Meet the Team
Risa
OwnerHi, I’m Risa! I’m the owner of Pack Performance Pet Care. I started working at Dogs Love Running! of Elmhurst in 2015 and took over ownership in 2023.
I have been a huge animal lover since I was a child. Whether I was begging my parents for every animal I saw, or bringing home strays I found, I have always had a soft spot in my heart for animals of all kinds. I still remember walking my neighbor’s husky named Malibu for a quarter when I was a child.
My love and appreciation for dogs especially amped up with my heart dog, Haku. I might be biased, but he was perfect in every way. Up for a quiet day in the house cuddling, or a 10 mile hike. He was the bestest boy and gave me such a deeper appreciation for dogs and all they have to offer.
My dog training journey really started in 2018 with my first Doberman Pinscher named Grimnir (Grim to his family and friends). He was unfortunately very reactive to just about everything and I worked tirelessly to help him overcome that fear reactivity. He was eventually able to walk trails and neighborhoods without reacting to bicycles, which was a big trigger for him. He also started my love for dog sports as I trained him in disc and AKC Rally. My next Doberman, Ganon, I started in other sports such as Barn Hunt and Scentwork, in addition to disc and Rally. These have continued with my third Doberman, Buffy. They’ve really solidified for me the love I have for training dogs and how fun and rewarding it is watching them understand something you’re teaching them and having them do it for the first time.
I can’t wait to meet your furry friends and help to enrich not just their lives, but yours as well! Whether it’s helping with training, or just taking care of them while you’re away so you always have peace of mind.
Ryan
Hi, I'm Ryan. I've been living with dogs all my life, and have been working with them for the last decade! Even with that experience, i'm still working towards expanding my knowledge of different breeds and the best training methods for every dog. I have a particular soft spot for all bully breeds especially Staffordshire Terriers.
Hi, I’m Sara! I grew up in LaGrange Park and now live in North Riverside. I have a dog and cat who I spend most of my free time with. I also work at a veterinary clinic. I enjoy getting together with friends, listening to music, watching sports, and trying new foods.
Sara
Hi! My name is Sam and I am a lifelong dog lover. Whether your pup needs a quick midday break, or a longer walk to work off some energy I prioritize safety, positive reinforcement, and giving plenty of attention. I’m happy to provide photos and updates on how your dog does during my visit. I can’t wait to meet them!
Sam
Kim started working with us in 2025. She loves spending time with her Papillons, whether it’s doing Agility or Barn Hunt, she enjoys training with her dogs and even competing in the various dog sports. She also has a horse that she loves and spends as much time with as she can.
Kim
Don started working with us in the beginning of 2023. He loves getting out on walks with his favorite clients, even giving them their own little nicknames. He has an English Setter and a Beagle who he loves to go on walks with at home.
Don
Bernie has been working with us since 2019. He loves to meet new pups, and especially enjoys the multiple clients in his own neighborhood who he gets to see more often. He does dog walking and pet sitting visits.
Bernie
Aaron was born and raised in Ireland. He used to help with his family’s dog boarding company back home. He is excited to meet all of the new pups here and provide them with the love and exercise they need.
Aaron
Nick has been a part of the team for over a year. He loves to walk and run the pups, and loves all of his clients. He can’t wait to meet his next buddy!