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About Us

Providing Paw-sitive Experiences at Every Visit

We live and breathe animals; they're the heart beat and original story of how we came to be. Because of that, Lend a Paw offers daily dog walks and vacation drop-in visits. We make scheduling easy and ensure that you get transparent updates from us every time we visit. 

 

Unlike the independent contractors on Uber-like dog walking apps, pet care isn’t a hobby or side hustle for us; it’s our full-time job. All of our employees are background checked, drug tested, and complete approximately 14 hours of online training before our 3 week in-person training with our managers.

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1000+
Animals Served
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100+
Five-Star Reviews
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7+
Years of  Business
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Our Story

Founded in 2018, Lend A Paw LLC is the #1 in-home pet care company in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We are a locally owned and operated premium dog walking and pet sitting company that is bonded and insured through Business Insurers of the Carolina's, and pet CPR & first aid certified through the American Red Cross.

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Lend a Paw was founded after the owner, Lauren, adopted Hayes. The pup was a heartworm positive, male, and Staffordshire terrier. The odds stacked against him. Since then, he has fueled Lauren’s love for the breed and he is the reason for Lend a Paw.

 

We are Louisiana’s first and only Fear Free Certified pet sitting company. We specialize in pets with anxiety and fear-based issues, but all pets are welcome! We are a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) and Pet Sitters International (PSI), and have been featured in 225 Magazine and InRegister.

Team

Meet The Team

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Lauren

Founder & Owner

Welcome to Lend A Paw! I'm Lauren Swartley, the proud owner and operator of Baton Rouge’s premier pet sitting and dog walking service. Born and raised right here in this vibrant city, I understand the unique needs of our community and the importance of reliable, loving care for your furry family members.
 
I bring a lifetime of passion for animals and a deep commitment to their well-being. I am especially proud to be the first Fear Free Certified pet sitter in Baton Rouge. This certification means I have specialized training to reduce stress and anxiety in pets, ensuring that your beloved companions feel safe and comfortable while you’re away.
 
My mission is to provide the most personable and premium pet care in the area. I believe in creating a bond with each pet I care for, giving them the affection and exercise they need to stay happy and healthy.
 
Caring for animals isn’t just my job; it’s my passion and my calling. I was born into a home with 4 dogs, and nothing much has changed. 
 
Thank you for considering Lend A Paw, and we look forward to having you become a member of the LAP family!

 

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Katelynn

Operations Supervisor

Hello!! My name is Katelynn! I have a very handsome cat named Apollo who is the light of my life. I've been an animal lover my whole life, I grew up with multiple different pets, and plan on studying Marine Biology at LSU starting this summer. I have 4 years of professional experience working with both dogs and cats so I understand the importance of patience, routine, and plenty of love. I am so excited for the chance to get to know your pets and look forward to spending time with them!







 

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Denae

Manager in Training / Team Lead

Hello to all! My name is Denae and I have been with Lend A Paw since January of 2024. It has been so great getting to know everyone’s fur babies and caring for them!
Before this job, I previously worked at a pet boarding facility for a year and a half. Through that, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge on pet caring, pet behaviors, and medical concerns. The knowledge gained from that job has been very useful in providing the ultimate care for all of your fur babies!
I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember and have grown up around all types of animals including; Dogs, cats, a bearded dragon, a rescued squirrel, hamsters, fish, and a rabbit. Animals have always brought me such joy and there is nothing I love more than spending time with them! I am always sure to give your pets the best care possible and love all of them as if they are my own!
I get so excited to visit with all of your pets, who I have grown so close to and love so much, and I can’t wait to continue to do so!

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Chloe C.

Team Lead

Hi, my name is Chloe! I'm a Baton Rouge native, but my cat Ro and I have lived all over Louisiana and in New York. In addition to my little lion, I spend time with my parent's two rescue dogs. Their names are Rookie and Cassie. They're older so they just want cuddles all day long. My greatest passion is theatre, and I love learning new things about it. In addition I love to read, craft, and go on walks to stretch my legs. I'm so excited to spend time with all the new furry babies and enjoy some playtime! My goal is to provide top tier care as if they were my own!

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Chandler

Sitter

Hello, everyone! My name is Chandler and I’m so happy to be part of the team here at Lend A Paw. Hailing from Baton Rouge, I am a lifelong lover of all things cute and furry, especially my horses and my two Catahoulas, Jackson and Arabella, who love to keep me on my toes.

As a pet parent who loves to travel, I fully understand how important it is to have safe, trustworthy care for the fur babies who have to stay home. Whether it’s a short visit during the workday or an overnight stay, I’ll make sure your pets are well looked-after until you return.

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Natalie

Sitter

Hello, I’m Natalie! I’ve lived in Baton Rouge for several years now, but originally I’m from Morganza, Louisiana. Currently I’m a student at Southeastern Louisiana University studying to be a kindergarten teacher, and I also teach swim lessons to children from 8 months to 12 years old! In my free time, I like to crochet, play video games, and read. My boyfriend and I have a pit mix named Mando, and a ball python named Meatball! Mando and Meatball are complete opposites in both size and personality, so between the two of them they definitely keep things interesting! 

 

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Lydia

Sitter

Hi Pet Parents! I’m Lydia,
I have had a love of animals since I was a kid and have been fortunate to always have pets around me. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of taking care of neighbors’, friends’, and family’s furry friends when needed.  
 
Recently, I said goodbye to my two senior dogs, who meant the world to me. I’m not ready to take on another pet right now, therefore I feel lucky to spend time with friends’ pets, giving them care and companionship whenever I can.  
 
Besides Lend a Paw, I am a mom to two lively boys and work as an ABA therapy technician for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I bring the same dedication and compassion I have at work and at home to the pets I care for.  
 
I enjoy being active and love spending time outdoors. I’d love to meet you and your pets and help create a fun and happy experience for everyone. Thanks so much for considering me to be a part of your pet’s care!

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Eduarda

Sitter

My name is Eduarda and I am currently a pre-vet major at Louisiana state university. I enjoy a plethora of things from sewing to reading to going on walks during the sunset. One of my biggest loves however is my love for animals! Although I am a homebody if I ever am at a party you'll find me with the house pet. I currently have a 13-year old Shih Tzu who is my absolute bestfriend! I have always genuinely enjoyed helping people and learning, so I've never said no to an opportunity to pet sitting for my friends and family!

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Kylea

Sitter

Hi, I’m Kylea! I’m a senior at LSU studying Agricultural Education & Extension, with a lifelong passion for animals and caring for them, So I’m excited to be with Lend a Paw! 

I currently work at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Dog Daycare, where I have the opportunity to care for dogs of all ages, breeds, personalities, and individual needs. Working with so many different dogs has strengthened my understanding of animal behavior, handling, and the importance of providing each dog with the individualized care and attention they deserve.

I also recently completed an internship at a local Louisiana deer farm, where I gained valuable hands-on experience working with wildlife and livestock. During my internship, I learned skills including safe animal handling, administering medications, vaccinating, monitoring animals, and providing daily care.

At home, I’m kept on my toes by my own dog, Whiskey, a 3-year-old English Springer Spaniel who has taught me so much about the joy of having dogs in your life. I’ll soon be welcoming another Springer Spaniel into my home, adding even more paws to the family!

Animals have always been a huge part of my life, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, loving, and positive environment for every animal in my care. I’m Thrilled to begin this new chapter with Lend a Paw and continue growing my knowledge, experience, and passion for caring for animals while pursuing a career that allows me to combine my love for animals, agriculture, education, and working with people.

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Brielle

Sitter

Hi, I’m Brielle! I’m from Louisiana and have grown up around animals my whole life. I’ve cared for dogs, cats, and horses, and I’ve always loved getting to know their different personalities.
I’ve also spent a lot of time volunteering with the Northshore Humane Society, where I got even more hands-on experience caring for animals and helping those in need. It’s given me a lot of patience and taught me how important it is to give each animal the attention and care they need.
I’m excited to be part of Lend A Paw and to help give your pets the same love and care I would give my own. I know leaving your pets with someone is a big responsibility, and I want you to feel comfortable knowing they’re in good hands!

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Annie

Sitter

My name is Annie and I’m from Covington, Louisiana. I currently attend Louisiana State University as a forensic psychology major! I will make sure your pets get plenty of love and attention. I will adapt any schedule to your specific requirements, ensuring them safe and happy care while their parent(s) are away:)) I’ve always had a love for animals including my two current doodles and one sweet kitty! I have cared for numerous animals throughout my life, and now I hope to meet your precious fur babies!

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Fabiana

Sitter

Hi! My name is Fabi and I’m a senior at LSU studying political science and sociology. I’m from Miami, Florida so Baton Rouge is my home away from home! Some of my hobbies include reading, pilates, and being a movie/tv enthusiast. I’ve had pets all my life, so the opportunity to be able to work with them is a huge plus. I care for every pet with the same patience, attention, and love that I give my own. I’m committed to keeping your pets happy and comfortable while you’re away!

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Maggie

Sitter

Hi! I'm Maggie! I'm currently a nursing student at Southeastern Louisiana University, and when I'm not studying, you can usually find me spending time with my two dogs, Dixie and Ryker. Dixie is my 2-year-old Mini Double Doodle, and Ryker is my 5-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer, who I had the privilege of rescuing. They couldn't be more different from one another, which has made life with them so much fun and has taught me that getting to know each animal's individual personality is one of the best parts of caring for them. 

Having two dogs with very different personalities, energy levels, and needs has taught me so much about patience, responsibility, and learning to understand them each individually. I know how important routines can be, but I also know every pet has their own little quirks that make them who they are! Whether that means going for a walk, playing until they're worn out, or simply sitting with them and giving them extra love, I'm happy to meet each pet where they are.

As a pet parent myself, I completely understand how nerve-racking it can be to leave your animals in someone else's care. Dixie and Ryker mean the world to me, and I would want anyone caring for them to treat them with the same patience, attention, and love that I do. That's exactly how I hope to care for every pet I meet; making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and loved while their family is away.

Outside of pet sitting and school, I love spending time with my family and friends, being outdoors, and finding any excuse to bring Dixie and Ryker along for the adventure. I'm so excited to be a part of the Lend A Paw team, and I can't wait to meet your furry family members, learn all of their personalities, and care for them as if they were my own!!

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Tyler

Operations Supervisor

Hey y’all!! I’m Tyler, one of the Operations Managers here at Lend a Paw! I'm honored to be part of this amazing team of incredible humans who make up Baton Rouge's best pet sitting and dog walking service. I'm certified in Cat and Dog First Aid & CPR through the American Red Cross, and I have been a part of Lend A Paw for almost two years. I was born and raised right here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Growing up, I used to say my house had four girls and two boys: my two sisters, my mom, my dad, myself, and Bear, our chocolate lab. Growing up, I don’t have any memories that don’t include Bear, the other boy in the family. 
 
I now live with my best friend Marlin, a super cute 8-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and I am so excited to welcome new pets and humans into my life and add to my growing Baton Rouge family! I can’t wait to lend a paw & care for your furry friends!


 

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Delaynie

Manager in Training / Team Lead

Hi!! My name is Delaynie and I love being a pet sitter for Lend a Paw! I'm from Denham Springs LA, but live in Baton Rouge while in school at LSU!  I have a dog of my own as well as a bearded dragon, and I absolutely love spending time with them! Growing up I was always the designated pet sitter for any relatives or family friends, giving me many years of experience of caring for pets, especially with medication distribution! I always find animals wherever I go, and love to love on them! My favorite hobby is watching football and baseball as well as attending games! I also love to go on walks, and always bring my dog along when visiting home! I'm so excited to spend time with and help care for your furry babies and give them the best care as if they were my own!!

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Samantha

Manager in Training / Team Lead

Hello! My name is Samantha. I am the proudest pet parent to my Labrador, Ollie and my hedgehog, Mr. Butters.  I’ve always been surrounded by animals of all kinds growing up and have learned that they bring me great joy, peace, comfort and happiness. On my spare time I love doing all things active like going on evening walks with Ollie, working out and finding new hiking spots to explore. I’ve recently decided to take a leap of faith and start tackling a business administration degree with a minor in finance at Southeastern University. Other than that, you can find me nerding out on numerous romance novels or in the kitchen attempting a new healthy recipe I ran across. At the end of the day though, nothing is better than the beautiful simple things in life like family, friends and coming home to my sweet four legged kids!  Working for Lend A Paw has allowed me to become animal CPR certified while continuing to grow my knowledge on how to properly care for animals. This company is able to provide so many fun and helpful services like pet taxi, field days and so much more! The most exciting thing that Lend A Paw provides though is how much care, passion and hard work they put in to making sure all sitters/care givers are equipped with the right skills to give every pet the best quality care at every visit. 

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Guinevere

Sitter

Hello Pet Parents! I am Guinevere, a pet sitter at Lend-A-Paw. I have always had a passion and love for all animals. I ran a boarding and day care facility for animals for several years as the General Manager. I am a former Executive Director of a Dog Rescue and I still support various animal rescues in the south. I have a certificate in Canine Behavior Training. When I am not pet sitting, dog walking or transporting your pets; you can find me with my husband and our six amazing rescue dogs. I have always used pet sitters with my own dogs as I believe that pets do better staying in their own homes and on a routine than they do in a new, unknown environment. I look forward to meeting your pets and providing them with quality care in a safe and loving environment. 





 

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Sarah

Sitter

Hi! My name is Sarah, and I started with Lend a Paw in the summer of 2025! I’ve always lived in Louisiana and I’m a student at LSU! I’ve grown up with multiple large dogs, like my 85 lbs golden doodle puppy named Duke. I grew up with a cat named Brock and currently live with a very talkative Ms. Marmalade. When I was younger we used to have goats and chickens which, before she was an old lady, my golden doodle named Daisy used to chase if she got out. This happened often considering she learned how to open the front door! 
 
I’ve worked at a dog daycare in the past through LSU and spent time playing with, handling, and bathing all different breeds and sizes of dogs. It was an amazing experience, not only because I got to spend all day surrounded by new furry friends, but also because I got to learn a lot from their dog trainer. When we would introduce new dogs into a group I learned a lot about their body language and social cues. I learned how to determine if something was going to happen before it did. How to discern if they were getting along or willing to meet the other. Working at the dog daycare was like being the principal of a middle school in the best way possible. All of the different personalities and habits that you get to pick up on. Who likes who, who’s gonna try and escape during class. It was all so fun and all I wanted to do this summer was work with animals again. 
 
I loved all of them but the wacky and energetic dogs hold a special place in my heart! I’m very used to being trampled by large energetic dogs and I can’t wait to meet your furry friends!

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Schyan

Sitter

Hi, my name is Schyan. I absolutely adore and love all animals. Ever since I could remember I’ve always wanted an animal whether it was a mammal, a reptile or a fish. Working with animals is definitely a passion of mine and it never feels like a job for me. I can’t wait to meet your fur baby and love them like my own. 

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Olivia

Sitter

Hello! My name is Olivia and I’m a full time college student at LSU. When I’m not working or at school, you’ll find me baking sweet treats, trying new dinner recipes, or decorating notebooks with my sticker collection. My family has owned dogs and cats all my life, so I enjoy being around animals since I have been my whole life. When I’m having a bad day, I drive all the way to my parent’s house to cuddle my dog and watch movies. I’m passionate about everything I do and I look forward to meeting new furry friends!

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Colleen

Sitter

Hi! I’m Colleen, and I’m excited to be part of the Lend A Paw team as a Dog Walker and Pet Sitter.

I’ve always had a genuine love for animals and believe every pet deserves to feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while their family is away. My experience with dogs, cats, and other pets has taught me the importance of patience, attentiveness, and treating every pet as an individual.

I’m especially passionate about giving pets lots of enrichment and exercise. I take the time to learn each pet’s personality, routines, and needs so they can feel right at home in my care.

I’m someone who values reliability, honesty, communication, and going the extra mile for both pets and their families. You can count on me to provide thoughtful, responsible care and to keep you updated so you can have peace of mind while you’re away.

Outside of pet sitting, I’m from Townsend, Delaware and am attending LSU as an animal science major. I’ve had many dogs as well as foster kittens throughout my life, and even just recently got a lab puppy, which has given me an even deeper appreciation for the special bond between people and their pets.

I’m looking forward to meeting you and your furry family members and giving them the same love and attention I’d want for my own pets! 

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Makayla

Sitter

Hi! My name is Makayla, and I’m a pet sitter with LAP. I love caring for animals and making sure they feel safe, comfortable, and happy while their families are away.

I have experience caring for a variety of pets and am committed to providing reliable, loving care. I am always learning more about pet care and believe every pet deserves patience, kindness, and attention.

I have always loved animals when I was younger and it just grew so much more over time. So much so, that when I was younger I dreamed of being a Veterinary to help all animals of all types. So whether you have a dog, or cat I will enjoy spending time with them, whether we’re going for walks, playing, or simply keeping each other company.

I’m from Lafayette, LA with a big family that loves having dogs! I’ve owned a variety of dogs over the years including a big caring Doberman and a small hyper schnauzer. I love caring for pets, so I will treat yours as if they were my own. I take pride in being dependable, trustworthy, and professional, and I always put your pet’s well-being first.

I offer services such as overnight pet sitting and pet transportation. My goal is to provide you with peace of mind while you’re away by giving your pets the best care possible.

I am looking forward to meeting you and your furry family members!

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Shai

Sitter

Hello, I’m Shai! I’m originally from Northern California and have called Louisiana home for the past six years.

My love for animals began at an early age. Growing up in a household with six siblings, our home was always filled with pets, including dogs, cats, hamsters, and lizards. These experiences gave me a strong foundation in caring for animals and a genuine appreciation for the unique personalities and needs of each pet.

I have several years of hands-on experience caring for and working with both cats and dogs. I understand the importance of providing reliable, attentive, and compassionate care, and I strive to ensure every pet feels safe, comfortable, and well cared for in my presence.

I look forward to getting to know you and your pets.

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Heather

Sitter

Hello! My name is Heather Jones. I grew up on a farm in middle Tennessee with horses, chickens, ducks, cats, dogs, and various reptiles. I have lived in Baton Rouge for 10 years now, and although I do not currently own a pet, I do have a 6yo boy! I love being outdoors and staying active. My hobbies include walking/hiking, swimming, travelling, and playing the ukulele. Don't make me pick between the mountains or a beach trip, I want both!

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Regan

Sitter

Hello everyone! My name is Regan and I am originally from Mandeville, Louisiana. I just started my first year at LSU School of Veterinary Medicine. Prior to starting school I worked as a veterinary technician at two different clinics!

 

My passion for animals developed throughout my childhood when my mom would foster dogs and wildlife, and I am happy that it has grown to be my life's purpose. My interest is in community medicine that serves all people and all animals. 

 

Pictured with me is my cat Boo. I got her a little over nine years ago as a stray, and she has been by my side ever since. Aside from her, I have two bearded dragons, Girin and Sable. I have a special heart for exotics and one day hope to bring compassionate care to them as well. 

 

In my free time, I love creating different art or DIY projects, cooking, or spending time outside. I'm so glad I will get to continue taking care of animals in this next chapter of my life- I can't wait to meet them!

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