Meet Our Team
Mark and Melody, Owners
Married in 2009 in West Virginia, we spent the next decade in comfortable careers (Mark as VP of a construction firm, Melody most recently working on the investment side of BB&T) while volunteering with our local animal shelters in our free time. In 2019, we decided to take a leap of faith and try to make a living of our passion of working with animals. We had already fallen in love with this area having visited here multiple times on vacation. So we quit our jobs, moved to Charleston, and spent the next seven months preparing through training programs, mentoring, and shadowing, while designing a facility with the perfect balance of luxury and fun. In March, 2020, our dream really began, as we opened the doors to The Island Pawplex.
Tristin
I was born and raised in Charleston. I have three dogs (Blossom, Clover, and Daisy), one kitten (Aster), and a crested gecko. I love animals of all shapes and sizes. I have worked with dogs for over five years and have loved every minute of it! In our free time you can find us at dog-friendly events around Charleston. I am also certified in pet CPR and first aid.
Brittany
I started as summer help in June of 2020, but after transferring from Huntingdon College in Alabama to College of Charleston, I became a full team member of The Island Pawplex. Prior to working here, and in addition to having dogs of my own, I gained experience working as a pet sitter and volunteering at the Montgomery (AL) Humane Society.
Madeline
I'm from Missouri and just recently moved to Charleston. After getting my Bachelor's degree I decided that animals were my real passion, and I have now been working with dogs for more than a year. I previously worked at a boarding and daycare pet hotel in St. Louis, and I started with The Island Pawplex in July.
Amber (Groomer)
In 1998 I attended the SC School of Dog Grooming and was taught by Master Groomer Kathy Sanders, and now 22 years later I am still in love with my career! I love building trusting relationships with the pet parents and their pets. I have a passion for grooming and take great pride in my grooming and safety skills. The absolute best part of my job is being rewarded with doggy smooches!