Dog lover Gareth Jones is helping others learn canine care, by working with the organisation that put him on the path to opening a celebrated pet salon.
The 29-year-old Caerphilly native learned his skills at top training provider ACT, which has a centre on Market Street, plus many more across South Wales.
Along with partner Jack Pullin, he founded dog-grooming service Pupperazi in 2018, and they have just opened new premises in Bedwas.
Gareth used his own training to get where he is today, so he wants to help others in Caerphilly enter the unusual industry of preening pooches. He’ll take on Animal Care learners from ACT on placements at Pupperazi this year, providing valuable work experience for a popular profession.
He said: “We‘ll be giving young people the opportunity to work with us in our busy salon, to help them learn new things and give them the chance to work with animals. We’ll also be helping the young people learn about business.”
Gareth has just returned from the world’s most-prestigious dog show, Crufts, and those he guides on placements at Pupperazi will learn how to present pets for any podium!
At the new Pupperazi shop at Unit 8/9 Afon Court, Bedwas, customers can have their dog expertly groomed, while a wide selection of pet toys and RAW Supplies treats are also on sale.
Gareth said: “ACT is the place to help young people go somewhere in life. Also, Pupperazi will teach them skills in-house, to support their love of animals. ACT is passionate about helping young people get the jobs they want and the skills needed to secure these jobs.”
The original Pupperazi store was in Mountain Ash. Now, this young entrepreneur is happy to keep jobs and training in the Caerphilly area, so the town he loves can continue to thrive.
He added: “Being based in Caerphilly is amazing as I’m from Caerphilly and we can bring the best to the Caerphilly town.”
Lewis Bowden, Programme Manager at ACT, added: “I’m really pleased that Gareth is now giving back to our learners, by providing them with such a fulfilling and beneficial work placement opportunity.”
• Vist www.pupperazi.co.uk
• For more on the Animal Care training at ACT (part of the new JGW+ initiative) visit www.acttraining.org.uk/traineeships/