Hello! I’m Heather Gardner

Having studied animal related courses and worked in the animal and pet trade for number of years, I identified that there was a local requirement for dog walking and related services. So, In November 2008, I decided to establish my own business, Taking The Lead, which has been going from strength to strength.

I have loved animals all my life, and have had many pets, in all shapes and sizes, from gerbils to horses! At the age of 15 I got my first weekend job at a boarding kennel and cattery, where I stayed for a year, before moving on to work at a pet super store.

There I stayed for 3 ½ years, whilst at the same time boarding all my school teacher’s small pets whilst they were on holiday! This went well, so I advertised elsewhere and got many more pet boarding customers, some of which I still board for now!

After I had completed my school years, I went to Merrist Wood College for 3 years, where I gained an awful lot of hands on knowledge, as well as work experience in many different places. I came away from college with a National Certificate in Animal Care and a National Diploma in Animal Management.

Whilst doing work experience during college, I found another part time job in the ornamental fish trade, which later became a full time job as I fell in love, and was doing that for a further 5 years.

But now I want to do what I am most passionate about, so here I am, working with DOGS!