Meet The Team
Our Team
Beth
Owner
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
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
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.
Sean
Kennel Attendant
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.
Vicky
Trainer
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, 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.
Gary
Kennel Attendant
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.
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.
Mina
Kennel Attendant
Lisa
Barn Hunt and Nose Fun Trainer
Lisa, Barn Hunt and Nose Fun Trainer, Lisa teaches Barn Hunt and Nose Fun and has been at this location for many years. She loves her students and enjoys teaching the dogs to do what they are supposed to, follow their nose. Sign up for one of Lisa’s classes, you’ll have so much fun.
Chris Byrne
Kennel Attendant
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.
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
Grounds Maintenance
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.