My Approach To Pet Care
A Compassion‑First Philosophy in All My Pet Care
Every pet in my care is spoken to with kindness, handled gently, and treated as an individual deserving of respect. I believe that animals thrive when they feel safe, understood, and valued, and my approach reflects that from the very first moment we meet.
Gentle communication — I speak to all pets calmly and positively, helping them feel secure and reducing stress during visits.
Fear‑free handling — I use slow, predictable movements, offer choice wherever possible, and always prioritise emotional comfort.
Respect for boundaries — Pets are allowed space, choice, and time. Their consent matters.
No force or intimidation — I do not support yelling at dogs or using fear‑based methods. These approaches damage trust and can worsen behaviour.
Dominance‑based interactions — I do not use outdated "pack leader" or dominance‑based methods. These approaches can damage trust and increase anxiety.
Positive reinforcement — Encouragement, praise, and rewards help pets learn, relax, and enjoy their time with me.
Emergencies & Safety
Your pet's safety is always my top priority. I am fully insured and hold CPD‑accredited certifications in Pet First Aid and CPR. For complete peace of mind, I ask for a signed agreement that includes your vet's contact details. If anything should happen, owners will always be contacted so they're fully informed and involved in any decisions.
My Certifications
Senior Pet Care & Medications
Comfort and gentle interaction with older animals is very important to me, and I prioritise mental stimulation and enrichment over physical exercise to keep them happy and engaged.
I have experience administering oral and topical medications, as well as using inhalers. To ensure everything is given safely and correctly, I'll need the following information in advance: the medication name and dose, when it needs to be taken, how often, and the route of administration. Please also check that all medication is in date before your booking begins. I do not administer injectable medications, including insulin for diabetic animals.
A genuine love for ALL animals
I have a deep affection for all species, including those that are often disliked or misunderstood. I believe every animal, no matter their size, reputation, or background deserves kindness, comfort, and a life free from pain. This is evident by the years I've rescued several lost or injured racing pigeons, cared for them, and helped them recover safely. Experiences like these have shaped my belief that every creature has value and should be treated with respect and compassion.
About Me
Meet Ria
I've always felt most at home around animals. Whether it was spending time with family pets, helping with rescues, or simply being the person animals gravitated toward, caring for them has always been a natural part of my life.
In my late teens, I completed work experience at my local veterinary practice, which deepened my love for animal welfare and shaped a lot of who I am today. It confirmed what I'd always felt, caring for animals is where I'm happiest.
Now, at 25, I'm an Apprentice Dog Groomer working towards my City & Guilds Level 2 qualification, proudly training at Amity Grooming Salon. Once I complete Level 2 dog grooming, I hope to further my training by gaining a cat‑grooming qualification and eventually specialise in cat grooming, this is an area of grooming who many aren't qualified for and don't offer.
Alongside grooming, I run Ria's Pet Visits, a small, heart‑led service that lets me support local owners and spend more time with animals. I've cared for rescues, anxious pets, older pets, and animals who need a little extra patience. Every animal I've ever owned has been adopted from a shelter. I've helped wildlife along the way too. Rescue work has taught me so much about trust, compassion, and meeting animals where they are.
I've previously worked as a sitter through Rover.com and Cat in a Flat, but I decided to create my own service so I can offer excellent care at a more affordable rate. When I'm not in the salon, I spend my free time helping people care for their pets.
Visit my Video Gallery to learn more about me and my pets.
Rescue animals will always have a special place in my heart. Inspired by creators like Girl With The Dogs, I hope to eventually offer free grooming sessions to pets in need. This could be animals from extreme neglect cases to shelter animals experiencing their first ever grooming session.
Service Area:
Trowbridge/ Hilperton / Westbury / Dilton Marsh / Paxcroft / Southwick / North Bradley / West Ashton / Staverton / Holt / Bradford‑on‑Avon / Wingfield / Semington / Melksham
If you're just outside these areas, feel free to get in touch — depending on availability and travel time, I may still be able to help.