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. 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 returned to work I joined a local boarding school as a Matron, supervisin
g 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. Animals are just wonderful. 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
