Cagri Sarigoz ·
Updated December 5, 2025
When Josie Trista Norwood looks back at her journey, the path seems almost predestined. Growing up with a profound love for animals, it was no surprise to anyone when she found her first job at a pet shop at the tender age of 17. Her career naturally progressed into a role many would dream of: a certified dog trainer at Petco. “I left the pet industry years ago, and it was really the one job category that kept me happy,” Josie reflects. But the world had more in store for her, weaving together her profession and passion into a tapestry of fulfilling experiences. This is her story.
Josie spent years as an Uber driver, a career that, while satisfying, missed a crucial element: the joyful presence of animals. As fate would have it, a technology named Gemini AI introduced her to CitizenShipper, a platform that would allow her to marry her love for road trips with her lifelong passion for animals. “I really fell in love with helping families with their beloved pets,” says Josie, reminiscing about her first few jobs with CitizenShipper. And thus began a journey that rekindled her happiness and established her unique place in the pet transportation community.
The First Steps with CitizenShipper
The transition to CitizenShipper was nothing short of transformative. “My first experience was amazing!” exclaims Josie. “Each and everyone after have all been just as amazing as the first.” The excitement of new beginnings still sparkles in her eyes as she narrates tales of her voyages, such as the poignant transport of a puppy named Birdie from Portland, OR to Sacramento, CA. Birdie, initially shy and nervous, blossomed into a bundle of joy upon reuniting with her owner. “Those are the moments that make this job so beyond worth doing,” recalls Josie, her voice filled with warmth and fulfillment.
Crafting Unique Bonds: The Heart of Josie’s Work
Every trip is a new journey not only physically on the road but emotionally as well. Josie crafts special bonds with each pet she transports, creating unforgettable memories. “I create a unique and special bond with each and every pet that I care for,” she explains. Capturing these moments through photography, she pieces together beautiful photo collages that serve as keepsakes for each pet parent. It’s this personal touch that makes her stand out, offering more than just a service but a memory to cherish.
Her thorough methods even extend into safety practices. Traveling primarily in her 2019 Honda Accord Sport, Josie ensures the comfort and security of her passengers. “I have a medium-sized kennel for smaller pets and a back-seat car cover for larger dogs,” she cites, detailing her meticulous preparations. “I also require a harness on the dogs so I can seatbelt them to the car.” With such attention to detail, it’s no wonder her transports run smoothly.
A Day in the Life: Communicating on the Move
Communication remains a cornerstone of Josie’s practice, woven into the very fabric of her services. “I update a lot, maybe too much,” she laughs softly, understanding the importance of reassurance. Clients appreciate the constant flow of updates, ensuring their beloved pets are in safe hands. Josie’s face lights up, “I’d rather over communicate than under communicate,” she says, and it seems her clients agree.
The journey to gaining proficiency was self-driven for Josie. The coaching offered by CitizenShipper, while unutilized, did not hinder her improvement as she adapted strategies such as effective bidding through early offers. “Being one of the first bidders has proven very helpful,” she acknowledges, showing a savvy side to her professional personality that balances her nurturing demeanor.
Passion Meets Strategy: Josie’s Professional Prowess
“Believe in yourself and keep going. Keep bidding. Keep trying. Keep booking!” Josie advises emphatically to any new transporters joining the platform. Her strategies and experiences are a testament to her resilience and ingenuity. “I’m a VIP only driver,” she states proudly, ensuring each pet’s journey is as special as they deserve. Her main moto celebrates giving each animal her undivided attention, a commitment that is commendable and rare.
The Rewards and Challenges on the Road
Though she eagerly awaits each day’s challenges, Josie’s traversed roads have been largely smooth. “I have not any rough challenges during transport so far,” she confesses, while being fully prepared for the unexpected at a moment’s notice. Her transport kit is exhaustive: pet-safe cleaner, potty pads, blankets, car jack, and the like, exemplifying the thorough preparedness that characterizes her approach.
Her joy in nurture and building bonds reflects her fulfillment in the ability to directly impact animal lives for the better. GPS tracking is another integral part of her service, offering pet parents peace of mind. “GPS is important for the peace of mind to the pet parents,” she affirms, reinforcing her dedication to transparent, reliable service.
Looking Forward: Goals with CitizenShipper
Josie’s aspirations are clear; as she gains experience, she intends to gather more credentials, carving a path of continual improvement. “I would like to grow my business more but never turn it to another hand,” she states with passion, constantly eager to expand her own capabilities, not the scale of operations. She sees her role as a lasting commitment to the animals and families she meets.
Concluding Thoughts: The Joys of Working with CitizenShipper
Josie remains incredibly satisfied with her work with CitizenShipper. “I appreciate the ability to showcase myself and my abilities, talents, and credentials on my unique profile,” she notes, acknowledging the platform’s capacity to bring visibility and credibility to individual drivers. Her satisfaction is shared mutually by the platform and the community she serves.
“The most rewarding part of the job is the ability to create new special bonds with each and every pet,” Josie declares, her voice resonating with fulfillment. It’s moments like these—where passion meets practice—that truly encapsulate the spirit of CitizenShipper. Each successful journey not only transports a pet but also enriches Josie’s life, a sentiment echoing through the testimonials of happy pet parents across the country.
With an unwavering heart and a clear vision, Josie Trista Norwood continues to redefine pet transportation, one cherished journey at a time.
Marketing and product leader with over 14 years of experience, proficient in growth marketing, product management, and team development in fast-paced environments. Experienced in establishing and growing marketing functions and teams from the ground up.
