There are some podcast conversations that stay with you long after you’ve pressed stop on the recording.
This was one of them.
In the latest episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, I sat down with Claire Harris, founder of Pets2Places – the UK’s first pet taxi franchise for a deeply honest conversation about grief, resilience, purpose and building a business around genuine human connection.
But this episode wasn’t really about pet taxis.
Not entirely.
It was about what happens when life completely falls apart… and how sometimes purpose quietly finds you in the middle of the mess.
When Business and Personal Trauma Collide
Claire shared how she originally entered business through a franchise opportunity back in 2012.
Just months later, her world changed forever when she was suddenly widowed whilst raising three children.
Trying to navigate overwhelming grief whilst also attempting to run a struggling business pushed her to absolute breaking point.
At one stage, she described feeling like she was “drowning every second” she was awake.
Eventually, after experiencing bullying and a lack of support within that franchise system, Claire made the incredibly difficult decision to walk away – losing around £40,000 in the process.
But as painful as that season was, it ultimately became the beginning of something new.
The Unexpected Beginning of Pets2Places
What started as a simple idea from a vet receptionist quickly snowballed into something much bigger.
A local vet practice mentioned they regularly received calls from people who couldn’t get their pets to appointments.
Claire decided to give it a go.
And Pets2Places was born.
At the time, she admits she had “absolutely no idea” how to properly run a business.
But what she did have was compassion, authenticity and a genuine desire to help people.
And that mattered.
Over time, Claire realised the service wasn’t really about transporting pets at all.
It was about connection.
For many customers particularly elderly clients, the taxi journey became companionship, conversation, reassurance and community.
Sometimes, Claire explained, she might be the only person they spoke to that day.
That human touch became the heart of the business.
Why Human Connection Matters More Than Ever
One of the biggest themes we explored in this episode was how disconnected society has become despite being “more connected” online than ever before.
Claire spoke passionately about bringing back old-fashioned community values:
- Real conversations
- Genuine care
- Looking after people
- Creating meaningful customer experiences
It was a reminder that pet professionals do far more than simply provide services.
Dog walkers.
Pet sitters.
Trainers.
Groomers.
We often become emotional support systems, safe spaces, trusted listeners and part of people’s wider support networks.
And that matters.
Building an Ethical Franchise Model
Ironically, after such a painful franchise experience herself, Claire eventually decided to franchise Pets2Places.
But this time, she wanted to do things differently.
Her goal wasn’t simply expansion.
It was creating opportunities for compassionate people to build meaningful businesses whilst being fully supported.
Claire explained that she can teach people how to run a business…
But she can’t teach somebody how to genuinely care about others.
That part has to already be there.
And honestly?
That philosophy came through strongly throughout the entire conversation.
Pet Transport Safety: The Mission Behind the Products
Another fascinating part of the conversation was Claire’s growing passion for pet transport safety.
After over a decade transporting animals professionally, she’s now working on developing crash-tested pet transport products whilst also campaigning for better education around safe pet travel.
Many pet owners and even pet professionals, don’t realise the risks associated with improper restraints inside vehicles.
Claire hopes to eventually help drive industry-wide change and stronger standards around pet travel safety in the UK.
Final Thoughts
What I loved most about this conversation was Claire’s honesty.
There was no pretending business is easy.
No “overnight success” narrative.
No polished entrepreneur act.
Just a real person sharing the reality of rebuilding a life and business after heartbreak.
And I think that’s something many pet professionals will connect with.
Because behind every business…
there’s a human being trying their best.
🎧 You can listen to the full episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast now.
Useful Links
🌐 Nathan Dunleavy Website
📘 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan
🐾 Free Dog Walking Business Resource
🌿 The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle (Free Facebook Community)
