A dog-walking business based in South Warwickshire has been recognised at a national industry awards ceremony after building up its client base and team over five years.
Gemma & Jodi's Pet Services took the Dog Walking Business of the Year 2026 category at the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) Awards, beating five other businesses shortlisted for the title, according to the company. The firm was set up in 2021 by Gemma and Jodi Cardwell, starting out with no customers and just the two founders, the business said.
Five years on, the company employs a team of ten and works with more than 150 ongoing customers, having carried out over 5,800 individual pet-care bookings in the last twelve months, according to the business. The judges recognised the firm for its approach to looking after animals, the standards it maintains and the quality of care it provides, the company said.
Co-founder Gemma Cardwell said: "We honestly never imagined that something we started with just the two of us and a passion for animals would lead to national recognition like this."
The company said its growth came despite Gemma Cardwell spending more than a year on crutches or in a wheelchair after a serious leg injury, while she continued to help run the business.
Wider services and community work
As well as dog walking, the firm offers pet-sitting in clients' homes, grooming, training sessions and care for smaller animals, according to the business. Each dog taken on by the company is given its own Pet Passport, a record of its health, daily routine and behaviour, the firm said.
The business also runs dog walks that local residents can join free of charge, which it said bring people together, promote responsible dog ownership and give owners a chance to meet others who share an interest in animals.
Co-founder Jodi Cardwell said: "We're incredibly proud of the team we've built and the relationships we have with the families and animals we care for. Being recognised nationally is wonderful, but our focus has always been the same: providing the best possible care for every animal and supporting the community we're part of. It's not about us. It's the animals."
According to the business, the PIF Awards recognise strong performance across the pet care sector, and this year's contest drew an unusually high number of applicants, with finalists chosen by a panel of specialists from within the industry.
This story is based on information sent to Small Cap News by Gemma & Jodi's Pet Services on 9 November 2026. See also: Awards and how to send us your news.