“My name is Megan, I’m 30-years-old, I have a moderate learning disability, and I set up my own dog walking business.”
As part of Learning Disability Week, Megan, from Hetton-le-Hole, shared how she turned her passion for animals into a successful dog walking business with support from her auntie Tracey, an Employment Specialist at the North East Autism Society (NEAS).
Megan has always adored animals, especially dogs. For years she diligently cared for and loved her black labrador, Max.
“I love dogs,” said Megan. “I used to have a dog called Max, a black labrador. He was lovely.”
Like many people with a learning disability, Megan wanted to find paid employment.
With support from Access to Work initiatives, Megan was able to gain experience doing something she adored with a local dog groomer.
This experience, however, was short-lived.
“The dog grooming experience lasted for six months, but the company couldn’t take her on full time,” said Tracey.
This is a roadblock many individuals with learning disabilities face.
According to Mencap, only 26.7% of adults with a learning disability are in paid employment, compared to 82% of non-disabled working-age adults.
So, what did Megan and Tracey do? They began to explore self-employment options.
“Because Megan used to love walking Max so much, we began to discuss the idea of dog walking and self-employment,” said Tracey.
“We worked on a business plan and received some funding and support from the Prince’s Trust,” she added.
From there, Megan’s Dog Trails was born – a thriving local dog walking business with regular customers and more than enough four-legged friends for Megan to care for.
“I’m really happy where I am right now,” said Megan. “Every day I take one dog out at a time for my eight regular customers.
“My two favourites to walk are Winston, the labrador, or Cooper, the springer spaniel.”
Tracey remains in awe of her niece’s accomplishments.
“I’m just so proud of her,” said Tracey. “This has opened so many doors for Megan, and it’s been wonderful watching her confidence and communication skills grow.”
Though Tracey was instrumental in providing support during the early stages of the business, Megan now manages every aspect.
“Megan keeps track of all the finances and everything,” said Tracey. “She’s totally in control.”
Tracey believes that Megan’s perseverance is not only a testament to her niece, but also proof that with the right support anyone can thrive.
“There’s a job out there for everybody,” said Tracey. “It’s just about finding that niche and that passion."
“Sometimes that means going down the route of self-employment to do what you want to do and to do it confidently.”
Megan isn’t looking to make millions from her venture, she’s just happy to be able to spend her days doing what she loves, with the animals she loves, and being seen, heard, included, and valued while doing it.
