Jessica Towns
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
I am the founder of Medical Spa and an aesthetic injector. We specialize in aesthetics and regenerative medicine.
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
Trevor is a 13 year old Italian Greyhound that we rescued from Miami, last year. His situation was heartbreaking, he was severely neglected and being surrendered due to his owner losing their home. His health and teeth were in poor condition. He could not eat and he was in a lot of pain. He had never been on a walk. The very moment we met, he was so gentle and very sweet, almost like he knew we were there to help him.
How has having a pet changed your daily life or outlook?
Honestly I’m just so happy to make every day great for Trevor. It’s been fun seeing him try new foods, explore new places, and relax in the sun. Trevor reminds me to enjoy every moment. I’ve really enjoyed the process of earning his trust and love, which is a slow and steady process and it makes me love him even more.
If your pet had a job, what would it be?
That’s such a great question! Trevor would probably be a Grandpa, owner of an Italian restaurant, keeping the place secure and warmly greeting everyone with a don’t mess with me confidence.
What is your favorite pet-friendly spot in Naples?
Probably Meridian Medical Spa, I love it when my patients bring their fur babies to their appointments! It’s one of the biggest highlights of my day!
Edna May Seymour
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
Veterinarian, Patty Baker Humane Society of Naples.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
As a veterinarian, it’s pretty clear that animals are at the core of everything I do professionally. But it goes far beyond just a career — animals are truly my passion and my purpose. Every day, I have the privilege of advocating for their health, comfort, and well-being, and that connection is what drives me. Whether I’m treating a medical issue, supporting an owner through a tough decision, or helping a rescue pet find a second chance, animals are the heart of my work and the reason I do what I do.
Why is adoption or rescue important to you? What would you say to someone considering adopting rather than shopping?
Adoption and rescue are deeply important to me because I’ve seen firsthand how many incredible animals are out there just waiting for a second chance. These pets end up in shelters through no fault of their own — often because of human circumstances, not because they did anything wrong. They have so much love to give, and they deserve safe, happy lives.
To someone considering adoption, I would say: you’re not just saving a life — you’re gaining a loyal, grateful, and loving companion. There’s something incredibly special about the bond that forms when you give an animal a fresh start. It’s life-changing, not just for them, but for you too. Shopping supports a system that often prioritizes profit over animal welfare. Adoption supports compassion, second chances, and the belief that every life matters.
Are there any local rescue organizations or shelters you support or recommend?
I actually started my own 501(c)(3) rescue called Wags to Wishes. Our mission is to help pet owners keep their pets, no matter their circumstances, to prevent animals from ending up in shelters in the first place. We support and collaborate with Collier County Domestic Animal Services. I also work on the mobile veterinary clinic through the Patty Baker Humane Society, where we provide low-cost care to the community members who need it most. In addition, I volunteer with SNIP Collier, helping with spay and neuter surgeries to reduce overpopulation and support responsible pet ownership.
Each of these organizations plays an important role in creating a more compassionate approach to animal welfare in our community.
Hannah Fleming
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
As a luxury real estate agent in Naples, Florida, I have the joy of helping clients not just find the right home—but the right lifestyle. And for so many of us, pets are a huge part of that equation. Whether it’s finding a home with the perfect fenced yard, proximity to pet-friendly beaches, or walkable communities, I always consider my clients’ four-legged family members in the search process.
How has having a pet changed your daily life or outlook?
Having a pet has made me more present and more in tune with the importance of home as a place of comfort, routine, and unconditional love.
Why is adoption or rescue important to you? What would you say to someone considering adopting rather than shopping?
It’s also why I’m such a believer in adoption and rescue. There are so many amazing animals out there just waiting for a second chance. If someone is considering adopting instead of shopping—I’d say: do it. You’ll never regret giving a deserving animal a safe, loving place to land.
Are there any local rescue organizations or shelters you support or recommend?
Locally, I love supporting Humane Society Naples—they do incredible work placing pets into forever homes and advocating for animal welfare in our community. And when it comes to pet-friendly spots, Baker Park is our go-to.
What does the bond between humans and animals mean to you?
To me, the bond between people and their pets is pure and deeply grounding. It reminds me every day what it means to love without condition—and why helping people find homes where those bonds can thrive is the best part of what I do.
Bradley J. Engle
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
I’m the owner and founder of Engle Dentistry, Prestige Dental Art Dental Lab, and Renu Skin & Wellness MedSpa each created to offer a seamless, patient-focused experience here in Naples. At Engle Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on restorative and cosmetic excellence. Our on-site lab, Prestige Dental Art, allows us to deliver highly customized solutions with precision and efficiency. And through Renu Skin & Wellness, we help patients feel confident and rejuvenated from the inside out with a range of aesthetic and wellness treatments. My goal has always been to serve the community with integrity, compassion, and innovation whether that means restoring a smile, supporting local charities, or mentoring future healthcare professionals.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
While animals aren’t part of our clinical setting, they can have a powerful impact on the overall patient experience especially for those who feel nervous or anxious. We understand that trained service animals and emotional support animals can provide a great sense of comfort during appointments, and we’re happy to make accommodations when needed. Their calming presence helps create a more relaxed, supportive environment.
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
My fiancée and I share our lives with a 16-year-young Shih Tzu named Lola. She’s a little dog with a huge personality, but still playful and endlessly curious. Lola has been part of our family for many wonderful years, and she’s truly the heartbeat of our home. She has a calming presence, an intuitive sense for emotions, and this endearing habit of making everyone she meets feel instantly loved.
How has having a pet changed your daily life or outlook?
Lola reminds me daily of the importance of presence and patience qualities I value both in life and in my practice. Whether I’m with a patient or spending quiet time with her and my fiancée, I’m reminded that healing, trust, and connection all require empathy and attentiveness.
Ciara Lister, Esq.
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
I am a real estate, non-profit and estate planning attorney.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
I am a board member of Wags to Wishes Inc., a 501c3.
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
Tuna is a rescue from Ohio and Paloma is from Leigh high- they are both foster fails.
How has having a pet changed your daily life or outlook?
They make you responsible. They teach you patience and unconditional kindness.
Why is adoption or rescue important to you? What would you say to someone considering adopting rather than shopping?
Adoption and rescue are important to me because they give deserving animals a chance at a good life, often after hardship, abandonment, or neglect. Every adoption opens a spot for another animal in need and helps reduce overcrowding in shelters.
If your pet had a job, what would it be?
Paloma would be a bartender. Tuna is a paralegal.
What is your favorite pet-friendly spot in Naples?
Seed to Table.
What does the bond between humans and animals mean to you?
The bond between humans and animals is pure, loyal, and healing—it’s love without words.
Meredith McLean
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
I am the Division Director for Collier County Domestic Animal Services, the county's open-admission animal shelter. In this role, I oversee shelter operations, adoptions, veterinary care, and community outreach programs. Each year, we take in approximately 6,000 animals and currently maintain a live release rate of over 95%, reflecting our deep commitment to lifesaving. Our team works daily to protect animals, support responsible pet ownership, and provide vital services such as reunification, public education, and programs like TNR and foster care. We serve as a safety net for lost, abandoned, and neglected animals, and we continuously strive to improve outcomes through collaboration, transparency, and compassion.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
Animals are at the core of everything I do professionally. As the Division Director for Collier County Domestic Animal Services, my work revolves around protecting, caring for, and advocating for animals in our community. Whether it's developing policies to improve shelter care, supporting field officers in cruelty investigations, expanding access to veterinary services, or creating programs to keep pets and families together, every decision I make impacts the lives of animals.
I also work to bridge the gap between animals and people-helping pets find homes, educating the public about responsible ownership, and building partnerships that strengthen our community’s ability to care for its animals. The human-animal bond drives both the challenges and the rewards of this work, and it's what makes this profession so meaningful.
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
My sweetest girl, Kesha, passed away a year ago, so I don’t currently have any pets of my own. That said, I regularly open my home to animals in need of foster care, particularly those with medical or behavioral challenges. I also provide hospice care for animals at the end of their lives. Rather than spending their final days in a shelter, they stay with me so they can experience comfort, dignity, and unconditional love before crossing the rainbow bridge. It’s incredibly rewarding to help the most vulnerable animals and ensure they feel safe and cherished, no matter how much time they have left.
Kimberly Alvord
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
I have a small real estate team, Kimberly Luxury Group, at John R Wood Properties Christie’s International’s 5th Avenue office specializing in selling the Naples Lifestyle.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
As a real estate professional if a buyer has a pet it is very important for me to find a pet-friendly community for them. Pets are a huge priority and are members of people's family so I want to make sure all of their needs and wants are accommodated in the home selection process!
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
I have a grand-dog named Maximus. He’s a 6 year old Cavapoo who I often take care of and he likes to help me work.
How has having a pet changed your daily life or outlook?
There is something about waking up and being greeted by a wagging tail that is as invigorating as a cup of coffee in the morning. It brings a smile to your face that just hits different in the home. Dogs are so welcoming and always excited to see you come home!
Why is adoption or rescue important to you? What would you say to someone considering adopting rather than shopping?
Unfortunately we have so many homeless dogs here in Naples that are in desperate need of new families. Humans need houses and pets need homes. I want to be a real estate agent who can help do both!
If your pet had a job, what would it be?
Maximus is such a nosy neighbor. He always wants to know everything that is going on. Like me, he always has to be in the know and all caught up on what’s new and happening here in Naples, FL….especially when it comes to real estate!
Pam Mitchell
Life is all about learning. Since this is the pets issue, do you have a dog?
Yes, I have 2 dogs. I believe that pets exist to teach the rest of us unconditional love.
One year, my New Year’s resolution was to be more like my dog, Phoebe.
1. Phoebe loves everyone.
2. Phoebe assumes everyone loves her.
3. Phoebe never needs to forgive, because she never holds a grudge. If I stay away too long, or step on her tail, she still loves me. She only has one speed.. acceptance and love.
I hope these lessons flow through to all my personal and business relationships.
How do these lessons flow through to your business?
At Mitchell Financial Planning of Raymond James, we believe that money is not the goal. Money is just the tool to live one’s dreams. We care about your dreams and the people in your life. It is our job to map out a plan to fund those dreams with a wide range of investing ideas. My greatest professional joy is watching my clients live their best lives and supporting causes and people that are dear to them!
What organizations are important to you?
My husband, Tim, and I support Youth Haven, on campus housing for young people. It is a place where young people learn how amazing they truly are! A beautiful staff and community partners affirm their values and their dreams. They support them as they
graduate high school and go on to college or careers.
We also support Naples Pathways Coalition, an amazing group of people who have been working for many years to provide safe biking and pedestrian pathways in Collier County.
Collier County is a beautiful place to live filled with amazing people. I feel blessed to share my life here and support people as they invest their assets to fund their dreams.
Cybelle White
Tell us about your business or role in the community.*
At White House Signature Services, we offer tailored property stewardship and concierge services for our clients who own seasonal or secondary residences in Southwest Florida and across the U.S. Our approach is shaped by decades of experience supporting C-suite executives—both professionally and personally—where discretion, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving were not just expected but essential. This combined with a deep foundation in law enforcement and corporate security, has uniquely equipped us to operate with both vigilance and grace—protecting what matters most while ensuring every detail is cared for. In the community, we are a quiet but reliable presence behind the scenes—supporting families, protecting their investments, and helping them experience the joy of returning to a home that feels effortless and ready. We believe that trust is built over time and earned through consistency, and that’s exactly what we deliver.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
At White House Signature Services, we understand that pets are not just part of the household—they’re family. Many of our clients entrust us with more than just the care of their homes; they trust us with the comfort, safety, and happiness of their beloved animals. Whether it’s coordinating travel plans for your furry family or prepping the home with their favorite treats and toys before arrival, we approach each detail with the same care we would give our own loved ones. We know how much peace of mind it brings to clients when they return to a home where every member of the family—four-legged ones included—feels secure, welcomed, and at ease.
If your pet had a job, what would it be?
If Mickey had a job, he’d definitely be the Director of Treat Procurement! With a seriously tuned nose and impeccable taste, he’s always on the hunt for the next best snack. Whether it’s sniffing out special treats for himself or helping us discover thoughtful goodies for our clients’ pets, Mickey takes his (unofficial) role very seriously. His love for the little things reminds us that attention to detail—right down to a favorite treat—makes all the difference.
Cullen Stack
Tell us about your business or role in the community.
Tell us about your business or role in the community. I’m Cullen Stack, founder of DRVN—a purpose-fueled brand built around faith, family, and a relentless commitment to living with intention. DRVN empowers individuals and entrepreneurs to pursue their calling with clarity and courage. In the Naples community, I serve as both a coach and a creative catalyst, helping others align their inner convictions with outward impact. Everything we do points back to purpose, and I believe in using influence to ignite transformation.
How do animals or pets intersect with what you do professionally?
At DRVN, we talk a lot about legacy—what you build and who you build it with. Pets, like people, carry presence. Dino, our golden doodle, has become a symbol of unconditional love and joyful living. Whether it’s through team meetings, content creation, or just being around during coaching calls, Dino reminds us that softness and strength can coexist. His calm, loyal energy embodies part of the DRVN ethos: lead with love, move with purpose.
Tell us about your pet! What’s their name and story?
Dino came into our lives as a Christmas surprise in 2020. Santa brought him for my son—right in the middle of a year that tested all of us. Dino wasn’t just a gift, he was a message: joy is still here. His name (yes, like the dinosaur) came from my son, and it stuck because Dino has the playful spirit of something larger-than-life. He’s part of our family rhythm now—he travels with us, he greets our guests, and he even sneaks into a few Instagram reels.