Stay-at-home mum, Leanne, was ready to get back into work with her youngest going off to school. It was important for her to find an enjoyable career that would also work around her family. When she came across an opportunity to invest in a We Love Pets franchise, Leanne knew she couldn’t pass it up.
Why did you choose a franchise over setting up your own business?
When I looked into going into business on my own, I realised that there are so many things that you have to do for set up. Just getting your name out there can be tough! A franchise was ideal for me because I could join a business that’s already established and offers help, support and training.
Why did you choose WLP?
I originally saw a We Love Pets advert on Indeed, recruiting for a dog walker, and I thought the role was really good because I could make it fit around my kids – whilst doing something I enjoyed. However, when I did more research on the We Love Pets website, I came across the franchise opportunity and realised that was a better idea! After going into the office and discussing it with Ryan, I thought I would be ridiculously stupid not to do this.
Did you look at any other franchises?
No, I was sold on We Love Pets from the start.
What did the word ‘franchise’ mean to you before you came across We Love Pets?
When thinking of a ‘franchise,’ I thought of food and retail chains, like Starbucks. I didn’t really consider it as an opportunity that I could get into for myself until I stumbled upon We Love Pets!
What was your day to day like in your previous role?
I’ve primarily been a stay-at-home mum for the past couple of years, so my previous day to day was constantly running around and looking after my children! My roles and responsibilities were centred around their care: organising schedules, running the household, and conducting home learning during the lockdowns.
What was the final straw for leaving your previous job?
Well, I don’t get to quit being a mum, but the timing was right as my youngest is starting school this year.
How long had you been thinking about changing your career?
Prior to being at home with my children, I had worked in several different roles, and I knew that there were some industries I didn’t want to return to – like retail or hospitality. With my youngest starting school, I started to think about going back to work, and I wanted to find a career that I would enjoy doing each day, but that would also fit around my family.
Do you have any pets of your own?
Yes! We have two cats, Skylar, and Bandit, as well as five axolotls: Dave, Gary, Freckles, Goldilocks, and Toothless.
What do you love most about your area?
I lived in Essex before we moved to Bungay, and when we came to look at this house, I was amazed by how green it was here! The countryside is lovely, and there are so many places to walk and take the kids. We spend a lot of time outdoors as a family and I love the variety of open green spaces in the area.
What have you done in the past that you think will help you in your new venture?
My background in different jobs has given me a really well-rounded skillset that I think will help me. I’ve gained experience in customer service, organisation, and managing a team over the years. I also have a City & Guilds qualification in dog grooming and did some volunteer work with the RSPCA, so I have animal care experience as well.
What hobbies do you have?
I did art at college, and really enjoy arts and crafts. I’ve always been into making things, and now my kids are into it too. We have a very large supply of art materials in our house!
What’s an interesting fact about yourself?
I absolutely love bumblebees and houseplants!
Which are your favourite animals?
Elephants, because they’re so cool and intelligent.
What’s your biggest achievement in life?
My children, hands down.
What do you think will be the best part of your job as a We Love Pets franchisee owner? Or what are you most looking forward to?
I think the best part will be doing something that’s enjoyable! I’m looking forward to getting exercise on dog walks and working with pets each day. Who doesn’t love working with animals?
