Hey you!
Hi! I’m Shiya — the heart behind Nurtured Paws.
I’m a creative spirit, vibrant wife and mama, lifelong learner, and a firm believer in the power of care, community, and connection. I started my journey as a teen mom with a stroller in one hand and a leash in the other, determined to create a life of joy and stability for my son. Little did I know that walking dogs would teach me how to walk boldly in my purpose.
Since then, every step has been about nurturing — whether it's helping pups feel safe and seen, raising a thriving family, or mentoring youth with the same love and encouragement I once needed. That is the soul of Nurtured Paws.
I recharge through music, dancing, acts of kindness, and (believe it or not) a good deep clean! I'm a total foodie, a proud hair color chameleon, and I live by the motto:
"Adaptability is the new stability."
I’m a lifelong surrogate dog mom. From adventurous walks with Maverick the Husky (who once "gifted" me a snake I’ll never forget) to quiet moments with Lola the Cocker Spaniel (who curled up next to me during my final pregnancy days), every pup becomes family here.
At Nurtured Paws, we don’t just watch dogs —
We nurture souls.
My Story
My journey began in 2016 as a teen mom seeking flexible income. Through the guidance of a dear friend and side hustle mentor, I discovered an unexpected calling: caring for dogs and the families who love them. What started as a way to provide stability for my growing son quickly grew into a deep love for the animals and community I served for four beautiful years.
After taking a break during the pandemic to expand my family — now proudly a wife and joyful mama of four — I return to my first love with renewed purpose and greater compassion. What was once Doggin' Daycare with Shiya is now reborn as Nurtured Paws: a mission to provide exceptional, heartfelt pet care while laying the foundation to soon mentor local youth in responsibility, compassion, and entrepreneurship.
This isn’t just pet care.
It’s purpose. It’s heart. It’s healing — for me, for your pups, and for the young people we’ll empower along the journey.
At Nurtured Paws, your dog isn’t just watched —
They’re known, nurtured, and cherished as family.
With love,
Coach Shy 🐾
Book an Appointment
We’d love to meet you and your pup! Let’s connect to learn more about your pet’s needs and how Nurtured Paws can support your family with loving, reliable care.
