About Elia's Paws
Elia’s Paws began with one simple goal: to care for pets the way we’d want ours to be cared for. Personal, loving, and always reliable — like asking a good friend who truly understands animals. We’re here to make life easier, calmer, and more joyful for pets and their people.
The Story Behind Elia's Paws
Elia’s Paws didn’t start as a business. It started as a favour — a friend needed help with her dog, and I had time. I’d just left a hectic job and was spending my days walking in the forest, trying to reset. When my friend returned, she said something that stuck with me: “That’s the first time I’ve felt truly free in years.” That feeling — of peace, trust, and real support — became the seed for everything that followed.
Sulo — the dog who started it all
Word spread faster than I expected. More friends reached out, then their friends, too. What they needed wasn’t just someone to feed the cat or walk the dog — they wanted real care, from someone they trusted. I looked around and realised: there wasn’t a clear, personal, high-quality pet care service in Tampere. Just scattered freelancers and one-off arrangements. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a favour — it was a need.
George with Hugo, one of our first customers
I grew up in what can best be described as the Moomin House — a home filled with animals, chaos, and love. Ferrets, goats, chickens, dogs — every creature taught me something about patience, empathy, and being present. That kind of childhood never leaves you. Today, through Elia’s Paws, I bring that same care into other people’s homes. We’re building something honest and human — a service that’s not just about pets, but about peace of mind, trust, and freedom.
George with Heidi and Katie, two of his childhood goats, some time in the 1990's
Our Mission & Values
Our mission is simple: to make everyday life easier for pet families. Whether you’re heading to work, travelling for the weekend, or just need a hand, we’re here with calm, professional care you can count on — always tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Because everyone deserves a guilt-free break, knowing their animals are in safe, loving hands.
Care Comes First
Every animal deserves to feel safe, loved, and truly seen. We care for your pets like they’re our own — with calm presence, patience, and a whole lot of heart.
Every Detail Matters
From first message to final tail wag, we put care into every detail. That means showing up on time, staying in touch, and making sure every visit feels just right.
Open & Honest, Always
You should never have to wonder how your pet is doing. We keep you in the loop with real-time updates, honest communication, and full clarity from day one.
Meet Our Team
The friendly faces behind Elia’s Paws — real animal lovers, not just names on a website. We’re a small, trusted team who take the time to know each pet, each routine, and each family we support.
George Waller
Founder
Animal lover since childhood, George started Elia’s Paws after seeing how hard it was for people to find pet care they could truly trust. With a background in business and a lifelong bond with animals, he’s on a mission to raise the standard, creating a service that’s as thoughtful, reliable, and personal as pet families deserve.
Specialties:
Juuli Sotejeff
Pet Carer
Calm, caring, and endlessly kind, Juuli brings a steady presence and heartfelt care to every pet she visits. Whether she’s spending time with a shy rescue cat or bouncing alongside a high-energy pup, Juuli’s natural way with animals helps them feel safe, seen, and loved. As a proud rabbit owner herself, she also brings expert small-animal experience to the team.
Specialties:
Tinja Kainulainen
Graphic Designer
With an eye for detail and a heart for animals, Tinja helps shape the visual feel of Elia’s Paws. Her thoughtful, joyful designs bring our mission to life, making sure our care feels just as warm online as it does in person.
Specialties:
Our Journey
Key milestones in our growth
Elia’s Paws was born after a friend asked for help
Started offering local care in Tampere
Welcomed our first team member, Juuli
Preparing for our first holiday season of bookings
Expanding across Pirkanmaa — and beyond!
We’re just getting started, but already we’ve had the joy of caring for so many wonderful pets — and earning the trust of their people. Every visit, every walk, every wag or purr is part of the journey we’re building together.
Bookings Completed
5-Star Reviews
Team Members (and growing!)
Happy Pets & Owners