Founder & CEO, Alicia Valdés-Pagés(R) and Co-Founder Chelsey Rodriguez(L)

Meet The Owner and Founder

As the founder of Winter Park Paws, Alicia's entrepreneurial journey began when she noticed a significant gap in the pet care industry. While working as a private dog walker, Alicia was constantly exposed to the needs and concerns of pet parents. She realized a high demand for high-quality pet care in a boutique facility where less was more and catered to small group care. This eliminated the need for people to enter homes, which many do not feel comfortable with. The demand was high, and the supply was nonexistent. This realization sparked the idea for Winter Park Paws Dog Daycare & Suites, where quality supersedes quantity.

Alicia is a Cuban American and Florida native born in Miami, raised in Winter Park, and a Lake Howell High School graduate. Alicia's lifelong dream has been to be a minority, women-led LGBTQ+ pet business owner and operator. Alicia is a highly passionate, Driven, and dedicated individual with 20+ years of pet-caring experience. Since a very young age, Alicia has owned, raised, cared for, rescued, adopted, and been passionate about animals. Alicia's passion for dogs and pet care grew so deep that in 2018 (age 28), she moved on from her career in corporate marketing and chose to fulfill her life-long dream. Risking it all, Alicia opened her dog walking business, which grew into a dog daycare and boarding operation with a brick-and-mortar in Winter Park, FL, in 2020 during the pandemic and has gained the support of her local community, having served thousands of customers in 3 years. She has made it her lifestyle to care for animals and give back to the community she grew up in.

Alicia’s passion for animals and desire to provide them with the best possible care were the driving forces behind the creation of Winter Park Paws. She wanted to create a place where pet parents could feel confident leaving their beloved pets, knowing they would receive the same care they do at home. Alicia envisioned a facility as an extension of the house, providing fundamental care in a nurturing, intimate, and stimulating environment.

Winter Park Paws is on a mission to provide top-notch care for dogs, whether their parents are away on a trip or need assistance during the day. We are more than just a dog daycare and boarding facility; we are a home away from home for your pets. We are committed to providing the best care possible and are excited to welcome your dogs into our family!

Our business is deeply rooted in values such as compassion, reliability, and safety, ensuring that every pet is treated with utmost care and respect. Trustworthiness and professionalism are at the core of the business operations, with a dedicated and responsible team prioritizing cleanliness and convenience for all clients. Our business is committed to providing quality services, upholding integrity in all its dealings, and demonstrating expertise in pet care. Our team's dedication to these values ensures a positive and nurturing environment for all pets in our care.

Alicia and Chelsey are the true Definitions of Winter Park natives. They believe in giving back to their community through their love for pets. Alicia and Chelsey have a deep passion for serving, Loving, and understanding animals, leading them to fulfill their dreams and missions in the pet care industry.

Our Services »
Get Started Today »

Location —
Winter Park, Florida