A campaigner for dog and puppy welfare, based in Llanfyllin, has received recognition from Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis.
Rebecca Walters runs Pupstart Breeders, a company that provides educational training for the dog breeding community in Powys.
The business was recognised by Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday social media competition, with the Dragon’s Den star choosing Pupstart Breeders as one of the winners for September.
On having her business recognised, Rebecca said: “Winning this award means our dedication to building a strong community and supporting dog breeders to breed ethically and responsibly has been recognised.
“It means more people will know how important it is that they find an ethical breeder if they want to welcome a puppy into their lives and is a step towards stamping out puppy farmers.
“Writing, developing, and gaining accreditation for the UK’s first nationally recognised educational pathway for breeders took grit but the difference we are making for dogs and puppies is so worth it.
“To have Theo crown us one of his SBS winners validates our hard work and inspires us to keep fighting for improved welfare for dogs and puppies.”
A former animal welfare warden who was unsatisfied with the treatment of unwanted dogs, Rebecca set out to change the dog breeding profession in Britain.
Since starting the venture in 2020, Pupstart Breeders has supported breeders to raise around 8,000 healthy puppies.
An initiative that dates back to 2010, Small Business Sunday was set up as a way to recognise local businesses across Britain, and has provided a platform for over 3,000 companies.
Mr Paphitis said: ““We are thrilled to welcome new SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.
“My vision is that everyone who has ever won an SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club, like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings.
“The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Rebecca and Pupstarts Breeders every success.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here