Dr Vitalie  - 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  - Owner Managing Director

Hi, I’m Maria, owner 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 -  Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

Hi, I'm Carly. I started my career in the Veterinary world almost 10 years ago, volunteering at this practice from the age of 16 when it was previously Dr Doolittle's.  While studying my A levels at Aberdare Community School, I spent my free times and school holidays gaining hands-on experience in a busy veterinary practice, which confirmed my passion for this career. 

I never felt that university was the right thing for me, so after completing my further education, I chose to follow the apprenticeship route. After taking some time to explore my career options, I worked full time at a local factory and later studied online alonside my job to achive my Level 3 qualification as a Veterinary Support Assistant. 

I was then fortunate to secure a role as a Veterinary Care Assistant at another practice, where I continued to gain valuable experience. After 18 months, I was offered the opportunity to study Veterinary Nursing at college via an apprenticeship route. I studied at Abbeydale Veterinary college in Monmouthshire for 2 years, completing my Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Small Animal Practice while continuing to work in the 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.

James – Receptionist & IT Support

James is one of the friendly faces that greets you when you visit Happy Paws Vets. A proud local, he spent many years working at the much-loved Blaengwawr School – the same school once attended by the Stereophonics – before it closed in 2015.

After that, James joined a respected veterinary group in South Wales, where he developed his skills in client care and practice support under the guidance of Dr Jamie Allen. His approachable manner, reliability, and strong work ethic quickly made him a valued member of the team.

When Happy Paws Vets was being established, James lent his technical expertise to help set up our systems and ensure everything ran smoothly behind the scenes. His calm and methodical approach proved invaluable – and before long, we were delighted to welcome him officially as part of the Happy Paws family.

Today, James combines his warm, welcoming presence at reception with his knack for all things tech, keeping our systems running efficiently and supporting the team day to day.

We’re very lucky to have him – and our clients love seeing his friendly smile when they visit.