Mum 'inspired' to leave London life to launch new Harrogate pet sitting initiative in the community
A successful mum has swapped her career in London’s finance hub to launch a new community initiative in Harrogate providing free pet care for vulnerable people - including the elderly and disabled.
May Penny holds a Master of Laws and completed the LPC before building a successful career in London’s finance hub, where she specialised in investment and project management.
After several years in the corporate sector, she decided to leave that world to follow her lifelong passion for animals and gain animal care qualifications.
The result is a new community interest company called Daleside Animals CIC.
"Daleside Animals is a community initiative providing free pet care for vulnerable people,” said May Penny.
"That includes the elderly and disabled, who are temporarily unable to look after their pets due to urgent or serious crises such as unexpected hospitalisation, severe mental illness, or physical disability, as well as facing financial hardship.
"It was after having my son two years ago that gave me the confidence to follow my passion.
"My mission is to ensure that no pet is left without care and no owner faces worry during their most difficult times.”
Through her work, May saw first-hand how many people struggled to care for their beloved pets during times of illness or crisis, suffering as a result.
Deeply moved by their situations, she felt a strong calling to do something to help.
Daleside Animals CIC is a labour of love and May is already building a trusted and successful service with a loyal private client base, known for its high-quality, compassionate care.
"In the early stages, I will be providing the free care personally, to ensure service users receive a professional, high-standard service,” she said
"It’s early days but we have big ambitions.
"The aim is to raise awareness and ensure that vulnerable local residents know our services exist and attract as many volunteers as possible.”
“My long-term goal is to expand across North Yorkshire, training volunteers and ensuring Daleside Animals is recognised as a highly trusted initiative to help as many people and pets as possible.”
For more information, visit: dalesideanimals.org.