About Pura Vida

Hi, I'm Bex . I've worked in the animal industry for a little over six years now . This includes my time with Pima animal care center's (PACC) community cats program to help spay and neuter Ferrell cats for two years. I also have experience with doggy day camp and pet resort/boarding. I have owned and worked around many types of animals and reptiles, both big and small. Im a happy pet Mom to 6 dogs, 4 cats, a hedgehog, a guinea pig, and 10 reptiles. My passion has always been to work with and help animals. I can’t wait to meet you and your for family.

"Hi! I'm Paula, a passionate animal lover originally from Brazil, now living in Tucson with my wonderful husband, our playful cat Figaro, and our sweet dog Lua. I love spending time in nature, whether it's hiking or just enjoying the great outdoors.I’ve been caring for dogs for about 20 years and animals have always been a huge part of my life. I understand the importance of keeping your pets happy, safe, and well-loved while you're away. I can't wait to meet your furry friends and give them the attention and care they deserve!"

“ Hello, my name is Alexica but you can call me Alex. I’m a dog mom of 4, have a fitness lifestyle, love to travel, and have been an animal lover since I was born. I’m a full time dietitian, currently working for the UofA as a manager. I also have around 7 years of experience with animals (dogs, cats, snakes, rabbits and birds). I’ve always believed working with animals is the dream job. I would describe myself as passionate, empathetic & caring about animals, so I look forward to meeting your fur baby! “

Hello! I’m Joelle. I am a recently retired firefighter from Concord, North Carolina. I am loving learning all things Desert Southwest and hiking in the beautiful mountains here! I was previously a dog mom of three and am currently a cat mom to 5! There has not been a time in my life in which my home did not include a furry friend. I love every animal I meet. I even learned to love my Godson’s bearded dragon! I look forward to giving your pet(s) the same love and attention I give my own while also ensuring the safety and security of your home.

Hello! My name is Tori and I am a dog lover through-and-through! I've owned dogs my entire life, up to four at one time! While I have lots of experience with animals outside of my personal pets, such as through pet sitting and checking in on my loved ones' dogs when they are away, I also worked for nearly two years as a dog bather/groomer trainee. Therefore, I have lots of experience with all kinds of critters, big and small, calm and excitable! I am very excited to work together to create the best care possible for your lovely pets!!

Hi! I’m Jennifer (Jen) and animals have always been a huge part of my life. Growing up in Northern Ohio my family had a Dachshund but after moving and starting my career I began my love affair with cats!! My first “soul cat”, Chloe moved with me through 5 states. I have been in Tucson over a decade now and it’s my forever home. After retiring, I jumped fully into cat rescue and was the cat coordinator for a local rescue for several years. I have met every kind of cat and can usually get even the most shy kitties to come out and play! I have 10 (!) cats and 1 crazy dog who believes he is a cat! I am excited to help pet parents in Tucson be able to travel knowing their furry family members and homes will be cared for as if my own. I love to travel and know how difficult it can be to find the right pet care so I joined Pura Vida to make a difference and provide loving care for your family.

Hello! I’m Lindsey.  I’m an east side Tucson native and current cat mom to 5 beautiful kitties.  I am recently retired after 20 years in public safety and am enjoying my new role with Pura Vida!

I was lucky enough to grow up with animals of all kinds!  From horses and goats, to birds and snakes along with allll the dogs and cats!  I participated in junior rodeo and the 4-H horse program all throughout my childhood and learned so much from both.  I have attended PACC’s cat care and dog walking classes and I also have volunteer experience with a local wildlife rescue.  

I hope to bring your furry, feathered, or scaled family members happiness when I visit with them!  I also hope to bring peace of mind to you, the pet parent, while you utilize Pura Vida Pet Care.  The security of your pet and home is my priority.

“Hey there! I’m Lindsay. I’ve always said that no matter where I live, it doesn’t feel like home unless there’s an animal sharing the space. Right now, that’s my cat daughters, Mia and Twyla. I grew up in the Midwest, and pets have been with me through every move and stage of life. I’m so happy to be back spending my days with new little friends—sitting in an office has never really been my thing. When I’m not being your pet’s new best friend, I’m usually creating something, organizing an event, exploring the desert, or trying to work on my small business while Twyla insists on distracting me because she NEEDS to play fetch .”

Hi, my name is Callista! I was born and raised in the Marana area and have been an animal lover my entire life. I currently have a dog, two cats, a desert tortoise, a bearded dragon, and two freshwater aquariums, and I’ve even owned several species of invertebrates! I’ve been pet-sitting for family and friends for several years, and I love caring for and working with new pets. I can’t wait to meet you and your furry (and feathery, and scaly) friends!

Hi, I’m Emma!

I’m certified in applied animal behavior through the University of Washington, and in training through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. I currently work full-time studying canine cognition at the University of Arizona’s Canine Cognition Center. Over the years, I’ve spent thousands of hours training, walking, and caring for pets of all ages, sizes, and personalities. 

I love making sure every visit is safe, fun, and enriching—whether that looks like tossing a ball, strolling through the neighborhood, or sharing snuggles on the couch. With my background in animal behavior, I pay close attention to each pet’s body language and needs so they always feel comfortable and cared for.  When I’m not at work, I’m usually doting on my two wonderful dogs, Bugsy & Jango, or spending time in my garden. Taking care of pets isn’t just a job for me—it’s something I truly enjoy. I can’t wait to meet your best friend!

Hi, I'm Christine! I've been caring for dogs, cats, birds, and horses for more than 25 years. Although my background includes a degree in psychology and a career in software, my passion has always been understanding and caring for animals.

I've completed training in dog behavior and animal communication, volunteered extensively with animal shelters and rescues, and currently volunteer with Karuna Horse Rescue while pursuing certification in Small Animal Acupressure and Massage. Originally from Los Angeles, I moved to Tucson in 2025 to be closer to my dream of working with animals full-time. At home, I'm kept entertained by a dog who acts like a cat, a cat who acts like a dog, and a very opinionated African Grey Parrot!

I believe every animal deserves to be treated with compassion, respect, and kindness. My promise is to provide professional, personalized care that supports your pet's health, happiness, and emotional well-being. I can't wait to meet you and your furry (or feathered!) family members!

Hi! My name is Mariana, and I’m a reliable and caring pet sitter with a genuine love for animals of all kinds. I understand that pets are family, and I take pride in providing attentive, compassionate care to make sure they feel safe, comfortable, and loved while you’re away. Pictured here is Mimosa—she’s the sweetest, silliest kitty and always keeps things entertaining. 🐾

Fun fact: I was a pet sitter during my undergraduate studies, and I’m excited to be back doing something I truly enjoy—caring for pets in my community. I currently work at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, and pet sitting has been such a rewarding way to reconnect with my love for animals.

I’m reliable, attentive, and treat every pet like they’re my own. I look forward to meeting your furry loved ones and giving them all the care, attention, and love they deserve!

Hello! I’m Kat. I am from AZ but have lived all over the world working Defense Communications and Cybersecurity. After I retired, I became deeply interested in animal rescue and now volunteer for two Golden Retriever rescue organizations which operate throughout AZ. I can’t think of anything more rewarding than helping a pet who might’ve had a rough experience find a safe, nurturing, and loving family! Given my lifelong love for animals AND for the Tucson community, providing in-home care and enrichment for your beloved babies through Pura Vida Pet Care services is my perfect match! I have over 40 years of experience with all breeds of dogs including behavior and handling, and am equally thrilled to love on your cats. I have three Golden Retriever boys at home who are my marshmallows and occasional clumsy velociraptors. We love to swim and play fetch! I’m thrilled to meet your furry (or hairless) family members and devote all my love and attention to them while you’re away. The Pura Vida team is spectacular and I’m confident you’ll agree.

“Hi, I’m Allie! I’m a veterinary technician with a lifelong love for animals and a proud pet mom to two spoiled cats and a draft mule. I moved to Tucson from Phoenix a few years ago and love spending my free time camping, going for scenic drives, reading, and being with my animals.

 

I’m currently in school to become a licensed veterinary technician while earning my bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science with a minor in Psychology. I’ve cared for animals of all kinds, including dog sitting for a Phoenix rescue owner who specialized in behavioral dogs and working as a ranch hand on a goat ranch in Pearce, Arizona.

 

I know every pet is different, and I love getting to know their unique personalities. Whether it’s a walk, a drop-in visit, or extra playtime and cuddles, I’ll treat your pets like they’re my own!”

Hi! I’m a responsible, caring pet lover with a soft spot for animals of all kinds. I have a cat of my own, so I understand how important it is to find someone you can trust to care for your pets while you’re away.

I’m dependable, attentive, and treat every pet as if they were my own. Whether your pet needs walks, playtime, meals, medication reminders, or simply some extra companionship, I’m happy to help! I know every animal has their own personality and routine, and I’ll make sure to follow your instructions carefully so they feel comfortable and cared for.

My goal is to give you peace of mind while you’re away and make sure your pets get plenty of love, attention, and care. I’d love the opportunity to meet your furry (or not-so-furry!) family members!

Hi! I’m Melissa. I’m a lifelong animal lover and proud pet mom to Poppy, my rescued Golden Retriever, a house full of five cats, plus however many foster kittens happen to be calling our house home at any given time! I moved to Tucson from the Boston area with my husband and our 3 kids. We have loved making the desert home!

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I enjoy advanced dog training with Poppy, and our work together has given me an even greater appreciation for the bond we share with our pets and how much we can learn from them. Between training, fostering, and life in a multi-pet household, I’ve also learned that every animal has their own personality, preferences, and very definite opinions about how things should be done!

My professional background is in healthcare operations and program management, so being organized, dependable, and attentive to details comes naturally to me. I’m excited to bring those qualities to Pura Vida while doing something I genuinely love, spending time with animals.

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I know how much trust it takes to put your pets and your home in someone else’s hands. Whether your pet wants a walking buddy, playtime, cuddles, or someone who understands a cat's multifaceted personality, my goal is to make them feel safe, happy, and cared for while giving you peace of mind about their care.