About Mandy

Thank you for coming to the Mandy Jo Rounds Memorial Website. I would like to share with you who Mandy was, as well as the legacy she has left behind. Mandy was born in Blair, NE on March 20th, 1978, to Steve and Kristi Rounds. From early childhood until she was laid to rest on February 16th, 2019, her passion was animals. Mandy graduated from Blair High school in 1996. She went to College in Colorado Springs to study animals. She also volunteered at the Henry Doorly Zoo.

Mandy has met and cared for various animals over her life span. The most memorable and rare animal Mandy cared for was an Elephant, which sparked her love even more for elephants. She even received a painting from one of the Elephants she cared for in Colorado. Mandy was full of information regarding animals such as: how to care for them, the diet they should be on, the habitat in which they thrive in, etc. She was the person you called when your dog was sick or one of your children want a reptile and you have no idea what you are getting yourself into.

Mandy was employed with Petco for 20 years at different locations. Initially, she loved caring for birds at Petco and became a bird owner herself. She had many returning customers that came in to ask her questions or bring their pets in to see her. She met co-workers along the way that became close friends. Over the years Mandy also became a dog trainer for Petco.

A few years before Mandy’s death she embarked on a new journey, one she had talked about for years, she started her own company caring for dogs, she also cared for other pets as well. She was loved by all of her furry friends and their owners. Her business consisted of; pet training, dog walking, letting dogs outside for families with extended work hours, etc. She even cared for some of the owner’s pets overnight or for extended stays in her home while they were out of town. In those last few years of her life, we had the pleasure of seeing Mandy in the happiest time of her career.

Mandy had the most infectious laugh and smile. Her smile would light up a room and she loved making everyone around her happy. She brought life into a room. When she was telling a story she impersonated the story and captured the audience she was speaking to. She spoke from her heart; her humor came easy to her. Mandy’s personality was giving in nature, she was an entertainer, warm hearted, inviting, vibrant and sincere. Mandy will be remembered for her free spirit, being genuine and the most loving person you will ever meet.

Mandy and her mother Kristi’s relationship is one we all look up to, they were more than just “best friends.” Those who were blessed to be around Mandy and Kristi could see the depth of the love they shared. Kristi has used her unimaginable grief to honor Mandy and her passion for animals. This page was created to help communicate what we have planned in the future in honor of Mandy, facilitate any questions and resources on how to donate. We are happy you have taken the time to read this and if you have any questions feel free to reach out to any board members listed.

by Mandy’s cousin, Ashley Nore