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9 to 5 Pets

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Meet Our Dedicated Pet Care Team

We believe it takes a dedicated team to deliver quality services you and your pets can depend on 24/7/365. 9 to 5 Pets attracts local, loving, dependable, and experienced pet care professionals who are committed to building a long-term relationship with you and your pets.

Our pet care professionals go through a very thorough screening, vetting, and training process before they earn a spot on our team. We require stellar references, a clean background check, and Pet CPR, First Aid & Care certification.

Our pet care professionals also continue to grow their skills and knowledge base through an online training and education system we provide them called “PETSIT PRO” which focuses on animal safety and handling, behavior & communication, and health & wellness. At 9 to 5 Pets, we are committed to empowering our team in the field and keeping the pets we care for safe.

Certified Pet Care Professionals

Passionate and Experienced Team Members

Jordan, Ashton, Bennett
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Jordan Niemiec

Client Service Manager

Hi, I’m Jordan!

I’m a stay-at-home mom to my son Bennett, and the Client Service Manager here at 9 to 5 Pets. I grew up outside of Philadelphia, and have been in the Jacksonville area for about 2 years now. I have always wanted to escape the cold, so being able to call this coastal town home is a dream! Most days you’ll find me spending time with my family and friends, chasing after my little one, enjoying the Florida sunshine, or hanging out with our fur baby, Cash.

I have always had a heart for both people and animals, so being able to combine those passions in my role here at 9 to 5 Pets is incredible rewarding. Animals have always been such a large part of my life! I’ve grown up around both dogs and cats, and me and my husband currently have our Pitbull, Cash, who keeps us laughing every day. Over the past year, we’ve cared for pets through Rover, giving me firsthand experience working with a variety of breeds, personalities, and pet care needs. These experiences have only strengthened my love for animals and my understanding of the trust pet parents place in those caring for them.

Before joining 9 to 5 Pets, I gained experience in customer service, scheduling, communication, and client support through several customer-facing roles. Those experiences taught me the importance of clear communication, organization, attention to detail, and building strong relationships with clients.

I was drawn to 9 to 5 Pets because it combines two things I’m passionate about: helping people and caring for animals! I understand how much trust it takes to leave your pets in someone else’s care, and I am overjoyed to be apart of a team that treats every pet like family.

My strongest qualities are my reliability, compassion, communication skills, and truly just genuine love for every human and every animal. I strive to make every interaction positive, helpful, and stress-free for our clients.

My promise to you is simple: I will always do my best to provide exceptional service, support our team, and help ensure your pets receive the loving, dependable care they deserve. Your pets are family, and we are so honored to care for them!

Certified Pet Care Professionals

Passionate and Experienced Pet Sitters

Alex Hills
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Alex Hills

Pack Leader

Service Areas:

32225, 32246, 32224, 32233, 32266, 32250, 32082

Greetings! My name is Alex. I moved from South Florida to Jacksonville in 2005 where I attended the University of North Florida. I quickly fell in love with the Jacksonville Beaches and surrounding communities, so I knew I was sticking around after graduation. I completed a degree in education, and quickly accepted a teaching position with an elementary school in Mandarin, where I taught math and science for nearly 10 years! My free time is typically spent enjoying my backyard, but I also pass the time by gardening, playing music, and running to stay fit.

In 2007 I adopted a mixed breed puppy named George, and he has since been with me for every part of my journey. George has taught me a lot about pet ownership and all the ups and downs that it can bring. This year, he turned 16-years-old! I have shared a home with many other animals through the years, and they come and go, but George has been with me the entire time.

In 2020 a Staffordshire terrier named Mama joined the pack. Mama was found abandoned in the Jacksonville Southside area and brought to me temporarily before finding a foster home for her. The next morning I knew that she already found her home, and we started the work of adjusting her to her new life!

I will never know Mama’s history, and she came with significant physical and behavioral challenges (injury/surgery/aggression), but with care and persistence she has become a beloved part of my family. George has had a long and eventful life, but now has mobility and other issues that sometimes come with aging. My past and current experience with my own pets has given me a wide range of competency when it comes to pet care. Being a pet care professional with 9 to 5 pets allows me to provide care for the pets of other families around Jacksonville, and I look forward to doing so! You can rest assured that your family members, big or small, will be safe and happy under my care.

Mike Strong
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Mike Strong

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32225, 32246, 32224, 32233, 32266, 32250

Aloha, I’m Mike! I was born in Hawaii but grew up in North Carolina. As an adult, I had the opportunity to move back to the Islands where my wife and I raised our daughter and I spent over twenty years working in technology and marketing.

Five years ago, my wife and I made the decision to move back to Florida to be closer to our family. My wife, a teacher, is originally from Florida. Although it’s my first time living here, I’ve visited this area for decades and have a deep affection for the history and natural beauty.

My mom and dad loved animals and I have lived with cats and dogs since I was a boy. My family shares our home with two dogs and two rescue cats.

When my family went on vacation a few years ago, we hired 9 to 5 Pets to look after our pets. In-home pet care versus boarding while we were on vacation made our trip so much more enjoyable! We were updated with pictures and details letting us know what our children were up to, and that they were fine. I was so impressed with the phenomenal service, I decided that if I ever made a career change, I would love to be a part of the team that made both my family and our pets feel so secure and happy!

After this experience, it’s hard to recommend anyone board their pet if they have the option for in-home care. I’m delighted to provide your pets with the same exceptional care that 9 to 5 Pets provided my family.

Marissa Karpf
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Marissa Karpf

Pack Leader

Service Areas:

32081, 32092, 32095

Hello, I’m Marissa, and currently a student at the University of North Florida. I’m so excited to join the 9 to 5 Pets Team!  

Growing up in a loving family of four, I’ve always been surrounded by support. After moving to St. Augustine from Jacksonville, I’m enjoying the history and charm of my new hometown. In my free time, I love going to the gym, exploring downtown St. Augustine, and nature walks with friends. As a dog mom to two furry friends, I adore taking them to PetSmart for new toys.

With a passion for animals, I’ve gained valuable experience through my animal science class at Frank H. Peterson Academy and a 250-hour internship at an animal hospital. I worked as a certified vet assistant at San Marco Animal Hospital, sharpening my skills in animal care.
 
I’m committed to providing top-notch care and attention to every pet, building long-term relationships with clients, and communicating effectively to ensure the best possible care. I can’t wait to meet you and your pets! 
Briana Carter
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Briana Carter

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266

Hi! My name is Briana, but most people call me Bri. I moved to the Jacksonville area about 2 1/2 years ago from South Georgia and have loved it here! I enjoy going on walks with my fur baby to help him get in some exercise and fresh air, plus it’s nice having a companion while I take my walks! I can’t wait to help your fur babies get some fresh air and exercise (& all the treats)!

Sasha Heylock
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Sasha Heylock

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32082, 32081

Sasha comes to us with tons of private pet-sitting experience and is currently a student at Jacksonville University studying Illustration with a minor in Writing. She has two pups, Georgie and Mila, and can’t wait to meet you and your pets!

Chelsea Fagan
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Chelsea Fagan

Pack Leader

Service Areas:

32082, 32081

Hi! I’m Chelsea, and I’m so happy to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets family! Caring for animals has always been something I genuinely enjoy, and I love building relationships with both pets and the people who love them. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing I can give families peace of mind while they’re away and make their pets feel safe, comfortable, and loved at home.

Before joining 9 to 5 Pets, I spent over 16 years working in the hospitality industry, including with the Ritz-Carlton, Sawgrass Marriott, and Hilton Bayfront. Those experiences taught me the importance of exceptional customer service, attention to detail, clear communication, and treating every client with care and respect. I bring those same values into every pet care visit, because I know trusting someone with your pets and your home is a privilege.

I’ve also spent many years providing private pet sitting for families in both California and Florida, caring for pets of all breeds, sizes, personalities, and energy levels. Whether I’m taking a dog on a long walk, caring for a senior pet with a special routine, providing overnight companionship, or simply spending quality time with a shy cat, I love getting to know each pet’s unique personality and making them feel comfortable while you’re away.

Family has always been incredibly important to me, and one of the reasons I returned to Florida was to be closer to mine. Through my aunt, Kathleen, I’ve had the joy of helping care for her pets—Hank, Ginger, and Auggie—for many years. They hold a special place in my heart and remind me every day why I love what I do.

As the Pack Leader for our Ponte Vedra Beach team, I’m passionate about supporting and mentoring our pet care professionals while helping ensure every client and every pet receives the exceptional care they deserve. I believe teamwork, communication, and consistency make all the difference, and I’m proud to help create a positive experience for both our clients and our team.

I’m dependable, calm under pressure, and always strive to treat every pet as if they were my own. I look forward to meeting you and your furry family members and becoming someone both you and your pets can trust for years to come!

Lucy Dowd
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Lucy Dowd

Pack Leader

Service Areas:

32082, 32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266

Hi! I’m Lucy, and I’m so grateful to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets family! I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember, and I feel incredibly fortunate to spend my days caring for pets and giving their families peace of mind while they’re away.

I’ve always been fascinated by animals of all kinds. At home, my family includes my long-haired German Shepherd, Zeke, and Griffin, my orange cat who quite literally followed me home one day and decided he belonged with us! Over the years, I’ve also cared for fish, turtles, snakes, lizards, geckos, chickens, and many other small animals. I even raised chickens from eggs and had a crested gecko who was part of my family for 15 years. Every animal has their own personality, and one of my favorite parts of this work is getting to know what makes each one feel happy, comfortable, and loved.

I’m currently attending the University of North Florida, where I’m studying English and American Sign Language, with plans to continue on to graduate school. Before joining 9 to 5 Pets, I worked in nonprofit fundraising, where I developed strong communication and relationship-building skills while helping support causes I care deeply about. I’ve also worked as a tutor for students of all ages and spent several summers as a camp counselor in the mountains of Georgia, teaching outdoor skills, swim instruction, and caring for children in a fast-paced environment. Those experiences taught me the importance of patience, organization, adaptability, and staying calm under pressure.

As the Pack Leader for our Duval team, I enjoy helping mentor new teammates, supporting our pet care professionals in the field, and working together to ensure every client and every pet receives exceptional care. I believe that teamwork, communication, and consistency are just as important behind the scenes as they are during every visit.

I know how much trust it takes to invite someone into your home and care for your beloved pets. I never take that responsibility lightly. Whether your pet loves long walks, playtime, quiet companionship, or simply sticking to their favorite daily routine, I’ll make sure they receive the personalized attention, patience, and affection they deserve.

I look forward to meeting you and your pets and caring for them as if they were part of my own family!

Carson Nicoles
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Carson Nicoles

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32082, 32250

Hi, I’m Carson! Whether it’s four legs and a wagging tail or a loud purr, I’m here to make sure your pets thrive while you’re away.

For the pups, I offer everything from high-energy power walks to leisurely neighborhood “sniffaris” and cozy couch company.

For the kitties, I’m an expert in the fine art of string-chasing, feather-wand waving, and giving them space when they just want to supervise from afar.

I treat every animal like family, which means strictly followed routines, pristine litter boxes/bowls, and plenty of cute photo updates so you never have to wonder how they’re doing. Let’s get your furry friends the royal treatment they deserve!

Sunnie Weiss
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Sunnie Weiss

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32081, 32258, 32259, 32223, 32092, 32095

Hi! My name is Sunnie, and I’m excited to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets team!

I’m from St. Augustine, Florida, and have lived here my whole life. I love being close to the beach, looking for shark teeth, and spending time with loved ones.

I’ve grown up with pets my whole life and currently have two dogs, Mimzy and Izzy. Growing up with four dogs and four cats, along with pet sitting for friends and family, helped grow my love for animals and experience caring for pets.

I joined 9 to 5 Pets because I love animals and understand how important it is to trust someone caring for your pets. My goal is to make sure your pets feel safe, happy, and loved while you’re away!

Mckenzie
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Mckenzie Hamilton

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266

Hi! My name is Mckenzie, and I’m so excited to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets family!

Originally from Maryland, I grew up surrounded by animals and spent many years riding and caring for horses, which helped spark my lifelong love of animals. I currently attend Jacksonville University, where I’m pursuing a degree in Public Health with a minor in Psychology. When I’m not studying, you can often find me volunteering at the Jacksonville Humane Society, where I help care for cats and continue learning more about animal behavior and welfare.

I have over two years of pet sitting experience and have cared for dogs and cats of all ages, sizes, breeds, and personalities. Whether it’s a high-energy pup, a senior pet needing extra patience, or a shy kitty who prefers a gentle approach, I love getting to know each pet and making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and loved while their family is away. I’m also experienced with administering oral medications, overnight care, and maintaining each pet’s unique routine.

At home, I share my life with my rabbit, Munchkin, and over the years I’ve had the opportunity to care for many different animals, including horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, and fish. I truly believe that every pet deserves individualized attention, compassion, and lots of love.

I joined 9 to 5 Pets because I understand how important it is to trust someone with your furry family members. My goal is to provide dependable, loving care and to give pet parents peace of mind, knowing their pets are in safe and caring hands. I look forward to meeting you and your wonderful pets!

Natalie
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Natalie Atchley

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266, 32082

Hi! I’m Natalie, and I’ve been an animal lover for as long as I can remember. I truly can’t imagine a life without pets in it. Growing up along Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast in Santa Rosa Beach, I was surrounded by animals of all kinds. Over the years, my family has cared for dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hermit crabs, fish, rats, and even a bird. We’ve also fostered countless puppies and kittens, which gave me the opportunity to help care for animals with all kinds of personalities, needs, and backgrounds.

Because of my family’s close relationship with a local veterinarian, I was fortunate to learn a great deal about animal care from an early age. Those experiences helped me develop a deep appreciation for the patience, compassion, and attention every pet deserves.

Before joining 9 to 5 Pets, I provided pet sitting, dog walking, house sitting, and boarding services through Rover, where I cared for pets with a variety of routines, personalities, and care needs. Whether it’s an energetic puppy, a senior cat who enjoys a quiet companion, or a small pet with unique needs, I love getting to know each animal’s individual personality and helping them feel safe, comfortable, and loved while their family is away.

I recently relocated from Tampa to Jacksonville Beach and am so excited to become part of this wonderful community. My goal is to build a long-term career working with animals because this is truly where my passion lies. I’m always eager to continue learning and expanding my skills so I can provide the very best care possible for every pet I have the privilege of meeting.

I know how much trust it takes to leave your pets in someone else’s care, and I consider it an honor every time a family chooses me to care for theirs. I look forward to meeting you and giving your pets the same love, patience, and attention I would give my own!

Jacob and Indy
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Jake Hudson

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266, 32082

Hi, I’m Jake! I’ve had a passion for animals for as long as I can remember, and there’s nothing more rewarding to me than making sure pets feel safe, comfortable, and loved while their families are away.

I grew up right here in Jacksonville and have been surrounded by dogs and cats my entire life. Over the years, I’ve cared for pets for family, friends, and neighbors, and those experiences inspired me to pursue animal care professionally. Today, I work at a local dog daycare where I care for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and personalities through feeding, walking, playtime, and daily supervision. I’ve also been volunteering with the Jacksonville Humane Society since 2016, where I’ve gained valuable experience working with both dogs and cats while learning about animal behavior, body language, and handling pets with a wide variety of temperaments.

At home, I have a four-year-old Boxer/Great Dane mix named Indy, who keeps me active and reminds me every day why I love working with animals. Caring for her has only strengthened my appreciation for the trust pet parents place in those who look after their furry family members.

I’m naturally patient, detail-oriented, and believe every pet deserves individualized care. Whether that means following a specific feeding schedule, going on a long walk, administering medications, enjoying playtime, or simply sitting quietly to keep them company, I take pride in learning each pet’s routine and making sure they feel happy, comfortable, and secure. I believe the little details matter, so I always take the time to carefully follow your instructions and provide the same level of care I would want for my own dog.

I’m excited to continue growing my career with 9 to 5 Pets and expanding my knowledge so I can provide the very best care possible. I look forward to meeting you and your pets and treating them like they’re part of my own family!

Shelley and Beaux
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Shelley Pizani

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266, 32082

Hi! I’m Shelley, and I’m so excited to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets family! Caring for animals has always been something I truly enjoy, and I feel incredibly lucky to do work that allows me to spend my days with pets while giving their families peace of mind.

Although I was born in Jacksonville, I spent many years in New Orleans before moving back to Jacksonville about ten years ago to be closer to my family. I absolutely love living at the beach and staying active outdoors. When I’m not caring for pets, you’ll often find me coaching swimming, teaching private swim lessons, working in real estate, or spending time with my children and grandchildren.

I’ve been providing professional pet care for over five years and have had the pleasure of caring for dogs and cats of all breeds, sizes, personalities, and energy levels. Whether it’s daily dog walks, pet sitting, or simply spending quality time with a pet who needs a little extra companionship, I genuinely enjoy getting to know each animal and helping them feel comfortable, safe, and loved. I still care for many long-time clients who have trusted me with their pets for years, and those lasting relationships mean the world to me.

I believe every pet deserves patient, attentive, and personalized care. I know that every animal has their own unique routine and personality, so I take the time to learn what makes them happiest and most comfortable. My goal is always to make your time away as stress-free as possible by treating your pets with the same love, kindness, and respect I would give my own.

I’m dependable, flexible, safety-conscious, and take great pride in providing reliable care that families can count on. I can’t wait to meet you and your furry family members and become someone both you and your pets look forward to seeing!

Holly
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Holly Chastonay

Pet Care Professional

Service Areas:

32224, 32225, 32233, 32246, 32250, 32266, 32082

Hi! I’m Holly, and I’m so excited to be part of the 9 to 5 Pets team! Animals have always been a big part of my life, and I truly can’t imagine doing anything more rewarding than caring for pets and giving their families peace of mind while they’re away.

I’m a Jacksonville native and currently live in the Southside area with my boyfriend and our sweet rescue beagle mix, Maple. We adopted Maple from SAFE Pet Rescue in St. Augustine, and she has taught me so much about patience, trust, and the unconditional love our pets bring into our lives. Being a pet parent myself, I understand just how important it is to find someone you can trust to care for your furry family members.

Before joining 9 to 5 Pets, I worked at a local vet clinic in both the kennel and urgent care departments, where I had the opportunity to care for dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, sizes, and personalities. My responsibilities included feeding, walking, bathing, administering medications, monitoring behavior, and making sure every pet received the individualized attention they needed. I also cared for guinea pigs and other small animals, which helped me become comfortable working with a variety of pets and their unique care needs.

One of my favorite parts of working with animals is getting to know each pet’s personality. Every animal is different, and I enjoy taking the time to earn their trust, understand what makes them feel comfortable, and provide care that’s tailored specifically to them. Whether I’m helping an energetic dog burn off some energy, offering extra patience to a shy pet, or keeping a senior companion on their regular routine, I believe every pet deserves compassionate, attentive, and personalized care.

I’m dependable, detail-oriented, and believe that communication is just as important as great pet care. I take pride in following instructions carefully, keeping families informed, and making sure every visit is a positive experience for both pets and their owners. My goal is to build lasting relationships with the families I serve and become someone your pets are always excited to see.

I can’t wait to meet you and your pets and care for them with the same love, kindness, and attention that I give Maple every single day!

Payton Gould
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Payton Gould

Pack Leader

Service Areas:

32081, 32092, 32095, 32223, 32258, 32259

Hi! My name is Payton Gould. I’ve lived in Jacksonville for most of my life. I grew up at the beaches, and now I reside in the Bartram area. From an early age, animals have been at the center of my life.

My journey with 9 to 5 Pets began when I joined the team as a Pet Care Professional, and it has been such a joy caring for so many of our clients over the years. I also get to share this experience with my daughter and little sidekick, Milani. She’s just as passionate about animals as I am, and together we make a dynamic duo in the field! For a time, I also served as one of our Client Service Managers, which gave me the opportunity to support our clients in a different capacity. While I truly valued that experience, I found my greatest joy lies in hands-on care. I’m so happy to be back as a Pet Care Professional and Pack Leader for our amazing teammates across Mandarin, Bartram, St. Johns, Nocatee, and St. Augustine. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, the importance of trust and consistency in pet care, and the strong bonds we form with the pets and families we serve.

This company means so much to me — not just as a place of work, but as a community built on integrity, compassion, and a shared mission to provide the highest level of care. I hold our values, our team, and the families we work with close to my heart. It brings me so much joy to be part of something that truly makes a difference!