Passionate Advocacy for Animal Welfare

At Take My Lead, Sheila recognises the individuality of every dog and horse, tailoring her services to their distinct needs. With a dedication to personalised and dependable care, Sheila ensures that your four-legged companions receive the attention and exercise they deserve. Sheila has their wagging tails and happy hooves covered.

Why Choose Take My Lead?

Experienced and caring person

Sheila is a devoted animal enthusiast with extensive experience in caring for dogs and horses. Her genuine affection for animals ensures your beloved companions are in capable and caring hands!

Customised walks to suit your dog's needs

Sheila understands that each dog has unique needs. Her walks are tailored to your dog’s preferences, ensuring they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and love they deserve.

Safety and well-being are our top priorities

The safety and well-being of your furry family member are her top priorities. Sheila has experience handling many different types of dogs and situations, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.

Passionate Advocacy for Animal Welfare

 As an advocate for animal welfare, she is dedicated to creating a positive impact in the lives of dogs and horses. By choosing us, you support a cause that values and champions the wellbeing of animals.

Local Equestrian Roots

Sheila’s strong ties to the local equestrian community, as a former British Horse Society County Chairman, guarantee a deep understanding of the unique needs of horses.

Flexible scheduling to fit your busy lifestyle​

Life can be busy, but that doesn’t mean your dogs and horses should miss out. Sheila’s flexible scheduling options allow you to book walks that fit seamlessly into your daily routine.

Animal Care Services

Secure Paddock Use

Provide your horses and dogs with a secure and comfortable environment using Sheila’s paddock, including convenient pick-up and drop-off services.

Daily Dog
Walks

Keep your pup happy and healthy with Sheila’s dog walking service, providing the exercise and attention they need.

Appointment Keeping

Hassle-free routine appointments for your pets, with Sheila accompanying them to veterinary, dental, grooming, or farrier visits.

Event Chaperone Service

Discover our tailored package just for you! From personalised consultations, to safe transportation and pre/post-event exercise, we’ve got you covered.

30 Minute Drop-In Call

A quick and convenient check-in for your pets, offering peace of mind during your busy day.

 

Equine Yard Duties

Ensure the well-being of your horses with our comprehensive yard duties, contributing to their health and quality of life.

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I'm Sheila Smith, and as the proud owner of Take My Lead, Animal Care Services, my heart is filled with immense joy and passion for providing love and care to our furry friends.

After years of successful entrepreneurship, I’ve decided to embark on a heartfelt journey, fueled by my enduring love for animals – not just horses but also our loyal canine companions. Formerly serving as the Northamptonshire County Chairman of the British Horse Society, my connection to the local equestrian community runs deep. Since 1965, I’ve been immersed in the world of horses, considering myself an enthusiastic amateur rider with a genuine passion for equine companionship.

 

In addition to my equine pursuits, I share an equally profound love for dogs. As a seasoned dog walker and caregiver, I understand the unique needs and joys that come with our furry friends. Whether it’s a playful pup or a majestic horse, I tailor each experience to meet their individual needs.

About Sheila Smith

Benefits of Animal Care Services

These benefits highlight the positive impact that animal care services can have on the health, happiness, and overall well-being of pets and their owners.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care ensure animals stay healthy by addressing potential issues early on.

Animal care services create thriving environments for pets by offering love, attention, companionship, and mental stimulation.

Pet care services offer convenient solutions, including sitting, walking, and boarding, ensuring pets are safe and comfortable in the owner’s absence.

Happy Clients

Discover the heartwarming stories of satisfied pet parents who have experienced the exceptional care and services at  Take My Lead, Animal Care Services in Northants.

5/5
"I can always count on Sheila to be punctual and reliable, ensuring that my dog's routine is maintained without any disruptions. I trust her implicitly with the responsibility of caring for my dog, knowing that she goes above and beyond to provide the love and attention my furry companion deserves."

Tracey Onley
5/5
"Sheila offers a free rehoming & resettlement service for rescue dogs which we benefited from when we adopted our beloved Meg from Bulgaria, we knew we were in capable hands throughout the process, it’s a simply outstanding service. So, If you're looking for top-notch animal care, look no further – it’s right here!"
Sue Clark
5/5
"These "Bulgarian street dogs" are fabulous little dogs. So bright, so loving, so well behaved, so funny, such totally individual characters. Among the best dogs I've ever had! They respond so much to TLC and not only soak it up but give it back in spaded. Thank you! X"

Simon
5/5
"I cannot recommend Take My Lead Northants enough! Sheila, the owner, is an absolute gem with an extraordinary gift for caring for animals. Although I don't have any pets, Sheila played a pivotal role in reigniting my passion for horses after a thirty-six-year hiatus. Her patience and understanding helped me overcome my fear of getting back in the saddle and onto a horse. With her guidance, what seemed like small steps turned into a transformative journey."
Ann Brebner
5/5
"Her heart lies with animals, especially horses and dogs.   And not just her own, she has looked after other people’s animals over the years, and they get treated as if they were her own.  Sheila has animal intuition; animals are drawn to her because she is calm, and they just seem to know they can trust her. Sheila has also always found time to help either rescue or rehome dogs, including my dog, Peggy.   I am in awe of her dedication to animals."
Susan Henderson
5/5
"Sheila is a highly skilled and empathetic horse and dog carer.She has had one of our horses in her care for many years now and he is having the happiest time of his life! Sheila also cares deeply for the dogs in her life and does so much to help rescue dogs find new homes. A true animal lover who will care for your animals like her own :)"



Follyfoot Healing With Horses