Local actor takes on a new role caring for Halesowen’s pets

Petpals has officially launched in the area, owned by local resident Andy Tierney, who is swapping scripts and spotlights for leads, collars and cat treats. With a lifetime of varied experiences behind him and a deep love of animals in his heart, Andy’s latest role is all about bringing warmth, trust and exceptional care to pets and their owners across Halesowen.

Andy lives locally with his cockapoo, Marley – his constant companion and a daily reminder of just how important animals are to our lives. After years of moving around the UK and overseas, Andy says settling in Halesowen has marked an important new chapter.

“I’ve lived all over the place, but this really feels like home,” said Andy. “Marley and I are properly settled here now, and that sense of belonging makes this feel even more special. It’s somewhere I genuinely care about, and that’s reflected in how I want to look after people’s pets.”

Andy’s background is as rich as it is unconventional. He spent 13 years in the British Armed Forces, later worked in the pub trade and policing, and retrained as an actor, appearing on stage, television and film – including roles in Peaky Blinders, where he appeared alongside Cillian Murphy. A cancer diagnosis a few years ago prompted a moment of reflection.

“It makes you stop and reassess everything,” explained Andy. “I had to take a step back and really think about how I wanted to spend my time going forward. I came through it knowing I wanted to do something that brings comfort and reassurance – something that feels worthwhile on a day-to-day level.”

Petpals is the UK’s longest-established multi-service pet-care specialist, providing a range of bespoke and award-winning services – from dog walking and cat visits to pet sitting and pet taxis. Andy, who is fully trained, insured, uniformed and DBS checked, is now bringing the high standards and top-notch care already associated with Petpals to Halesowen.

A particular passion for Andy is ensuring cats receive the same level of attention and understanding as dogs. “Cats are just as important to families, but they’re often overlooked,” he said. “They have their own personalities and routines, and I want cat owners to feel confident their pets are being cared for by people who genuinely understand them and take the time to get it right.”

Andy hopes Petpals will quickly become a trusted name locally – known for professionalism, compassion and genuine care. “This feels like the right chapter for me,” he added. “If I can spend my days helping animals, supporting local pet owners and being part of this community, then I know I’m exactly where I should be.”

Petpals is now up and running in Halesowen, ready to support local pet owners with friendly, reliable and professional care – with Marley firmly on paw-trol.