Jody and DWE-- back when the Mar Vista Farmer’s Market began. Since that day I have been proud to be part of Dog Walker Extraordinaire. Whether I am dog walking, dog sitting, or doing doggy daycare at the Farmer’s Market, I love puppy therapy.
While a few good walks a day is essential for proper canine health and development, I have found this time shared between pup and human can be just as beneficial for the person. I enjoy the time I get to spend with each pup and I truly appreciate the bond it creates.
Dog Walker, House sitter, Day Sits, Cat Care, DWE Booth Staff
Tasha
I began working with the amazing animals & humans of DWE immediately after Jody and I connected. The experience continues to be incredibly enriching. I get to enjoy a variety of adventures and I am always surrounded with an abundance of love and delight. Working with DWE has been incredibly rewarding in so many ways.
I love the looks of supreme elation on animals' faces when I arrive for their walk or visit. I am honored every day to be part of such a fantastic organization, connecting with both animals and humans, and having a grand time doing it.
Dog Walker, Feline Care
Marissa
I am the Social Media Maven for DWE. I am always in search of posts that best represent DWE as well as provide information that our clients will benefit from. I run our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter Account. I was born in Santa Monica, California. One of my passions is photographing dogs and their goofy personalities.
Currently I am participating in dog agility with Stella, my adopted Jack Russell Terrier Mix. I love all creatures big and small.
Dog Walker, House sitter, Day Sits, Birds, Cat Care, Reptiles, Fish, DWE Booth Staff
Therese
I majored in music at UCLA and have been a professional singer for over 30 years, performing opera, art song recitals, cabaret & musical theater. Working with DWE and spending time with my pack of pups has been one of the happiest things I have ever experienced! I look forward to being greeted by them every day. They make my heart sing!
Dog Walker, Cat Care, DWE Booth Staff
Eddie
I was born and raised in Los Angeles. Some will call me the cat whisperer but in fact I like to say I am a whisperer of cats, dogs, birds and fish. I cycle from job to job and average about 45 miles per day.
Nothing is better than a long bike ride and then a beautiful walk with a canine friend or a purring feline waiting to be pet and fed.
My time with DWE has been rewarding as I get to meet so many incredible animals as well as their humans. I call my time working at the DWE booth on Sundays my “Time to unwind” – what better way then to spend a day with all the amazing pups that flow through our tent.
Dog Walker, House sitter, Day Sits, Cat Care, Birds, Cats, Reptiles, Fish, DWE Booth Staff
Lenni
I grew up in Whittier, California. My real name is Elana Araujo but most people know me as Leni spelled many different ways! I have been around animals my whole life and became a pet sitter/dog walker/cat sitter since 2008. I do not subscribe to any particular animal because I love them all!
Besides dogs and cats I care for Turtles, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and Iguanas.
My best friend is a 16 year old Shi Tzu named Lola the punk rock Chola! Working with DWE has been great and I have cared for so many wonderful animals, some very special needs, which makes me so happy that I am able to benefit them in so many ways.
Dog Walker, House sitter, Day Sits, Cat Care, Birds, Cats, Reptiles, Fish
Pedro
I was born and raised in Los Angeles. Dogs are
so much a part of me as they represent pure love and acceptance on so many levels. My time at the DWE booth is very rewarding. It fills me up!
When I am not at the booth, I am part of the reserves as a Marine and currently working to become a fire fighter.
DWE Booth Staff
Sarah K.
I have lived in Los Angeles for 20 years. I grew up with a large Collie named Cinnamon who lived 17 years. My love for dogs big and small is huge and I love being around as many pups as possible so my time at the DWE booth is so fulfilling.
House Sitter, DWE Booth Staff
Sara S.
While my family has always had a beloved group of cats in the house; I’ve had no shortage of dogs, horses, birds, and other fantastic animals in my life. Before I could walk I had started riding horses, and at the tender age of 4 I began volunteering at animal shelters and rescue groups to walk dogs and visit with cats in need of a home.
DWE Booth staff
I’ve been working at the Famer’s Market Booth for 4 years now and am always thrilled to take care of the wonderful dogs that come by the tent.
Willy
I have grown up around animals since being a child. I feel a real connection with dogs and cats. I was 13 when my mom started DWE and I watched
as the company grew. Being able to be part of it all has been quite the learning experience for me.
On a daily basis I never know how many dogs will be inside to greet me when I open the door!
House Sitter, DWE Booth Staff
