Meet the Happy Paws heroes

Sarah - Day Care Manager

she/her

Bio Coming Soon

Elliot - Owner / Dog Trainer

he/him

Elliot is the founder and owner of HPWT. Featured here with his giant dog Loki, the chief branch manager. Loki was a rescue dog who struggled with reactivity towards motorbikes. Elliot’s desire to understand and help Loki overcome this is the inspiration behind the training he does. Elliot is dog mad, most of his clothing features dogs and what doesn’t is covered in dog “glitter” anyway. Elliot holds a Cert III in Animal Training and is just weeks away from graduating with a Cert IV in Animal Training and Behaviour. Whilst Elliot loves all dogs he has a soft spot for the large breeds and has a unique and special connection with dogs with reactivity issues.

Joanne - Day Care Attendant / Dog Sitter / Van Driver

she/her

Jo claims that all dogs love her (not that we would dispute this), and she’s had dogs all her life. Joanne has an affinity for high energy breeds owning Blue Heelers and Jack Russell Terriers.

Jo is pictured here with her friends beloved Kelpie, Indy. Joanne loves all breeds but Daschunds have her heart.

Tyler - Dog Trainer

he/him

Tyler has completed a Cert IV in Animal Training and Behaviour and his special intertest is in researching bio active enclosures for reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Tyler also has a Bachelor in film and TV production as well as a Master of Creative Industries. His hobbies include gaming, comics and kaiju.

He loves all animals and has two pets of his own -a Staffordshire Terrier and a domestic long hair cat. Tyler has experience working in the doggy day care industry and is well versed in different training methods.

Anita - Day Care Attendant / Van Driver

she/her

Anita has always been a carer at heart, spending years looking after her kids and her nanna before deciding it was time for a new challenge. With a background in both the aviation and entertainment industries, she thrives in fast-paced environments and loves that no two days at Happy Paws Waggy Tails are ever the same. Working with dogs felt like a natural next step, combining her nurturing nature with a role that keeps her busy, engaged, and on her toes. Outside of work, Anita enjoys live jazz music, skiing in winter, and often can be found in a Pilates class. When the day finally slows down, nothing beats cooking homemade food for her family.

Anitra - Dog Sitter

she/her

Antira is a true dog lover who will cross the street to say hi to a pup.

She is pictured with her smiley girl Sushi the Samoyed, but loves all breeds, big or small.

Anitra comes from a background in aviation, having worked as a flight attendant. She’s hung up her wings and the glamour of international travel to follow her passion for working with 4 legged clients instead of 2.

Anitra is very excited to be working with such an inclusive team who share her passion.

Zach - Day Care Attendant

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Zach has had a long term love for many breeds of dogs. Spending his free time learning about a variety of breeds to deepen his understanding of their natural breed behaviours and original jobs. He is an honest and hard working individual that always puts his best foot forward for you and your fur-baby.

Zach is featured here with the boss dog Loki who he developed a great bond with.

Chelsea - Dog Trainer

she/her

Chelsea has grown up with dogs in her life since day one and always wanted to be a veterinarian until she realised she wouldn’t have as many cuddles in her workday compared to working in a daycare or shelter environment! She has completed a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training, and wishes to continue her studies as she believes constant learning is key to positive relationships with the animals she works with! While Chelsea will love any dog that wants her attention, she has a soft spot for the seniors and bigger breeds, as shown in the photo with her three dogs.

Max - Dog Walker / Day Care Attendant

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With a background in farm work and a Border Collie of his own, Max has always had a strong affinity with animals of all kinds. He particularly enjoys the company of big, spirited dogs and is often found spending time with the more active pups at daycare, though he also has a big soft spot for a fun, cheeky Jack Russell. Max is passionate about expanding his knowledge across as many breeds, personalities, and behavioural traits as possible, and he never shies away from a challenge. Outside of work, he loves staying active and outdoors, enjoying climbing, exploring nature, and keeping busy with sport. One of his long-term goals is to explore the vast landscapes of Australia, observing and learning from every animal he encounters along the way.