Chantale Fontaine
Founder & CEO / CPACPIn 2011, Chantale founded Pathfinder Pet Care in Ladner, BC. Over a decade later, Pathfinder (now known as Pathfinder Dog Ranch) has grown into a full service commercial pet care company. In 2022, Chantale became one of the first Certified Professional Animal Care Providers (CPACP) in British Columbia with the International Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC). Chantale has been certified in pet and equine first aid and attends industry events such as the International Boarding and Pet Sitting Association conferences and is a verified member with the Canadian Pet Care Professionals. Chantale has collaborated with Sheila Gunston, Dip.CBST, PCBC-A, FDM and Cat Harbord, Dip. CBST, CDBC, FDM to provide a Reactive Dog Crash Course, currently available at ImPAWSible Possible Online Academy. Chantale provides coaching on canine behaviour and body language. Her understanding and experience working with complex canine behaviours such as fear reactivity, has helped many dogs and their owners. Chantale (Pathfinder) often collaborate with local rescue organizations to help house fearful rescue dogs requiring extra support before finding a foster or forever home. Chantale is very grateful to her personal mentor Stephanie Shipley, who is one of the most respected business leaders in the pet care industry.
Kimberly Dawn
Walker & Pet Care Enrichment Specialist / CPACPWith a background in corporate travel, professional photography, team training and development, Kimberly brings a unique blend of leadership and creativity. For 5+ years, Kim has served as one of Pathfinder’s main leads, guiding both pets and people with expertise and compassion. Kimberly regularly attends the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA) conferences, completing workshops, CPR courses, and seminars focused on the pet boarding industry. A natural leader and passionate “dog guru,” Kimberly embodies the Pathfinder spirit—combining knowledge and empathy to create exceptional experiences for every pet in her care. Kim annually attends the IBPSA conferences, and is certified in Canine First Aid. Kimberly is a newly certified Professional Animal Care Provider (CPACP) with the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC).
Karen
Pet Care & Enrichment SpecialistKaren started off her journey in the pet care industry by working at a pet store and at the Campestre Pet Hotel in her home country of Mexico. Since moving to Vancouver, she has gained over a year of dog-walking experience. Karen is passionate about pet care and enjoys developing close bonds with the dogs she works with. Karen has been working at Pathfinder since October 2023.
Niki
Pet Care & Enrichment SpecialistNiki has spent her life surrounded by animals, from her beloved horse Riley, to her two loyal dogs, Bailey and Bentley. Her deep love and understanding of animals has been shaped by years of hands-on experience and compassion. For nearly 18 years, Niki also ran a daycare, where she nurtured and guided children with patience, empathy, and care. Those same qualities have become the foundation of her approach to working with dogs, blending structure, kindness, and genuine connection. Niki has also completed her Knowing Dogs 101 & 201 training with The Dog Gurus.
Carrington
Pet Care & Enrichment SpecialistCarrington is a Grade 11 high school students who loves working with animals. She has been surrounded by animals most of her life, which has grown her interest in animal care. Her experience includes years of dog walking, and growing up on a farm. Carrington hopes to pursue a future career as a veterinarian to improve the lives of all animals. She has completed the "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications.
Taya
Pet Care & Enrichment SpecialistTaya is a senior high school student who enjoys caring for all animals. This passion comes from having multiple dogs at home to love and care for. She has cared for horses for the last 4 years and has worked with therapeutic animals in Delta, BC. Taya plans to go into Biological Sciences and has "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications.
Medina
Pet Care & Enrichment SpecialistMedina is passionate about animals, nature, and environmental protection. She hopes to study wildlife biology in the future and work toward creating a better world for both people and wildlife. Through Pathfinder, Medina is excited to gain hands-on experience, learn from others who share her interests, and continue exploring her love for the outdoors. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and discovering new ways to connect with nature. Being part of Pathfinder has allowed Medina to strengthen these skills while learning more about animal behavior and teamwork in a supportive environment.
Jessica
Pet Care Enrichment SpecialistJessica has a long-time career working in restaurant management at the family run Wally's Burgers in Vancouver. Jessica has always had a passion for animals and earlier this year decided to change career paths. Jessica has completed "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications with the Dog Gurus and has taken an interest in pet enrichment. She also has a beloved cat at home named Zoe.
Anna
Pet Care Enrichment SpecialistAnna is a certified Veterinary Technician Assistant with Granville College. She has years experience working as a dog handler at dog daycares and providing patient care and Vet Tech Assistant services at Canada West Veterinary Specialists and VCA Vancouver Animal Wellness Hospital/VCA Vancouver Animal Emergency. Since joining Pathfinder, Anna has completed "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications with the Dog Gurus and is continuing to learn. Anna has a beloved dog at home named Max.
Mizuho (aka Monica)
Groomer / Operational SupportMizuho brings hands‑on experience working as a professional dog groomer. She has also operated her own dog walking and pet sitting business. Mizuho has completed "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications with the Dog Gurus and facilitates our Thera-Clean microbubble therapy sessions. She has three beloved pets at home, Nora (rescue cat), Remy & Bambi (dogs).
Tiffany
Pet Care Enrichment SpecialistTiffany is a recent high school graduate and huge animal lover. Her list of family pets is quite extensive. Her Corgi sidekick "Cookie" often accompanies her during her shifts. Tiffany has completed "Knowing Dogs: 101" and "Knowing Dogs: 201" training certifications with the Dog Gurus and is continuing to learn on the job.
Di
Web Development & SupportDi is a passionate animal lover whose journey into dog ownership began during her time working at the ranch. Di rescued a pup who now loves to come to day camp. She handles our web development and tech support, and enjoys occasional visits to the ranch to spend time with the dogs.
