Reflecting on 2024: A Year to Remember for The Animal People Recruitment Company

Chris Whatling • January 6, 2025

What.A.Year


As we dive into 2025, I’m taking a moment to look back on what was an unforgettable 2024 for The Animal People Recruitment Company. Last year was packed with incredible achievements, new connections, and exciting milestones that cemented our position as a trusted recruitment partner in the pet industry and animal health industries.

To our amazing supporters, clients, and candidates—thank you for being part of our journey and trusting us to help grow your teams and careers.


Here’s a look back at some of the standout moments from 2024:


  • Exhibiting at Crufts 🐶
    We kicked off the year at one of the most iconic dog shows in the world, connecting with passionate pet professionals and pet owners alike.


  • Global Pet Expo in Orlando ✈️
    Our first trip to this incredible event was a milestone! We forged new global connections and gained fresh insights into the international pet care market. And, of course, Katie Fletcher and I made time for some rollercoasters and theme park fun 🎢.


  • Welcoming Waheeda Jafferali 👩‍⚕️
    Joining as our
    Head of Animal Health, Waheeda brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team, helping us deliver even more value to clients and candidates in the veterinary and animal health sectors.


  • Supporting Birmingham Dog’s Home 💙
    Giving back is a huge part of who we are. In 2024, we donated over
    £5,000 and raised an additional £1,360 by climbing Snowdon at night 🌌 for this incredible charity.


  • Key Industry Events 🌟
    From
    BVA Live, PATS, Interzoo and the Glee Birmingham Show to the London Vet Show and more. We connected with hundreds of professionals across the pet care and animal health industries, building new partnerships and strengthening existing ones.


  • 3rd Anniversary Celebrations 🎂
    We marked our third birthday in style with a day out in London, including brunch and Tina Turner the Musical—a perfect way to celebrate three years of incredible growth.


  • Speaking at Barking Breakfast 🐕‍🦺
    Sarah Grace and I shared insights into the importance of exceptional candidate experience during a talk for
    Birmingham Dog’s Home, highlighting how we strive to make every candidate journey special.


  • Headline Sponsors at the PIF Awards 🏆
    Supporting the
    Pet Industry Federation Awards was a proud moment for us, and I even had the honour of presenting the award for Online Business of the Year!


  • Launching “Meet The Animal People” Podcast 🎙️🐾
    After months of planning, I announced the launch of my podcast, where we’ll dive into the stories of incredible professionals doing incredible work in animal related industries.


  • Helping Candidates Thrive 🙌🏼
    Perhaps my proudest achievement—placing so many talented individuals into roles that align with their passions and skills, helping both them and our clients succeed.


Looking Ahead to 2025


Last year was a testament to the power of hard work, community, and innovation. As we step into 2025, I’m excited about what’s to come—new challenges, fresh opportunities, and continuing to make a difference in the pet and animal health industries through incredible recruitment.


To everyone who has worked with us, trusted us, or cheered us on—thank you. Let’s make 2025 another year to remember!


If you’re looking to grow your team or take the next step in your career within the pet and animal health industries, get in touch—we’d love to help.


Here’s to kindness, connection, and big dreams in 2025! 🥂✨

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