Hi, My name is Chris Owen and I am the owner of Animates Professional Pet Sitting And Dog Walking Service. I first started working with animals by grooming for my friends and familys dogs, then later on my own Afghan Hounds. It was then I recognized the need for a special type of animal care for those pets who do not adapt to being kenneled or boarded in strange surroundings. Many people asked me if I knew of anyone who could look after their pets while they were away on holiday. The answer was 'no I didn't', but then one day I got to think, 'why don't I do it myself?'. There was obviously a market out there and as working with animals was what I had always wanted to do, I felt this was the better option for me. So, after much research, based on the American and Australian idea, I launched Animates in July 2001 with the help of my then partner, now husband Taff and Mr Robin Taylor, founder of the National Association Of Registered Pet Sitters (NARP). Animates aim is to provide a new concept in pet care and has since gone on to lead the way in pet sitting, in the Chester and North Wales areas.
I have owned and loved many animals in the past, starting from early childhood with every child's favorite, the time honored Hamster. Moving on over the years to Rats, Mice, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits and Chinchillas. Successfully breeding the latter three. At the age of seventeen, I was lucky enough to own my first cat Sheba, a very pretty fluffy tabby. On leaving home I bought my first dog Kelly, a Golden Retriever puppy at eight weeks old; who grew to be my loyal friend and companion for thirteen very happy years. Since then I have never been without a pet of some description, mostly cats and birds. Although, all these pets have given me every enjoyment and years of unconditional love, my all time favorites have to be my Afghan Hounds. My first named Tempany, was a beautiful little brindle bitch puppy, I bought in 1996. I have since had these beautiful creatures injected into my blood. To find out more about these lovely elegant dogs, please click on the link below, but make sure you return to us here at Animates. So as you may appreciate, all these animals, especially the Afghans, warrant a great deal of care and grooming (all of which I do myself) to keep them in tip top condition. It is with this experience that I fully understand the needs of your pets.
I am fully insured, have lots of rerences, both on this site and in my folio, which will be made available on consultation visits for you to view; and most importantly a police security check certificate. I work alone, so am able to devote lots of 'one to one' care for your pet. I am also a Non-Smoker, which is a very important factor when considering to allow someone you do not know personally, into your much loved house.