Get to Know the Team

Mother & Son Duo 

Meet Michele and Christopher, Owners.

 

Christopher started at Exotic Pet Center (then Family Pet Center) in 2024. When the previous owners announced their intent to sell, the next step seemed obvious. 

 

Michele is the brains in the background! She has a full time job by day, and comes into play at the pet store at night. She also volunteers with Mote Marine. While she began this journey with an understanding of domestic animal care, she has learned a great deal of knowledge about exotic pet care as well. 

 

Michele’s home is naturally filled with critters: 

Jude, an 18 year old Palomino Quarter Horse

Gertie Rue,  a 5 year old great dane 

Master Ogway (Ogie) and Pistachio, 2 ½ year old sulcata tortoises

Princess Puff, a 5 year old bearded dragon

Sulley and Yuzu, 3 and 1 year old Panther chameleons.

 

Christopher runs the daily operation of Exotic Pet Center. If he is not working directly on the floor with the team, he finds himself fulfilling other pet store needs such as product restocking and animal transportations.

 

He also cares for over 150 breeder snakes, which was a surprise to Michele when she acquired so many new roommates! 

 

Often by his side, his trusty sidekick and assistant, Isabella. She is a 13 year old blue throat macaw. 

 

Christopher had an early love for animals and as a child wanted to train the whales at Sea World.

 

Their first reptile was a Bearded Dragon, Princess Puffs, and she is the reason they began their exotic pet journey. They owe it all to her.

 

Owning Exotic Pet Center has been the coolest experience for them. They are both excited to continue carrying the store into the future and have lots of exciting things planned.