Tel: +27 762 00 4115
Meet the Wonderful Team at Hackett Hounds & Cats
Melody
Melody worked alongside Dr. Kevin Hackett as his trusted veterinary assistant for over 15 years before joining the Hackett Hounds & Cats team in 2013. With decades of hands-on experience, she brings a calm, capable presence to the team and a deep understanding of animal care.
Passionate about grooming and dedicated to the well-being of both dogs and cats, Melody is known for her gentle touch and attention to detail. At home, she’s a proud cat mom and continues to share her love and care for animals every day at Hackett Hounds & Cats.
Abel
With a big heart and a playful spirit, Abel has a natural way with animals. Growing up in Malawi, he spent his childhood playing football alongside his dogs—an early sign of the strong bond he shares with pets.
His energy, entrepreneurial drive, and love for staying active are evident in all he does. Abel runs his own dog walking business, offering dedicated walks for our daycare dogs from 7–9am. He combines his passion for fitness with a genuine commitment to each dog’s happiness and well-being.
Margaret
Originally from Zimbabwe, Margaret moved to South Africa in 1984 and co-founded Avalon Veterinary Hospital with her late husband, Dr. Kevin Hackett. In the 1990s, she opened Avalon Cattery, where she’s been caring for cats with compassion and expertise ever since.
Now supported by two of her daughters, Margaret remains active in the family business. Outside of work, she enjoys playing bridge, socialising and dancing.
Adrienne
Adrienne launched Hackett Hounds & Cats in 2013 with her sister, combining her background in marketing with a lifelong love for animals inspired by her late father, Dr. Kevin Hackett.
She completed Animal Behaviour training through Onderstepoort University and brings both compassion and expertise to her work. Outside of Hackett Hounds, Adrienne enjoys cooking, walking her dogs, and Yoga.
Danielle
Danielle co-founded Hackett Hounds & Cats in 2013 with her sister Adrienne, following her studies in Public Relations and a deep-rooted passion for animals inspired by her late father, Dr. Kevin Hackett.
She has completed Animal Behaviour courses through Onderstepoort University and plays a hands-on role in the daily care of pets across all services. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys sailing, walking, and playing padel.
In Loving Memory Dr Kevin Hackett
29 August 1940 – 27 April 2014
Dr Kevin Hackett was a dedicated veterinarian, beloved father, and the heart behind our family’s lifelong devotion to animal care.
Caroline
With a background in caregiving, Caroline—affectionately known as Tsiki—brings warmth, patience, and a nurturing touch to the Hackett Hounds & Cats team. Her gentle and intuitive nature helps every pet feel calm and secure in her care.
From offering comforting cuddles to finding the perfect-sized jersey for a chilly pup, Tsiki ensures each animal is treated with kindness and feels safe, warm, and truly loved.
Walter
A qualified sous chef by trade, Walter discovered his true calling with animals after losing his job during the pandemic. Since then, he’s become an irreplaceable part of the Hackett Hounds & Cats family.
With a natural instinct for connecting with both dogs and cats, Walter brings calm, care, and quiet confidence to every interaction. The dogs light up when they see him each morning—proof that some bonds simply can’t be taught.
James
James, Abel’s nephew, is a beloved part of the Hackett Hounds family—and the undisputed best friend of Basha, Adrienne’s dog. When James is around, Basha only has eyes for him!
James helps maintain the grounds every Monday and Friday, always with a smile and a kind word for the dogs. A true animal lover, he enjoys spending his time playing with the pups and making sure their environment stays clean, safe, and happy.
Cormac
Our Newest Member!
We’re thrilled to have Cormac join the Hackett Hounds & Cats family! He’s calm, kind, and has a natural way with animals—quickly becoming a familiar, trusted face to our furry crew.
Cormac holds a degree in Psychology and combines his academic background with hands-on experience to bring a thoughtful, reassuring approach to animal care. Alongside helping with daily care, he’s also lending a hand with admin and offers reliable house-sitting for clients needing peace of mind while away.