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A doggie daycare business has been able to expand its operations in Inverness after it got a loan from a branch of Highland Council.
Dog Daycare Ltd used the funding to put towards the purchase of an existing dog care business in the Carse Industrial Estate in the city.
The little known Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited or HOIL is the local authority’s business loan company.
It seeks to support Highland-based businesses and encourages applications from all sectors, including community organisations.
Interested businesses benefit from straightforward loan conditions and a tailored offer to support their project.
HOIL has financially supported more than 1200 local start-ups since it was established in 1986 – the equivalent of more than 30 a year.
Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd approached HOIL for a start-up loan to purchase and expand a licenced dog daycare centre.
The new owner wants to grow the business and aims to double the availability of dog care provision, as well as introduce new services.
A pick-up and drop-off service will be available to transport dogs from their homes to the daycare centre.
The unit will also be available for use by third party dog trainers, behaviourists and various groups for rental in the evenings and weekends.
Another plan is for size, age or breed specific weekend “dog parties” where people will be invited to let their dog off the lead to play with other dogs in a safe and secure area.
Natalie Thorpe, who currently runs her own dog walking business on a part time basis, was looking to expand her current operations. On hearing that Playful Paws Ltd was up for sale saw an opportunity.
Natalie has taken over the lease of the business premises from Highland Council and is excited to provide a safe and secure environment for dogs to be looked after during the day, with support from existing experienced employees.
Natalie Thorpe Director of Inverness Dog Day Care Ltd said: “At Inverness Dog Daycare we provide a fun, safe and secure environment for dogs to play and rest during the day.
“We are a team of experienced dog handlers and always ensure the dogs’ health and wellbeing are being put first, whilst still having a great time. We have purchased a well-established dog daycare business in Inverness and could not have done this without financing from HOIL.
She added: “The process of obtaining financing was straight forward and well guided by the team at HOIL.”
Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL said: “Inverness Dog Daycare is a prime example of the sort of business we are keen to help, and indeed one I might use myself for Skye, our border collie.
“It is also a particular pleasure when we are supporting young entrepreneurs as we are keen to encourage people to stay in the Highlands rather than heading south to find opportunities.
“HOIL’s accessible and affordable business finance helps promote business across the area, both to begin and expand. It is an important part of the council’s aim to keep business vibrant and growing in the Highlands.”
