Makenzy has been working with animals for close to a decade. She has experience caring for a wide range of creatures to include cats, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, and farm animals. Her passion and purpose working with animals professionally was catalyzed after a vulnerable health challenge that began in 2020. After being limited on the kind of work she could do because of her condition, she started professionally pet sitting through Rover to bring some extra joy into her life as she was uncertain about what her future would look like.
Little did she know, being in the presence of animals would be one of the significant factors that would aid in her condition being healed. After achieving a significant amount of 5 star reviews, dealing with her own struggles finding reliable pet care, and making progress healing from her condition – Makenzy recognized the need for more skilled, compassionate, reliable pet sitters and founded Zippy Pets.
Makenzy is currently studying Canine Behavior and Ethology through BHARCS Academy and plans to further her education around pet health, nutrition, and healing. Makenzy graduated with honors, Magna Cum Laude, in 2019 from Frostburg State University in Maryland with her degree in Biology. She achieved the Dean’s list during her last semester while working full-time and volunteering with Americorps. She and her husband moved to Asheville shortly after her graduation in 2019.
In her free time, she enjoys playing with her one-eyed kitty Ganymede, learning more about animal behavior/health, seeing live music, and strength training. She also just recently welcomed a baby into the world! Makenzy looks forward to expanding the mission of Zippy Pets and being an integral part of the pet community here in WNC.

With a lifelong passion for animals, Joe's journey began in a household surrounded by various pets, nurturing his deep connection with animals from a young age. This early exposure not only shaped his personal life but also paved the way for his professional career. Joe's academic pursuit in biology, coupled with his close relationships with wildlife enthusiasts, has aided in his understanding of animal behavior and biology. His blend of hands-on experience and academic knowledge grants him a unique perspective on both domestic and wild animals.
At the core of Joe's philosophy is the belief that pets are special members of the family. He approaches each pet with patience, treating them with the utmost care and attention they deserve. What sets Joe apart in his pet sitting endeavors is the bond he forms with each animal. He finds that the longer he works with a pet, the stronger the connection, making every pet sitting experience uniquely fulfilling and heartwarming.
Outside of his devotion to animals, Joe is a self-proclaimed nerd and a serial entrepreneur, always on the lookout for new ventures and ideas. His role at Zippy Pets embodies his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to offering exceptional pet care services. For those in need of a trustworthy and compassionate caretaker for their pets, whether for short trips or regular care, Joe is committed to ensuring that every pet is not only looked after but also cherished and loved.

Meet Carson, one of our pet sitters who specializes in overnight care, pet hikes, & pet taxis! Carson was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, but fell in love with North Carolina over a span of 10 years while going to Camp Illahee in Brevard. It was at camp that she developed her love for caring for others, adopting a gentle and kind attitude towards all creatures, big & small! As fate would have it, she has returned to NC to reconnect with her roots, explore nature, spread love & mental health awareness, and finish her studies in school.
Personally, Carson has struggled with the loss of both her parents at a young age due to mental health problems, and it is her wish to bring love, light, & joy into the lives of those around her, to remind people that no matter what you’re going through, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
Creating art is her deepest passion in life, and her fiercest daydream is to become an Art Therapist, to help others struggling with depression, PTSD, anxiety, disease, trauma, and anything that falls under the mental health umbrella.
Carson has a huge heart & a deep love for all animals, and tends to them dearly! She lives with her precious black kitty, Grimm, named after her love for fairytales while growing up through some pretty difficult situations!

Kate is a North Carolina native who has always had a deep love for animals. Growing up in a household filled with a variety of pets including dogs, cats, bunnies, and birds — she developed a lifelong bond with animals. Today, Kate shares her home with a puppy, two cats, and several aquariums!
Kate’s commitment to compassionate care is rooted in her values of kindness, communication and trust. She’s had a growing interest in dog training and nutrition giving her a unique perspective on animal behavior and wellness. Kate also has a background in management so she deeply understands the importance of communication, reliability, and trust.
Outside of pet care, Kate enjoys making art of all kinds, exploring the outdoors with her dog Sawyer, and spending time with friends playing board games or a competitive kickball match!
From daily walks to overnight stays, Kate’s compassionate and intuitive nature offers dependable, experienced care, ensuring your pets are safe, happy and well loved during your time away.

Ken is new to the Asheville area, having relocated to be closer to his children and grandchildren alongside his lovely wife, Elicia. Originally from Central Florida, Ken’s love for animals began at an early age and has remained a constant throughout his life.
A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Ken served as a Law Enforcement Specialist before transitioning into entrepreneurship, owning and operating a Solar Control Window Film business for 37 years. His years of service instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, reliability, and commitment—values he now brings to pet care.
Ken is passionate about providing safe, attentive, and loving care to every pet he meets. Whether it’s a drop-in visit, a walk, a scenic hike, or an overnight stay, you can trust that your furry friend will be treated with the same care and devotion as you would give them yourself.
An avid outdoor enthusiast, Ken has logged over 500 miles hiking the Appalachian Trail and enjoys exploring Asheville’s beautiful trails. His love for nature and animals makes him a perfect fit for pets who enjoy adventure, exercise, and companionship.
\Ken looks forward to meeting you and your pets, ensuring they feel safe, happy, and well cared for while you’re away!
