Cardiff-based pet carer celebrates 20 years of trusted service

The owner of Petpals Cardiff, Maxine Neal, is celebrating two decades of pet care across the city, having looked after more than 500 animals while building lasting relationships with the people behind them. What began as a simple ambition has grown into one of Cardiff's most trusted pet care services, with Maxine becoming a familiar and reassuring presence for hundreds of local pet owners.

"When I started back in 2006, I just knew I wanted to work with animals and be outdoors," she said. "It didn't feel like a traditional 'career path' at the time – it was more about doing something I genuinely loved every day."

Over time, that passion has evolved into a service built on trust, consistency and genuine care. "I always hoped Petpals Cardiff would be known for reliability and compassion," she added. "Seeing clients come back year after year – and knowing they feel completely comfortable leaving their pets with me – is the biggest achievement."

At the heart of that success are the relationships Maxine has built, with many clients staying with her for years – and even decades. "Some of my clients are now on their third generation of pets that I've cared for, which is really special," she said. "You're not just looking after a pet at that point – you're part of someone's life."

That sense of connection goes far beyond day-to-day pet care. "I truly believe I have the best clients," she said. "Many have become friends over the years and there's a real sense of looking out for each other. That kind of trust isn't something you take lightly."

Petpals is the UK's longest-established multi-service pet-care specialist, offering a range of bespoke and award-winning services – from dog walking and cat visits to pet sitting. Fully trained, insured, uniformed and DBS-checked, Maxine has spent the past 20 years delivering the high standards associated with the Petpals name across the city.

Giving back has also remained an important part of Maxine's work over the years. She has raised funds for charities including Battersea Dogs Home, Dogs Trust, Cancer Research, PDSA and the RSPCA, while also supporting local causes through volunteering.

As she marks the 20-year milestone, Maxine chose to celebrate in a way that reflects the relationships she's built – by sharing a moment to reminisce with her clients and their pets. "I wanted to do something a bit personal to say thank you," she said. "So I had cupcakes and Welsh cakes made for my clients, along with dog-friendly biscuits for the pups – handmade by 'Aunty Max'. It was a really lovely way to celebrate with everyone who's been part of the journey, both old and new. I feel truly grateful to all the clients, past and present, who have supported us over the years."

https://petpals.com/area/cardiff