Our California Tean
Peter Chance
Operator & California Partner, CCPDT-KA
Peter joined our team at our Chicago headquarters in 2020. He began as an apprentice and quickly became heavily involved in both company operations and extracurricular activities, including PSA (Protection Sports Association). Over the years, Peter contributed across many parts of the organization, including Pup Start, and later joined our senior department at Found Chicago, where he helped hundreds of owners succeed with their dogs.
Peter is an expert trainer with a wide range of abilities, from puppy development for creating the perfect foundation, to advanced behavior management and modification. During his time with Dog Tribe, Peter has trained hundreds of dogs, raised and helped develop just as many puppies, and guided countless families toward living balanced lives with their once-struggling canine companions. Peter later moved back home to California, becoming the ideal partner for our growth on the West Coast.
Our Dog Tribe Team.
The Dog Tribe team is a collective of dedicated professionals who share one mission, to help dogs and owners grow through clear communication, structured training, and a supportive community. Each member of our team brings years of hands-on experience in dog training, behavior, client coaching, and canine care, creating an environment built on trust, compassion, and results. From expert trainers and technicians to our academy instructors and leadership team, every person at Dog Tribe plays a vital role in shaping the culture, the quality of work, and the long-term success of the dogs and families we serve.
Founder/ CEO
Fabian Romo-Vargas
Fabian Romo is the founder and president of Dog Tribe, PupStart Chicago, Found Chicago, MOJO Dog Co., and Dog Tribe Academy. With nearly 20 years of hands-on experience in dog training, behavioral rehabilitation, and business development, he has built one of Chicago’s leading canine care ecosystems. Fabian is known for combining clear training philosophy with strong operational systems, helping dogs, owners, and canine professionals grow through structure, education, and community.
Director of Sales
Melanie Nunez
Melanie Nuñez is the Sales Director at Dog Tribe, bringing nearly a decade of experience in dog training, client coaching, and behavioral development. As an expert trainer and active PSA competitor, she blends technical skill with real-world leadership to guide owners through clear, effective training plans. Melanie is known for her communication, her honesty, and her ability to help families understand their dogs, making her one of the most trusted resources within the Dog Tribe ecosystem.
Administrative & Communications Manager
David Ugarte
David Ugarte is the Communications Manager at Dog Tribe. With 20 years of experience in customer service, administrative coordination, and dog daycare operations, he began his tenure at Found Training Center as a Level 1 Kennel Technician before moving into the front desk and coordinator team. David brings a strong passion for pet care and client support to his role, focusing on clear, solution-oriented communication that helps owners feel informed and confident.