We regularly applaud the commitment and dedication of our team members when they exceed expectations in the course of their day-to-day duties. Still, their willingness to go the extra mile for their customers and colleagues stems from something more than workplace obligations. It’s about their character.

A very recent example that ably demonstrates the typical qualities often found in our team was when one of our Operators, Derek Adamson, went above and beyond on a freezing and snowy night this week. Although feeling under the weather himself, he ventured out with his drone to look for a 13-year-old dog, Sasha, which had gone missing on Monday. Now, late into Tuesday, Derek knew Sacha would struggle to survive another freezing night in the countryside. So, setting aside ailments, he set out with his drone to find the much-loved family pet.

We’re delighted to report Derek succeeded. Sasha, while cold and somewhat frightened, was recovered and reunited with his worried and very grateful owners.

Derek runs Paws n Run, which provides secure field exercise areas for dogs, and he is a long-time volunteer with German Shepherd Rescue Scotland. As a dog lover and a keen amateur drone pilot, he was delighted to put his skill to good use.

Speaking about his search and rescue efforts, Derek said: “I saw a post on the Missing Pets Facebook Page about a wee dog missing in my neighbourhood. At the time, I was actually heading home to my sick bed feeling awful, but I couldn’t leave the dog out without making some effort to see if we could find her. I wouldn’t have slept. Another night in these temperatures, and she wouldn’t survive. I’m just delighted that Sasha is back with her family.”

So, much as we love it when customers praise our team, we are thrilled to see them do something extraordinary just because they care. That’s what makes Excel such a great place to work and be part of.

YOU CAN HELP DEREK TOO

Derek is running the London Marathon on the 27th of April 2025 to raise funds to help look after and protect Scotland’s animals. You can show your thanks and appreciation for his tireless work by donating on his JustGiving page here.