Hello! I’m a passionate animal lover with a strong background in Animal Care and Animal Science, as well as being a qualified dog groomer. Animals have always been a huge part of my life, and caring for them is something I genuinely love. I understand that pets are more than just animals; they’re family members, each with their own unique personalities, routines, and individual needs. 

Throughout my career, I’ve gained valuable hands-on experience working with a wide variety of animals. I’ve had the pleasure of managing both a fish and reptile shop and a Maxi Zoo store, giving me valuable knowledge of animal care, nutrition, husbandry, welfare, and the importance of providing the right environment for every species. 

My Experience and Qualifications 

• Animal Care and Animal Science: My studies have given me a solid foundation in animal welfare, behaviour, nutrition, health, and responsible animal care.
• Qualified Dog Groomer: I understand the importance of grooming, coat maintenance, and hygiene, while making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible for each dog.
• Retail Management Experience: Managing both a fish and reptile shop and a Maxi Zoo store has helped me develop strong organisational skills and a broad understanding of animal-care products, feeding routines, and species-specific requirements.
• Experience with a Variety of Species: I have experience with dogs, cats, reptiles, fish, and other animals, always taking their individual requirements into consideration.
• Exotic Pet Experience: I have exotic pets of my own, so I understand that reptiles and aquatic animals often require specialist knowledge, carefully maintained environments, specific feeding routines, and close attention to their needs. 

Dog Walking and Exercise 

When it comes to dog walking, I believe every dog deserves an experience suited to their individual personality, age, energy levels, and physical abilities. 

Walk durations can be tailored to suit your dog and their usual routine, whether they prefer a shorter, relaxed stroll or a longer walk with plenty of opportunities to explore. I’m happy to follow familiar routes that your dog knows and enjoys, or explore new walking locations to keep things interesting and provide new sights, smells, and experiences. 

I understand that walks are about more than just physical exercise. They also provide valuable mental stimulation, enrichment, and opportunities for dogs to explore their surroundings. I aim to make each walk enjoyable and rewarding, while always prioritising safety and your dog’s comfort. 

My approach to motivation is based on patience, encouragement, and positive interactions. I take the time to understand what makes each dog happy, whether that means exploring at their own pace, enjoying opportunities to sniff, playing with a favourite toy, or receiving praise and encouragement. I respect each dog’s boundaries and never want them to feel rushed or pressured. 

For dogs who are nervous, shy, older, or less energetic, I’m happy to take a gentler approach and adapt activities to their comfort levels. For more energetic and curious dogs, I can incorporate suitable enrichment and exploration to help keep them engaged. 

I’m also happy to follow your instructions regarding leads, harnesses, walking routes, interactions with other dogs, and any particular training or behavioural needs. 

My Approach to Different Species 

Having worked with a variety of animals and having exotic pets of my own, I understand that every species has its own communication methods, environmental requirements, and care routines. 

Dogs: I focus on building trust, providing appropriate exercise, maintaining familiar routines, and offering companionship, enrichment, and positive interactions. 

Cats: I respect their independence and individual personalities, allowing them to approach me in their own time. I’m happy to follow their usual feeding routines, clean litter trays, provide playtime, and offer companionship according to their preferences. 

Reptiles: I understand the importance of species-specific husbandry, appropriate temperatures, lighting, feeding routines, humidity, and maintaining a suitable environment. I’m happy to provide care in their own homes so they can remain in familiar surroundings. 

Fish and aquatic pets: I understand the importance of consistent feeding, maintaining water quality, observing behaviour, and following the appropriate care routine for each aquarium and its inhabitants. 

Other small or exotic pets: I take an individual approach based on the animal’s species, needs, temperament, and established routine. I’m always mindful that different animals require different handling techniques and levels of interaction. 

My priority is to provide appropriate care without causing unnecessary stress, while following your instructions and respecting each animal’s natural behaviours. 

Feeding, Medication and Daily Care 

I’m happy to follow your pet’s established feeding schedule and care instructions, ensuring they have access to fresh water and that their environment is kept clean and comfortable. 

I understand that some pets require additional support, including prescribed medication. Where appropriate, I’m happy to discuss administering oral medication, such as tablets or liquid medication, provided clear instructions are supplied and I’m comfortable that it can be given safely. I would follow your veterinarian’s directions and your pet’s established routine, and I would never force medication on an animal if doing so could cause distress or risk injury. 

I ask owners to explain their pet’s individual needs, any relevant medical or behavioural concerns, and the best way to approach their care before the booking begins. This helps me understand what is required and ensure the arrangement is suitable for both the pet and me. 

Supervision and Your Pet’s Safety 

Your pet’s safety and wellbeing will always be a priority. I believe in being attentive, responsible, and mindful of potential risks, whether I’m visiting your home, walking your dog, or caring for smaller and exotic animals. 

I’m happy to discuss your expectations regarding supervision, the length and frequency of visits, and your pet’s individual needs before agreeing to a booking. I want to make sure I can provide the appropriate level of care rather than promise something that may not be suitable for every animal or situation. 

I follow owners’ instructions regarding home access, feeding, exercise, handling, and any specific safety precautions. I also believe clear communication is important, and I’m happy to provide updates so you know how your pets are doing while you’re away. 

Why Choose Me? 

I’m patient, caring, responsible, and passionate about providing the best possible care for every animal. My background in animal care, professional experience, dog grooming qualification, and personal experience with exotic pets give me an appreciation of how much knowledge and attention go into responsible pet care. 

I understand that leaving your pets with someone else requires trust. My aim is to give you peace of mind by treating your animals with kindness, respecting their routines, and adapting my approach to suit their individual needs. 

Whether your pet needs an enjoyable walk, gentle companionship, a consistent feeding routine, or specialist care in their own home, I’ll do my very best to make sure they feel safe, comfortable, and well looked after. 

I look forward to meeting you and your lovely animals and providing care you can feel confident in.