Who We Are
The mission, team, and guiding values behind care you can trust
Our Mission
Our mission is to be more than a pet care provider; we strive to be a trusted extension of your family.
We understand the worry that can come with leaving your pets behind. Whether it’s the stress of kennels, uncertainty about hiring a neighbor, or hesitation to rely on well-meaning relatives, finding care you can truly trust is essential, and we’re here for you.
Your Paws First is motivated by love for all animals and a true passion for our community. We are committed to providing care that feels like a warm hug: calm, dependable, and full of compassion. It begins where your pet feels safest, in their own space, following their familiar routine. This is where trust builds and love shines through.
Every wag, purr, and joyful zoomie reminds us why we do what we do. When your pet feels safe, loved, and cared for, we know you feel peace of mind—and that connection means everything to us. We don’t just care for pets, we put Your Paws First.
Our Story
Welcome! I’m Kristen, owner and founder of Your Paws First.
In 2022, I left a 20-year corporate career in insurance and employee benefits to follow a lifelong passion of caring for animals. The transition started many years before, as a personal escape from corporate stress. I walked with friends and their dogs and pet sat for neighbors. Now, I run a full time operation built on love, purpose, and joy.
After more than 15 years in Allentown, I am proud to offer trusted, affordable and loving pet care to our community, with a genuine professional touch.
Thank you for trusting us — we can’t wait to put Your Paws First!
George Washington National Forest
Why Choose Us
Trusted
family
We don’t just care for pets, we care for your pets. Our clients count on us as a reliable, loving extension of their family, providing consistent care that brings peace of mind.
personalized
approach
No two pets are alike, and we treat them that way. From detailed routines to favorite toys, every visit fits your pet’s unique needs and personality.
Professional and
prepared
With training in pet safety, behavior, and emergency care, we bring both heart and expertise to every visit. You can leave knowing your pets are in capable, experienced hands.
Our team – The Care Pack
Kristen
Primary Pet Care Provider
Kristen is the heart and leader behind Your Paws First. She personally meets with every client to understand their unique needs and customizes each pet’s care plan with thoughtful attention. Known for her warmth and expertise, Kristen provides specialized support where it’s needed most and oversees a trusted team of compassionate caregivers.
Kevin
Tail-end Support Specialist
As Kristen’s business partner, Kevin is a core member of our Care Pack. Reliable, compassionate, and always ready to help, he often steps in for last-minute visits, urgent requests, and behind-the-scenes support. Whether he’s comforting a nervous pup or backing up the team during busy days, Kevin is a loving presence for our clients and their pets!
Tyler
Happy Tails Helper
Tyler is the youngest member of the Care Pack, but he’s already a valuable and proud part of team! He’s experienced with handling dogs much bigger than he is and brings a gentle confidence to every interaction. While he prefers helping walk pups (with a little adult backup, of course) over feeding them, his love for animals shines through, right alongside his passion for cars and helicopters. We involve Tyler anytime he’s ready, and pets love him just as much as he loves them.
Axolotl care
Fun Fact: Tyler regularly cares for 2 of his own
Carrie
Content Consultant
Carrie is a trusted consultant and passionate supporter of everything Your Paws First stands for, since before day one. Her support and encouragement are a vital part of why we exist today. Carrie brings insight and hands-on help when it’s needed most.
As the devoted parent to a senior pup with dementia, she understands the importance of patient, personalized care. Carrie has traveled the world with her dog by her side and brings the same loyalty and compassion to every role she plays within the Care Pack.