Shari Young
Co-owner
My Doggies Daycare

Many people have asked why we opened My Doggies Daycare. For each of us, this is a dream come true. Absolutely. We have a genuine, heartfelt love of all animals; especially dogs. To work in an environment where we get to play with a multitude of breeds and personalities every day is wonderful!

When it comes to me personally, I would say it started with my Midwest upbringing…
and the fact that my family adopted every stray in the neighborhood. I’ve always had an affinity for our four legged friends. I volunteered for years with the local humane society, and my heart went out to every one of the endearing rescues.

After my divorce in 2003, I moved to RSM with my daughter and our large Weimaraner named Crichton. Suddenly, instead of half an acre to play on, he had my little cement patio. Dog daycare seemed to be a good solution, but when I checked into several facilities in the area I was disappointed. Either the customer service was poor, or the facility smelled, or the fees were too high.

When I needed overnight boarding I found some places where Crichton could actually have his own little room – complete with a bed and TV (neither of which he would really use) but to my dismay he would only be taken out twice a day for a walk. There was no real playtime or socialization with other dogs.

So, I spent a year “making do” with what was available, all the time mulling over the idea of opening a facility. After consulting with various experts, and researching pet care options across the country, I knew this was something I had to pursue. Another year of research and planning followed, and then everything fell into place when Denise, Angie and Nicole, and our first trainer Sue all came on board. We shared a tremendous affection and concern for our canine friends, and felt the local residents would welcome a choice in dog daycare and boarding.

Once the various permits and licenses required by the City and Animal Services were obtained, we opened My Doggies Daycare in October of ’05. We’ve been pleasantly surprised by the warm reception and overwhelming community support. Business has boomed…so much so that we recently looked into expansion. But after a lot of careful consideration, we decided against it. Too many dogs in one space can cause problems, and it becomes difficult to give that individual attention. None of us got into this business to get rich. We simply wanted to provide a safe and loving atmosphere with lots of one-on-one attention for the dogs.

So here we are! MDD will never be the biggest or the flashiest facility around, but hopefully we’ll always be number one with our canine friends!

Denise Thompson
Co-owner
My Doggies Daycare

If I could have looked ahead 10 years ago and seen my life now… I wouldn’t have believed it! Coming from the corporate world of high stress and deadlines, who would have guessed I’d be spending my days playing ball with dogs of all different colors, breeds and personalities. Giving doggie bubble baths and yes, mopping up puppy piddles and poo. I wouldn’t have believed it.

In the past, I missed out on several vacations and weekend trips because I didn’t want to leave my golden retriever, Brodie, in a crate for any length of time. My sons use to say, “Mom, he’s just a dog”. Though I knew that, I had a hard time thinking of him cooped up in a crate, while I was out having fun. May sound silly to some, but I know several of you can relate.

When I had an opportunity to become involved with My Doggies Daycare, I was elated. Just imagine…a place where dogs could romp, run, play and interact with other nonagressive dogs all day, while their owners could rest easy knowing their dog was probably having more fun than they are! Now that was the kind of business I wanted to be a part of.

I truly love being your pup’s “home away from home”, even if it is just for an afternoon. You know that feeling, when you arrive home and your canine friend runs to you wagging his tail, so happy to see you? How would you like to walk into 50+ dogs all doing that to you at once? It’s positively a rush.

I work in the facility on a daily basis and when I first make my way through the pack I acknowledge each and every one of them. It’s amazing how they perk up when you call them by name. Sound silly? No… these guys and gals love human attention and affection as much as they do socializing with their own kind.

I'm honored to be able to spend time with them and get to know their individual personalities. If I had known the rewards of My Doggies Daycare ten years ago, I would have done it then!

Nicole Dicenzo
Operations Manager
My Doggies Daycare

My name is Nicole Dicenzo and I have lived in Orange County most of my life. Our family has always been surrounded by animals; horses, dogs, cats – you name it!  But dogs above all hold a special place in my heart.

I’m pictured here with my beloved Sparky who also has an adorable sister named Lyca.  When they get that little sparkle in their eyes, I know it’s time for “wrestle-mania” at the daycare. They will wrestle and cavort about until they are both winded and exhausted.  It’s always fun to watch!

When Shari & Denise first approached me about being a part of My Doggies Daycare I was quick to jump on board.  I had worked at another local daycare, and wanted to be a part of something that would offer people a choice.  Our emphasis would be on service and one-on-one time spent with the dogs.    We didn’t set out to be the biggest...just the best! 

I never dreamed the daycare would come to mean so much to me. I truly care about each and every pooch that comes through our doors.  I’ve gotten to know many of the parents, and have developed life long friendships. At MDD, we have a solid commitment to provide the best possible care for your pet. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call or visit any time. I look forward to serving South OC dog owners for many years to come!

Dena Paschall, CDT
Certified Dog Trainer &
Animal Health Care Specialist
Daycamp, Bootcamp & Private Lessons
My Doggies Daycare

We often get calls from people who say their dog previously "failed" dog obedience training. The issue is typically not the dog but what the other dog obedience instructor failed to successfully teach the owner. Dena's method of setting dogs up for success & focusing on both ends of the leash is a major factor that sets her apart.

To her, commands like "heel," "sit" and "stay" are useful, but are really just one means to an end. The end being a nice, calm, responsive dog that can be taken most anywhere, trusted in the house, and can be around other dogs.

“Training is my passion and has now become my career. I have spent the last 8 years dedicating my life to my canine friends. I am a Certified Dog Trainer and a Certified Animal Health Care Specialist. 
As a trainer I will provide expert instruction for any basic training as well as behavior modification such as aggression or anxiety. I want to give you and your dog the opportunity to have the greatest bond you could ask for; resulting in a structured but fun, stress-free relationship for life.”

Dan Cicio, CPDT
(Certified Pet Dog Trainer)
Daycamp, Bootcamp & Private Lessons
My Doggies Daycare

Working with the dogs at My Doggies Daycare for the past year has brightened my life beyond anything a mere job had previously offered.  When I got the opportunity to attend Animal Behavior College's program for dog trainers, I signed on and never looked back!  I have recently earned my certification and am approaching my life's work with eagerness and a wealth of knowledge.

I look forward to working with you and your beloved pups, helping with communication and training on both ends of the leash.  Dogs love to learn, and it's my good fortune to help teach them.

"By combining positive reinforcement with enthusiastic motivation, and using humane correction methods, I will teach you how to establish leadership within your family pack. We can then build on that solid foundation by training your dog to respect your leadership, trust you implicitly, and look to you for direction."

Rosy Leyva
Dog Groomer
My Doggies Daycare

Since I was a young girl, I have always wanted a pet. I love dogs, but worried that I wouldn't be able to take proper care of them. Finally seven years ago I decided that with my kids older, I had enough time to give a dog the love and attention she deserved. We chose a toy poodle, and named her "Ty". She quickly became a member of our family, and just a year later we adopted a companion for her; another toy poodle, this one named "Toby".

After bringing these two wonderful canines into our home, I started to realize that perhaps my true calling would be to work with animals. While attending grooming school, this calling turned into a passion. I love being able to work with breeds of all sizes and temperments and to take a "grungy" looking pooch and make him look like a show dog!

My clients know that I will take great care with their pet, and he/she will come back looking fantastic! I am experienced in many specialty styles and clips for all sizes and breeds. If your dog is a little shy, nervous, or apprehensive – don’t worry. While in my care, your pet will receive the individual attention and tender loving care that it deserves.

Karina Heredia
Dog Groomer
My Doggies Daycare

I’ve always been an animal lover. My family adopted their first dog when I was two and we had him for sixteen years.  He was a white wheaton terrier with long gray ears.  I grew up loving and learning from our pets.  I honestly don’t remember a time when we didn’t have a furry friend.  I recently rescued a 2-year-old pit bull. His name is Butch and even though this breed doesn’t have the best reputation, he is a very sweet boy; both playful and loving.  He has become a very special part of my life and I am grateful to have found him.

I’ve been with My Doggies Daycare for several years now and I can honestly say I really enjoy my time there.  Before I started grooming, I had several office jobs and took a few classes trying to discover my “niche”. When I first apprenticed under a "master" groomer, I discovered that grooming a dog is a work of art.  It takes an artistic eye and a lot of patience to do what groomers do.  It really makes me feel proud when I see how good a dog looks after I finish grooming him or her. 

I am experienced in all breed cuts and can customize any trim to meet your specific needs. Please be assured that I will always do my best to ensure your boy or girl has a good grooming experience and lots of hugs and kisses from me!

Camden Norman
Office Supervisor
My Doggies Daycare

Place of Birth: Atwood Illinois
Pets: Memphis & Champ (silver labs)
Favorite part of the job: Getting to meet/greet our canine friends every day, and visiting with their parents.
Hobbies: Going for walks on the beach with her dogs, going to the firing range and going to the gym.
Special Talent: Making clients and visitors at MDD feel welcome. Accomplishing any new task that is asked of her. In the office, Camden is "the glue that holds us together". She is accurate, fast and keeps us all on our toes!

Our Staff is Certified in Pet First Aid & CPR
dfdfdf

We all know the undeniable strength
of the human-animal bond. For many
of us it is so strong that our pets
are considered a part of our family.
Every day at MDD we are entrusted
with the care of our clients
four-legged “kids” and we take this
responsibility very seriously.
Click here to read more...

aaa My Doggies Daycare is licensed, bonded and insured. We are also members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), the National Association of Professional Petsitters (NAPPS) and certified in pet first aid.

If you would like to contact any of us at
My Doggies Daycare,
please feel free to stop by,
email: infomdd@mydoggiesdaycare.com
or call 949.709.4600.