Dr Vitalie Mutruc - Owner Head Veterinary Surgeon 

Hi, I’m Dr. Vitalie, the owner of Happy Paws Vets. My journey into veterinary medicine began early, growing up in Moldova where both my parents dedicated their lives to veterinary medicine. Life on our family farm, surrounded by animals, inspired my passion for their care and well-being.

In 1998, I moved to Romania as a teenager under a government program for pupils, taking a major step toward fulfilling my dream. After years of dedication, I qualified as a Veterinary Surgeon from Timisoara University in 2010. I then moved to Britain to continue my career, working in small animal practices and building meaningful relationships with pets and their families.

Together with my wife and our two children—who played a big role in choosing the name Happy Paws—we decided to establish this practice, driven by our shared passion for providing exceptional care to pets and their owners.

Outside of work, I’m an avid sports enthusiast and enjoy activities such as football, snooker, rugby, and many others. Staying active helps me unwind and stay energized. Most of all, I cherish spending time with my family, which brings balance and joy to my life.

Veterinary medicine has always been a calling for me, inspired by my upbringing and my parents’ dedication. I’m honored to bring this passion to life through Happy Paws Vets and look forward to welcoming you and your beloved pets!

Maria Mutruc - Owner Managing Director

Hi, I’m Maria, co-founder and director of Happy Paws Vets. Originally from Moldova, I’m an AAT-qualified accountant with a strong background in finance and business management. My journey has been shaped by hard work, dedication, and a passion for creating meaningful connections with people.

Together with my husband, Vitalie, and our two children, we made the decision to establish Happy Paws Vets. Our shared vision of combining compassionate care with a personal touch has been a driving force behind this endeavor. While Vitalie focuses on the medical side, I oversee the business and administrative aspects, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, traveling, and exploring new opportunities to grow and learn. I’m proud to support Happy Paws Vets and look forward to meeting you and your beloved pets!

Carly -  Head Veterinary Nurse  & Practice Coordinator 

Hi, I'm Carly. I started my career in the Veterinary world almost 10 years ago, where I volunteered at this very building at the age of 16 as it's previous Dr Doolittle's practice owned by Dr Jamie Allen.  While I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in the veterinary industry, my volunteering opportunities helped me gain valuable day-to-day experience of a typical veterinary practice and while studying for my A levels at the local Aberdare Community School I spent any free time after school and during the term holidays volunteering in practice. 

I never felt that university was the right thing for me, so upon completing my further education in secondary school, I decided that the apprenticeship route was best suited for me. I decided to take some time out of education to explore my options for my chosen career. I went on to full time employment at a local factory where after a year, I decided to study online to gain my level 3 qualification as a Veterinary Support Assistant while still working full time. 

I was then fortunate enough to get a job as a Veterinary Care Assistant at another veterinary practice where I continued gaining valuable experience and after 18 months in the role was offered to go on to studying Veterinary Nursing at College via an apprenticeship route. I studied at Abbeydale Veterinary college in Monmouthshire for 2 years where I completed my Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Small Animal Practice all while still being able to work in practice where I could practice and develop my nursing skills.

I qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in November 2024 and joined the Happy Paws team not long afterwards. 

I enjoy all aspects of nursing and have a keen interest in laboratory and surgery, I have 2 pets of my own. A Rescue dog named Floyd and a crazy African Grey Parrot named Bieber

Claire – Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

Claire began her journey in veterinary care with several years of work experience at Vets4Pets Blackwood, where she developed a particular interest in exotic animals—especially guinea pigs. She completed her student nurse year there while studying at Coleg Gwent in Usk.

After qualifying as a Veterinary Nurse, Claire worked at practices in Treforest and Tonypandy for just under three years before joining Happy Paws, where she feels she has truly found her happy place.

Claire enjoys all aspects of nursing and caring for pets, with a special love for cats and small furries, while also greatly valuing her work with dogs.

Outside of the clinic, Claire can often be found at the farm with her horse, Marge, who she has owned since she was 16 years old. She also enjoys spending time with friends, going to bingo, and attending concerts to see her favourite band.

Emma – Animal Care Assistant

Hi, I’m Emma, and I’ve been working as an Animal Care Assistant for nearly 10 years. My journey in animal care began at Pencoed College, where I gained qualifications in Animal Care and Animal Management. I first joined St James Veterinary Group as a volunteer before becoming an auxiliary nurse, spending over nine years building my skills and experience with their team.

Caring for animals has always been a true passion of mine, and I feel very fortunate to have made it my career. At home, I share life with my three much-loved dogs, who are thoroughly spoilt and enjoy long walks and cosy cwtches on the sofa.

Outside of work, I love spending time with friends, going to the cinema, and paddle boarding when I can. I’m really excited to be part of the Happy Paws team and look forward to meeting all of our clients and their wonderful pets.