Bracknell business marks 20 years of care for the community’s much-loved pets
In 2004, when Myspace was the top dog of social media and Motorola’s iconic Razr flip phone was barking up a storm, something else would launch that would leave indelible paw prints on the community for years to come. Petpals would open its doors in the area, ushering in a new era of premium pet-care services to the town’s furry friends and their devoted owners alike. With April marking two decades since the launch of the local business, the Petpals team is excited to celebrate this momentous occasion with their furry friends (and their much-loved owners too!).
First opening under the management of Nick Skinner, Petpals Crowthorne swiftly established itself as a cornerstone of the pet-loving community, shortly followed by Petpals Bracknell. Following significant growth, Nick entrusted the business to one of his loyal customers, Ruth Wall, in 2009.
A testament to the enduring relationships and reputation cultivated by Petpals with its customers, it came as no surprise that in 2018, when Ruth decided to retire, the role was assumed by yet another familiar face in the Petpals family. Peter Lea, a devoted pet parent and former customer himself, decided to leave behind the corporate world and step into the role with a deep commitment to upholding the standard of exceptional care set by his predecessors. Petpals Crowthorne is now known as Petpals Wokingham & Sandhurst and, along with Petpals Bracknell, has grown considerably over the last six years.
“I’m immensely proud to be leading a business that has been caring for Bracknell’s pets for two decades,” said Peter. “As a Petpals customer for 12 years prior to taking over, I couldn’t pass up the chance to continue providing the premium pet care that Nick and Ruth provided my dogs, Duffy and Alfie. Being able to extend that level of care to other pets in my community is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.”
After taking the helm six years ago, Peter has propelled both businesses to new heights – earning him the prestigious Great British Franchisee Award last year. “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,” explained Peter. “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.”
At Petpals, the team is fully trained, insured, security-checked and committed to delivering high-quality and professional services tailored to clients’ pet-care needs. From dog walking to pet sitting, cat and small animal visits, and specialised care for puppies and elderly pets, their mission is to provide pets with the same love and affection they receive from their owners.
As the team celebrates 20 years, that mission remains steadfast. Not only have hundreds of new pet parents and furry friends joined, but there are also still clients who have been with Petpals since day one – continuing to entrust their much-loved companions, both past and present, to receive the team’s trusted care.
“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,” said Peter. “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.”
With cats ranking as the second most popular pet in the UK*, Peter and his team are now directing their attention towards enhancing their cat-sitting services to ensure the community’s feline companions receive optimal care. “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! Regardless of your pet, you can always expect an exceptional service, which has remained steadfast for two decades, providing you with peace of mind. Here’s to the next 20 years of caring for pets big and small!”
* UK Pet Food, UK Pet Population 2024: Top 10 Pets
To find out more about Petpals Bracknell’s range of pet-care services, visit https://www.petpals.com/area/bracknell/