Meet MARINA VERONICA | Dog Concierge Care Professional

We had the good fortune of connecting with MARINA VERONICA and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi MARINA, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
Other than deciding to work for myself, the single most important decision I made that contributed to my success was to commit to a life focused on spiritual growth and helping others. I have practiced zen meditation for over 25 years. Through zen, I learned how to quiet my mind. It keeps me grounded and broadens my perspective so I may perceive people and situations with greater clarity. It makes me more loving and compassionate. Each time that dogs are in my care, I can truly bring my best self. They receive my upmost attention. They trust me and know that they are loved and protected. This allows them to thoroughly enjoy the time I spend with them. My clients rest assured that their dogs will always receive the highest level of care.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Before I became a dog care professional, I held various positions in the arts and education. I was a private art tour professional that lectured in galleries and museums in Amsterdam, San Francisco and Boston. I also worked as an art gallery director and sales consultant; an art appreciation teacher for children; a Spanish bilingual elementary school teacher; an ESL teacher for adults; and an art history professor in colleges and universities.

My past careers provided me with enriching experiences that were challenging. Working with galleries in Amsterdam and selling contemporary art on international art fairs allowed me to immerse myself in other cultures and utilize other languages. I developed professional relationships in the art world and partnered with hotels and other organizations. Teaching art appreciation to children gave me the opportunity to work with all age groups from K- 12; integrate art into core curriculum; lead field trips to galleries and museums; collaborate with other teachers; and develop classroom management skills. As an ESL instructor, I created courses and taught international students from all over the world. And as an art history professor, I designed and taught courses on campus and online; assessed student progress; and addressed student issues and concerns.

My varied professional experience prepared me for success with Sweet Walks Beverly Hills. I brought my specialized dog care service to fruition with my creative vision, dedicated spirit and optimistic outlook. I created a website that reflects the essence of my business and sets me apart. Having lived in multiple cities, I was able to move to LA and easily acclimate. I have the heart of a teacher with dogs. I am loving and compassionate and exercise patience while providing structure. I utilize child management skills and address any issues and concerns. I vow to bring my clients the best of myself every time I care for their dogs. My clients appreciate that I am trustworthy and reliable and that I provide individualized care that focuses on their dogs’ needs. I feel honored to share that Sweet Walks Beverly Hills received the 2024 quality business award for best dog walker in Beverly Hills.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would have them experience some of the locations where I take dogs on excursions! We would hike in Coldwater Canyon; walk in Santa Monica and Venice Beach; explore areas from Manhattan Beach to Redondo Beach; and take a stroll on and around Rodeo Drive. I would also take them to the Getty Villa, the Getty Center, and the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mark Houghton and
Ken Kessel, Zen Masters in the Kwan Um School of Zen.

Website: https://SweetwalksVIP.com

Instagram: Pet_Sitter_Beverly_Hills

Facebook: Sweet Walks Beverly Hills

Image Credits
Marina Veronica