Stephanie

About Us

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Stephanie’s deep connection with cats began at an early age. At just four years old, she witnessed the birth of a litter of kittens alongside her beloved cat, an experience that ignited a lifelong passion for feline companions.

Stephanie's love for animals led her into veterinary medicine, where she started her career as a kennel attendant at Parkglen Animal Hospital in Southwest Houston. Under the mentorship of Dr. Hamilton, she discovered her calling in animal care, eventually relocating to Roanoke in 2002. There, she spent 12 years at DeRolf Animal Hospital, progressing from receptionist to Office Manager, before joining Emergency Veterinary and Specialty Services of Roanoke.

At EVSS, Stephanie met Kelsey, and their shared love for animals sparked the idea of opening a cat café. What started as casual conversation during their shifts grew into a shared vision, and together they brought The Toebean Cat Café to life.

Beyond her dedication to animal welfare, Stephanie has a deep love for music and the arts. A devoted Aerosmith fan, she’s attended 17 of their concerts and even had the opportunity to meet Steven Tyler. She enjoys stand-up comedy, painting, and hiking in the beautiful Roanoke Valley.

With a kind heart, a laid-back demeanor, and an infectious sense of humor, Stephanie is not only dedicated to the well-being of cats but also to spreading joy to everyone she encounters. Through The Toebean Cat Café, she hopes to make a lasting impact on the lives of cats and the community she loves.

Kelsey

Kelsey is a compassionate individual with an unwavering love for animals. Her journey in the veterinary industry began in 2019 when she relocated to Christiansburg, VA, to pursue her passion. Starting as a Kennel Attendant, she swiftly climbed the ranks to become a Veterinary Assistant within just six months. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Kelsey enrolled in Veterinary Technology school to deepen her understanding and expertise. In 2020, she embarked on a part-time role at Emergency Veterinary Services, which soon captivated her heart. By 2022, Kelsey made the pivotal decision to transition to a full-time position in emergency care, drawn to the challenges and rewards of critical cases. Beyond her professional commitments, Kelsey's dedication shines through her personal life. She has devoted countless hours to nurturing and rehabilitating sick cats and dogs in her own home, showcasing her unparalleled commitment to animal welfare. With two beloved cats by her side—one adopted in high school and the other rescued as a fragile kitten—Kelsey's resilience and nurturing spirit have transformed the latter into a thriving companion, a testament to her hard work and compassion.