Pinchbeck driver launches new service to get pets to the vets and groomers

A driver has launched a new business which will help pet owners to get their beloved animals to the vets.

Wayne Rayner (57), of Pinchbeck, was inspired to start Small Claws and Paws after hearing the trouble some pet owners experience.

A number of pet owners do not have their own transport and can struggle to get a ride to the veterinary surgeries and hospitals.

But now Mr Rayner has equipped his Toyota Rav-4 to drive well loved cats and dogs to the vets appointments or even sessions in the grooming parlour.

Mr Rayner, whose wife Karon works at a Spalding vets surgery, is hoping that if things go well for the business that he could eventually cater for all creatures great and small.

He said: “I have been in that situation, when we were first married and didn’t have transport, that we had to rely on someone else to take us to the vets.

“My wife works at a vets and discussed how some of their customers did not have transport. So we thought we would give it a go.”

Mr Rayner, who had worked as a maintenance engineer but is now semi-retired, has kitted out their Toyota Rav-4 with cages which would be suitable for both cats and dogs.

He has ensured that the vehicle has the relevant insurance to transport an owner and their beloved pet.

Mr Rayner is planning to cover a 30 mile radius around the Pinchbeck area but has received requests from people living as far away as Terrington St Clement since launching his social media page.

He is currently working out the pricing scheme but is hoping to charge no more than £30 for journeys, in which he would wait while the appointment takes place.

Mr Rayner said: “I have been surprised by the need for this service.

“Taxis can be expensive and some taxis firms are not able to take animals.

“One lady had recently lost her husband and can’t lift her Labrador into a car. I am happy to handle animals.

“I have had animals all of my life and I’m not afraid of dogs. I am happy with dogs and cats and event rats and mice if they are caged. Spiders are fine if they are in a cage.”

Mr Rayner says that his car would struggle to cater for Great Danes currently but if things go well he would look into new vehicle.

For more information contact Mr Rayner on 07738 475704 or go to Small Paws and Claws Facebook page.