Meet the Team

Founder

Faith Burns

Hi, I’m the heart behind All Heart & Paws Pet Care. Animals have been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember, and caring for them isn’t just what I do — it’s who I am. I started All Heart & Paws to create a safe, compassionate space where pets are respected as individuals and cared for as if they were my own.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation from Canisius College, where I graduated in 2011. This academic background, combined with years of hands-on experience, allows me to provide thoughtful, informed care that supports both the physical and emotional well-being of every pet.

Over the years, I’ve worked with many dogs who needed a little extra patience and understanding as they adjusted to new routines or environments. Supporting sensitive or uncertain pets as they build confidence has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work, and I have a special place in my heart for rescue dogs as they settle into new chapters of their lives. I genuinely enjoy working with dogs of all breeds and personalities, from tiny lap companions to big, high-energy adventurers, though I do have a particular soft spot for coonhounds. Their soulful eyes, expressive voices, and remarkable noses never fail to make me smile, and I deeply appreciate the patience, enrichment, and good humor they bring to everyday life.

I believe in letting dogs be dogs and cats be cats, meeting each pet where they are, and moving at their pace. I use positive reinforcement and force-free handling to build trust and confidence, and I’m always happy to work alongside your trainer to support your pet’s unique needs and goals.

I also have experience caring for pets with medical needs and know how important it is to follow veterinary instructions carefully and consistently. Whether your pet needs extra patience, specialized care, or just someone to throw the ball one more time, you can trust they’ll be treated with kindness, respect, and plenty of love.

When you welcome me into your pet’s life, you’re not just hiring a pet care provider — you’re gaining a reliable partner, a familiar face, and a whole lot of heart (and probably a few extra treats, too).

Pet Care Specialist

Melissa Purdy

When I adopted my pit bull, Gus in 2016 — a snuggle-loving hiking buddy — I discovered how fulfilling it is to meet a pet’s needs, help them overcome challenges, and build a trusting bond. That journey sparked a passion for helping pets and made working with animals a defining part of who I am. My background in human behavior — I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from NYU — naturally evolved into a deep interest in animal behavior, shaping how I connect with pets and their people.

Care Philosophy

My approach to caring for pets, centers on understanding and valuing each animal’s unique personality. In every interaction with your pet, I’m thoughtful, conscientious, and compassionate, always using gentle, fear-free, and reward-based methods. I take the time to get to know each pet at their pace, allowing a trusting relationship to develop.

Keeping pets mentally stimulated and creating enrichment activities tailored to their preferences is something I especially enjoy. I’m a big believer that a walk should be a “sniffari” — giving your pup plenty of time to explore and enjoy being a dog. Every visit is designed to leave your pet feeling safe, happy, and fulfilled.

Experience & Background

With over five years of experience volunteering in shelter settings, I’ve supported dogs with a wide range of personalities, behaviors, and needs. I fostered Diamond, a sensitive, anxious pup. Through routine, enrichment, positive reinforcement, and love, I helped her gain confidence and adjust to life outside the shelter. She is now a beloved member of my family. My experience working with dogs waiting for their forever homes strengthened my ability to support pets who need extra attention, guidance, and individualized care.

I’ve also worked with dogs who are nervous or overwhelmed around other pups, and I thoroughly enjoy helping them feel more confident and relaxed. I assisted a certified professional dog trainer with “Reactive Rover” classes using positive reinforcement methods. If your dog is currently working with a trainer, I’m always glad to reinforce their training plan during walks or visits.

Peace of Mind

As a pet parent myself, I understand the trust you place in someone caring for your furry family members. Partnering with you is central to my approach, so you can feel at ease while away from your pet. I follow detailed care plans, prioritize safety during every visit or walk, and maintain open communication. Your dog or cat will be treated as I would my own — with attentiveness, patience, respect, and lots of affection. I look forward to meeting you and your pet!