CRATE-FREE DOG DAYCARE & BOARDING
872-804-BARK
Jonathan's journey to Chicago began with a job transfer from North Carolina in 2000. Alongside his partner René of 14 years, they proudly serve as dads to Bailey, their 12-year-old Westie. Driven by a lifelong passion for dogs, Jonathan left behind a career in software sales in 2022 to fulfill his dream of creating safe and enjoyable spaces for furry companions. Beyond Barksville, he finds joy in spending time with friends, immersing himself in the theater scene, and exploring new culinary delights at local restaurants.
Katie is the dedicated manager at Barksville, boasting an impressive 16-year tenure in the industry. As a devoted dog mom to three furry companions - a lively 6-month-old puppy and two beloved senior rescues - her passion for canine care is evident in every aspect of her work. Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role, ensuring that each pet receives the highest level of attention and care. Her commitment to the well-being of animals is unwavering, making her an invaluable leader and mentor within the Barksville family.
Linda is our Lead Handler, where her love for animals shines through in everything she does. A devoted mother to a diverse menagerie of six dogs, fourteen bunnies, three tortoises, and one gecko, she's not only a caregiver but also an architect, having custom-built all their enclosures herself. Beyond her passion for animals, Linda finds joy in crafting, creating both human and dog jewelry with equal enthusiasm. With her unparalleled dedication to animal welfare and her creative spirit, Linda enriches the lives of both pets and their owners at Barksville.
Georgia is our lead receptionist, where she seamlessly blends her three years of industry experience with her innate passion for dogs. As the devoted mother of Oscar De La Hoya, her lively 7-year-old Boxer, and a delightful 14-month-old daughter, she understands the importance of nurturing care both at work and at home. Married to a firefighter, she embodies dedication and teamwork, values she brings to her role every day.
Josephine brings a lifelong passion for dogs, cultivated since her cradle days is evident in her unwavering dedication to their well-being. Beyond her love for furry companions, she nurtures a green thumb with an impressive collection of over 300 plants. She is an avid biker who intimately knows the city's nooks and crannies, discovering every hidden gem and secret spot. Josephine's prior experience as a vet technician enhances her understanding of canine health and behavior, ensuring top-notch care for every furry guest. Living just down the street, she is as excited as we are to have Barksville in the neighborhood.
Molly brings over four years of experience in animal care, transitioning from shelter work to the vibrant pet industry of Chicago. Originally from Michigan, she pursued studies in social media marketing and business in college. As a proud pet parent to a lively Goldendoodle named Harry and two cats, Molly's lifelong passion for animals shines through in her work. Her natural inclination for rescuing strays as a child has evolved into a fulfilling career. Outside of work, Molly designs digital dog portraits, capturing the unique personalities of her clients' beloved pets.
With a background in the canine industry since 2018, she has honed her skills and expertise in caring for pets. As a mother of two daughters, aged 2 months and 8 years, she embodies patience and compassion, traits she extends effortlessly to the pets under her care. Outside of work, Bria enjoys sewing and is pursuing her dream of becoming a vet technician. With her caring nature, determination, and commitment to excellence, Bria enriches the lives of both pets and their owners at Barksville.
As a proud Chicago native, Kayla brings her passion for pets and community. As a devoted mom of two cats and a seasoned dog walker with four years of experience, she understands the importance of providing love and care to animals. Outside of work, Kayla's vibrant spirit shines through her enthusiasm for festivals, where she thrives in the lively atmosphere. In her spare time, she channels her creativity and energy into flow arts, showcasing her talent and dedication to self-expression.
Alex brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles in other daycares and was already certified in Pet CPR and First Aid. When he's not busy at work, you can find Alex outdoors indulging in his love for soccer and volleyball. Despite being a cat parent to his beloved Rufo, Alex's heart truly belongs to the dogs, evident in his unwavering commitment to creating a fun and enriching environment for every pup who walks through our doors. Plus, living just across the street from Barksville allows him to be readily available whenever our four-legged friends need him most.
Korina brings a vibrant mix of creativity, responsibility, and warmth to her role at Barksville. She moved from Seattle in 2021 to pursue her passion for the arts, currently working towards a BFA at DePaul University. With over three years of experience in pet sitting, she understands the importance of attentive care and companionship for our furry guests. Balancing her studies, Korina also lends her talents to a local bakery and enjoys exploring her culinary skills in her spare time, fueled by her love for food. Beyond her work and studies, she finds joy in dancing and expressing herself through the piano.