Dani Hickman

Dani Hickman is the Co-Director of Dog First Aid Training Ltd. Dani spent 20 years in the corporate sector with roles in contract management, business process improvement and training management.

In 2018, having attended a Dog First Aid Training course, Dani decided to follow her passion for animal welfare and joined Dog First Aid as a Franchisee.

Two years later the opportunity arose to buy the Franchise which she did with her business partner and fellow Franchisor Theo Millward.

Since the acquisition, Dani and Theo have worked hard to improve the processes and systems within the business. They have invested in the business and introduced a rebrand, new mapping software, a new website and a booking system. In 2023 they joined the BFA and were shortlisted for the Lifestyle Franchisor award. In the same year, they received a 5-star Franchisee satisfaction rating from the Workbuzz survey. Dani said “It is important to us that our Franchisees have the flexibility to work around other commitments, family and lifestyle choices. We want running a Franchise to be a rewarding experience; not just financially but one that supports our franchisee’s unique set of circumstances. Owning a small lifestyle franchise gives people the freedom to build a valuable business without having to commit to traditional and often counterproductive working patterns.”

Several of the Dog First Franchisees have other dog-related businesses such as hydrotherapy, pet stores, dog walking, dog grooming and pet portrait artistry. Others have carer responsibilities and some work in part-time employment. The flexibility a franchise affords allows them to run their business around the other priorities in their lives.