On my 8th birthday, after much pleading, NumNum the kitten popped out of a gift-wrapped shoebox and nearly 50 years so far of caring for animals began. From that day onwards, cats have always shared my home and heart. As an adult, financial responsibilities led me to a career with BT in various roles, predominantly in customer services. I then became a full-time Mum to two children. When I returne
d to work I joined a local boarding school as a Matron, supervising teenagers. All of which, I thoroughly enjoyed, but when my own children, now 27 and 24 became independent, I was able to really consider what I had always dreamt about. I enrolled with Easton College on a Level 3 extended diploma and studied full time for a year, gaining Distinction in Animal Science and Welfare, and during a business studies class, Wags and Whiskers was born. Before taking on any dogs to walk, I visited Buckinghamshire to complete a dog walking diploma with a highly respected Canine expert and L6 Behaviourist. Alongside, I studied Feline behaviour and psychology. I've continued to learn with IMDT, Canine Principles, and I am a member of a Foreign Rescue study group. Understanding Dog's body language, puppy behaviour, loose lead walking and recall are just some of the subjects that I've studied. Reading peer-reviewed books and watching numerous online seminars/webinars and presentations fill any free time I have. I'm always looking to further increase my knowledge. It's been 6 years since I started up and despite a pandemic, I have a thriving business with an excellent reputation and over 50, 5* reviews. My core values are determined by the Animal Welfare Act 2008 - the 5 freedoms.
1) Freedom from hunger and thirst
2) Freedom from discomfort
3) Freedom from pain, injury and disease
4) Freedom to express normal behaviour
5) Freedom from fear and distress
