MARIN PET CARE ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS

The Marin Pet Care Association (MPCA) is a nonprofit organization established in 2009 to advocate for Marin County's professional dog walking businesses in local, state, and federal decisions that affect their operations. MPCA offers Trail Manners classes, which are an essential training option for obtaining various professional dog walking permits, including those from Marin County Parks and Open Space (MCPOS), the Golden Gate National Recreational Area (GGNRA), and Tiburon. The organization also promotes pet care businesses within Marin County and strives to uphold a high standard of professional conduct among its members.

  • Karla Rasmussen

    President

    Karla began her animal care career in 1993 and has since focused on connecting clients and their pets with top animal care specialists in Marin County and San Francisco. In 2020, she founded KK-9, Inc., offering her extensive experience to help individuals and families with dog training, puppy preparation, and ongoing care. Karla is dedicated to finding the best match for each client and their pets, ensuring a high level of care and happiness for every animal.

  • Samantha Merlin

    Secretary

    Samantha has always felt a deep connection with animals, finding comfort, safety, and happiness in their presence. In 2004, she started her own pet care business in San Francisco, later moving to Mill Valley in 2011 to continue offering pet sitting, dog walking, and training services. With over 20 years of experience, Samantha has developed a keen understanding of animal behavior, managing and preventing issues through patience, calmness, and trust-building.

  • Lisa Lue

    Treasurer

    More to come…

MPCA is a nonprofit organization created in 2009 to:

  • Represent Marin County professional dog walking companies in County, State and Federal decisions impacting their businesses.

  • Create and deliver Trail Manners classes for professional dog walkers, a requirement option for obtaining Marin County Parks and Open Space (MCPOS) Professional Dog Walking permit.
    - Completion of Trail Manners is also a required training option for the Golden Gate National Recreational Area’s (GGNRA) Professional Dog Walking permit for Marin County dog walkers and for a Tiburon Dog Walking permit.

  • Promote pet care businesses in Marin County.

  • Instill a high level of professional conduct to its members.