Where are you from originally?
I was born on March 10th 1980 in Tacoma WA. I grew up in Northern California while spending summers fishing in Hawaii with my father.
What did you do in your previous life?
After graduating from Upper Lake High School in 1998, I went on to the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and graduated in 2000. Then I went on to work for some of the finest restaurants around the world and traveled through Asia, Hawaii, and the states.
How did you happen to come to Fernandina?
After living in Japan for 2 years, I moved to beautiful Amelia Island in 2004. Shortly after, I bought Redbones Dog Bakery and Boutique and have owned it ever since.
We all know you are active in the community and with the local humane society. What drives you to dedicate your time?
Because of my love for animals and their welfare I have been an active board member of the Nassau Humane Society since 2006. I believe the best way to give back is by actually dedicating my time and energy towards local efforts in helping animals.
So what types of events do you participate in?
Redbones Dog Bakery and Boutique holds monthly dog washes and pet adoptions with all donations benefiting the NHS. Every Saturday, Redbones hosts "Puppy Kisses" where you can hold an adoptable puppy, and for $1 donation get slathered in puppy kisses! Redbones has been hosting this fundraising event for over 7 years and is responsible for adopting out over 100 animals including dogs and cats. This year with be our 10th annual Parade of Paws which is our biggest fundraiser of the year; held the 1st Saturday of December. Over 100 dogs march down Center Street to participate in this wonderful event. All proceeds benefit the Nassau Humane Society.
What are you most passionate about (dog wise of course)?
My love for the American Pit Bull Terrier has driven me to educate the community more about the breed. My love for animal rights and my strong desire to stop animal cruelty has inspired me to one day run a successful Pit Bull Rescue.
What are your favorite things to do?
I like to take dogs for walks, babysit dogs, wash dogs, feed dogs, hang out with dogs, adopt dogs, and love dogs. Oh…and bake doggie treats.
Wow, that’s everything doggie… so what else do you like?
I am very dedicated to my shop, but I also like to have fun and spend time with my family and friends. I love going to the beach, traveling, and Shrimp fest is always a blast!
Do you have pets of your own?
Of Course! On my list of best friends I have two American Pit Bull Terriers, Pinette and Gotti.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I love this quaint, dog friendly community and I hope to reside here for a very long time.
"I only stock products that I believe in, and that I would use on my own dogs."