Our Founder
Founded by Gemma Sheppard in 2023, More Than Human is an animal care and education company, based in Warminster, Wiltshire. Gemma has always been drawn to animals since childhood and finds she often enjoys the company of animals more than humans.
Gemma spent 4 years living in Vietnam where she found her love for working outdoors while looking after 19 ponies at a pony club there. She also spent time volunteering in various rescues and always carried treats in the back of her motorbike should any hungry pups ever need them.
No matter where in the world she is, from Sri Lanka to Thailand, Gemma always finds herself surrounded by animals – because she speaks their language in any country. Gemma has a BSc in Psychology and a first class MSc in Human-Animal Interaction and Wellbeing.
Her research, which explored the psychological factors influencing horse owners’ decisions about training methods, is in the process of being published in an academic journal. Gemma is passionate about making animal welfare science more accessible so that all More Than Human animals can feel seen and understood.
Director of walkies and playtime
The team doesn’t just consist of humans; Nelly was adopted by Gemma in Vietnam in 2020 when she was living there, and moved to England in 2023. He quickly became an integral member of the More Than Human team, joining on house sits and walkies.
Nelly (rather like his mum) tends to prefer dogs to humans, and can be a bit shy when you first meet him. But with some patience and treats, he can be persuaded. His favourite thing to do is nap in one of his many beds, and he absolutely hates the rain.
Our Animal Carers
We are very privileged to have 3 wonderful team members who help in the day to day animal care.
Meet Helen…
Helen brings a combination of kind energy and deep intuition to the More Than Human team. With years of experience caring for all species in pet care and rescue (everything from rabbits to alpacas), she has a natural ability to make even the most sensitive pets feel safe and understood.
Not only does Helen have an affinity to animals, she is also a qualified therapist for humans. This therapeutic insight is invaluable in understanding emotions, boundaries and nervous system regulation which the animals sense immediately.
Helen covers regular walks and drop-ins in Frome and the surrounding villages. She’s as happy pottering with a nervous rescue as she is walking an enthusiastic spaniel or settling with cats for overnight care. We’re incredibly lucky to have her as part of the team, and your pets will be too.
Meet Becky…
Becky brings something truly special to the More Than Human team – a deep understanding and empathy towards both animals and humans. Becky has studied Psychology at BSc and MSc level, as well as having a lifetime spent around dogs, which gives her a unique ability to understand what animals do and why.
Her psychology experience gives her an exceptional level of empathy for both pets and their humans. She naturally slows down, listens, observes and responds in a way that helps animals feel seen, safe and supported.
Becky has shared her life with dogs for as long as she can remember, and it shows in everything she does. She brings a calm presence, patient approach and a deep respect for each individual animals emotional world.
We’re so lucky to have her caring for the animals in our community.