Grant helps growing dog boarding business expand in Test Valley
A dog boarding business has received support from Test Valley Borough Council to help continue to grow.
Paws & Reflect, based in Anna Valley, has been awarded a £750 Business Incentive Grant from the council. Set up by Charlie McCoy, the business provides small-scale dog boarding and day care services, with a focus on creating a calm and relaxed environment for every dog. Demand has grown steadily through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Charlie's original boarding licence allowed him to care for four dogs, in addition to his own dog, Marla, but this has now been increased to six dogs. The change gives him greater flexibility to accommodate households with multiple dogs while continuing to look after regular customers.
Before accepting any extended boarding booking, Charlie takes time to get to know each dog. The process begins with a meet and greet and dog walk, followed by a trial half or full day, and then an overnight stay to ensure the dog is comfortable and a good fit alongside Marla.
Paws & Reflect makes use of local countryside locations for exercise, including Bury Hill Meadows, which is within walking distance of their home.
Alongside the boarding and day care business, Charlie's wife Beccy runs a dog grooming service. She has more recently joined Charlie working full time, focussing on dog grooming.
Charlie McCoy said: “We launched Paws & Reflect with a simple goal: to care for dogs the way we want our own to be looked after. We’re thrilled that a business start-up grant from Test Valley Borough Council is helping us do exactly that. From day one we’ve kept our numbers deliberately small, so every dog gets a calm, relaxed experience. It’s something our clients really appreciate, especially those with anxious or sensitive dogs. The grant is going towards two things: a professional photo shoot to show people what Paws & Reflect is really like, and comfort and enrichment upgrades to make sure every dog in our care feels right at home. We’re grateful to Test Valley Borough Council for backing us, it means a lot to know there’s support out there for small local businesses like ours.”
Anna Ward Councillor Maureen Flood said: "It is fantastic to see a local business making such a positive start and building a strong reputation through excellent customer service and word of mouth recommendations. Paws & Reflect is a great example of how small businesses can grow and thrive in our communities. We are delighted to support Charlie through the Business Incentive Grant and look forward to seeing the business continue to develop in the years ahead."
Test Valley Borough Council is committed to supporting local businesses through various initiatives and grants. The Business Incentive Grant is designed to help new businesses located in Test Valley achieve their goals and contribute to the local economy. You must apply for the grant within eight weeks of starting to trade, and the council will award the money once you have been up and running for a minimum of six months.