“…a big small business that has brought such pleasure and pride to the whole family.”

The Founding Director of VIPPIES was always going to end up looking after lots of animals…..

“To be honest, I am happier surrounded by dogs than people”, said Rob and who can blame him! It is important to keep in mind why the business first started up.

“Since I was 11 I have had to learn to behave in a professional way on the ‘phone and to be ready to help out with the animals, it was the best part of my day!”

“I am much happier with the animals and particularly enjoy working with the dogs who are unsure of themselves or their surroundings, gently gaining their trust and watching them relax,”

“…well it won’t cost anything to try so they may as well give it a go”.

“so much has moved on so that VIPPIES is fully rounded service for pets,”

VIPPIES longest serving employee is Denise Gilliat who, in 2008, thought she had retired from the hustle and bustle of the world of work.

“It was meant to be”

Dogs that get to stay with VIPPIES foster carer Maggie Crumpton are in for a real treat – liver cake!

“ I have got a whole new set of ‘Nans’ whose dogs I walk and who I enjoy a chat and cuppa with when the schedule permits,”

“Every dog has his own character and it’s important to work with that, my wife has a great memory for it all and helps me keep organised,”

“There is something very calming about spending time with the animals in their own home”

“When we walk a dog, visit a cat or foster the pets it is so important that we know everything the owner knows … All these things are recorded and briefed so we can give the best possible and safest care,”

“when I look into a dog’s eyes it melts my heart”

VIPPIES first five star foster carer who describes working as part of the VIPPIES team as being “a passion with benefits”.

“I can’t get over how grateful owners can be, they often write and thank us for being part of their lives, it is very humbling to be so appreciated and we want to treasure the memories as much as they do”.

“I walk two bulldogs together as they live together. I have discovered that there is quite an art to clearing up on a walk when you have a couple stocky dogs on retractable leads and a cyclist comes haring towards you!”

Although it is a big commitment, it doesn’t feel like it when I am doing something I really love. The house feels quite empty when the dogs go home but it is great when another one comes through the door to fill that gap.”