
Dayna is an award-winning community builder and animal advocate she has been a life-long animal lover. Her life has been dedicated to working with animals in numerous capacities. She began working with animals by fostering for rescues in 2009. In 2012 she opened a pet sitting company focused on providing the highest standards of care to all animals in the Ottawa area. Shortly after that, she began an apprenticeship studying canine behaviour science in a more hands-on approach. While making great personal accomplishments in those fields, she also completed courses from Duke University in Canine Emotion & Cognition as well as from the University of Edinburgh in Animal Welfare and Behaviour.
2013 sparked the beginning of Dayna’s involvement with SafePet Ottawa, where she sits on the board as their Vice President for 3 years before being voted in as their President and then eventually also taking on the role of Executive Director. It was through this young non-profit organization that she learned more about the link between domestic violence and animal abuse. It became apparent to her that more needed to be done to raise attention and awareness to the link between domestic violence and animal abuse.
If Dayna has learned anything in her years of working with animals, it’s that we can do better, for all animals. Her passion for animals and animal welfare has grown with every new day, and she doesn’t see that momentum slowing down anytime soon.
Hi there!
As an avid animal lover and dog owner, I’m excited to be able to co-host The Blep!
I’ve got a handle on the latest and greatest animal videos, dog treat recipes and so many questions to ask our visiting guests.
Growing up on a farm I was surrounded by animals. I received my first ‘dog’ teddy bear as a toddler. I’ve since misplaced that stuffed animal, but I’ve never lost my love of all pets – dogs especially. Living on a farm taught me that every animal deserves the highest level of care and that all animals deserve love.
Since leaving PEI and moving to Ottawa, I’ve become heavily involved with local dog rescue: Sit With Me Shelter Dog Rescue: I’ve fostered and volunteered in many capacities with them. I’m passionate about educating potential adopters about what it means to be a responsible dog owner. I’ve extensive animal experience, from birds to fish to cats, dogs, horses, cows, sheep and many others. I love them all. With 5 years at the helm of Dayna’s Pet Sitting Inc. and at least that many as an avid supporter and foster for Sit With Me Rescue I bring a rescue-centric focus to the table.
My two dogs, Nigel and Remi are couch potatoes and wholly support my coffee addiction and my adventure into podcasting.