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 honoured to bring this passion to life through Happy Paws Vets and look forward to welcoming you and your beloved pets!

Auxiliary Veterinary Nurse

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 feel very fortunate to have made it my career. At home, 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 th-Happy Paws team and look forward to meeting all of our clients and their wonderful pets.

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. 

Student Veterinary Nurse

Georgia is a Student Veterinary Nurse with a genuine passion for animal care and welfare. Her journey into veterinary nursing began with a Level 3 qualification in Animal Management at Coleg Gwent, and she is currently continuing her Veterinary Nursing studies at the University of South Wales.

Alongside her studies, Georgia is gaining valuable hands-on experience at Happy Paws, where she enjoys developing her clinical skills and learning from the wider veterinary team. Her time in practice has strengthened her commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care and helping both pets and their owners feel comfortable and supported.

Outside of work and university, Georgia enjoys drawing, spending time with her family and caring for her own pets. She is a proud rabbit owner, and her rabbits certainly keep her busy while continuing to inspire her love of animal welfare.

Georgia is excited to continue developing her skills and knowledge as she works towards becoming a qualified Veterinary Nurse.

Head Registered Veterinary Nurse

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.

Receptionist

Originally from South Africa, Evelyn has proudly called Wales home since the beginning of 2025. With many years of experience in office administration, she brings a warm, organised and caring approach to her role at Happy Paws.

A lifelong animal lover and naturally empathetic person, Evelyn enjoys combining her passion for animals with her customer service experience. She is always ready with a friendly smile and aims to make sure every client and their pet receives a warm welcome and feels supported from the moment they arrive.

Outside of work, Evelyn enjoys reading, watching documentaries and films, and exploring her new surroundings. She loves going on family hikes with her husband, their two children and their much-loved Chihuahua, Vanilla, who made the big journey from South Africa to Wales with them.