meet the staff
Laurie – Owner
I’ve been working with dogs for over 25 years and have owned and operated structured, low-stress dog daycares for most of that time.
I’ve had three German Shepherds over the years and have fostered several dogs as well. I live in Plymouth with my husband, my daughter Izzy (you’ll see her here too), and our cat Doja.
What I care most about is understanding dogs—how they think, how they communicate, and how to create an environment where they can settle, feel safe, and just be dogs.
I love helping dogs grow. Watching shy dogs come out of their shell is what I’m most proud of. A close second is helping high-energy dogs learn to calm themselves so they can make friends. I also enjoy helping owners better understand how dogs communicate.
Everything we do here is designed to keep dogs calm, safe, and able to make good decisions in a group.
When I’m not at daycare, I’m usually at softball games or spending time with my family.
Fun fact: I'm fluent in Spanish and love to learn.
Izzy – Junior Partner
I’ve been around dogs my whole life—literally. I learned to walk surrounded by packs of dogs and was reading them long before I could read anything else.
Beach Dogz feels like home to me. I love seeing the dogs settle in, build confidence, and really come into themselves.
I grew up with German Shepherds—Cleo and Ziva—and later Annyong (“Boy Dog”). I also had a cat, Dexter, for most of my life, and now we have Doja Kitty, who runs the house.
Working here has shown me how every dog is different and needs their own approach. My favorite part is watching shy dogs come out of their shell.
Outside of work, I play softball and hang out with friends.
Fun fact: I’m good on the ceramics wheel and volunteer on Saturday mornings helping younger kids learn softball.
Abby – Manager
I’ve been working with dogs since June 2024, and Beach Dogz was my first hands-on experience in the field. It’s been a rewarding place to learn quickly.
What I enjoy most is how much I’m constantly learning. Dogs are incredibly intelligent, and I like observing their behavior, personalities, and how they interact in a structured group.
I’ve grown up around animals—everything from guinea pigs and rabbits to birds, cats, and dogs—which shaped how I connect with them today.
At home, I have two cats, Merlin and Arrow.
Outside of work, I enjoy geocaching, kayaking, and spending time with friends.
Ashley – Asst. Manager
I grew up with all kinds of pets—chinchillas, hamsters, cats, rabbits, even a guinea pig—so working with animals has always come naturally to me.
I started dog sitting as a teenager, then spent four years working at a dog daycare, followed by time at a boarding kennel caring for dogs, giving medication, and handling daily operations.
I was looking for a well-run, structured daycare and found Beach Dogz. What I love most is how calm and well-behaved the dogs are—it’s a positive, low-stress environment where the dogs really get along.
One thing I’ve learned here is that every dog is different, and understanding their individual personalities makes all the difference.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy playing my Nintendo Switch and spending time outdoors.
Katie
I’ve been working with dogs for over 14 years, including time in a veterinary clinic and the past 2½ years here at Beach Dogz.
What I love most is being part of a team that truly cares about every dog that comes through the door.
I’ve learned how to read canine body language, manage different personalities in a group setting, and the importance of patience, structure, and clear communication. Every dog is different, and taking the time to understand them makes all the difference.
At home, I have a lab/hound mix, Bella Mae—she’s my heart. I’ve also had two other girls who meant the world to me.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy traveling, spending time at the beach, and being with my husband, John.
Fun fact: I love fast roller coasters and have been on quite a few.
Emma
I’ve been working with dogs since October 2025, when I found Beach Dogz. I’ve always loved animals and grew up with dogs, along with rabbits and cats.
What I appreciate most here is how well-managed and balanced the dogs are. The structure makes a huge difference, and I love being part of a team that’s focused on safety, consistency, and making sure the dogs genuinely enjoy their day.
Working here, I’ve learned a lot about dog behavior and body language—understanding how dogs communicate has been a big part of keeping the group calm and safe.
At home, I have my own dog and have always been surrounded by dogs growing up.
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me spending time with my dog, going for walks, or relaxing with a video game.