Middlesbrough entrepreneurs launch daycare centre for dogs

Business partners Claire Oxley-Bates and Kelly Butler have established a support centre in Middlesbrough for dogs and their owners.

The duo chose a unit on Sotherby Road for Smoggie Doggie Day Care - a new business offering daycare and grooming services, training classes and pet supplies.

While the space was run down when they signed for it, Claire and Kelly managed to have the site refurbished and running within three months.

The two have known each other for 10 years, having previously worked together as professional dog walkers.

Claire already runs C&M Pet Services, which is fully licensed by Middlesbrough Council and offers dog walking and home boarding.

The two were supported in getting the new venture off the ground by Tees Valley-headquartered Jacksons Law Firm and consultants Connect Property North East.

Claire Oxley-Bates said: “We’re very excited about this new venture and to be based in our home town of Middlesbrough.

“We are a nation of dog lovers who are passionate about our dogs receiving the best care possible and that they are well groomed, exercised regularly and trained by experts so that they are accepted socially.”

Sophie Lynas, commercial property solicitor at Jacksons Law Firm, commented: “It was very brave of Claire and Kelly to take on a big project like this one and to have completed it in such a short timescale.

“It’s plain to see they are very dedicated to their work and I have no doubt will make a huge success of their business.”

Jonathan Simpson, director at Connect Property North East, said: “I am delighted to have secured this letting on behalf of the landlord.

“Claire and her team deserve huge praise for working in conjunction with the landlord to bring this former dilapidated building back into life. I would like to wish them all the best with their new venture.”