In my experience with her, Maia is an exceptional animal person. She has an above average compassion for animals, and a passion for taking time to understand their needs and she sees them as individuals worthy of personhood. She has had many pets in the past, and they were like family to her. She treats animals with love and respect; she seems to treat them like people. She is dependable and responsible, as well as knowledgeable. She puts pets before herself, and I have had peace of mind every time I have left my pets in her care. One think that sticks in my memory is a Husky she owned for a while by the name of Jack. She taught Jack many tricks, including how to speak! He was a smart boy, and it seemed to me that he saw more in Maia than just an owner. It reminded me of the relationship between a pokemon and its trainer, if that makes sense. I would never have a second thought about leaving my pet in her presence or care.

She trained a very difficult Husky to be a kind and loving dog. She's always very tentative and affectionate towards other dogs as well. Also, it seems like animals naturally like her and go up to her, even when she's not aware of their presence. I've seen aggressive dogs roll over for her and want her to pet them.