About Our Team

Meet the Owner of York Professional Pet Sitting

Morag

Morag

OWNER - LEADER OF THE PACK

Hello, I am Morag, owner and operator of York Professional Pet Sitting Inc. since May 2000. I am hoping this page gives you an opportunity to get to know a bit more about me and my extraordinary team of pet care professionals who are entering your home and caring for your beloved pets when you can’t be there.

All team members are bonded and insured under the company policy and all have been carefully chosen for their love of animals, reliability, responsibility, and compassion.

Many people think that pet care is easy. You just go in and walk the dog, or feed the cat right? NO – very wrong. There is an enormous responsibility in caring for someone else’s pet and home.  Many pets get anxious when their “pet parents” are away. Being in their own familiar environment helps tremendously, however, it is the caring, compassionate and nurturing nature of our team that helps make your pet less stressed and less anxious. We know they are missing you and that we will never take your place but we put ourselves as the role of “grandparents” (although we are all too young for that :-)) by giving them lots of undivided attention, exercise, TLC and most importantly keeping their routine as close to normal as possible. Apart from that, it is a 365 day a year job in all and any kind of weather. My team is dedicated to their job and the well being of the pets they are caring for and respectful of your home.

We are proud to have WON the Era Banner Readers Choice Award consecutively from 2013 to 2019.   The Toronto Pet Daily Readers Choice Award for Best in “Dog Walking” and “In-home boarding” in 2012 and 2015.    We were honoured to receive the “Round of A-Paws” award and the “Pet’icularly Awesome Award” from the town of Newmarket for being part of building our community.

Now a bit about me. I was born and raised in South East London, England, and moved to Canada with my parents in 1972. I am blessed with 2 amazing adult children, and recently an adorable grandson and cute as a button grand-daughter.

York Professional Pet Sitting is my passion and I am enjoying watching it grow and meeting wonderful new people and pets on a regular basis. I love hearing that Pet Owners no longer worry about their “fur kids” when they are away because we are taking care of them.   I work hard to make sure we are up-to-date on the latest in the pet world and love to be able to give back to our community.   Giving back to our community is important and wherever possible try to give back to our wonderful community.   We sponsor a night at Inn From the Cold, have done fundraising events for the Women’s Centre, Breast Cancer, several rescues and the Newmarket Food Pantry.    We have sponsored the Jr. Rookie team at the Newmarket Baseball Association.

Although I have had a variety of pets over my lifetime.   Since the beginning of the business my husband Glenn and I have been owned by 2 amazing Labrador Retrievers, Bob and Ben.   You can read more about them and their legacies in their own bios. I also enjoy swimming, reading, writing, dining out (especially patios in the summer); I am an active member of the Newmarket Chamber of Commerce, Petsittingology, Pet Sitters International, PIJAC ( Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada) and the Model A Owners Club of Canada.  Glenn and I love touring in the old cars during the summer months. Travel is also a passion of mine, whether local or further afield.  We have not had much opportunity to do that since I started York Professional Pet Sitting Inc, as growing and maintaining a new business is more than a full-time job. However, I am hoping to travel more in the future with such great team members to entrust the business too while I am gone.

I look forward to meeting you and your pet one day.

 

Meet our Team of Exceptional Professional Pet Care Providers!

All of our team members are Bonded, insured and trained in Pet 1st Aid and CPR. They continue to take courses to improve their knowledge of pet behaviour, health, and safety. They have been carefully chosen for their love of animals and their dedication to providing pets with the same love, care and dedication they give their own pets.

Management

Lorrie

Lorrie

Operations Manager/ Professional Dog Walker/ Pet Care Provider

Shannon

Shannon

Client Care

Professional Staff

Debra

Debra

Professional Dog Walker/ Pet Care Provider

Lindsay

Lindsay

Professional Dog Walker/ Pet Care Provider

Krista

Krista

Professional Dog Walker/ Pet Care Provider

Cheryll

Cheryll

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Elizabeth

Elizabeth

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Leigh

Leigh

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Eitan

Eitan

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Melissa/Mel

Melissa/Mel

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Sandra

Sandra

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Madisyn

Madisyn

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Alexie

Alexie

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Josée

Josée

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Deborah

Deborah

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Veronica

Veronica

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

April

April

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Cameron

Cameron

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Our Ben

Our Ben

Social Director/ Goofball/ Winter Desk Foot warmer

Bob The Dog

Bob The Dog

Original Founder and Best Dog EVER

Glenn

Glenn

Co-Founder/ Husband

Lorrie

Lorrie

Operations Manager / Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Lorrie has lived in and around this area since she was 2. She’s always known she wanted to work with and be around animals and is most happy when doing so. She’s had many pets over the years, including horses, dogs, cats, and fish, plus the grasshoppers, crickets, and beetles that she kept in terrariums in her family’s basement and shed. Shhh, don’t tell her father, he still doesn’t know to this day.

Lorrie started working part-time at the Ontario Humane Society, while still in high school. After 8 years of employment, spent between the shelter and vet clinic, and becoming shelter supervisor, the Aurora location closed down and Lorrie moved on. She worked at a dog boarding facility until becoming pregnant and staying home to raise her son, she also had a bad car accident and injured her back. Unfortunately, her horseback riding days were over. Looking to get back into working again, Lorrie took a position at a Thoroughbred horse farm. After a couple of years, she was managing the farm of 23 Thoroughbreds, some mares and foals, 4 Quarter horses, as well as overseeing the horses at the track. Sadly, her employer sold the property and new owners took over. Lorrie stayed with them for 4 years and then left to work at a horse boarding facility in Uxbridge. Herniated discs caused Lorrie to resign and look for something better for her back in 2015, and joined the team at York Professional Pet Sitting. In 2018 Lorrie’s back got the better of her again and she had to stop her dog walking duties. Being such a valuable team member she was given the role of operations manager where she oversees all team members and scheduling clients visits.

Lorrie is married to a great guy, Ray, who she’s still trying to house train, and has a fantastic son, Nicholas and an adorable grandson, Tyson. Lorrie volunteers with the Canadian Cancer Society, WWF, Heart, and Stroke and is a blood donor. If there’s an animal around, you’ll find Lorrie. Yes, she is that crazy lady in the middle of the road making sure the turtle gets to the other side safely!

Debra

Debra

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

I was so lucky that Deb found us in 2008.  She has been a valuable team member ever since.

Deb was born in Montreal and has been married to Jeff for over 20 years. Jeff is from Worcester Ma. They have a son David who recently graduated from Adrian College in Michigan.

They have lived in Newmarket since 1994 and have been very active in the community working for various sports organizations. The whole family loves sports and Deb plays baseball and golf.

Deb has loved nature, wildlife, and animals since she was a young girl. She is passionate about protecting the habitats of all animals and has been a member of the world wildlife fund and humane society for many years. Deb has had many pets in my life including hamsters, rabbits, fish, birds, dogs, and cats and they are currently live with 2 cats named Kingpin and Fox which her son named when he was 4 years old.

Deb has enjoyed traveling to many countries to experience native birds and animals and hopes to travel to Africa on safari one day.

She is a wonderful addition to our team and when she is caring for the pets her passion shines through and they know it.

Deb has a regular route of Monday-Friday clients and is always willing to help out with any extra clients on weekends and holidays when needed.

Lindsay

Lindsay

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Animals are the purest, greatest joy in the world and that is why I feel so fortunate I get to spend my time with them. 

Shannon

Shannon

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Shannon has had pets her entire life and can’t imagine living without one. She just loves being around animals and has always had cats and have had a variety of dogs, including Rottweilers and German Shepherds. Shannon and her family currently have a cat, Ty, who would not be very happy about a dog being brought into the family scheme, no matter how much her kids beg. Ty defiantly rules the roost.

Shannon lives in Aurora and is married with 3 kids who are completely obsessed with animals and sports. In her downtime, you can usually find Shannon at her kids’ soccer, baseball and dance classes.

Cole

Cole

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Cole was born and raised in Newmarket. His first vivid memory of pets was touching an 18ft Burmese python at an animal expo when he was very young.

Cole presently has quite a mix of pets. Chloe, his Pug/Boston Terrier cross, a Saharan Uromastyx . Scar, a Crested Gecko, Magao, a Cave Gecko, Pancake, his Bearded Dragon and Kiwi, a Green Cheek Conure.

He has spent a lot of time volunteering at Sticks and Bones in Innisfil, where he has had a lot of success working with timid, fearful rescues, and getting them to trust and come to him. Cole really hopes to open his own
dog rescue in the future.

Cole is also a supporter of Doctors Without Borders and in his spare time enjoys playing guitar, going to concerts and training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Krista

Krista

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Krista was born and raised in Prince Edward Island. Her Dad was a livestock dealer, so there were always dogs, cats, rabbits, goats, horses and cows around the farm. She has never been without a cat and/or a dog.

Krista moved to Newmarket in 2012 with her husband, two kids and their cat and dog. Sadly both her cat and dog have since passed, but they are proudly owned by a Russian Blue cat named Georgie, and are excitedly waiting to bring home their new “baby”, a Golden Retriever puppy.

Krista is a Certified Personal Trainer, and when she’s not playing with dogs and cats, she can be found at her home fitness studio, training her clients. In her spare time, she enjoys working out, biking the trails, hiking in the woods and spending time with family and friends. Krista loves meeting and caring for all her new furry friends as well.

Cheryll

Cheryll

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Cheryll has lived in our area for 27 years. Born and raised in Scarborough, she has many amazing memories of family pets, especially her Nanny’s Chihuahua, Judy. Cheryll’s Nanny used to make outfits for Judy to keep her warm, and though Cheryll was still young, it was the start of Cheryll’s lifelong love for dogs and all animals.

Cheryll went on to rescue many dogs, her first being a Chihuahua that she named Judy2. Then came Molly, the sweetest and most loving Cocker Spaniel/Hound mix. After a long life of 17 years, Molly passed. The boss where Cheryll’s husband works found a pregnant stray on the street and took her in. Once her puppies were weaned, “Brandy” moved in with Cheryll and her family. Next came Bailey, another case of a pregnant dog found on the street and Bailey was one of the puppies. When Brandy passed at 19, Cheryll saw a dog named Brandy, at a rescue facility and knew it was meant to be. Renamed Shandi, and with some neurological issues, Cheryll adopted her and she’s doing fantastic, she and Bailey are inseparable.

One of Cheryll’s many breakthroughs with animals occurred with Shandi. They were told that Shandi couldn’t go up and down stairs due to her issues. Cheryll’s family slowly worked with Shandi and now after a year she is able to go up and down full staircases, get up on the couch and runs and plays.

Cheryll volunteers for TEAM Dog rescue doing reference calls and house visits. She’s volunteered and done fundraising for the ALS Society for many years, as well as being a supporter of mental health. In her very limited spare time, Cheryll likes to watch movies with her husband and dogs, go for long walks and hikes, and support her son’s baseball and hockey teams. She also loves baking, especially cake decorating and is going to start baking homemade dog treats.

Cheryll finds working with animals so rewarding in many ways. “They love and support unconditionally and working with them is full of challenges and amazing experiences. Bonding with animals is so different then bonding with humans and the rewards are amazing. Animals have helped me though some very tough times and that is so rewarding in itself.”

Elizabeth

Elizabeth

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Elizabeth was born and raised in Toronto.   Her love for animals started at a young age after she began riding ponies in local fairs when she was 3.  Cats joined the family unit, and at 5, Elizabeth was enrolled in riding lessons.  Dogs were also adopted a few years later.  As with most farms dogs and cats, plus other animals, were a part of everyday life, so Elizabeth was well involved in their care which continued after her and her mother purchased a farm of their own.  Elizabeth is proud to have worked with the Olympic Equestrian team for 15 years, as well as competing herself.

One day, while living on her farm, a mother racoon arrived on the porch looking for food for herself and her babies.  Once food and water were placed down, the racoon summoned her babies and they all enjoyed their meal.  A mutual respect and trust formed over a month and when the kits were able to venture out on their own, they all happily returned to nature.  Elizabeth found the bond and trust placed upon her to be truly magical.

Elizabeth loves being around all animals because they bring love, compassion and they are real in everything, their moods, their fears and their joys.

In her spare time, Elizabeth enjoys hiking in the forest, learning new things, music, meditating and colouring.  She supports the Anthony Robbins Foundation and while learning and training with Anthony Robbins, she has learned that giving back, in whatever way, greatly influences her.  Elizabeth is very glad when spending her time with animals because they’ve been such a part of her life and give her so much joy.

Leigh

Leigh

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

My life is better when dogs are part of it! I love spending my afternoons being outdoors exercising, exploring new trails and neighbourhoods, and connecting with all my doggie friends. Being part of their day brings me joy and I hope to bring joy to their lives. 🐾

Melissa/Mel

Melissa/Mel

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

I have lived in Aurora all my life, and have always wanted a pet of my own. Even as a little girl I took every excuse I could to be around animals, and as a recently graduated university student, I still look for that excuse. I am currently studying to apply for Dental School, and am grateful for the joy I get from caring for animals, it’s a perfect stress reliever:) I absolutely adore caring for and being around pets, so I can not wait to get to know all your loveable furry friends!

Sandra

Sandra

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

My Name is Sandra and I’m an avid animal lover and work part-time in the medical field. I have grown up with many pets and caring for local wildlife since I was a child. I’m also a Pharmacy Technician at a local hospital for over 10 years and love caring for my 2 babies Rag-doll Kitties, Sgt. Pepper and Abbey Road.

During my spare time I love hiking, playing with friends and families pets, going to the movies, enjoying music and social gatherings. I am a very empathetic and loving person and fall in love with all kinds of furry kids very quickly.

I’d like to care for your babies and make them feel as cared for as you do, to put both yourself, and pets at ease.

Madisyn

Madisyn

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Madisyn was born and raised in Newmarket, Ontario. Growing up, pets have always been apart of her family. Madisyn just graduated from the University of Guelph and while studying for her LSAT, decided what she loves most- being with her four-legged friends. When not with her own tabby cat, Ren, Madisyn would love to spend time with your furry family members. I just hope they will love me as much as I will love them 🙂

Eitan

Eitan

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

I was born in Israel and grew up on a communal farm (Kibbutz), where I was able to live among and take care of farm animals. I love and respect all creatures (and feel more comfortable among them than most humans, if I am to be honest).

As an adult, I opened a pet store, mostly for pet supplies and food, and was one of the first people in the country to import high-quality pet food. I educated customers about the importance of healthy diets for pets. I also volunteered at the local Humane Society.

After moving to Canada, I worked and managed various pet stores, and volunteered for years in a dog rescue and sanctuary.

I am trained as a Force Free dog trainer and in Therapeutic Dog Training. I am extremely excited for this opportunity to go back to work with dogs and cats

Josée

Josée

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

I was born and raised in Gatineau, a town just outside of Ottawa, but I have now called Newmarket my home for many years. One of my favourite things to do is exploring new neighbourhoods and hiking trails while meeting up with new furry friends. I love being around animals and taking care of them, and I look forward to meeting all your beloved pets!

Deborah

Deborah

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

After a long-standing career as a Senior Account Manager in the placement industry, I now look forward to my part-time role, knowing each day that I am making your dogs/pets day brighter.
  
My love for dogs goes without saying! I grew up with dogs my whole life, and became even more fond of them as I grew older.  I am very passionate about promoting the physical and emotional well-being of your pet and love getting to know their personalities along the way while enjoying the active lifestyle that comes along with it.
Veronica

Veronica

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Being around animals never fails to make me smile. Ever since I could speak, I begged my parents for a dog, and I finally got my sweet, beautiful Luna 11 years ago. My little lady and I have always been there for each other, and she’s my absolute best friend. I know this isn’t a unique experience, and I know how much everyone’s pets mean to them. I am so happy I get to hang out with pets all day and be a part of their day. I always fall in love with every pet I visit, and it is so rewarding to get some of that love in return.
Alexie

Alexie

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

Hello my name is Alexie and I am very passionate about all sorts of  animals! I grew up with a mom who is a breeder and I was always attending dog shows and helping in the ring! Your Fur Babies are in good hands as I understand what it feels like to love your pets so much… sometimes more than people!

My fiancé and I have 5 kids, 2 American bulldogs pocket size, Pearl and Pretty and one old tabby cat, Franklin 🙂 We all love all sorts of animals! I am a registered nurse and believe animals are the best therapy! I can’t wait to meet your pet and have some amazing adventures! 

April

April

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

I grew up in the country where my love of animals began. We always had cats and dogs and the occasional bird in our home. 

That carried into my adult life where my family and I had been blessed with loving two adopted cats and an amazing dog named Shadow. Currently we have 2 very handsome and spoiled dogs, Cooper and Hudson, both rescues. 

Since I started working with Morag and this great team, I have enjoyed spending time with so many adorable furry kids and exploring all of the neighborhoods and trails with your pups and spending time with your cats as well. 

My day is always brighter when I’m spending it with your furry family members!

Cameron

Cameron

Professional Dog Walker/Pet Care Provider

My passion for animals started at a young age while growing up in Newmarket where I was born and raised. Animals’ playful and joyful nature always brings a smile to my face. Caring for pets seemed like a natural career path, so when the chance to work at YPPS arose, it was an easy decision. Though currently petless, I look forward to adding an Australian Shepherd puppy named Willow to my family.

Outside of work, I embrace my creative side as a professional photographer. I also love sports and enjoy being active outdoors, listening to music, and spending quality time with friends and family. I am excited to bond with clients’ beloved furry companions at YPPS.

Bob The Dog

Bob The Dog

Original Founder and Best Dog EVER

Sadly Bob has now passed on and crossed over the rainbow bridge to run free with all the other pets that have gone before him. He was the best dog and lived a long and happy 14 1/2 years.
 
Bob was our social director from the beginning of York Professional Pet Sitting in March 2000 – September 2012.
He was an adorable Chocolate Labrador Retriever that Glenn brought home when he was just 6 weeks old and they were inseparable. 
 
Bob’s favourite food was FOOD – anything, anytime. He started reminding us that dinner time is at 5:00, at about 4:00.
 
Bob’s favourite toys were his orange treat ball with some kibble in it, bones, and he loved his stuffed penguin and a bunny rabbit.
 
Bob’s favourite thing to do until he was about 13 was to go on Glenn’s route with him and hang out with us. If we were in two separate rooms of the house, he would lay in the middle as he could never pick who he would rather be with. He used to love riding in the rumble seat of our Model A Ford, but as he aged it got very hard for him to get up and in it anymore, so the front seat it was.  
 
He will forever be in our hearts. 
Ben

Ben

Social Director/Goofball/Winter Desk Foot warmer

The one whole stole my heart and broke it

After Bob left us, it wasn’t long before we missed the pitter patter of little paws around the house. Even though we feel we have hundreds of “grand-dogs” with our clients’ pets, we just could not get used to coming home and not being greeted by a wagging tail and kissy dog. Watching TV at night without a dog curled up at our feet was just not the same.

After much consideration and research, Glenn decided on a puppy from Cawara Labs in Newmarket. Luckily there was a litter due in October 2013 and on October 24th, Ben’s Mum “Molly Maid” gave birth to a lovely litter of Black Labs. Ben and Glenn were inseparable and like Bob, Ben loved to travel with Glenn in the Model A, sitting like a perfect gentleman, and he was the hit of local car shows. Ben also took a liking to dock diving, and being a Lab, it didn’t take much convincing for him to jump in the water and retrieve a toy.

Ben was a crazy knucklehead. He drove me nuts at times with his counter surfing, bouncing and pulling.

For 5 years he kept the kitchen floor spotless (except for his never ending shedding), he kept us entertained with his goofiness, he cleaned make up off my face and any lotion that was on my legs was gone in a minute. I couldn’t do my nails in front of him because for some bizarre reason he clearly thought the nail file was hurting me. Glenn and I couldn’t hug or kiss, yell, get angry or cry – because it was Ben’s job to make sure the house was peaceful and that he was the centre of attention. Unless of course the doorbell rang then it was his job to protect us from everything or anything … oh who am I kidding, he thought it was the pizza man bringing us food and wanted to greet him.

He was lovingly called a bucking bronco, goofball, knucklehead, Tigger and crazyman.

One toy in Ben’s mouth was never enough. 2 was always preferred but the more toys he could fit in his mouth the better and he entertained us trying to get them all in his mouth at once.

He was so handsome and he knew it. His jet black coat was so shiny and his big block head, no matter where we took him, people just had to comment on his good looks.

At all the are car shows he went to with Glenn, the eyes didn’t really care about the car it was the handsome dog in the passenger seat who got all the attention

Sadly at the young age of 5 Ben developed Osteosarcoma in his ribs. He very quickly went from a happy, bouncy, goofy young lab to a very tired and sick boy. It was devastating to watch him go down hill so quickly at such a young age. Despite our best efforts to keep him pain free and with us just a little longer, we could not allow him to suffer anymore so on September 30th 2019 we said a very tearful goodbye and sent him across a rainbow bridge.

To this day thinking of him brings tears to my eyes and an ache in my heart, then I remember his goofiness and smile.

Glenn

Glenn

Co-Founder/Husband

Glenn was instrumental in starting the business.   He was directly involved in setting up the structure of the business, designing logo’s etc., even before he moved to Canada to marry Morag.    Once Glenn moved here in 2002 he enjoyed his own route of furry friends for him and Bob to enjoy walking while staying involved in the administration side.   
 
In 2012, Glenn retired from the business to start his own Professional Pet Photography Business (Glenn Willcox Photography)  focusing on pet photography and specifically getting wonderful shots of rescue dogs to give them a better chance of adoption.   He was very successful and enjoyed giving back to the community.   
 
In 2018, Glenn retired from his photography business to be dragged out occasionally to provide professional photographs for York Professional Pet Sitting’s Yappy Hour with Santa.     We hope to continue to drag him out for many years to come.
York Professional Pet Sitting Logo

Subscribe To Our Newsletter!