Meet the Faces behind the Brand
Jo: From Skydiving Daredevil to Dog Wellness Guru!
Forget the stuffy herbal stereotype! Jo is your unconventional champion for canine wellness. This engineer turned government policy advisor (and occasional skydiving nut) decided to change career and focus on sniffing out natural solutions for pups.
Whatever her role, one constant remained: her absolute obsession with animals.
Whether they have feathers, fur or scales, Jo has always had a soft spot for creatures big and small. This passion for animals turned into a full-time mission when she launched the Holistic Hound!
Speaker and Presenter
But Jo isn’t just about burying her nose in books.
Jo is a regular speaker at pet and holistic health conferences, explaining the benefits of natural pet care and empowering owners to be more proactive in the overall wellbeing of their pets. When Jo isn't working in our HQ in Kilorglin, she also hosts workshops and interactive sessions at exhibitions and events around the world.
Jo's Inspiration
The Holistic Hound was borne out of Jo’s unwavering passion to help her own pets, after taking on her first rescue back in 2002.
"Tazpot" had a bad start in life, giving birth to puppies in rescue at just 8 months old. As a result, she had some physical and emotional issues that were not fully supported by conventional veterinary care. Despite her scientific background, Jo found that a more natural, holistic approach, helped Tazpot live a healthier and happier life.
After seeing great success with Tazpot, Jo was able to help her friends and family who owned pets, and soon the business grew into what the Holistic Hound is today.
Jo's Belief
Jo has had a continuous stream of rescue animals with varying needs in her home that she shares with her husband, Sean. From the terminally ill and severely disabled dogs, to cats, birds and hedgehogs; all of which she feels have been her inspiration to learn and develop her skills.
“Animals seem to land to me when it is time for me to learn something new. And I take joy from giving them the love and support they need on their journey”.
Since those early days, Jo and the Holistic Hound have helped hundreds of animals across Ireland, the UK and rest of the world.
Clair: The Efficiency Expert
This certified Master Herbalist joined the pack in 2017 and is the behind-the-scenes hero, ensuring everything runs like clockwork so Jo can focus on creating pawsome products for your furry friends. With her expertise and dedication, Clair's a vital part of the Holistic Hound family!
Clair's Inspiration
Jethro is Clair's inspiration, the tiniest bundle of fluff you could ever imagine. Sadly, Jethro was diagnosed with a very severe liver shunt at the age of three and was sent home by the vet for Clair and the kids to say goodbye. However, the Holistic Hound team had other ideas and were able to support Jethro fully and keep him happy and well for another three years.
Clair continues with Holistic Hound, despite losing Jethro. She is driven by other pet owners who own pets that need help, and encourages them to never give up hope and look for alternatives, even when every avenue appears exhausted.
Meet the Advisors
Buzz, Lenny and Bo
Jo's mini pack consists of chickens, two lively whippets and a german shepherd that *thinks* he's a whippet! When Jo isn't out with her pack, she's thinking about adding to it!
Chester
The cutest little dictator we have ever met! This little boss man rules the roost, dictating meal times and nap times (which are frequent)! When Clair isn't walking Chester, she's dealing with his ever growing list of demands for more naps and more treats!
Wallis and Phoebe
Who needs guard dogs on site when you have two ferocious little cats that will spring out and surprise even the most skilled of cat burglars! They rule the roost - including all the dogs.
Those over the Rainbow Bridge
Between them, Jo and Clair have had 18 dogs, 2 cats, 8 chickens, a snake, 2 rats, 2 ferrets and multiple goldfish and hamsters. They have all played a role in shaping the Holistic Hound of today.