Fledgling business makes a promising start

Leaving a successful career in recruitment behind, Claire Hunter has gone on to establish a flourishing business in the pet trade and take the title of Retailer of the Month in the process. Managing director of Claire’s Comfy Canines, Claire only opened her shop in May this year and her inspiration was her own English bull terrier Belle. When she couldn’t find anyone she trusted to walk her dog while she was at work, she decided on a drastic course of action. Leaving her career in recruitment she initially started offering dog walking services but has since expanded the business to provide, what she describes as, “a full doggy day care” service that includes grooming, training and puppy crèche. She explains: “We offer a service which is licenced by South Bucks District Council to care for up to 25 dogs. We structure the day to include three play sessions and nap time, so the dogs have a clear understanding of what is expected of them and when it will be happening. I feel we have all dogs’ needs covered including grooming, training, day care and our fully stocked shop. It’s a one stop solution for all dogs and owners needs.” Dog nutrition is a special interest of Claire’s and she places emphasis on providing natural premium foods in her retail section such as Applaws. She adds: “I am passionate about providing dogs with the best diet possible and only stock natural food and food that has the best quality ingredients.” It was Applaws that named her its Retailer of the Month, following votes cast by its Facebook community. From her base in Burnham in Buckinghamshire, Claire’s new business has already generated much local interest and it seems that her decision to leave a well-paid position in recruitment will more than pay off. She concludes: “I truly believe the future of dog care is in safe environments like mine where owners can rest assured their beloved pets are cared for not only by people who love dogs, but are professionals and will take the job seriously.”