30/12/2023
Hello 😊 I’m Louise and I have ran Yorkshire Paws for over 5 years.
I absolutely adore my job and enjoy creating new bonds with owners and their pets. I have some fantastic relationships and would like to make more.
I am married with two boys, I currently own an Australian Shepherd who is crackers and loves shoes (Crocs are the only shoes she has failed to destroy), a cat who was a born feral, an African grey parrot and three budgies.
They’re not the only pets. I used to own snakes, reptiles, fish, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, etc. I could go on.
I’ve always been obsessed with animals, I originally wanted to work with exotic animals, however due to my personal life, it’s unrealistic at this time! Maybe one day when the kids have grown.
Why did I choose this job?
Whilst at university studying Animal Management. I struggled to obtain work experience in my final year with exotics, so I decided to work at my local kennels/cattery to get my hours in. My whole perspective changed from there and shaped me into a dog nanny!
I’ve always loved dogs and been brought up around “mean” German shepherds when living with my mum, therefore, I had no fear of large, shouty dogs. Now when I say mean, we had a shepherd who was an ex-security dog, he was VERY territorial, we would have to lock him up when we had visitors.
Working at the kennels gave me a lot of knowledge and experience of different breeds, I was able to understand various personalities, including the cattery. I have learned to leave cats well alone unless they come up to you. Changing their beds were always a challenge, especially whilst they were in it!
The kennels were also a training camp for working dogs, I was able to see the difference in training with different techniques and found the whole industry interesting, from positive reinforcement to training tools and why they are used.
I never realised how much I loved working at the kennels. Although I was offered a job after completing my hours because I did an awesome job for free labour, the hours were very difficult to balance around my parental responsibilities, so I thought... Why don't I become a dog walker?
To me, this would work perfectly, although I adored the kennels, seeing some dogs stressed made me sad, the dogs didn’t understand. Some wouldn’t eat or look very anxious. Knowing I will be going to their home, gives me reassurance that they feel safe in their familiar environment.
As I prefer to work 121, it can be quite tricky to accommodate everyone, as owners usually require services at lunch time. Did you know that I offer the 2x 20 mins visit for the same price as one hours walk? This would be ideal for puppies, geriatrics, or small dogs with small bladders. This would also break up their day if you work long hours.
Since obtaining my honours degree in Canine and Feline Behaviour & Welfare, I have learned so much and willing to help anyone in regard to training or any behavioural issues. I would like to offer training services one day but currently do not have the confidence (Unless I offer a cheap training session in return for feedback regarding the session – I would love to hear your thoughts on this).
Also, I love a bit of banter and sarcasm 😉
Have a fabulous 2024 😁🐾
