Passionate caregivers, trainers, and pet lovers dedicated to your furry friends.
Carmen Akella – Founder & CEO
Carmen is the founder and driving force behind JoJo & Co. Pet Club, a business built from her deep love for animals and commitment to exceptional pet care. A lifelong animal lover, devoted pet parent, and passionate rescue advocate, she has made it her mission to create a space where dogs receive top-quality care, pet parents feel supported, and the community thrives.
The vision for JoJo & Co. was born during Carmen’s MBA program at Cornell University, where she identified a critical gap in high-quality, reliable pet care services. With a strong background in business strategy and operations, she transformed that idea into a premium, relationship-driven pet care experience centered on safety, trust, and personalized attention.
Before launching JoJo & Co., Carmen held senior leadership roles at top multinational advertising agencies, including Young & Rubicam and Digitas, working with global brands like Hershey’s, Clorox, Verizon Wireless, and American Express. She also gained invaluable client-side experience at firms such as Thomson Reuters, sharpening her expertise in brand building, operations, and customer experience. Her ability to blend strategic vision with hands-on leadership has been instrumental in making JoJo & Co. what it is today.
A native New Yorker, Carmen has always been deeply connected to her city and passionate about giving back. After years of living on the Upper East Side, she now calls Long Island City home, where she lives with her twins, Cara and Marc, and their two cats, Maya and Ozzie. When she’s not running JoJo’s, she enjoys traveling, reading, exploring new restaurants and cafés, and going on weekend coffee runs—greeting every dog she meets along the way.
More than just a business, JoJo & Co. reflects Carmen’s unwavering dedication to providing top-tier pet care while fostering a strong, supportive community of dog lovers. Through her work, she ensures that JoJo & Co. is not just a pet care service but a positive force that enhances the lives of pets, their people, and the neighborhood as a whole.
Stephanie Londono – Client Experience & Social Media Luminary
Digital Marketing & Client Engagement
Stephanie’s passion for dogs runs deep, and working with them has been one of the most fulfilling parts of her life. She lives by the motto: *”It’s a dog’s world—we just live in it.”* Life may be ruff, but dogs make everything better!
Creative, driven, and always looking for ways to contribute, Stephanie is not only a dedicated caregiver but also the driving force behind JoJo & Co.’s social media and brand presence. Through storytelling, photography, and engaging content, she captures the magic of daycare life, JoJo’s Cozy Retreat, walks, grooming, and more—bringing the heart and soul of JoJo’s to life online. Her work strengthens the JoJo brand, connecting with clients and showcasing the love, care, and community that define us.
With sharp instincts and a deep understanding of canine behavior, Stephanie connects with each dog on a personal level, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and understood. She also builds strong relationships with pet parents, offering compassion, support, and guidance every step of the way. As a proud dog mom to Duke, she knows firsthand the joy and companionship dogs bring. When she’s not keeping up with the JoJo pups, she enjoys staying active with workouts and spending quality time with family and friends.
Philip Etline – Chief Storyteller & Doggy Daycare Enthusiast
Canine Specialist & Client Communications
Philip’s love for dogs runs deep—so deep it’s almost indescribable! With a background in literature, a passion for film, and an endlessly curious mind, he brings intellect, humor, and creativity to everything he does—including his work with dogs. His ability to observe, understand, and connect with pups on a deeper level makes him a natural caregiver.
As a devoted dog parent to Bentley, Philip understands firsthand the unbreakable bond between dogs and their humans. He approaches every pup with patience, warmth, and deep respect for their individual personalities. But what truly sets him apart are his hilarious and wildly creative client updates—turning everyday walks and daycare visits into entertaining, imaginative stories that capture each pup’s unique personality.
At JoJo & Co., Philip has found the perfect place to blend his love for dogs with his creative spirit. Surrounded by like-minded colleagues who share his passion for animals, he thrives in an environment where every pup is treated like family. For him, caring for dogs isn’t just a job—it’s a privilege that brings meaning and joy to his life.
Dana Tabala – Pup Trailblazer & Neighborhood Guide
Dog Walking & Adventures
A lifelong Greenpointer and devoted animal lover, Dana’s passion for dogs has shaped her life. Growing up surrounded by pups, she developed an innate understanding of their needs and personalities. With compassion, patience, and a gentle touch, she ensures every dog in her care feels safe, loved, and at home.
Known for her sharp sense of humor, warm personality, and big heart, Dana creates a fun and positive experience for both dogs and their humans. As a third-generation Greenpointer, she knows these streets better than anyone—now, she gets to walk them with JoJo’s pups, the neighborhood’s most beloved companions, by her side. Whether she’s out on a walk, keeping pups happy and engaged, or swapping stories with fellow dog parents, Dana embodies the warmth and connection that make JoJo & Co. special.
At home, she shares her life with her husband, Kevin, and their pup, Regina. When she’s not at JoJo’s, you can find Dana exploring new restaurants (she’s a serious foodie), hanging out in her favorite neighborhood spots, or spending time with friends and family.
Kenton “Ken” Morales – Keeper of Cozy Nights & Canine Bonds
Overnight Care & Canine Wellness
Ken is a nature enthusiast, animal lover, and creative soul whose passion for storytelling and art is deeply inspired by the dogs he cares for. As an aspiring writer and artist, he finds inspiration in every pup, appreciating their unique personalities and quirks.
With years of hands-on experience, Ken understands that building trust and forming meaningful bonds with dogs takes patience, intuition, and genuine love. Whether leading playful adventures, offering comfort, or simply being a steady, reassuring presence, he approaches every pup with unwavering kindness and care.
At JoJo & Co., Ken’s passion for animals aligns perfectly with the company’s mission of providing a safe, loving, and enriching space for dogs. To him, spending time with JoJo’s pups isn’t just work—it’s a privilege that fuels his creativity and deepens his appreciation for the incredible bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
Sinem Derman – Wellness Guru & Canine Care Extraordinaire
Canine Wellness & Enrichment
Sinem is a passionate and dedicated member of the JoJo & Co. team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in animal care and behavior. Growing up on a farm, she developed a deep-rooted understanding of animals and their needs, which she later enhanced through her academic studies.
Her commitment to canine well-being goes beyond basic care—it’s about creating a safe, enriching, and stimulating environment where every pup can thrive. At JoJo & Co., she takes immense pride in being part of a team that treats every dog like family. Whether ensuring pups are comfortable and engaged or showering them with love, she plays a key role in making JoJo’s a welcoming and trusted space for both dogs and their humans.
When Sinem isn’t at JoJo’s, she loves attending drag shows with her partner, Hayley, and hosting friends and family for fun-filled gatherings. A true animal enthusiast, she’s also an avid researcher of random animal facts—so if you ever cross paths with her, just ask! She’ll likely have a fascinating answer to any animal-related question.
Jonathan Sasaguay – Master of Dog Training & Pack Operations
Canine Training & Enrichment
Jonathan is a dedicated trainer whose passion for working with dogs runs deep. His commitment to transforming dogs’ lives through training goes beyond just teaching commands—he helps them build confidence, balance, and trust, strengthening the bond between pups and their humans. Through structured guidance, exercise, and enrichment, his goal is to help every dog thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Since joining JoJo & Co., he has embraced every opportunity to bring out the best in every pup, whether through training, enrichment activities, or compassionate care. But his work extends beyond the dogs—he’s equally dedicated to supporting pet parents, offering education, guidance, and ongoing support to foster stronger relationships.
In addition to his role at JoJo & Co., Jonathan owns a dog training and fitness business, bringing valuable expertise, patience, and enthusiasm to everything he does. His deep knowledge and hands-on approach make him an invaluable part of the JoJo family—and a trusted resource for both dogs and their owners.
When he’s not working with dogs, Jonathan enjoys quality time with his three beloved pups—Agathor, Kalla, and Chase—immersing himself in board games, and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Adrian Valladares – Pup Engagement Specialist & Vibes Coordinator
Canine Engagement & Admin
Adrian has a deep love for every dog he works with, treating each one as if they were his own. To him, every pup—big or small, shy or energetic—is special in their own way. There are no favorites; he cherishes them all, even the wild and playful ones.
With patience, care, and a calm and gentle approach, Adrian ensures every dog feels safe, loved, and part of the JoJo family. A master at getting things in order, he’s observant, detail-oriented, and always on point—keeping everything running smoothly for both the dogs and the team.
At JoJo & Co., Adrian thrives in an environment that values relationship-based care, teamwork, and a deep commitment to the well-being of every pup. His dedication and steady presence make him an essential part of what makes JoJo’s feel like home for so many dogs.
When he’s not at JoJo’s, Adrian loves spending time with family and friends. He’s also a proud pet dad to his beloved pup Jax and his cat Pepito—because for him, life is always better with animals by his side.
Tammy Hunnicutt – Master Creator of All Things Dogs
Canine Wellness & Operations
A proud New Orleans native—hey y’all!—Tammy brings a wealth of experience in pet care and operations to JoJo & Co. But for her, working with dogs isn’t just a job—it’s her life’s passion. She is dedicated to creating a safe, enriching environment where every pup feels secure, engaged, and truly at home.
Beyond her deep love for dogs, Tammy brings a creative spark to everything she does. Always full of fresh ideas, she’s constantly looking for ways to enhance the daycare experience, making JoJo & Co. an even more fun and stimulating place for pups. A quick study with a sharp eye for detail, she thrives on innovation and improvement, ensuring that every dog gets the love, care, and attention they deserve.
At home, Tammy shares her world with her husband, Alvin, and their four beloved dogs—Tony, Cornelius, Stella, and Mozart. When she’s not caring for the amazing pups at JoJo & Co., you’ll find her hitting the road on a new adventure, cooking up something delicious, or embracing every moment of being a devoted human and dog mom.
Providing trusted dog care services across Brooklyn and Long Island City
Greenpoint
Monday-Thursday 7am-7pm
Friday 8am-6pm
Saturday 10am-4pm
Sunday by appointment only
Brooklyn, NY 11222 Located at Brookfield Properties at Greenpoint Landing.
LIC
Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
TF Cornerstone Exclusive. Long Island City, NY 11101
For overnight stays, weekend care, or extended daycare hours, our LIC clients are always welcome at our Greenpoint location!
Enjoy the best of both worlds—JoJo & Co memberships can be shared between our LIC and Greenpoint locations for seamless care.
We’re here to help—reach out anytime!
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