Tickly Paws

Tickly Paws Pet Care is owned and run by myself Gillian Salmon. I have spent the last 20 years studying and working with animals. I have extensive knowledge of your pets needs with a genuine love for all animals. I starting volunteering with the Dogs Trust when I was fifteen and it was here my passion for animals was set alight. I decided to study at Oatridge Agricultural College to gain practical experience working with livestock, horses, small animals, and reptiles. After graduating from college I went on to attend Edinburgh Napier University, where I studied Animal Biology as I wanted to widen my knowledge. I spent three wonderful years studying all aspects of animals from husbandry to behavior and everything in between. Whilst still studying I got a part-time job at the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home and after graduating from University, I started working full time. I loved every minute of my time working there and before I knew it had been eight whole years. While working at the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, I gained a keen eye for identifying health issues from my numerous interactions with the associated Veterinarian practice. I have taken hundreds of animals to the vet for a variety of reasons, some major and some minor, keeping a calm head when this need may arise. As a result of these visits, I have developed an extensive knowledge of many medical issues. I also became a master at administering medication even to the most difficult customers. ​ I worked with dogs and cats when they first came into the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, upon arrival, they were usually frightened, shut down, and sometimes aggressive. However, with time, patience, and love I helped many of them blossom into beautiful loving animals waiting for their second chance. I would cry tears of joy when one of them found their forever home. ​ I fostered kittens with cat flu, cats with allergies, kidney & liver disease, and dogs with trust and behavioral issues. One of the greatest things I have ever done is to foster a diabetic dog called Hondo who came to stay over Christmas and ended up staying forever. ​ I currently own an Akita cross called Rogue whom I re-homed from the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home. She is reactive to dogs and people, it was trying to understand her that sent me on my dog training journey. She has taught me so much and I wouldn't be the trainer I am today without her. ​ I relocated to Gateshead in 2015 and got a job at a Mypetstop, a private boarding kennel based in Washington. I was hired as the kennel supervisor. After two years I became the Centre Manager and enjoyed this new job role and the challenges it brought. However, I missed working with animals and being active. As my role involved managing people I had very little interaction with the pets we boarded and felt I had diverted from my true calling. I took the plunge and left to start my own business and this is how Tickly Paws Pet Care was formed. ​ Experience and qualifications ​ 2:1 Degree in Animal Biology Higher National Diploma in Animal care Over 20 years experience working with animals in rescue centers and private boarding establishments. Level three qualified dog trainer Member of Institute of Modern Dog Trainers Gold level first aid trained Experienced in the administration of medication including Injections Knowledgeable and comfortable around all species of animals