From the time I was a child, animals were my greatest joy. Growing up, I spent endless hours caring for stray cats, feeding neighborhood dogs, and even nursing injured birds back to health. Every furry friend or feathered visitor felt like family, sparking a lifelong passion for their well-being. That love wasn’t just a phase—it shaped my heart and my dreams. I always knew I wanted to dedicate my life to animals, to give them the care and love they deserve.

For 50 years, I held onto my dream of working with animals, carrying it through every chapter of my life. Now, at last, that dream has come true. As the Resort Manager at Pet Paradise in Viera, I wake up every day to a world of wagging tails and joyful barks, leading a team that shares my passion for pet care. It’s more than a job—it’s the culmination of a lifetime of love, a chance to make a difference for animals and their families, and a beautiful reminder that dreams, no matter how long they take, can come true.

Hello, I'm Michele, a native of Upstate New York! I obtained my formal education in Sociology/Social Work and Psychology at the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. I have a diverse employment background, holding positions as a Senior Substance Abuse Therapist as a variety of locations throughout the Capital District. I am the former owner/operator of a Grooming/Day Care facility, Pampered Pets by Maple Grover Pet Spa in Saratoga Springs and have held the same position in several family owned business as well. My employment since arriving in Florida has been in the work areas of Hospitality Management and Restaurant Management.

I am a former breeder of Golden Retrievers, receiving the AKC recognition of Breeder of Merritt. I also, participated in Conformation Competitions for approximately 18 years. I currently reside in Cocoa, FL, with my fiancée, Gary, two Doberman Pinchers, Cash and Piper, and my cat, Lily.