Celebrating 25 Years: People, Pets, Purpose
21st April 2026
As Petpals UK celebrates its 25th anniversary, we’re taking time to recognise not only how far we’ve come, but also the people, pets, and communities who have been part of our journey along the way.
At the heart of Petpals has always been a simple belief: pets, people, and communities are deeply connected. Whether through daily pet care services or wider local engagement, our franchisees and Head Office team are proud to play an active role in supporting wellbeing across the UK.
To mark this milestone year, we’ve launched a company-wide initiative encouraging our franchisees to get involved in local community and charity work. From volunteering time with local organisations to supporting fundraising events and animal welfare projects, the aim is simple — to make a genuine difference, locally.
Supporting Communities Across the UK
Our franchise network is deeply rooted in local areas, with franchisees forming long-standing relationships with clients, neighbours, and community organisations. That connection naturally extends beyond pet care.
Across the UK, teams are getting involved in local animal rescue centres and welfare charities, community fundraising events, local support groups and much more.
Each contribution helps strengthen the communities we are proud to be part of, while reinforcing the importance of compassion and connection.
Head Office Support: The Three Bees Project
Closer to home, our Head Office team in Andover, Hampshire, has been proudly supporting a truly special local initiative: The Three Bees Project, based just 10 minutes away in Hatherden.
Set within a beautiful 7-acre farm, The Three Bees Project is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming environment where people experiencing mental health challenges can reconnect with nature, animals, and themselves.
The farm is home to therapy goats, horses, sheep, guinea pigs and many more animals, all playing their part in supporting emotional wellbeing and providing calm, restorative experiences for visitors.
A Safe Space for Mental Wellbeing
At the heart of this inspiring initiative are founders Allen and Helen Watts, whose passion, care, and vision have shaped The Three Bees Project into the supportive and welcoming space it is today.
The project takes a holistic approach to mental health, using nature and animal interaction as a powerful tool for support and recovery.
In particular, the therapy goats are a firm favourite. Their gentle, curious, and calming nature encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and offers a comforting, judgement-free form of connection. Simply spending time with them can help people slow down, breathe, and be present in the moment.
Beyond the farm, the team also takes animals out into schools, care homes, and community events — including the Andover Rocks festival in the High Street, where the therapy goats helped raise awareness and funds for Andover Mind, supporting vital mental health services in the area. The Petpals Head Office team were on hand to help at the event, overseeing the goats, helping keep the area clean and safe, and encouraging members of the public to come along, meet the goats, and experience their calming presence for themselves.
Volunteering for a Greater Purpose (and a Lot of Smiles!)
Our Head Office team has been delighted to get hands-on supporting The Three Bees Project through volunteering days and local events across Hampshire.
Across several visits, the team has helped with practical improvements around the farm, including removing around 50 old fencing posts and replacing them with new ones, strengthening boundary fencing and improving safety for animals and visitors.
Last weekend, the team also helped create a peace garden — a space designed for reflection, calm, and quiet enjoyment. Activities included weeding, pruning, hedge cutting, planting, and developing a vegetable garden.
Of course, it wasn’t all hard graft…
We were joined by the farm’s rescue dog Luna, who made it her mission to supervise every task, and two very enthusiastic 3-week-old lambs who happily explored the worksite and helped themselves to freshly cut greenery.
And when the tools were finally down, there was only one sensible next step: a visit to the therapy goats. Their calm and friendly nature brought plenty of smiles and a well-earned moment of stillness after a busy day outdoors.
It was a reminder that volunteering isn’t just about giving back — it’s also about connection, joy, and shared moments that stay with you long after the day is over.
Looking ahead, the Head Office team are excited to continue their involvement, with more volunteer days and community events planned throughout the year.
Learning, Skills and Community Spirit
The Three Bees Project is also a place for learning and growth. Alongside its therapeutic work, it offers practical, hands-on opportunities for young people to gain experience in building, electrical work, drilling, and general site development.
These experiences help build confidence, independence, and a sense of achievement within a supportive environment.
What makes the project truly special is its sense of community. Volunteers from across Hampshire regularly come together to support the farm, creating a shared space built on kindness and collaboration.
The Power of People, Pets and Purpose
At Petpals, we see every day how powerful the bond between people and animals can be. The Three Bees Project brings that idea to life in a truly inspiring way — combining animal therapy, nature, education, and community support in one place.
As we continue celebrating our 25th year, we’re incredibly proud to support initiatives that reflect our values and make a real difference locally. Our focus remains the same: helping people, supporting communities, and celebrating the role animals play in wellbeing.
Get Involved
🐝The Three Bees Project: https://www.thethreebeesproject.org
🐝Get involved: https://www.thethreebeesproject.org/get-involved
