Brooke, Aquamation Director

Brooke joined Paws into Grace in 2020, after working at the first veterinary facility to implement Aquamation in San Diego, Calif. At Paws into Grace, Brooke was pivotal in the planning and operating stages of the Company’s Escondido-based Aquamation facility, which she continues to manage today.

Brooke is known as a true “jack of all trades,” having supported operations across multiple departments. She has led the development of internal protocols, SOPs, and scalable systems that have helped the company navigate rapid growth while maintaining a strong team culture and high staff morale. She brings a strong sense of integrity to every aspect of her work, ensuring that both client trust and pet dignity remain central to every process.

In addition to her hands-on experience, Brooke is a Certified Alkaline Hydrolysis Operator and has been part of the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC) since 2021. She helped contribute to the development of the industry’s first Certified Pet Alkaline Hydrolysis Crematory Operator Program, which will be rolling out later this year.

Brooke is a San Diego-native, is Fear-Free Certified and loves helping people. In her free time, she enjoys creating metal art, going fishing, and exploring new places to hike with her husband. She enjoys living the country life with goats, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and her dog.

“I am very fortunate to be working with Paws into Grace. We have built an amazing team of genuinely compassionate individuals,” says Brooke. “I care so much about what we do, and most importantly about helping our clients through the loss they are experiencing.” She adds. “This is sacred and fulfilling work, and we treat every pet as if they are our own.”

“Not a lot of people know about Aquamation,” she adds. “I love the opportunity to educate  families about the environmentally-friendly cremation process we offer. We even have unique Memorials and Private Viewings where we honor the pet, and I am able to have our families be a part of the process, and explain everything in depth.”

Bryan, Driver

Bryan is a passionate animal lover with a diverse working background, always bringing a unique perspective to everything he does. When he’s not behind the wheel, he’s a proud father of two, sharing his love for adventure and imagination with his kids. His interests extend far beyond the family car—he’s a devoted fan of Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings, frequently immersing himself in these iconic universes through movies, books, and cosplay. As an avid cosplayer, Bryan brings his favorite characters to life, embracing both heroes and villains that have shaped his life and creativity.

Bryan is also a talented musician, playing both drums and bass, fueling his passion for music and self-expression. Whether jamming with friends or exploring new rhythms, music remains a key part of his life. With a deep appreciation for fantasy, adventure, and family, Bryan combines these passions into a fulfilling and exciting lifestyle.

When asked why he enjoys his job, Bryan says, “It is nice working with a team that is passionate with the same goal in mind, which is helping our clients through their difficult times.”

Courtney, Chief Operating Officer

After more than 20 years of experience in journalism, marketing, and public relations, Courtney de Craen transitioned into the pet aftercare profession by joining Paws into Grace in 2020. That same year, she played a pivotal role in the launch of their first Aquamation facility in Escondido, California. Courtney’s strategic insight, operational leadership, and communication expertise have been instrumental in the company’s continued growth and reputation for excellence.

Courtney became a member of the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC) in 2021, driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the profession. She has since become actively involved in the Association’s strategic initiatives and was a key contributor in the development and review of the Certified Pet Alkaline Hydrolysis Crematory Operator Program, the first-ever certification for water-based cremation in the pet aftercare industry. This groundbreaking program is set to roll out in 2025 and represents a major step forward in sustainable and professional aftercare education.

“I am honored to be able to support the families that trust Paws into Grace with their beloved pets,” she says. “Having experienced the loss of my first Corgi in 2022, I am so grateful that Paws’ veterinarians and team members support all parts of the end-of-life process. It brought me comfort to know my precious boy was being treated with love and respect even after his passing, and I’m proud of our team that treats every single pet in our office the same way.”

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, traveling, and cooking. She has a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Rebel Skywalker and a Cardigan Welsh Corgi named Rey Skywalker.

Delaney, Client Care Specialist

Delaney was born and raised in Southern California. She joined Paws into Grace in April 2021 and has been working in various aspects of the animal industry for almost 5 years.

Her love of working with animals started at a rescue in San Diego, where she fell in love with helping sick and scared animals heal and thrive before finding their forever homes.

At Paws, Delaney loves getting the chance to make a real difference for our Paws pets, and helping owners find peace while making an impossible decision.

In 2022, Delaney relocated to Yellowstone National Park, with her young son, husband of 10+ years, and their cat named “Po Boy.” In her free time, she is an avid reader and podcast listener, and she keeps plants and enjoys hands-on arts and crafts, like needle point and crochet.

Delaney has completed Level I Pet Bereavement Certification through the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC).

Deven, Client Care Specialist

Deven grew up in the Central Valley, moved to San Francisco for several years and has been in San Diego for the past 5 years. She joined Paws into Grace in August 2021 and has been working in the animal industry for the past 10 years.

At Paws into Grace, Deven enjoys being able to help people during such a difficult time with their loved ones. She feels this is such a great service and wishes she knew at home euthanasia was an option when she needed to say goodbye to her beloved pet Sparky.

In her free time, Deven enjoys  reading, cross stitching and knitting. She also loves spending time with her three cats Eowyn, Chrundle, and Natalia and her horse Lady.

Deven has completed Level I Pet Bereavement Certification through the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC).

Erika, Senior Client Care Specialist

Erika “with a K” is originally from Germany and has been living in Southern California since 2013. Her very first adult dog companion, a beautiful blue pittie named Monty Burns, inspired her to pursue a career in working closely with animals. Erika has been involved in animal care since 2013, with experience in caretaking, breeding, training, handling, boarding, vet assistance, and clinic technician work.

Since February of 2022, Erika has been with Paws Into Grace, a company she is grateful to be a part of, with integrity and compassion as its core values. Her role allows her to embody these qualities, helping families during difficult moments. Erika believes in the healing power of a beautiful goodbye at home and feels privileged to guide families through these steps.

When not at work, Erika enjoys spending time with her husband and their boxer, Maps. She loves connecting with her family, plants, books, and her community. As a holistic spirituality practitioner, Erika organizes public and private Sound Journeys, incorporating crystal singing bowls and other modalities for healing.

Erika has completed Level I Pet Bereavement Certification through the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC).

Josh, Lead Driver

Josh is originally from Los Banos, California and relocated to San Diego in 2020. He joined Paws into Grace in August 2020 and has more than 10 years customer service experience.

As Lead Driver, Josh says, “The care and attention that goes into the entire process, from the appointment to the transportation to cremation, is what impresses me. I love working for Paws because it gives me a sense of purpose and gratification to be able to help grieving families through a difficult time.”

In his free time, Josh can be found rooting for his favorite football team, the San Francisco 49-ers, listening to his favorite YouTube series” Good Mythical Morning,” or spending quality time with family.

Having experienced multiple pet losses, Josh understands the incredibly sensitive nature of the situation at hand. He wants families to know that he takes care and handles each pet as if they were his own.

Kayla, Aftercare Specialist

Kayla is a valued member of our team here at Paws into Grace and brings a deep passion for animals and compassion for families during difficult times. Kayla’s dog, Ronin (a Shiba Inu), often joins her at the office, and her love for animals is clear in everything she does.

Outside of work, Kayla enjoys spending time at the beach, going on cruises, and taking boat rides. She’s also a volunteer at rescue stables, where she’s had the chance to work with horses and indulge her love for these majestic animals. A self-proclaimed Harry Potter nerd, Kayla has the Deathly Hallows symbol tattooed on her arm. She is currently reading Atomic Habits and is a big fan of books and reading.

Kayla is married to her high school sweetheart, Nick. Together, they enjoy visiting themed bars and speakeasy-style places. Kayla loves being outdoors and soaking in the beauty of nature. She’s also highly competitive and loves sports.

Lauren, Marketing Manager

Lauren attended San Diego State University and received a degree in Business Marketing. She has worked in marketing for over 10 years and has experience in various types of marketing and communications.

She feels so grateful to be working at such an amazing company with caring and thoughtful employees who all care deeply for clients and their pets.

She can be found spending time with her husband, two children, and her spunky Maltipoo/Minpin Mia who she adopted in 2016. In her free time she enjoys camping, gardening, fishing, hiking, interior design & cooking.

Manu, Client Success Specialist

Manu is originally from Spain and has been working with animals since 2013. He joined Paws into Grace in June 2021. Manu is compassionate about animals and has 9+ years of experience working at animal clinics including ER for animals. He loves helping people provide a space where their pets feels safe and secure.

In his free time, Manu can be found at the beach with his family and his French Bulldog “fur son” Shiloh, or taking care of his many fish and coral tanks. He also enjoys fitness, healthy foods and outdoors sports like hiking and  swimming.

Manu has completed Level I Pet Bereavement Certification through the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC).

Marc, Chief of Staff

With a background in Criminal Justice and Sociology and nearly two decades in San Diego, Marc brings a leadership style grounded in empathy, operational clarity, and team development. As Chief of Staff at Paws into Grace, he drives strategic initiatives and performance alignment across a mission-led organization.

Since entering the veterinary field in 2021 and joining the Paws team in 2023, Marc has focused on building sustainable processes, elevating team culture, and ensuring that empathy and integrity guide every interaction. He is passionate about turning vision into action through adaptable frameworks, cross-team coordination, and people-first leadership.

Outside of work, Marc enjoys creative writing and traveling. He shares his home with a spirited chihuahua named Edna and three charismatic cats – Mongoose, Thorin, and Khan – each with their own distinctive personality.

Meri Arcuri, Aquamation Technician

Meri was born in San Diego, California. She has two sisters, including an identical twin, and a brother.

She attended the US Career Institute, earning a diploma in Veterinary Assistant and Animal Care, and is currently enrolled at Penn Foster College pursuing a Veterinary Technician program.

Meri has over 14 years of experience working with a wide variety of animals, from mice, rats, rabbits, and chinchillas to larger animals such as monkeys, goats, and pigs. While employed at TSRI and UCSD, she maintained the health and welfare of lab animals and supervised staff. After leaving UCSD, Meri realized she had been missing her true passion- working directly with animals. She finds joy in any work that allows her to care for them, as it aligns closely with her values.

She enjoys working at Paws into Grace because everyone shares the same mindset: a passion for their work and a commitment to helping others honor their beloved pets. Meri feels she is truly contributing to a meaningful process where every animal is treated with compassion, dignity, and respect. She describes Paws into Grace as the first place she has worked where her job truly has purpose.

In her downtime, Meri enjoys spending time with her dog, Kona, writing poetry, and creating zentangles. She also loves exploring new restaurants and hanging out with friends.

Rebecca, Client Care Manager

Originally from San Marcos, Rebecca now resides in North Carolina. She joined Paws into Grace in June 2022, and has been in the industry since 2018. Growing up, Rebecca fostered cats and dreamed of being a dolphin trainer! She is fear-free certified and has provided care for animal for many years.

Roxanne, Aftercare Assistant Manager

California-native Roxanne joined Paws into Grace in February 2022. With more than 10 years experience in the pet industry, Roxanne has helped animals in all stages of life.

“I love working at Paws for many reasons; one being the people,” she says. “Surrounding yourself with gentle, compassionate people is important. The work we do is a loving service for our community, and meeting pet owners from all over is beautiful to experience so much love. When I meet families and hear the special stories  and see photos of their beloved pet, I know I am in the right place.”

In her free time, Roxanne enjoys hiking, reading, journaling, relaxing in nature, and spending quality time with her husband, two senior chihuahuas, and two cats. All of her vacations are scheduled around their dogs being with them; they are truly her best friends.

“I would like clients to know that each pet is treated like family,” adds Roxanne, who works in both the front office and warehouse at the Escondido Cremation office. “We love them each as individuals and honor their life with gentle care. It is an honor to be here for these beloved pets and their families at such a sensitive time,” she says.

Ruby, Driver

A San Diego native, Ruby joined Paws into Grace in 2022. Prior to joining Paws, Ruby was going to school to be a veterinary technician. She says, “What I love most about working with Paws, is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives I encounter. I love making a difference and being able to help as much as I can in those difficult times.”

Ruby wants Paws families to know that this isn’t just a job for her, it’s a career. “I like to think of Paws into Grace as my second home,” she says. “I was never able to find my spot in the work field. I was unable to find something I was passionate about until I found Paws into Grace.”

In her free time, Ruby enjoys visiting new places, writing, reading, spending time with her family and partner, and trying new foods! She also loves spending time with her two beautiful American bullies, Bruno and Peaches.