A PET CARE firm is celebrating its 20th anniversary serving people in Crowthorne, Bracknell and Wokingham.
Launched by Nick Skinner, Petpals Crowthorne was placed in the hands of one of his early customers, Ruth Wall in 2009. But when she retired in 2018, the business was passed on to another customer, Peter Lea.
Services include dog walking, pet sitting, cat and small animal visits, and specialised care for puppies and elderly pets, with the aim of providing the same love and affection the animals receive from their owners.
The company, which also operates a Bracknell division, is now known as Petpals Wokingham and Sandhurst, and Mr Lea says it continues to grow while retaining customers who have been there since its launch in 2004.
“I’m immensely proud to be leading a business that has been caring for our community’s pets for two decades,” said Peter.
“As a Petpals customer for 12 years before taking over, I couldn’t pass up the chance to continue providing the premium pet care Nick and Ruth provided my dogs, Duffy and Alfie.
“Extending that level of care to other pets in my community is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.”
And when he talks about excellent care for our furry friends, he means it: last year, he scooped a Great British Franchisee Award.
“Since taking over the business, we’ve expanded our team to include 11 dedicated and flexible pet carers – ensuring that as many pets as possible in the Wokingham, Crowthorne, Sandhurst and Bracknell communities can benefit from our services,” he said.
“I’m thrilled with our growth and progress, and it’s amazing to see how far the business has come. As both a former customer and now owner, it’s so gratifying to witness the evolution of our services and the positive impact we’ve had on the community.”
He continued: “I think what the past six years have shown me is how much our community has embraced Petpals Bracknell and Petpals Wokingham and Sandhurst, welcoming us into their hearts and homes, and considering us an extension of their family.
“To have clients who have been with Nick through to me is truly special. I have one client who says their pooch is more excited to see one of our team members walk through the door than they are to see them.
“I’m so glad both our clients and their pets have felt the passion that drives our work over the past 20 years.”
Mr Lea said that cats rank as the second most popular pet in the UK, and his team are now enhancing its cat-sitting services.
“Cats comprise a significant portion of the pet community, and we are always happy to welcome more cats and other small pets so they can benefit from our care,” explained Peter.
“While dogs will always be one of the cornerstones of our business, we also cater to birds, fish, small pets and even reptiles.
“Here’s to the next 20 years of caring for pets big and small.”
