Claire Bannister MSc

Animal Wellbeing Consultant

Support when things feel complicated - or when you simply want to get things right.


I offer calm animal wellbeing consultations for people who want to make sense of what’s going on, without judgement, pressure, or rigid approaches.
This work is observational and reflective. It creates space to look at the whole picture: the animal, their environment, routine, diet, relationships, and the human context around them.
Often, clarity emerges simply by slowing down and paying attention.


About

My background is a combination of formal education in animal care, welfare and behaviour, earning an MSc in Applied Animal Welfare & Behaviour, and many years of hands-on experience working with animals and the people who care for them across a number of settings. I also have a long standing interest and experience in areas such as diet, nutrition and complementary approaches, and how these can support overall wellbeing.Over time, I became less interested in applying fixed approaches that clients struggled to keep up with, and more interested in understanding what’s actually happening in each situation - the details, context, and how animals and people influence one another. I also found that simply “translating” what animals are trying to communicate can unlock new perspectives and understanding.I don’t approach situations with a predetermined method or outcome. Instead, I bring a calm, attentive presence and a broad base of knowledge and experience, to work with what’s there and offer suggestions that fit in with your life.I’ve found that when people have space to think, and feel supported rather than directed, things often become clearer with a sense of direction.


This work may be helpful if you are navigating:

- New or chronic health or behaviour concerns
- Changes that feel out of character or difficult to understand
- Complex or unclear situations and feeling stuck or unsure what to try next
- Considering treatment options and next steps
- Preparing for a first or new addition
- Deciding whether a particular animal, breed or lifestyle is the right fit
It isn’t only for times of difficulty. Some people seek a consultation when things are broadly going well, but they want to reflect, fine-tune, or sense-check that their animal’s life is as supportive and settled as it can be for their animal to thrive.It can also be helpful when preparing for change - such as welcoming a new puppy, considering adoption, supporting an ageing animal, or adjusting environment, routine, or care as circumstances shift.Often, people simply want confirmation that they’re already doing things well - or reassurance that small doubts don’t need to turn into big changes.


Consultations can also support animals in managed environments, including kennels or rescue settings and animals with specific working roles, where it's helpful to step back and observe workload, routine, space, patterns and overall welfare.


What to expect

A consultation usually takes place in the animal’s home, or an agreed environment and typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Time is spent observing, listening, and gently gathering information.
People often talk things through as they show me their animal’s world. I reflect patterns, name what seems relevant, and help make sense of what’s already there.
Where helpful, I may offer gentle suggestions or possibilities, often small, practical adjustments that can support wellbeing or reduce unnecessary strain.
Suggestions are always optional and offered as reflections, not prescriptions.
Sometimes the most useful outcome is clarity about next steps.
Sometimes it’s reassurance that nothing needs to change at all.
Where appropriate, I may suggest seeking support from other professionals, such as vets, behaviourists, trainers, or holistic practitioners. Referrals are a success, not a failure.While outcomes can’t be guaranteed, people commonly report:• relief and perspective
• permission to stop over-managing
• greater confidence in their own judgement
• a clearer sense of what matters most
• one or two realistic next steps
• or permission to pause and do nothing


Consultation fee £125


Travel

I’m based in North Yorkshire, in the Craven area. The consultation fee includes travel within my local area (around 30 minutes). For visits further afield, a small additional travel fee may apply, which I’ll always confirm in advance.


Important note
Animal wellbeing consultations are observational and supportive in nature. They are not a substitute for veterinary care, diagnosis, treatment, training, or behaviour modification. Responsibility for decisions and outcomes remains with the animal’s owner or guardian.


Contact meemail: [email protected]OR

Text: 07344 308393

with a brief outline of your situation and I will respond within 48 hours (not including weekends)