My name is Robin Taylor, and I’m the owner/operator of Gwinnett Pet Watchers. I’ve been an animal lover all of my life and so far I’ve managed to live with: dogs, cats, gerbils, hamsters, ferrets, birds, fish, a rabbit, a squirrel, and a turtle.

My first job was as a trainer at Bad Dogs in Atlanta, where I trained dogs in general obedience/tricks, for protection, commercials, and the occasional local celebrity like Hank Aaron. My family eventually convinced me that I needed to go to school and find a “real” job, so I got an Engineering degree and went into sales.

I ran the rat race and climbed the corporate ladder for 20 years, and realized that all a six figure salary brings is more taxes and being away from home all the time. I tried and tried to find a good pet sitter, but never really had much luck. Boarding also wasn’t an option because one of my dogs was a little bit crazy. I had to resort to taking them on my business trips with me, which added a an extra layer of stress that just wasn’t necessary.

When that part of my life ended, it was time to find something new to do. It was one of those moments where something just strikes you out of the blue. All of my life I’ve loved animals, and I’d continued to help train and manage nutrition for friends, family, and even my own pets. I could use my business experience and professionalism and fill a need that I’d seen for the longest time. I could work with animals like I’d always wanted to.

Now I’ve realized that it’s more than just being on time and communicating well, it’s about building relationships and in some cases becoming a part of a family. I’ve been there to see the new ones come into the world and I’ve been there to help say goodbye to old friends. I don’t have 5 dogs and 3 cats anymore, I have whole families.

I have the best job there is.