🐾 About Us – Our Story

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 I’m Michelle, the founder of Butter Paws Pet Care, and animals have been at the centre of my life for as long as I can remember.
Growing up in the UK, I would count down the minutes at school just to get home to my cat, Sam. She was my best friend and the reason I discovered the incredible bond we share with animals.

By the age of 13, I was volunteering with the RSPCA, spending weekends caring for cats, dogs, and any animal in need. Those early experiences taught me that my happiest moments were always spent surrounded by animals.

Years later, while living in Cornwall, I began walking dogs for local families and soon adopted my beautiful Dalmatian, Marni. She deepened my understanding of how much joy and love our pets bring into our lives.

My journey then took me to the Middle East, where I worked at a veterinary hospital and learned to trust my instincts — I can often sense when an animal isn’t feeling well or when their behaviour changes. That experience inspired me to start my first pet sitting business, which grew into my dream job and lasted for over six wonderful years.

After more than a decade abroad, we relocated to Portugal with our three dogs and three cats — all rescues. Within months, I had taken in two more dogs, a cat, and even a pair of ducks! Helping animals in need is simply part of who I am.

In 2025, I founded Butter Paws, named in loving memory of my dog Basil, who passed away at 16. His nickname was “Butter Paws” because of his soft, gentle paws that stayed that way throughout his life.
This business is a tribute to him — a way to continue giving other pets the love, trust, and care he inspired in me.

At Butter Paws Pet Care, animals are more than companions.
They are family, comfort, and joy — and caring for them will always be my happy place. 💕