Meet The Team - Julie Athersmith

This month, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our own, Julie Athersmith, who is Rehoming Admin Support and a key member of Agria’s Rehoming Team. Julie works closely with rescues and rehoming organisations across the UK, supporting them in countless ways.

Julie’s career took an unexpected turn during Covid, when, after 16 years in her previous role, she accepted redundancy. For a few years, she wasn’t working until an opportunity came along, thanks to her sister-in-law. “I started part-time from home in February 2025 for Agria, just three days a week. But by May, I’d been asked to go full-time,” Julie shares. 

At Agria, every day in Julie’s role is different, and that’s exactly what she loves about it. She spends her time emailing promotions to rehoming partners, ordering stock, updating spreadsheets, and making those all-important phone calls to let partners know they’ve won a prize in the monthly competition. “Even just winning £20 means a lot, rescues are always so grateful, and it’s lovely knowing it goes towards little extras for the animals,” she explains. 

Beyond the practical support, it’s the people Julie connects with that inspire her most. “I speak to some wonderful people about their organisations and the special animals they’ve cared for. They’re such a dedicated bunch; many juggle full-time jobs and still find the time to look after animals.”

Julie is also acutely aware of the challenges rescues face. “Funding is the main issue for most rescues,” she says. “That’s why our monthly competition and the support we provide, like raffle hampers for fundraisers, can make such a difference.” She’s especially proud that Agria Free Cover has no upper age limit. “Rescues really value this, especially when trying to rehome older cats and dogs. Knowing there’s cover available helps give adopters the confidence to say yes.”

Looking ahead, Julie’s hopes are simple: to always be here for rescues whenever they need support, and to make sure as many pets as possible go to their new homes with vet cover in place. 

Her advice for anyone considering adoption is thoughtful but practical: “Take your time. Make sure the pet is right for you and your family, so they don’t have to be returned to a rehoming organisation. It’s about finding that forever home.”

Away from Agria, Julie treasures time with her three grandchildren and loves exploring new corners of the UK in her caravan. She’s also mum to Sally, her lively five-year-old Jack Russell. “We lost our Staffy, Ella, during Covid, and really missed having a dog. We tried to adopt, but rescues weren’t able to get back to us then, so eventually we bought Sally. She’s a proper little character, more like a small child than a dog sometimes! She adores my grandchildren but isn’t too fond of other dogs; she much prefers people.”

We’re so lucky to have Julie as part of the Agria Rehoming Team. Her dedication, warmth, and genuine care for animals and the people who look after them are at the heart of everything she does.