Meet the Counselors of Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove

Ian has been working at Camp Bow Wow since August 2008. Aside from being the proud “parent” of two dogs, his experience with animals include volunteer work at the shelter, working at a kennel, and even starring in a dog-training film. In his spare time Ian enjoys web-design, playing the ukulele and obsessing over the latest Apple products. He is currently studying Theatre at CSU Sacramento, and hopes one day to hear his name preceded by the phrase, “and the Academy Award goes to...”

Jerika joined the team in 2009. Originally from Lodi, California, she previously worked as an in-home pet sitter, waitress, and even taught piano lessons. Jerika received Associate’s degrees in both Anthropology and Social Science, and she is currently attending UC Davis to study Cultural Anthropology. Her interests include music, travel, and learning. When she isn’t at Camp, Jerika can be found watching soccer, spending time with loved ones, or being outdoors.

Max joined the Camp Bow Wow team in August 2009. Originally from San Diego, he previously worked at an afterschool daycare and was also a tutor. He has two dogs, a dachshund named Bart-L-Bee and a French Bulldog named Bowser. He graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Business, and in his spare time he enjoys golf, bicycling, and hanging out with friends. Max also enjoys collecting artwork, dancing, and karaoke-singing.

Marilynn joined the Camp Bow Wow team in November 2010. Before Camp she worked as a Computer Operations Manager as well as for the Ceres School District. She also used to write for a dog magazine! Marilynn has two children, one in college and another finishing his final year of high school. She also has two Alaskan Malamutes, an 11-year old female named Katana and a 4-year old male named MacLeod. An alumnus from San Jose State University, she graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management & Computer Science with a minor in Psychology. When she isn't at Camp, Marilynn enjoys showing dogs, sledding, spending time with her family and watching movies.

Nelson began working at Camp Bow Wow in 2007 and after a short time away, Camp beckoned him back, resuming his position in June 2009. Before becoming a Counselor he worked for Apple Inc, and also has experience working with senior citizens. Nelson is currently studying Psychology at Cosumnes River College, and during his spare time he enjoys fixing cars and working out.

Michelle became a Counselor in September 2009. Her previous experience with animals include working at a kennel and showing dogs. She is well-known in the dog-show community for her champion showdog Dawson, the #3 beagle in the country. She is currently studying Business and Marketing at Cosumnes River College. When she’s not at work Michelle can be found playing video games, spending time with her beagle Aubrey, or working on cars.

Brittany joined the Camp Bow Wow team in March 2010. Originally from San  Diego, her previous experience includes volunteer work for the SPCA, and is currently attending Cosumnes River College to become a veterinary technician. In her spare time Brittany enjoys hanging out with friends & family, and taking her dog Butters wherever she goes.

Kevin became a Camp Counselor in May 2010. Recently graduated from high school, he hopes to become a race car driver. Kevin is an avid animal-lover; he owns a bearded dragon, fish, and three dogs named Grizzly, Leilani and Lily. In his spare time he enjoys hanging out with friends, going to the gym and playing a mean game of raquetball.

Van joined the Camp Bow Wow team in June 2010. Before Camp,  he previously worked at FedEx, Apple Inc, and was also a violinist. He owns many pets, ranging from dogs to fish to turtles. Van is curently attending Cosumnes River College to study Business, and in his spare time enjoys traveling, playing basketball, and hanging out with friends.

Camp Counselor Stefan joined the team in July 2010. His previous experience includes working at a library and a dining hall. Stefan is currently attending Sacramento City College to study Business Administration, and in his spare time enjoys running, mountain biking, and spending time with his Chihuahua, Dotty.

Amanda became a Camp Counselor in August 2010. Aside from owning a Labrador Retriever named Sammy, her previous experience with animals include being a dog-walker as well as working at a kennel. Amanda is currently studying Psychology at CSU Sacramento, and in her spare time enjoys watching sports, playing the piano, and being a foodie.

Rafael, or “Raf,” became a Camp Counselor in October 2010. He has owned many dogs in the past, his most recent being a foster dog named Bella. An aspiring musician, Raf plays the guitar, bass, and drums. His goal in life is to become active in both body and mind. He received his Associate’s degree from Heald College, and in his spare time enjoys hiking, playing basketball, and being outdoors.

Khari joined the Camp Bow Wow team October 2010. Before Camp, he worked at Costco, Apple, and even dabbled in real estate. Khari has a dog named Bella, a three-year old pit bull. He is currently studying fire technology at Cosumnes River College, and hopes one day to become a fireman. A self-proclaimed wine conneseuir, Khari also enjoys playing video games and basketball.