About us
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About us
If we’re going to be spending time with your beloved companion, it’s only fair you get to know more about us and our background, and why we do what we do. After all, trusting someone with your pet is a big deal – and we don’t take that lightly.
Meet the team
Rachael Messiter, Dip.Dog.Psy
I’m a fully accredited dog handler and behaviour consultant with a lifelong love for animals. My journey began in 2002 with my first dog, Fred, whose separation anxiety inspired me to learn Jan Fennell’s Dog Listening method. This passion led me to leave my City of London career, train directly with Jan, and become one of the first accredited in her technique.
In 2005, I launched Talking Paws, helping hundreds of owners build better relationships with their dogs. Along the way, I spent nearly two years in Colorado caring for 35 wolves – an experience that deepened my understanding of canine behaviour.
In 2011, I founded Walking Paws to provide trusted, personalised pet care, and since 2017 we’ve proudly served the Midlands with group walks, solo adventures, puppy visits, and in-home care – covering countless miles and making even more pawprints along the way.
Lisa Smith
Hi, I’m Lisa and I’m really excited to be joining Rachael and Walking Paws.
I’m a huge animal lover and Mum to two grown-up children. I share my home with two cheeky cats and two wonderful dogs. Max is my 16-year-old Cairn Terrier, enjoying his retirement years but still full of affection and mischief. And Reggie is our lively Patterdale – a cuddly bundle of energy who keeps life fun!
I have a real passion for dogs and love gettingn to know their unique personalities and little quirks. Spending time outdoors with them, giving them plenty of love, attention and fun, is something I genuinely enjoy.
I look forward to meeting your furry friend and caring for them as if they were my own, giving you complete peace of mind while they’re out with me.
Our story
Walking Paws was founded by Rachael, whose passion for dogs and experience as a fully accredited dog handler inspired her to create a service that goes beyond simple walks or visits – putting pets’ wellbeing, safety, and happiness at the heart of everything.
As the business grew and demand increased, Walking Paws expanded to a team to be able to support even more pets and their owners across Tamworth and Staffordshire. Walking Paws is now looking for more people to come on board as the business continues to grow.
Whether it’s a group adventure, a solo stroll, a home visit, or overnight care, Walking Paws delivers every service with compassion, professionalism, and a genuine love for the animals they look after.
