I've always had animals in my life, and I've got two at home who are very different from each other!
There's Betty, my Chihuahua, and Tom, our family tortoise, who's actually the same age as me. And yes, a tortoise really has been part of my life for as long as I can remember!
First up, Betty!
Betty is my Chihuahua, and she's named after the song Black Betty by Ram Jam. Bam a lam! Before Betty, I had Bentley, a Jack Russell cross Chihuahua. I'd asked for a Chihuahua, but my dad said, "If we're getting a dog, we're getting a proper dog." So Bentley was the compromise!
Both Betty and Bentley have been a bit nervous and reactive around other dogs, which has given me plenty of experience in understanding their triggers and making sure they've got the space they need.
And then there's Tom!
Tom is our family tortoise, and he's the same age as me.
He's been around my whole life, although somehow one of my friends managed to know me for over ten years without realising I had a tortoise! He's much more active during the summer, and there's one thing he doesn't particularly enjoy: Betty stealing his lettuce. He's been known to give her ankles a little nip when she does!
Animals really do have their own personalities
One of my favourite things about working with animals is seeing how different they all are.
Since starting Punky Paws in 2024, I've worked with lots of different breeds, sizes and temperaments, and it isn't just dogs who have their own little ways.
You wouldn't believe how much personality a chicken can have! I've been vegan since 2020, and respecting animals and their autonomy is something I care a lot about. It's important to me that the animals I look after are treated as individuals, with their own preferences and things they're comfortable with.
That's why I take the time to get to know each pet, whether I'm taking a dog for a walk or popping in to look after someone at home. And it's one of the things I enjoy most about Punky Paws. I get to meet all sorts of animals, and no two are quite the same!
Got a pet you'd like me to meet? Take a look at my dog walking and pet pop-in services, or get in touch and tell me a little about them.
