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Meet The Team

Certified Professionals | Background Checked

Our Professional Team

We choose pet sitters and dog trainers who have excellent people and pet sitting skills. Connecting quickly even during the first one-on-one meeting with your pets. Our pet sitting/dog walking team goes through a rigorous hiring and training process. They go through online training which covers modules on animal behavior, safety, and animal health.

Our dog trainers, dog walkers, and pet sitters are committed to developing a personal and long-term relationship with your pet.

Before pet sitting/dog walking services begin, we’ll match you up with just the right dog walker or pet sitter and set up an appointment for a private meet-and-greet in your home so you can get to know your pet’s new caregiver and discuss your pet’s individual needs.

Our Dog Training team can give you the skills and the knowledge to better manage your dog. Expert Board and Train Services in a Home-Like Environment, and Personalized In-Home Dog Training: Tailored Solutions for Puppies and Adult Dogs.

This is our commitment to uphold and go beyond our industry-standard of care. We are continuing looking for ways to improve our staff knowledge.

2 Paws Up Inc Employee Creed

At 2 Paws Up Inc, we are more than just a team of pet enthusiasts; we are dedicated professionals committed to providing exceptional pet sitting, dog walking, and dog training services. Our mission is to enrich the lives of both pets and their owners through responsible and compassionate care. To guide our actions and uphold our values, we proudly recite our Employee Creed:

Compassion Drives Us

We understand that every pet is unique, and we treat them with the same love and care as if they were our own. Compassion is at the core of everything we do.

Safety First

The well-being and safety of the pets entrusted to our care are our utmost priority. We adhere to strict safety protocols and never compromise on the welfare of our furry clients.

Professionalism Always

We maintain the highest standards of professionalism in all interactions, from punctuality and appearance to communication with pet owners. We are dedicated to earning and maintaining trust.

Lifelong Learning

We stay up-to-date with the latest industry knowledge and techniques. Continuous learning and self-improvement are essential to providing the best possible care and training for our clients’ pets.

Integrity Unwavering

Our integrity is non-negotiable. We are honest, trustworthy, and transparent in our actions, decisions, and dealings with clients, colleagues, and the community.

Reliability Matters

We understand that pet owners rely on us, and we take that responsibility seriously. We strive to consistently exceed expectations, providing peace of mind to those who entrust their pets to our care.

Team Spirit

We are more than just colleagues; we are a family united by our love for animals. We support each other, communicate openly, and collaborate to deliver the best possible service.

Adaptability

Every pet is different, and every situation unique. We adapt to the changing needs of our clients and their pets, ensuring flexibility and personalized care.

Community Engagement

We are active members of our local community and actively participate in efforts to improve the lives of pets and their owners. Giving back is part of our commitment to making a positive impact.

Passion for Pets

Our love for animals is the driving force behind our work. We find joy in the companionship and care of pets and share that enthusiasm with the world.

By upholding this Employee Creed, we ensure that 2 Paws Up Inc remains a trusted and respected name in pet care. We embrace the responsibility of making pets and their owners’ lives better, one paw at a time.

Barbie - 2 Paws up inc owner

Barbie Klapp

Founder & CEO

After completing my Master of Business Administration, I discovered my passion for entrepreneurship. I channeled this passion into crafting an extensive business plan for pet sitting, dog walking, and dog training. In August 2003, after earning my MBA, I brought my vision to life and founded 2 Paws Up Inc. Later, I expanded the business to include Dog Training.

My love for animals has always been a driving force in my life. Working with animals brings me immense joy, and the wagging tails and content expressions of my four-legged friends affirm that I’m living my dream.

Over the years, 2 Paws Up Inc has experienced remarkable growth, and I take pride in helping pet owners and their beloved animals. In my previous roles, from assistant manager to loan closer, I’ve learned valuable skills like handling diverse personalities, problem-solving on the go, and making decisions that lead to positive outcomes for everyone involved.

At present, I share my life with two dogs Winston and Gigi. Animals have always been an integral part of my world, and I believe that nurturing and caring for them has a profound impact on individuals and communities. As Gandhi wisely said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral program can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

When I’m not caring for pets, you’ll find me exploring the great outdoors. I love taking dogs, maybe even a cat, on exciting walks, ensuring they have a fantastic time while staying fit and healthy. I’m also a water enthusiast, and when the weather permits, my life partner, and best friend Michael can be found sailing.

I’m thrilled to get to know you and your beloved pets. Together, we’ll embark on a journey of joy, adventure, and care!

Leadership Support Team

Teresa Benbow

Teresa Benbow

Client Relations Manager: Expertly Orchestrating Schedules and HR Matters

Hi! I’m Teresa. I have a husband and 4 daughters – 2 human daughters (both currently in college), and 2 spoiled furry daughters (Dixie, my miniature poodle, and Callie, my Bichon poodle mix)! My husband and I moved to Georgia over 21 years ago from the Denver area to start our family and love this area so much, we never left!

I have an extensive human resources and office management background, where most recently I worked for an educational technology/software company handling facilities and office functions for two locations. In my professional life, I enjoy trying to bring organization and structure to everyone’s day-to-day activities.

In my free time I love cooking, reading mystery/thriller books, jigsaw puzzles and non-stop cuddling with my furry girls!

Beverly - 2 Paws Up Inc.

Beverly Adams

Social Media Manager

Hi, I’m Beverly. My husband and I recently moved from San Diego California to explore this part of the country and be closer to my grandson, Sammy. I married my high school sweetheart 32 years ago and have two grown children.

I am an avid football fan and love to travel and experience new cultures especially the food.

I currently have one fur baby named Bailee. She is a super sweet Maltipoo with a fun-loving spirit. I have always had dogs and cats all my life, including 4 German Shepards who hold a special place in my heart.

Beverly - 2 Paws Up Inc.
Hallie

Halle Teele 

Dog Trainer

Hi! My name is Halle and I’m the dog trainer for 2 Paws Up Inc. I’ve been a dog trainer since June of 2022 and have loved it ever since! I have also worked at a doggy daycare/boarding facility for almost 2 years and as a dog bather for 8 months. When I’m not busy with training and taking care of dogs, you can find me in college where I’m studying to become a veterinary technician. I love being able to learn more and more about dogs and pets from all parts of the pet care industry.

I have 5 dogs and 2 cats of my own – a westie, corgi mix, beagle mix, lab/pitty/terrier/boxer mix (all of which are the family dogs), and my personal dog named Guinness who is a bernedoodle. I was lucky to adopt Guinness from a previous dog training job. As for my cats, I have a domestic shorthair named Solstice and a domestic longhair named Wally. I have been around animals all of my life and it is my passion to help and care for them any way I can!

Meet Our Pet Care Specialist Team

Brooklyn- our professional team

Brooklyn Ruge

Field Training Manager: Cultivating Pet Sitters, Dog Walkers, and Dog Trainers

Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets

Hi! I’m Brooklyn, originally from Ohio but have lived in Georgia most of my life. I’m a wife of 8 years and have 4 fur babies – 2 dogs (Dakota -Alaskan malamute and Nova-husky German shepherd mix) and 2 cats (Selena and Harley).

I love spending time with my pets and with my family and friends, especially my nieces and nephews.

I’m an extreme animal lover of all kinds. I’m excited to meet and take care of your pets and I’m excited to be a part of the 2 Paws Up team!

Brooklyn certificate of completion for mini course safe pet sitting in hot weather june 2024
Brooklyn
Brooklyn Ruge Certificate Petsit Pro
Brooklyn Ruge Certificate of Completion Mini Course Caring for a Pet with Diabetes
Brooklyn Ruge Certificate of Completion Mini Course Avoiding and Breaking Up Dog Fights
Brooklyn Ruge Certificate of Completion Pet-Care Basics Cat 101
Stacy Pet Sitter

Stacy

Pet Care Specialist: Your Trusted Companion’s Guardian
Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets

Hi, I’m Stacy! I’m a Georgia native – have lived here all my life. My great love of animals began as a young child. My grandparents had a working farm in rural south Georgia, complete with livestock, as well as cats and dogs. I currently have an African Grey parrot, a blue front Amazon, and 2 Australian red rump parrots.

In addition to my birds, I also have 9 dogs, and 5 cats, with most of them being rescues. I have a special place in my heart for rescues and the seniors. In my spare time, I love to crochet, bake and listen to classic rock music.

I look forward to meeting you and your fur kids, and taking great care of them!

Stacy Pet Sitter
petsit pro stacy
Kymberly our professional team

Kymberly

Pet Care Specialist: Your Trusted Companion’s Guardian
Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets

Hi! My name is Kymberly. I’m a native Georgian and have always had pets to take care of. I currently have three pets of my own, a big dog (Bear) and two cats (Midget and Moe)…I’m a HUGE pet lover of all kinds.

In my free time, I also enjoy reading books and listening to music. I look forward to taking care of your furry family!

Kymberly our professional team
Kymberly Nelson Petsit Pro Certificate
Brooklyn
2 Paws Team Natalie

Natalie

Pet Care Specialist: Your Trusted Companion’s Guardian
Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets

Hi! I’m Natalie! I’ve lived in Georgia for five years now but am originally from Ohio. My husband and I have moved around quite a bit but we just recently settled in the Lawrenceville area.

Primarily I am an actress, but my previous jobs include pet sitting and working at the Columbus Zoo in Powell, Ohio. I’ve always had an avid love for animals, especially cats, birds, and dogs. We have one cat named Solo, she’s a 7 year old tabby with a crazy personality (to say the least).

In my spare time, I love to cook, paint, fish, and write music/plays. I look forward to meeting with you and taking great care of your fur babies!

Natalie Petsit Pro Certificate
Natalie Petsit Pro Certificate
Natalie Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets
Natalie Petsit Pro Certificate
Kymberly our professional team

Jamira

Pet Care Specialist: Your Trusted Companion’s Guardian

Hello fellow furry friend lovers! My name is Jamira and I am an uprising senior at The University of West Georgia. I’m a Film and Video Production major with a concentration on Sound Design.

Some fun hobbies of mine include video games, knitting, and watching anything Gordon Ramsey! Besides that, I am an absolute animal lover. I’m that person who will point out every animal that has their head poking out of a window or on the sidewalk.

I’ve never had a pet in my life unfortunately, so I live vicariously through family members and friends’ pets.  Although that fact won’t stop me from giving clients the peace and mind of taking care of their lovely pets. I plan to be a pet’s haven when I get a suitable home and give as many cats and dogs another chance at life.

It will be a pleasure to meet everyone and the four-legged ones as well!

Kymberly our professional team
Aubrey

Aubrey

Pet Care Specialist: Your Trusted Companion’s Guardian
Certified in First Aid and CPR for Pets

Hi! My name is Aubrey. I was born and raised here in Georgia and I’m an animal lover through and through! I grew up with lots of 4 legged friends around! Now, I have 2 fur babies, a Ragamese kitten (Cecelia) and a Goldendoodle (Willow) – both are rescues and best buds!

I am a college student majoring in Communications, ultimately planning to continue my studies after graduation in Registered Nursing. I find joy in caring for others, as well as caring for animals! 

I’m extremely passionate about art, music, design, and of course pets! I’m super excited to meet your fur family as I lend a hand in their care!

Aubrey Petsit Pro Certificate

Providing True Peace of Mind by Keeping Your Pets Safe, Healthy and Happy!

You can call us at 770-695.3096