Student launches pet sitting business

Posted 15 October 2013

Final year Harper Adams student, Anna Perry, hopes that her new business venture will give pet owners peace of mind during holidays and times away from home.

The 21-year-old has recently launched Newport Pet Services – a pet and house sitting service that enables animals to be cared for in the comfort of their own home, instead of being housed in kennels or catteries.

Anna, who studies BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and Welfare at the university in Shropshire, also offers dog walking and home stays, all dependent on the owner’s requirements.

Anna, from Oxfordshire, said: “The benefit of pet sitting is that animals can quite often feel stressed when they are taken away from their home environment.

“Instead, I visit them in their homes, feeding, administering medication and walking them where necessary. If a home stay is preferred, I can also ensure that the owner’s house is cared for, plants are watered etc.”

The business has been established from scratch, helping Anna to gain valuable experience towards her studies.

She offers the service in the Edgmond and Newport areas and hopes to take the business with her once she graduates in September.

Anna, who has been dog walking since the age of 11, added: “I decided to set up the business as it is flexible around my studies, is a means to earn a little money, and also supports my studies at Harper Adams.

“I’ve found that clients appreciate the fact I am working towards a degree in animal welfare, and find it easier to trust me, knowing that their animals will be well cared for.”

Animal welfare is paramount for Anna, who hopes to become an RSPCA Inspector in the future and apply what she has learnt at university.

She offers a free consultation for new clients, to help built trust and assess what is required in terms of care.

To contact Anna, e-mail annajane@wantage.com