JANSYN
OWNER / OPERATOR
I began my journey at Ruff Dayz in 2020 and proudly took over as the owner in August 2024! At home, I’m surrounded by my 3 dogs, 3 cats, my boyfriend and my adventurous two-year-old son. I love large dogs, especially Mastiffs and Great Danes. My favorite part of this job is watching our Ruff Dayz dogs grow, mature, and develop a love for daycare over time.
BEE
MANAGER
I started at Ruff Dayz in February of 2020 and quickly developed a deep love for working in the animal field. It quickly became clear that this was a job I couldn’t live without! My favorite breeds are Sighthounds. My dream dog would be either be a Chihuahua, or a brindle Silken Windhound that I could do agility with and travel alongside my fiancée.
KELSEY
DAYCARE LEAD
I’ve been at Ruff Dayz for 5 years, and getting to know each and every dog has been incredibly rewarding, making this the best job ever. In addition to my dog experience, I have over 3 years of professional experience with exotic animals. At home, I have 3 snakes, 4 crested geckos, and 4 larger breed dogs! My favorite breed is either the Siberian Husky or the American Pit Bull Terrier.
CONNOR
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
I’ve been working at Ruff Dayz for the past three years and I love it here! I recently graduated college with a bachelor’s in biology. My favorite breed is a Chihuahua, but I love any dog I can pick up.
ALEX
OVERNIGHT ATTENDANT
I’ve been working at Ruff Dayz for almost three years, and if I’m not here, I’m most likely painting or doing something creative. I’ve always been around animals and even have a cat I found right here at Ruff Dayz! My favorite kinds of dogs are the small ones.
KALLIE
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
I’ve been working with dogs for over three years and currently have three of my own! I’m currently attending Parkland College and the University of Illinois and am a member of the Parkland softball team. My favorite breed to work with is the Labrador!
MISTY
PET STYLIST
With over 14 years of experience as a pet stylist, I’ve spent the last 3 years as part of the Ruff Dayz team. At home, I have my own 14-year-old Labradoodle, and my favorite dog breeds are Akitas and Cane Corsos. I love getting to meet new clients and, of course, their wonderful pups.
MADISON
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
I’ve been working at Ruff Dayz since December 2021. I’m a freshman at Parkland College and the University of Illinois, majoring in Animal Sciences with a pre-vet concentration. My favorite dog breeds are English and Irish Setters!
KINZI
PET STYLIST
I’ve been with Ruff Dayz since January 2023, and I’ve always had a deep love for animals. I have 2 dogs and 2 cats of my own. My favorite breeds are Irish Wolfhounds, Labs, and Dalmatians, but I especially like grooming Wirehair Dachshunds and Schnauzers.
OCTAVIA
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
I'm a student at the University of Illinois Urban-Champaign, graduating in 2026. My journey caring for animals began in zoology and botany classes, and I've been working with dogs since 2022. My favorite breed is the Cocker Spaniel!
BRITTANY
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
My name is Brittany but I go by “Chop”. I have been working here since April of this year, and I already love it! I’m excited to get to know everyone better. I’m currently a cat mom of 4, but I’d love to have a Pit Bull or a Golden Retriever someday.
HUYANNA
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
Though my journey at Ruff Dayz is just beginning, I already feel at home here. I have six years of experience working with dogs. I do have a special love for senior dogs but my favorite is my own rescue Shepherd mix, Jude!
JALEN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
I’m a professional photographer and former news director and TV show editor. After wanting a change of pace, I joined Ruff Dayz in late 2024 as a Creative Director to head up our digital presence and marketing. I’m excited to bring my skill set to Ruff Dayz and help share the story of our amazing work with the community.
CORINNE
DAYCARE ATTENDANT
I started my journey at Ruff Dayz in late 2024. I love all dogs but I have a soft spot for Pitties. I’ve never not had a dog in my life and grew up on a farm raising goats, chickens and other animals. My favorite part about working here is getting to learn all the dog’s names and individual personalities.