Meet Our Team

Beth, Owner, has worked with rescues, shelters and kennels for 20+ years and created her own rescue, Animal Friends - VA, in 2015. She has two grown children (a veterinarian and a Social Worker) and an MBA in Business. She grew up with animals and has always loved caring for them. Her passion is the rescue and her love for animals.

Melanie, Owner, is a community based mental health worker. Her love for animals started a few years ago when she became a foster mom. Melanie is deeply passionate about animals, as they hold a special place in her heart. Their unconditional love, loyalty, and unique personalities never fail to brighten her day. From the playful antics of dogs to the graceful movements of cats, each animal brings a sense of joy and wonder into my life. She strongly believe in the importance of protecting and caring for all animals-big and small, as they enrich our world in ways that are truly priceless. Melanie's love for animals motivates her to support and advocate for their well-being knowing that they deserve our respect, compassion, and understanding.

Rachel, Manager, has worked here for many years and absolutely adores her customers and their fur-babies. She has always had a passion for animals and loves interacting with their owners as well. She treats each pet she sees as her own and enjoys the unconditional love they give.

Jazmyn, Kennel Attendant she loves animals because they give unconditional love no matter what. They don't judge based on appearance and think the world of their owners. They can always put a smile on my face and bring light to people's lives. I absolutely cannot live without my pets and adore taking care of our client's while they're away.

Amanda, Kennel Attendant is a student at Longwood University and majoring in Biology. Amanda is very quiet, but don't let that fool you. She totally lights up when interacting with your pets. She loves dogs and really loves the kitties. During her school breaks she looks forward to all the activities our customers sign their pets up for, especially the kitty cuddle time. Amanda recently adopted a puppy from Animal Friends - VA and brings him to daycare when she's working. She's a great asset to our team!

Sean, Kennel Attendant I'm one of the newest members of the pack and it's been nothing but amazing. I love spending time with the dogs out in the yard, it's always a fun time.

I've loved animals since the moment I was born. There's something incredibly comforting about their presence, and I'm constantly amazed by their ability to understand and respond to human emotions. Whether it's the soothing sound of a purring cat or the joyful energy of a dog, animals have a unique way of bringing peace and happiness into my life.

I've always enjoyed interacting with animals, whether it's through hikes in nature or simply spending time with them in a more relaxed setting. Each moment feels special, and their personalities never fail to bring a smile to my face. Working at AFPP has deepened my connection with animals, giving me new joys and experiences while also allowing me to witness the beauty of animal interactions in large spaces. Watching them explore and engage with their environment brings me a sense of fulfillment and joy. Their natural behavior, free from constraints, is a constant reminder of how incredible and diverse the animal world truly is.

Vicky, Trainer is a certified dog trainer with over 15 years of experience in training and competitions. Come have some fun with your dog and lots of bonding time while working on a variety of training to include puppy kindergarten through advance obedience ... or choose from tricks to fitness and Canine Good Citizen (CGC). Not sure what your love enjoys, try out the mixed dog sports class and get exposure to a variety of dog sports like Rally, agility and training games.

Scott, Barn Hunt Trainer, Scott has been helping out and competing here in Barn Hunt for years. He recently brought Mattaponi Kennel Club to our facility and enjoys running our monthly run thru's, teaching private lessons and group classes as well. He competes with his dogs who have won many titles and he has taken over the lead for Barn Hunt here at Animal Friends' Pampered Paws.

Dogs truly are a man's best friend - it's impossible not to love them. Their loyalty, friendliness, and loving nature make them irreplaceable companions, and I can't imagine a world without them. Working at AFPP has been a dream come true, allowing me to spend my days playing, walking, and petting our furry friends. It's given me the chance to learn about different breeds, temperaments, and the unique personalities that make each dog special. Every day brings new experiences, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such wonderful animals.

I've had dogs in my life since I can remember and have lived in Fauquier since 1986. Growing up, my family owned a pet shop where I took care of a variety of animals, including dogs, fish, and reptiles, which deepened my love for animals and my commitment to their health, well-being, and happiness.

The bond I share with animals drives me to ensure they live their best lives, and I take great pride in caring for them. In the picture, you'll see my two pets: Zeus, my little Yorkipoo, and Jeanie, my West Highland White Terrier who was rescued from a puppy mill. I also have a bearded dragon named Brak, who adds a unique joy to our family. Each of them holds a special place in my heart, and they inspire me every day to advocate for and care for all animals.

My name is Aurelius and I'm currently a student at NOVA. I've always had a passion for animals and I'm hoping one day to become a veterinarian. I'm one of the newest employees here at Animal Friends' Pampered Paws and I love playing with the pups and the seniors too.

I've loved dogs for as long as I can remember. Growing up, there was never a time when our home wasn't filled with wagging tails and playful barks. Dogs have always been a part of my life, shaping who I am and teaching me about unconditional love, loyalty, and the simple joys of life.

There's nothing I enjoy more than watching dogs play together, their pure happiness and energy always bring a smile to my face. Whether it's cuddling with a sleepy pup or spending time with a group of dogs running free, being around them has always felt like second nature to me.

Caring for animals isn't just something I do - it's who I am. Dogs have a way of making life better, and I feel lucky every day to be a part of theirs.

Evan is a graduate of Liberty High School and came to Animal Friends' Pampered Paws through the Special Education Department Training Program. Evan loves his dogs Sophie and Hank and also loves Charlie Brown and dinosaurs. Fun fact about Evan is that he speaks Spanish.

My name is Elysa, and I've always loved animals, especially dogs and horses. I've been working with dogs since I was 18 years old, and I am now going on 28. I have three pups of my own (and a fat orange cat haha) and plan to own a horse farm one day! Animals are my passion, and I'll do anything in my power to help them and look forward to my growing future grooming.