Awarded 'Best Dog Daycare in the City of Merri-Bek for 2024'
Quality Business Awards Australia
The Barks and Recreation Team
Sarah
Owner, Manager & Daycare Attendant
Sarah, a Coburg local and dog-mum to Great Danes Nova and Hooch, spent two decades teaching primary school before deciding to pursue her dream of working with dogs. Sarah holds a Certificate II in Animal Studies and has completed several courses on dog behaviour and psychology. She has also gained invaluable knowledge about canine mental health by working with dog trainers and behaviourists to manage Nova's severe anxiety. Her expertise goes beyond canine health, nutrition, and body language; Sarah is also well-versed in animal legislation and codes of practice. With a strong commitment to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, she has volunteered with multiple dog rescue organizations, including a year spent at the RSPCA vet clinic. At Barks and Recreation, Sarah aims to provide every dog with the love and care they deserve. She is passionate about creating a safe and engaging environment that excites dogs and keeps them coming back.
Brianna
Assistant Manager & Daycare Attendant
As a former manager of a very large dog daycare centre, Brianna has a wealth of experience in the industry. At her previous role, she managed multiple staff members and cared for up to 70 dogs per day. Despite working for one of our competitors, Brianna was drawn to Barks and Recreation because of our adherence to the Code of Practise (including safe staff-to-dog ratios and small group sizes), our honesty with clients and our commitment to the wellbeing of each and every dog. Along with three years of daycare experience, Brianna has completed a Certificate II in Animal Studies, has recently updated her Animal First Aid qualifications and has a background of volunteer work at various animal shelters where she cared for and assisted in the grooming of surrendered, stray and mistreated dogs. Brianna has been a lifelong dog owner and has a special affinity for the intelligence of working breeds.
Jessica
Part Time Daycare Attendant
Jessica is a highly dedicated animal professional who has been working in shelter environments for several years. She has worked as an animal attendant at the RSPCA, Second Chance Animal Shelter, and The Lost Dogs Home. Currently, she divides her time between working at Barks and Recreation and The Lost Dogs Home. Jessica's educational background includes a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Certificate III in Companion Animals. Her extensive experience caring for shelter dogs has enabled her to assist in behaviour assessments, which determine the temperament and suitability of dogs for rehoming. Jessica has a remarkable ability to build trust with shy and anxious dogs, and she excels at making our more anxious daycare visitors feel comfortable. She is the owner of Ben the Maremma, a rescue dog from the RSPCA.