Cagri Sarigoz ·
Updated January 14, 2026
What does it take to leave behind a familiar life and embark on roads less traveled? For Julie Ann Jakubowski, it meant combining her lifelong love for animals with her knack for organization into a full-time commitment. Transporting beloved pets since 2017, Julie tells us about her transition from cleaning houses to ensuring treasured pets make it to their forever homes with CitizenShipper.
Jakubowski’s tale is one where passion meets purpose, and her days as a vet tech student and a cleaning lady have all converged into a career that sees her navigating the country’s highways with a car full of furry passengers. It’s more than a job — it’s a journey paved with wagging tails and warm purrs.
How CitizenShipper Became Julie’s Road Companion
Julie recalls her discovery of CitizenShipper as serendipitous — a happy coincidence mentioned by a client. With an already thriving career as a shipper, she saw CitizenShipper as a window to greater opportunities. The platform provided her with a wider range of jobs, thus broadening her scope and reach in pet transportation.
Julie’s First Paw-Prints
The transition to CitizenShipper was seamless and rewarding. Her first experience was just as she describes every trip: “a great experience.” For Julie, every shipment is an opportunity to be part of a memorable story. Getting pets home, leaving paw prints on her heart.
The Drive Behind The Wheel
Julie’s primary vehicle for these cherished trips is her trusty SUV, chosen for its versatility and ability to make every transport safe and comfortable. Her approach is meticulous: carriers are used for safety, and for the dogs that need just a little more freedom, seat belt harnesses are her go-to.
Advice from the Road Warrior Herself
For those new to the shipping world, Julie stands as a beacon of wisdom. Patience and persistence are her mantras, and she encourages curiosity. She says asking questions is the key to preparedness and success.
Preferred Paths
While many drivers fancy varied landscapes, Julie has her preferences. Staying east of the Rocky Mountains is where she feels at home, balancing her time on the road with proximity to her own nest.
Staying Connected Every Mile of the Way
Jakubowski emphasizes communication with pet owners as an integral part of her service. Text messages and phone calls, complemented by pictures, ensure pet owners are reassured throughout their pet’s journey.
Julie’s Shipping Philosophy: Every Detail Counts
Jakubowski appreciates CitizenShipper’s feature of showing other transport opportunities en route, allowing her to maximize her trips. While she’s comfortable with her current service level, she aspires to book more frequently.
Communication: Julie’s Key to a Purr-fect Delivery
Julie doesn’t leave any room for guesswork in her communication with customers. From multiple daily updates post-pickup to being available at any time for queries, this ensures a smooth and worry-free experience for both the pets and their owners.
Handling The Unexpected
Emergencies can happen, but they aren’t showstoppers for Julie. With AAA membership, a well-equipped first aid kit, and multiple map apps at her disposal, she’s prepared for unexpected challenges like vehicle breakdowns or unexpected detours.
Steady in the Face of Adversity
Julie’s calm demeanor isn’t just beneficial for the animals. When transport challenges arise, her relaxed nature allows her to make smart decisions at the moment, ensuring the safety and comfort of the pets in her charge.
Navigating with Technology
While GPS tracking often sits on the backburner, with Julie’s strong communication protocols, she doesn’t hesitate to use it when requested. Her mantra is to cater to the client’s peace of mind, whichever way they prefer.
Setting The Financial Course
When it comes to pricing, Julie takes a methodical approach. She factors in the miles and desired earnings to land at an optimal rate of about $0.50 per mile. Her bidding strategy involves building a rapport, interpreting that the role is not just a transporter but also a part of their story.
Courting Customer Reviews
Post-service, Julie approaches reviews with simplicity. She reaches out to customers, hoping they share their satisfaction with her service on CitizenShipper’s platform. This not only fortifies trust for future customers but also reflects her dedication and passion for the job.
Performance Reviews: A Look in the Rear-View Mirror
Julie makes it a point to review her profile and metrics every few months, ensuring her service quality stays at its peak and reflects the love she pours into her work.
The Essence of Her CitizenShipper Experience
The most rewarding part of Julie’s job is distinctly threefold: the animals, the people, and the travel. But above all, saving lives and being a crucial part of a pet’s journey to its forever home leaves an indelible mark on her soul.
Conclusion: A Drive With Purpose
Julie Ann Jakubowski’s story is not just about transporting pets. It’s a narrative woven with dedication, love for animals and the joy of travel. CitizenShipper serves as a catalyst, enabling her to fulfill her dreams and make a difference in the lives of pets and owners. Julie’s journey exemplifies the essence of CitizenShipper’s community: connection, care and delivery of promises. Every mile covered and the tail wag encountered, strengthens the bond in this unique fellowship of transporters, where service extends beyond just driving. It’s about changing lives, one ride at a time.
If you’re inspired by Julie’s devotion and are looking to join a community that values connection and care at every turn, look no further than CitizenShipper. Embrace the road, the stories, and the chance to make a difference, just like Julie does with every trip she takes.
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.
Content Writer at CitizenShipper. I’ve also been published on The Penny Hoarder, Mommy Poppins and mxdwn.
