Justin Davanzo
OWNER AND HEAD TRAINER
Justin Davanzo is the founder and owner of The Ruff Ranch. He has lived in Santa Barbara since 2013. For Justin, working in the dog training and boarding industry is more than just training dogs to “sit, stay and come” – it’s about developing a relationship with both the dog and its owners based on mutual trust and respect.
Justin firmly believes in and teaches a “Train as you live” philosophy which supports developing a great lifestyle for owners and their dogs. A Santa Monica native, Justin earned his Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts at the University of Oregon in 1996 and is an avid photographer, skier and motorcyclist.
Michael Libera
Canine Conceirge
I have been living with dogs since I was born. I moved away to school and did dog sitting and dog walking which was great.
I recently moved back to the Santa Barbara area and wanted to continue working with dogs and found exactly what I was looking for at The Ruff Ranch.
David Pina
Facilities & Kennel Staff
David is a Santa Ynez resident and hard working member of the team. After graduating high school he came to work at the ranch full time, but he is also starting his own business on the side. When not working, he can now be found fishing - his newest hobby thanks to Israel. David shared, “I love working with the dogs!”
Anthony Abad
Shift Leader, Kennel Staff
I'm a Central Coast native with a plethora of interests and have always had an affinity for dogs, so, working at the ranch was an obvious choice for me.
Tessa Backes
Kennel Staff
There is something about being around dogs. No matter how bad your day could be, they just always make it better!
I always have loved animals but my true love for dogs happened after working at The Ruff Ranch.
Monique Vasquez
Kennel Staff
My name is Monique Vasquez. I’ve lived in the valley my whole life. And I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Im currently going to Santa Ynez High School. I love to read and listen to music. My love for animals started when I was younger. Growing up with different animals and learning how they have their own personality. Working here at Ruff Ranch has helped me become so much closer to dogs. The love I have for dogs has grown so much more. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Sarah Westwood
Kennel Staff
My name is Sarah and I currently live in Buellton. My life has always been better when surrounded by animals. Taking care of dogs has and will always be my passion in life. When in my care, I will treat your fur baby like they are my own, small or large!
Marcela Flores
Kennel Staff
My name is Marcela Flores I was born and raised in Lompoc, CA. Growing up with two dogs around the household made me discover my love for dogs and their companionship! I enjoy their company so much I realized I wanted my future career to be around dogs. What better place caring and loving our furry friends than the Ruff Ranch!
Karlee Dontanville
Kennel Staff
Julie Hayek
I am Julie and I live in the SY Valley with my husband, daughter and 3 year old chocolate lab. We started bringing our puppy to Justin for training in 2021 and The Ruff Ranch has been Bear’s 2nd home! I have been in the hospitality/wine industry for 28 years and have been enjoying assisting the team with administrative projects.
Victor Gaytan
Volunteer Trainer
I love dogs so much that I decided to learn how rehabilitate dogs and train people as a hobby. Well-behaved dogs are confident and that comes from socialization, and it means having good encounters with all the things in their world and learning that those things are not dangerous or scary. This includes all kinds of people, other animals, and places.”
Rosie & Otto
Chief Shenanigan Officers
Rosie and Otto bring happiness and lots of ridiculous, noisy shenanigans to the office to remind everyone that it is important to take a break and PLAY. When they are not lounging about and eating treats they are working hard to bring a smile to the team up in the office.