Meet Our Founder – Tayla

Tayla, the founder of our business, brings over a decade of experience in the animal care and training industry. Her professional journey began at one of Australia's largest animal shelters, where she served as an Animal Behavioural and Rehabilitation Trainer. During this time, she worked extensively with dogs exhibiting complex behavioural challenges, including fear-based and reactive aggression, both toward humans and other animals.

Tayla’s expertise is rooted in both professional and personal experience. In her early 20s, she owned a dog with severe anxiety and aggression, which became the catalyst for her deep commitment to behavioural rehabilitation. This personal journey, combined with her hands-on work in shelters, inspired her to launch her own pet care and training business—one focused on strengthening the bond between people and their pets through compassion, structure, and education.

She has also completed advanced training by attending masterclasses led by world-class canine trainers, including specialists in drug detection, police K9 handling, and conformation show training. Her unique experience rehabilitating "aggressive" dogs over a focused 12-month period has given her insight, patience, and a highly adaptive approach to behaviour modification.

Tayla holds a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Zoology and Conservation Biology, from the University of Western Sydney. Her scientific background enhances her understanding of animal behaviour, welfare, and learning theory.

At the core of our business is a team of highly skilled trainers and pet care professionals, each with years of hands-on dog training experience across various disciplines. Our shared passion and unwavering commitment to animal welfare mean your pets are not only safe with us—they’re understood, respected, and truly cared for.

Olivia - Head Trainer

Olivia is an experienced and dedicated dog training professional with a deep passion for canine behaviour and welfare. Her journey began several years ago at one of Australia's most well-regarded animal shelters, where she worked as a Training and Behaviour Specialist, gaining extensive experience in assessing and managing a wide range of behavioural issues.

Since joining the Sit Stay Play team over five years ago, Olivia has become an integral part of the organisation. As Head Trainer, she brings exceptional skill, warmth, and professionalism to every session. Her primary focus is on one-on-one behavioural and obedience training, where she excels at building strong, trusting relationships with both dogs and their owners. Olivia’s calm, energetic, and engaging style allows her to connect quickly with dogs of all temperaments and communicate training techniques clearly and effectively to pet parents.

In addition to private sessions, Olivia also leads our Sit Stay Play group training classes, where her ability to manage dynamic group settings with confidence and enthusiasm creates a positive and welcoming learning environment for both pets and people. Her background in training includes experience working with everything from puppies and family pets to more complex behavioural cases involving reactivity, fear, or anxiety.

Olivia holds a Certificate II in Animal Studies, is a qualified Veterinary Nurse that has worked in an emergency and specialist veterinary clinic. She has completed her Dog Trainer Certification through the National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF)—Australia’s only nationally accredited dog training qualification.

With a well-rounded blend of clinical knowledge, behavioural insight, and hands-on training expertise, Olivia is committed to helping owners build lasting, positive relationships with their dogs through clear communication, mutual respect, and consistent training.

Shianne - Pet Care Professional

Shianne is a dedicated animal care professional with formal education in animal care studies and hands-on experience at MacArthur Veterinary Clinic. Her academic background equips her with a strong understanding of pet health, behaviour, and welfare, while her time at the clinic provided valuable exposure to real-world veterinary practices, including assisting with exams, animal handling, and client communication.

In addition to her clinical experience, Shianne has a compassionate foundation in caregiving, previously serving with IHSS, which enhances her ability to provide attentive, personalized care to both pets and their owners. Whether offering dog walking, pet sitting, or support for special needs animals, Shianne is committed to ensuring each pet feels safe, loved, and well-cared for.

Chanelle - Pet Care Professional

With years of hands-on experience in animal care, Chanelle is a dedicated and compassionate pet care professional committed to the well-being of animals. Her extensive background encompasses roles in dog kennels, animal shelters, and in-home pet care services, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of animal health and behaviour.

Chanelle holds certifications in Animal Studies and Pet First Aid, underscoring her commitment to professional development and safety in pet care. Her expertise includes administering medications, monitoring health conditions, and offering specialized care for pets with medical needs. Clients consistently commend her reliability, empathy, and the personalized attention she provides to each animal.

Teaghan - Pet Care Professional

Teaghan is a passionate animal lover and dedicated pet care professional with years of hands-on experience in animal handling at a dog boarding kennel and veterinary clinics with care and confidence

Teaghan holds a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Pet First Aid Certificate, equipping her with the skills to care for pets safely and responsibly. She is currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing

She prides herself on being reliable, nurturing, and attentive to detail. Whether it’s a daily walk, overnight stay, or simply spending time giving your pet the attention they need, she treats every animal as if they were her own. Her mission is to ensure your pets feel safe, loved, and happy while giving you complete peace of mind.

Ashley - Pet Care Professional

Ashley is a passionate and experienced animal care professional with a lifelong love for animals and a strong foundation in veterinary nursing and pet services.

Her journey in animal care began in 2018 when she started volunteering at the Bargo Dingo Sanctuary, where she assisted with daily husbandry and keeper duties. In 2021, Ashley expanded her hands-on experience by volunteering in veterinary clinics, which sparked her commitment to pursuing a career in animal health.

She went on to complete a Certificate II in Animal Care through Pet Stylist Academy, followed by a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, which she finished in 2023. Ashley transitioned into paid veterinary nursing roles in 2022 and is currently working at Green cross Vets, where she supports the clinical team with high-quality, compassionate care.

In addition to her clinical work, Ashley joined Sit Stay Play in 2023, providing reliable and loving pet sitting and dog walking services. She has also completed further training, including Taronga Wildlife Nursing and Basic Life Saving for Animals, and is continuing her education through a Bachelor of Medical Biotechnology (Honours) at the University of Wollongong.

Ashley is known for her calm, caring nature and her ability to make pets feel comfortable and safe. Whether it's a casual walk, a home visit, or care for pets with special needs, Ashley treats every animal as if they were her own—ensuring peace of mind for pet parents and happiness for their furry companions.