Amanda

I’ve been obsessed with dogs for as long as I can remember. I used to ask my gran, who is also a huge dog lover, what every breed of dog was that we passed on the street! 

I got my little bichon frise Casey when I was 14 and she’s been my little soulmate ever since! She just turned 14 in September. 

My first job was a dishwasher at a kennel when I was 14 and I later returned there for a couple of years when I was 19 as the manager. After that I studied events and managed music concerts for five years but realised that dogs are what makes me the happiest. 

I had always heard really amazing things about Barkley Manor and had a couple of friends work there over the years who enjoyed their time at Barkley so when the opportunity came up, I had to apply for the job straight away! Being around dogs and getting paid for it….dream come true!!

What you hope to bring to the Barkley dogs and owners: I’m a very positive person who tries to see the good in everything. I always find myself being drawn towards the dogs who are a little bit special and need just that little bit of extra care and attention. I just want to make sure every doggy is having the time of their life whether that is running around like a looney or sitting quietly in a corner getting belly rubs and ear scratches. 

Any other comment you would like to make: There’s no place I would rather be. Having a building full of dogs is my therapy and it’s the best thing for my mental health! My dream dog ever since I was tiny is a St Bernard and lucky me, I get to hang out with Yodel, Koa and Zola in Budleigh!!