doggone satisfying!

About Us

Urban Escapes was founded in 2006, the Year of the Dog. Our goal is to provide a safe, positive outlet for your dog's energy. Our professional experience working in dog training and behavior management ensures appropriate interaction between dogs in our groups, greatly enhancing the safety of an Urban Escape.

Your dog's safety is our number one priority. You'll never see our dogs running around in the street or jumping on strangers. Our small group size ensures your pup will receive individual attention and constant supervision. In addition, all dogs must pass a temperament evaluation prior to enrollment ensuring that only social, well mannered dogs participate.

We treat our client dogs the same way we do our own dogs, with respect and love. Not only are we dog lovers and pet owners, we also have formal education in pack management, dog behavior and training. Please take a look at our previous experience working with dogs below.

 
Elaine
Owner & Professional Dog Walker




A Marin local, Elaine began her professional career working with dogs at Unleashed, a grooming shop in Corte Madera. After 5 years with Unleashed, she moved to the field of dog daycare and kennel work. Elaine supervised dog play at Wags N' Woofs in Mill Valley, then worked as a Lead Counselor at Camp K-9 of Marin for nearly 2 years. As a Lead Counselor, she was responsible for training new employees in dog handling, basic kennel work, and administering medications. Elaine also conducted interviews and temperament evaluations for new client dogs, as well as supervising dog play groups.

Elaine has studied veterinary anatomy and is a certified Pet Care Technician through the American Boarding Kennel Association. She earned her Certificate in Training & Counseling (CTC) at the 
San Francisco SPCA's Academy for Dog Trainers in the spring of 2005. Elaine also attended and completed the Trail Manners workshop at the Marin Humane Society.

Elaine shares her home with Justice, a boxer mix, and rescued a mutt named Hopi that she found abandoned on the highway in Arizona. She is also an expert in canine nutrition, and a firm believer in a holistic approach to animal healthcare.

Jessica
Owner & Professional Dog Walker




Jessica grew up taking care of many breeds of dogs, from Saint Bernard's and spaniels to retrievers and mutts. She started a professional career working with dogs as a teenager, taking a job in a local boarding kennel.

Since then, Jessica has worked as a professional dog trainer, raised and trained service dogs for Canine Companions for Independence, and most recently worked as a Director of Marin's premier dog boarding and day care facility, Camp K-9 of Marin. As Staff Director, she was responsible for hiring dog handlers, training and managing staff, and overseeing daily kennel operations. Jessica also implemented an employee training program and handled emergency situations with humans and canines alike. Jessica is a member of the 
Association of Pet Dog Trainers and is a certified Pet Care Technician through the American Boarding Kennel Association. She also earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Sonoma State University.

Jessica completed the Dog Walking Academy through
DogTec, earning the title of Certified Dog Walker. She is certified in pet first aid & CPR. Jessica also attended and completed the Trail Manners workshop at the Marin Humane Society.

Jessica enjoys spending time with her 2 labrador retrievers, Ocean & Renna, and specializes in using gentle, positive training methods to teach basic obedience and manners.