Val

Val joined the Bay Area Pet Pals team in the fall of 2016, bringing with her a lifelong love for animals. Growing up with cats, dogs, and birds, she finds joy in the company of furry and feathered friends. Val is the proud owner of three dogs: a senior Goldendoodle and two “foster failures”—a term affectionately used when someone fosters a dog with the intention of adoption and then falls in love, choosing to keep them. Her foster failures include a once-feral and fearful spaniel mix, rescued by the San Jose shelter, and a six-year-old Labradoodle who was surrendered to the shelter.

Over the years, Val has successfully fostered 15 shelter dogs, many of whom had significant behavioral or health challenges. She worked closely with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and others to help these dogs become ready for adoption into loving homes. In addition, she has volunteered with local rescues, conducting home checks for potential fosters and adopters, ensuring a safe and caring environment for pets in need.

Val’s passion for animals extends beyond her local community. She regularly volunteers at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, a renowned sanctuary founded in 1984 that rescues a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, horses, pigs, and goats. At the sanctuary, Val focuses on caring for the dogs, walking them, training puppies, cleaning kennels, and spending time with senior dogs—her personal favorite.

After retiring from her full-time administrative career, Val now dedicates her time fully to helping animals. Whether they are in her care while their families are at work or on vacation, Val finds immense fulfillment in being a Pet Pal, and she looks forward to meeting and caring for your beloved pets!