~ About us ~
Hi I'm Rebecca Ann Paulsel,
Founder & owner of The Golden Leash Dog Walking and Pet Sitting LLC.
I'm so happy you're here!
My passion for animals started like most, when I was young and has only grown over the years. I have always had a deep and immense love for all creatures both big and small. Growing up I was always surrounded by pets of my own, from dogs, cats, parrots, chickens, bunnies, guinea pigs, small pocket pets, fish and even turtles.
When I was 17 years old, a dear family friend had a Golden Retriever that was expecting a litter of ten puppies. They kindly asked me if I would help welp the litter, to which I happily said yes! I wasn't supposed to bring a puppy home but after falling in love with one of them, I brought my sweet Dakota home. Dakota was named after my childhood home state of, South Dakota. She was such a sweetheart, the biggest goofball, extremely loyal and the most loving companion I could ask for. Dakota is our mascot and the inspiration for The Golden Leash Dog Walking and Pet Sitting.
Currently my little fur family includes Lola my sweet but sassy Miniature Schnauzer, and Mango a vibrant Pineapple Green Cheek Conure.
I have been working in the pet care industry for over a decade. In high school I started by volunteering with retired racing Greyhounds at Greyhound Pets of America - Houston. I worked in several doggie daycares and boarding facilities, before working for a local dog walking and pet sitting company for several years. My next goal was to learn more about the health and wellness of animals, so I spent a few years working in the veterinary industry focusing on dogs, cats and exotic animals. While in the veterinary industry, I worked hard to obtain a Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 1 certification through the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) and then moved into a Veterinary Technician position.
In my spare time, I enjoy continuing education and learning new things related to animals, pets and business. I am very passionate about raising awareness for domestic abuse, suicide prevention, and autism awareness. You can also typically find me listening to music, podcasts and audio books, as well as enjoying an iced latte or tea at my favorite coffee house in Houston.
I am certified in pet first aid and CPR, along with holding a certificate as a human phlebotomist.
Photo by: LeeAnna Davis Photography
🌈 A tribute to Dakota 🌈
This is our why story.
It is with deep pain and profound sadness that I share, my sweet Dakota passed away on Thursday, August 21st, 2025 at 12 and a half years old. In honor of her life, here is our why story and how The Golden Leash came to be:
In December of 2012, I had the immense privilege of helping a dear family friend whelp a litter of 10 Golden Retriever puppies, one of which was Dakota! Throughout the years Dakota was a constant companion in my life, helping me to navigate many different things and at times very hard life events. Dakota was always there by my side, never judged, provided unconditional love and had such a peaceful, calming presence about her.
Life took a bit of an unexpected and emotional turn in 2021 when I found myself in a domestically abusive relationship. Not only was I physically abused, but so was Dakota. After getting out and leaving the abusive relationship safely, I spent some time healing and continuing to lightly do dog walking and pet sitting as it brought me the most joy and peace. In 2022 while continuing to heal from the abuse, I poured myself into countless hours researching, laying the foundation and building The Golden Leash Dog Walking and Pet Sitting LLC inspired by Dakota and her unconditional love, along with my love of helping others both humans and animals. In September of 2023 The Golden Leash officially came to life. Due to Dakota’s unwavering & unconditional love, I am very passionate about raising awareness for domestic abuse, suicide prevention, and autism awareness, as she truly showed me what true love and acceptance really are.
Now as Dakota has passed over the rainbow bridge, my sweet mother noted the logo now represents Dakota on the other side of it, with the light pastel colors surrounding her. Dakota’s love & legacy will forever live on with The Golden Leash, and be the guiding light & principle of everything we do going forward!
-Rebecca Ann Paulsel
Founder & owner of The Golden Leash Dog Walking and Pet Sitting LLC
People who care about animals tend to care about people. They don’t care about animals to the exclusion of people. Caring is not a finite resource and, even more than that, it’s like a muscle: the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets.”
Jonathan Foer
We’re turning TWO 🎉🎂🐾 and you get the treat!
To celebrate the life and legacy of Dakota & two amazing years in business, we’re giving Houston pet parents a gift you won’t want to miss for new clients.
New clients: Receive your pup’s first dog walk with us for only $2 during the month of September. It’s the perfect chance to try us out while giving your pup the love, care, and exercise they deserve.
Long hours at work? Busy fall social calendar? We’ve got your dog covered — so you can focus on your day without the guilt, or the puppy dog eyes they give you!
This special is valid from September 1st-30th.