About Us
Hillsborough County’s Favorite Pet Sitters
Based out of Hillsborough County, FL, at Professional Pets Florida, we pride ourselves in being the most compassionate care takers for your beloved pets while you’re away or for daily/weekly dog walking services.
Aside from in home services, we provide USDA Certified Pet Taxi/Ground Transport & Flight Nanny Services.
With a pack of professionals with combined animal experience, our clients have peace of mind knowing that their pets are in the most caring paws.
Each of our pack member pet professionals have animal care experience, are Pet First Aid Certified through Red Cross, and are background investigated annually.
Our pack members have the opportunity to continue their education through FetchFind & the National Association of Veterinary Technicians (NAVTA).
Lauri P.
Bartow, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Exotics Pop In Visits
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Flight Nanny
Pet Taxi
Almost Overnights
Management: Meet Lauri
Owner
Hi! I’m Lauri! I’m a New York City native relocated to Bartow, FL.
In 2014, I started my animal career as a veterinary receptionist. From there, I climbed the professional ladder & went onto become an exotics specialty veterinary assistant, companion animal veterinary assistant, companion animal veterinary technician, Animal Control & Welfare Officer, and finally, Owner & Manager of Professional Pets Florida.
My background of veterinary medicine and animal welfare have helped me mold Professional Pets Florida to reflect the core values that I believe every animal should be treated with: safety, dedication, patience, and compassion.
At Professional Pets Florida, we specialize in cats, anxious, special needs, medically needy, and senior pets; but open our arms to all friends whether furry, feathered, scaly, or slimy!
I have an American Bully named Zoey & an American Staffordshire Terrier named Luna Tuna.
I am the Founder of Pizza for Pets, a local Hillsborough County non-profit initiative helping shelter pets from the Pet Resource Center find their forever homes.
Additionally, I am the Tampa Bay Regional Director for Florida Pet Services Association, a 501c3 dedicated to elevating professional pet care standards through community & collaboration.
I am a public veterinary speaker & quarterly, I sit on the Veterinary Medical Board at Southern Technical College in Brandon, FL.
We look forward to having you join the Professional Pets Florida Pack family!
Experience & State Certifications
- Red Cross Pet First Aid & CPR
- Animal Control Officer
- Veterinary Technician
- Veterinary Assistant
- Exotics Specialty Veterinary Assistant
- Companion Animal Therapy Laser Technician
- Humane Euthanasia Certified
- Fear Free Certified
Accredited Certifications:
- Rescuing Animals from Cruelty & Disasters
- Large Scale Animal Cruelty
- Investigating and Prosecuting Animal Cruelty
- Veterinary Forensics
- Investigating Animal Abuse for Law Enforcement
- Diabetes Management in Canines & Felines
- Animal Technical Rescue in Natural Disasters (NFPA)
Justine G.
Brandon, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Adventure Hikes
Pet Taxi
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Flight Nanny
Almost Overnights
Management: Meet Justine
Manager
Hello! My name is Justine, and I am the passionate and dedicated Manager at Professional Pets Florida. With a lifelong love for animals and a natural talent for management, I take great pride in ensuring that both our clients and their beloved pets receive the highest level of care and attention.
My journey into the world of professional pet care began in childhood, where I was always surrounded by furry companions. I have always felt a special connection with animals, which has driven me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful impact in their lives.
At Professional Pets Florida, my role as Professional Pets Florida Manager allows me to combine my love for animals with my skills in management. My mission is to uphold and enhance our reputation as the premier pet care provider in the county. I am committed to maintaining our rigorous standards of pet safety, hygiene, and overall well-being.
Whether it’s communicating with clients, resolving any issues that may arise, or leading our dedicated team of pet professionals, I am always ready to go the extra mile. My goal is to ensure that every pet in our care is treated with the love, respect, and attention they deserve.
Outside of work, I share my life with a rescue cat named Boots, who brings endless joy to my days.
I look forward to meeting you and your pets and providing them with the exceptional care that Professional Pets Florida is known for!
Alena A.
Tampa, FL
Services:
Emergency Support
Support Staff: Meet Alena
Emergency Support
Hi, I’m Alena! My experience starts with my own pet sitting company, which I started in 2019 out of my love for pets and my passion for providing top-notch care. I’m thrilled to be able to do what I love every day.
Before diving into the pet care world, I spent years as a court reporter, where I honed my precision and attention to detail. These skills are now part of everything I do at Professional Pets Florida. I also worked as an executive assistant in financial services and as a project manager for a large company in Tampa, but eventually, I said, “Enough with the desk jobs!”
Now, I get to enjoy every moment of caring for animals, and nothing makes me happier than seeing their wagging tails and joyful faces.
I’m also Fear Free Certified and hold certifications in CPR and First Aid, so you can rest easy knowing your pets are in safe and loving hands.
I am a problem solver and happy to assist our team and our clients with any emergencies that may arise during bookings!
Zoey & Luna Tuna
Bartow, FL
Services:
Kennelytics
Pawsitivity Reports
Chief Pupperations
Management: Zoey & Luna Tuna
HPIC – Head Puppers in Charge™
Z: Woof, bark, bark, howl
LT: Woof, lick, bark, lick lick
Experience:
- Time Management: Professional Alarm Clock
- Quality assurance: Expert Toy inspector
- Construction: Great at digging holes
- Experience By Association: Mom owns Professional Pets Florida
Jocelyn S.
Apollo Beach, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Almost Overnights
Adventure Hikes
Meet Jocelyn
Pack Member™
Hello! I’m Jocelyn, a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. With a passion for animals and a diverse background in animal care, I’m excited to bring my knowledge and enthusiasm to Professional Pets Florida.
Throughout my academic journey, I gained hands-on experience in various settings, including veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and farm environments. My training covered everything from routine health checks and emergency care to behavioral assessments and enrichment strategies. I’ve worked closely with a wide range of species, including dogs, cats, small mammals, birds, and even exotic animals.
One of my most rewarding experiences was interning at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where I not only study basic behaviors of several marine species (dolphins, otters, and pelicans) but also assisted in training sessions that provided daily care and enrichment. This role allowed me to develop strong skills in handling animals with different temperaments and needs, ensuring their well-being and comfort.
Additionally, my time working on a farm gave me a solid understanding of animal husbandry and the importance of proper nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation. I also shadowed at a veterinary clinic, where I assisted with procedures and learned the intricacies of animal health from experienced professionals.
With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of animal behavior, I am committed to providing compassionate and personalized care for your beloved pets. My goal is to ensure that every pet under my care feels safe, loved, and well-attended.
I’m thrilled to be a part of Professional Pets Florida and look forward to meeting and caring for your furry, feathered, or scaly friends!
Maizie C.
Tampa, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Almost Overnights
Adventure Hikes
Meet Maizie
Pack Member™
Hello! I’m Maizie, a passionate dog trainer and animal care professional. Originally from Canada, I’ve been living in Florida with my husband and our fur babies since 2022. My lifelong love for animals was inspired by my late mother, who worked as a Veterinary Assistant. Her dedication to animal care sparked my own passion and continues to influence my work today.
We share our home with three wonderful pets: two dogs, Kai and Maggie, and our senior cat, Mina. My love for animals goes far beyond cats and dogs — growing up, I spent countless hours catching salamanders and bugs in the forest and was always fascinated by my babysitter’s pet rats. I truly appreciate and admire all creatures, big and small.
With experience in shelter volunteering, dog training, daycare group play, and kennel care, I’ve developed a deep understanding of animal behavior and how to help pets thrive.
I’m committed to fostering positive relationships between pets and their owners by building confidence, encouraging good manners, and creating a sense of security in every dog I work with.
I look forward to meeting and caring for your furry family members!
Kaitlyn R.
Seffner, FL
Services:
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Adventure Hikes
Almost Overnights
Meet Kaitlyn
Pack Member™
Hello, I’m Kaitlyn! I was born in Brandon, Florida, and have had the opportunity to live in various parts of the state throughout my life. From a young age, I knew that working with animals was my true calling. My passion for all types of animals has only grown over the years, and I’m now proud to share my home with a beloved bunny.
I am a Certified Veterinary Assistant with a deep commitment to expanding my knowledge and skills in the field. I continually seek out opportunities for education to stay at the forefront of animal care. My experience with animals spans many years, during which I have cared for a wide range of species. From rescuing dogs and tortoises in danger to nursing injured animals back to health, my hands-on experience has shaped my approach to compassionate care.
In addition to my veterinary assistant certification, I am also Fear Free Certified, ensuring that I prioritize the emotional well-being of every animal I work with. I’m dedicated to providing the highest level of care to your pets, because I believe they deserve nothing less. My goal is to use my love for animals and my professional expertise to ensure your pets receive the best care possible.
Melissa F
Apollo Beach, FL
Services:
Pop In Visits (Exotics)
Cat Sitting
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Flight Nanny
Almost Overnights
Meet Melissa
Pack Member™
Hello, my name is Dr. Melissa F., but please feel free to call me Melissa. My love for animals runs deep, and I am passionate about caring for all types of pets, whether furred, scaled, or slimy.
Growing up in the Everglades, I spent my childhood exploring the wilds and interacting with various creatures, from snakes and iguanas to toads, frogs, and turtles. My early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for animal welfare, particularly for turtles and tortoises. Over the years, I’ve rescued numerous species, including a gopher tortoise, eight red-eared sliders, a Florida softshell turtle, and two Asian box turtles. I’m well-known for stopping to help turtles cross the road safely—something I believe is a small yet important way to contribute to their protection.
In addition to my passion for reptiles, I also have a soft spot for rodents, having once cared for a mischief of four rats. My current household is a diverse pod of pets that includes two pit bull mixes, a Siamese cat, a three-toed box turtle, two adult sliders, and various fish. Each of them brings unique joy and challenges, and I am dedicated to meeting their needs with love and attention.
When I’m not caring for my pets or tending to your beloved animals, I enjoy gardening, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and capturing the beauty of nature through photography.
I am excited to bring my expertise and passion for animals to the care of your pets. Whether they have fur, scales, or something in between, I look forward to ensuring they receive the best care possible.
Trisha P.
Apollo Beach, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Flight Nanny
Almost Overnights
Pop In Visits (Exotics)
Meet Trisha
Pack Member™
Hello! My name is Trisha, and I am excited to be a new resident of the Apollo Beach area. My husband and I are now retired, but we are far from slowing down. Staying active and engaged is important to both of us, and for me, channeling my lifelong love for animals into pet sitting and dog walking is the perfect way to keep moving.
I’m a proud pet parent to four wonderful animals: Wyatt and Sophia, my teacup Yorkshire Terriers, and Mirabelle and Willow, my rescue cats from New York City and Knoxville. They are truly my children, and they inspire my dedication to animal care.
Throughout my life, I’ve sought out every opportunity to be around animals. I’ve volunteered at various shelters, including a shelter in Jersey City, NJ, where I helped care for dogs and cats. I was also involved with an organization called Stray From The Heart, which transported dogs from Puerto Rico to New York City, helping them find their forever homes. In Knoxville, I volunteered at a local shelter, walking dogs and playing with cats, and contributed to the Spay and Neuter Center by assisting with post-operative care and cleaning instruments.
My passion for animals doesn’t stop there—my next big goal is to purchase at least five acres of land and build a sanctuary for any animal in need of a home. It’s a dream I’m deeply committed to and one that reflects my lifelong dedication to animal welfare.
I am thrilled to bring my experience, enthusiasm, and love for all animals to caring for your pets. Whether it’s taking them for a walk, providing company while you’re away, or simply ensuring they feel loved, I am here to make sure your pets receive the best care possible.
Laura S.
Riverview, FL
Services:
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Almost Overnights
Meet Laura
Pack Member™
Hello! I’m Laura, and I have had the pleasure of calling Florida home for most of my life. For the past 23 years, I’ve lived in Riverview with my husband and two daughters, where I’ve also built and nurtured my private pet sitting business for the last decade.
Animals have always been a central part of my life, and my passion for them began at an early age. Growing up with a Cocker Spaniel and a Great Dane, I developed a deep love for all breeds, big and small. This experience has given me the confidence and expertise to care for giant breeds, so you can trust that your large dogs are in great hands. For the past 30 years, I’ve had Boxers, and our current Boxer, Chloe, is truly the light of our lives.
While my primary focus has been on caring for dogs and cats, my experience extends to a wide variety of animals. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with chickens, pigs, bunnies, fish, birds, and reptiles. I am particularly passionate about caring for animals with special needs, and I am experienced in administering medications to ensure they receive the care they require.
I approach every pet I care for with the same level of compassion, dedication, and love as if they were my own. Every animal I care for becomes a part of my heart, and I am committed to providing them with the best possible care. I look forward to meeting and caring for your beloved pets soon!
Aaleeya W.
Ruskin, FL
Services:
Cat Sitting
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Almost Overnights
Pop In Visits (Exotics)
Meet Aaleeya
Pack Member™
Hello! I’m Aaleeya, and my love for animals has been a lifelong passion. I currently share my home with four dogs, two rabbits, four guinea pigs, and a snake, so I have plenty of hands-on experience with a variety of pets.
My journey into animal care began in high school, where I pursued courses in animal management, livestock care, and veterinary assistance. This foundational education sparked a deep interest in animal welfare, which I have continued to cultivate throughout my career.
After graduating, I furthered my passion for animals by working at a pet supply store, where I gained valuable knowledge in proper husbandry and animal care. However, I wanted to be more directly involved in the well-being of animals, which led me to transition into a role as a kennel technician. Over the years, I have worked at three different boarding facilities and doggy daycares, where I was responsible for administering medications, providing enrichment activities, and ensuring the comfort and happiness of the pets in my care.
I am thrilled to now bring my kennel and animal behavior expertise directly to your home, where your pets can stay in their familiar environment while receiving the best care possible. I look forward to meeting you and your pets soon!
Maryann S.
Ruskin, FL
Services:
Pop In Visits
Daily Dog Walking
Flight Nanny
Adventure Hikes
Almost Overnights
Meet Maryann
Pack Member™
Hello! I’m Maryann, and caring for animals has been a lifelong passion that has naturally evolved into a fulfilling career in the pet care industry. Over the years, I have had the privilege of looking after many pets, and each experience has deepened my commitment to providing the best possible care.
Animals have always been at the center of my life, and I genuinely love all the pets I care for as if they were my own. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or any other companion, I strive to ensure they feel safe, happy, and well-loved in my care.
I am currently studying to become a certified dog trainer, with a strong focus on canine behavior and structure. This education allows me to better understand the needs of dogs and provide specialized care that supports their overall well-being.
I am excited to meet your pets and look forward to spending quality time with them, ensuring they receive the attention and care they deserve.
Se habla español!
Book a Complimentary Consultation with Management
We’ll get to know your pets and your needs while walking you through every step of the process.
