Michelle was inspired to become a part of the animal welfare movement after meeting Yvonne Allbee, founder of Bow-Wows & Meows, in 2005. Yvonne made Michelle realize she could make a difference in the lives of homeless pets by participating in the organization’s annual pet fair, which she has done ever since as a board member, public relations director and raffle coordinator. In 2008, Bow-Wows & Meows adopted out over 120 Los Angeles County shelter dogs and cats.

During a taping for SCVTV in January, 2008, Michelle met Brittany Foundation founder Nancy Anderson and became passionately involved with the no-kill rescue in Agua Dulce. Rain, shine, or snow, Michelle can be found cleaning out kennels and playing with the Brittany dogs at least once a week. By acting as their PR advisor, Michelle has also helped the organization expand their reach into the Santa Clarita Valley and beyond.

Michelle is the proud mom of Sam and Buster. Sam, a red and white Boxer/pit bull mix, was found as a stray on Christmas Day 2000, while  Buster, a Staffie mix, was found roaming a shopping center as a puppy in April, 2004. They hike together every day; Michelle credits them with keeping her fit and (somewhat) sane.

She lives in Pine Mountain Club, a small high-altitude town in Southern California, with boyfriend Wayde, a general contractor, and his cat Sugar Butt, proving that dog and cat people can coexist. In her spare time, Michelle enjoys hanging out with her sober sisters, movies, travel, cooking, reading, and walking aimlessly in the woods.