Serena L. Ghosio, Owner

I was raised on Long Island, NY and I grew up with a menagerie of animals ranging from domesticated to farm. In 2006, I moved to Tampa and continued working with animals as a Vet Tech and pet sitter. While navigating dual employment, I obtained my Bachelors degree at the University of South Florida and Masters degree at Saint Leo University.

In 2012, after graduating from the law enforcement academy, I was hired by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. I spent several years working across multiple units, and I ended my career as a Detective specializing in Crimes Against Children. Although my career took a different path, my love for animals never changed. During my time in law enforcement, my husband (Nick) and I built a life centered around our dogs, and they’ve become a positive outlet for both of us.

Bravo K9 Tampa was founded in April, 2021

I’ve always had a natural ability to understand kinesics in both humans and animals. This skill has contributed to the success in hundreds of interviews I’ve conducted, and it has also been essential in safely handling animals (domestic, farm, and wildlife) throughout my life. I strongly believe trust is built by understanding and respecting an animal’s behavior and body language. At Bravo K9, we prioritize your loved ones mental and physical well-being to ensure a positive experience.

Our Belgian Malinois, Mako introduced us to the dog industry, specifically the remarkably diverse world of competitive dog sports. Mako is my first raised puppy to IGP3 (Schutzhund) competition sport dog. In 2021, our working line German Shepherd, Juice joined our family.

Throughout the years, Mako has won several Elite Dock Diving Championships, to include the inaugural AKC ESPN Diving Dogs Premier Cup, the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Eastern Regional (PPIDC), and the NADD Southeast Regional. For the PPIDC and NADD Regional, Mako was the only dog to win both disciplines (Air Retrieve and Distance).

In 2025, Mako achieved his first National title (IGP3) and Juice earned his first IGP title (BH). Both dogs continue to actively train and compete in IGP and Dock Diving.