Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd is ready to embark on an exciting new chapter, thanks to financial backing from Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited (HOIL), which has enabled the company to purchase an established dog care business in the Carse Industrial Estate.
HOIL, the Highland Council’s dedicated business loan provider, has a long-standing reputation for supporting local businesses, having backed more than 1,200 start-ups, community organisations, and growth projects since 1986.
Its accessible and flexible loan offerings aim to nurture economic vibrancy throughout the Highlands, encouraging entrepreneurial talent to stay and grow locally.
Natalie Thorpe, the driving force behind Inverness Dog Daycare Ltd, has ambitious plans for her new acquisition.
Already running a part-time dog walking service, she spotted the opportunity to expand when Playful Paws Ltd came up for sale.
Now, as the sole director of Inverness Dog Daycare, Natalie aims to double the available dog care provision, offering a wider range of services to meet the growing demand for professional dog care in Inverness.
The daycare will offer more than just a safe and secure space for dogs to play and rest during the day.
A pick-up and drop-off service will ensure convenience for busy dog owners, and the unit will also be available for rental by dog trainers, behaviourists, and other canine-related professionals.
Weekends will bring a fun new concept to the facility, with “dog parties” that allow dogs to socialise and play off-lead in a secure environment, catering to specific sizes, ages, or breeds.
The expansion would not have been possible without HOIL’s loan support, which was tailored to meet the specific needs of the business.
Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs in the Highlands.
He noted that Inverness Dog Daycare represents the kind of business that HOIL is eager to help, providing vital services while keeping local talent invested in the region.
Natalie Thorpe is looking forward to building on the strong foundation already in place.
“We are committed to providing a fun, safe, and secure environment where dogs’ health and wellbeing come first,” she said.
“Thanks to HOIL, we’ve been able to acquire a well-established business and set ambitious goals for the future.”
With experienced staff already on board and plenty of plans in the works, Inverness Dog Daycare is well on its way to becoming a trusted hub for dog care in the Highlands.
