Good Sit’s owner, Steph Haddad, is a lifelong animal lover. Though she didn’t grow up with pets of her own, she always found ways to be around cats and dogs as her neighbors had many. As she grew, she became interested in training and rescuing animals. After getting her degree (in fine art!) she spent time first volunteering then working at the Champaign County Humane Society, where she was exposed to a large variety of temperaments, breeds, and learning the networking needs of dogs and cats who need new homes.
As an Animal Care worker, she did basic training, cleaning, grooming, caring, and socializing dogs, working hard to make sure that dogs who were in “holding” could get time outdoors and de-stressing despite their new, strange environment.
Steph with Scout, the first dog she saved (with the help of a great group of people!) back in 2010.
Having spent that time at the animal shelter from all those years ago, she uses her knowledge to help others while staying on top of the news for animal welfare. Steph helps network animals in need of adoption as well as place dogs with trainers and behaviorists who fit their needs. Now settled into the Bay Area, she’s made a small business of walking dogs and petsitting that’s turned into group play and dog training. She is furthering her education through the help of The Academy for Dog Trainers, Dog*biz, and what workshops, seminars, and webinars she can attend.
While she loves all dogs, Steph has a particular soft spot for all guard dog breeds, from shepherds to bullies, and especially enjoys working with them. Her experience has taught her that all dogs are individuals, and they deserve a chance to grow and have a good life on their terms.
While everyone at Good Sit has their own experiences, Steph trains everyone to meet dogs where they are utilizing force free techniques, whether they need a little extra help feeling safe, learning how to play with other dogs, learning how to trust people, or just plain making sure they get their exercise while they are out and about (and coming back when called!)
The stats:
Fifteen years of experience with dogs and cats caretaking
Steph is currently working with pets between East Palo Alto and Sunnyvale. Check on the Services section to see how Good Sit can help your family!
Clearly not photoshop
Steph works on learning something new as much as she can. Part of the fun of having a local network is being able to shadow colleagues and peers as well as ask for advice, sometimes sharing clientele! As far as formalized workshops, seminars, or conferences, here’s what she’s been up to over the last few years:
Pet Pro Hero Pet First Aid and CPR with Ashley Friscia, 2024
The Canine Science Symposium, 2023 and 2024
The Forensics of Aggression: Working With and Evaluating Canine Aggression with Jim Crosby, 2023
The Aggression in Dogs Conference, 2020-2024
Lemonade II, 2021
Defensive Handling Workshop with Trish McMillan and Mike Shikashio, 2019
Dogsafe Pet Pro Hero Pet First Aid and CPR, 2018
Dog Walking Academy by dog*biz with Veronica Boutelle, 2018
Paid internships and apprenticeships available
Interested in our internship program? Learn how to run your own business while taking care of companion animals. More information coming soon! Contact us to get on the inside.
Who is that black dog I see?
She’s Mindy!
Mindy is Steph’s dog, who tags along from time to time with dog-friendly dogs. She is a 65 pound German Shepherd mix who is a good reader of what other dogs want. Nearing 10 years old, she has matured into a playful adult who loves playing with puppies or just going on a walk with another dog. Get her on the beach and she turns into a zoomie puppy herself! Humans are her best friends.
Steph didn’t mean to get twinsies dogs, but that’s what she ended up with! They are similar in their fierce love of their families and friends, and they both love letting loose on the beach or on a hike. They’re inquisitive, athletic, and keep her on her toes as a pet parent and professional.
