In the heart of downtown Atlanta, inside the vibrant Castleberry Hill community, Happy Heart Petcare stands as more than just a pet grooming and daycare business. It is the realization of one man’s lifelong dream to create a space where pets are loved, nurtured, and understood. That man is Wayne Hartley, a registered veterinary technician whose passion for animals began long before his professional career ever took shape.
Wayne’s story starts in the Bronx, where a stray kitten found its way to his doorstep when he was just a child. His mother recalls how he made sure the kitten had food each day and, when the weather turned cold, convinced her to let the animal stay warm inside their tiny apartment. That simple act of compassion ignited something in young Wayne. Before long, he was helping neighbors care for their pets, researching everything he could find about animal health, and even offering advice to others on how to better care for their furry, feathered, and scaled friends.
Fast forward to today, and Wayne has turned that childhood compassion into a thriving business and an inspiring mission. Founded in 2016, Happy Heart Petcare is a hub for pet wellness, education, and high-quality grooming services. Wayne’s approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and it’s what earned him the affectionate nickname “Atlanta’s Dog Whisperer.” His gift for connecting with animals and educating their owners has made his business one of the most respected in the region.
When you step inside Happy Heart Petcare, you can feel the warmth and community that Wayne has built. It’s a place where pet owners learn, connect, and celebrate the joy of caring for their animals. Whether it’s offering workshops on nutrition, grooming techniques, or behavior training, Wayne’s mission is clear—to ensure that every pet owner has the knowledge and tools to keep their companions happy and healthy.
Beyond his business, Wayne is also the founder of PetLanta, a collective of Atlanta-based pet entrepreneurs who meet monthly to network, collaborate, and support one another. He also launched PetX, an international community for pet-care professionals that fosters growth and innovation across the globe. Both organizations reflect Wayne’s belief in community over competition and his desire to uplift others who share his passion for animal care.
At home, life for Wayne and his wife is just as lively as his business. Together, they care for their two young sons, a three-year-old daughter, and five beloved pets: a miniature schnauzer named Konaq, a pigeon named Keisha, a rat affectionately called Rateisha, a snake named Apollo, and a rescued squirrel named Nelson. As Wayne puts it, “There’s never a dull moment in the Hartley household.”
From a Bronx boy with a big heart to one of Atlanta’s most respected voices in pet wellness, Wayne Hartley’s journey is proof that following your passion can lead to a life of purpose and impact. Through Happy Heart Petcare, he continues to inspire a generation of pet owners and professionals to love deeper, learn more, and care better.
Visit their website or stop by the shop at 327 Nelson Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 to experience the warmth of Happy Heart Petcare for yourself.
Stay connected on Instagram at @happyheartspetcareatl for updates, tips, and a daily dose of pet love from Atlanta’s favorite dog whisperer.
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