Hounds Daycare, located just outside Ashby in the picturesque woodlands of Lount, offers an experience that goes beyond ordinary dog daycare. This newly-founded centre is designed to give your dog an exciting, enriching experience in a natural environment—not just a place to be looked after.

While your furry friend may be away from you for the day, boredom is definitely not on the agenda at Hounds. Instead, dogs are invited to "explore, learn, and grow" in a completely natural setting that feels like a Forest School for dogs.

Kirsti Williams, the owner and visionary behind Hounds, shared with Ashby Nub News the philosophy behind this unique approach. "We're based in two acres of beautiful woodland, and from the very beginning, I wanted to create a daycare that feels as natural as possible. Our goal is to provide a space that's not only fun but educational too," Kirsti explained. "We are looking to provide a range of workshops such as canine massage, first aid, as well as life skills classes for puppies and dogs."

Hounds has been up and running for four months now, quickly becoming known as the 'go-to spot for all things dog,' offering an adventure every day. Kirsti and her dedicated team are committed to ensuring each dog has a structured, engaging day from the moment they arrive.

"We plan their day carefully," Kirsti said. "There are dedicated times for naps in cosy cabins, where we lower the blinds and play calming music. The idea is to give them a balanced day, much like a Forest School for children — but tailored for dogs!"

Many of Hounds' clients are busy professionals who want their dogs to have a stimulating day while they're at work. However, there are also owners who work from home but still choose to send their dogs for socialisation and enrichment opportunities.

"Our clients vary," Kirsti noted. "We have people who work full-time, as well as those who work from home but want their dogs to stay socialised and active. Whether it's solving puzzles or exploring the woodlands, there's always something for the dogs to do. For example, we might hide treats in a bottle and watch as they figure out how to get them out— it's a super simple game but they love it!"

Hounds caters to dogs of all breeds and personalities, but Kirsti pointed out that working breeds, in particular, thrive in this environment. "They're in their element here. With the space to run off-leash, there's no such thing as boredom!"

The benefits extend to the owners as well. "We find that owners feel less guilty about leaving their dogs for the day because they know they're in an environment where they're having fun and being active. Plus, they don't need to worry about walking them afterwards, and many notice their dogs are calmer for days after."

Kirsti, who has a background in architecture and holds a diploma in canine behaviour and welfare, works alongside her experienced team to manage the site, ensuring the dogs' well-being is always a priority.

Hounds offers a thorough introduction process for new dogs, including a half-hour meet-and-greet where owners can tour the facility, and a chance for the dogs to explore the area without other dogs present. "We want to make sure both the dogs and the owners feel comfortable," Kirsti said. "After the initial visit, we invite them back for a three-hour Saturday session, where our highly experienced behaviourist monitors how they interact with other dogs. We have trained 'stooge dogs' who help us gauge these interactions."

Not every dog is suited to a daycare environment, and Kirsti is upfront with owners when it's not the best fit. "We're honest if we feel a dog might not enjoy being around other dogs, and we won't take someone's money if their pet isn't happy here."

While managing a group of dogs can sometimes be a challenge, Hounds is well-equipped to handle it. "We have different areas to separate the dogs when needed, with no more than 10 in each section, so they can form friendship groups. Like people, dogs don't always get along, and we respect that. Our team is trained to ensure that every dog is happy and comfortable, constantly monitoring their behaviour."

At Hounds, every day is designed to be an adventure—one that dogs and their owners can feel good about.

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/houndsdogdaycare/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hounds_daycare/