Welcome to Cumbria Canine Services – it has been a whirlwind end of 2017 as I left my job as manager of a rescue kennel and decided to set up a business that would provide essential and bespoke services to pet owners.
It has been amazing to see what started as a vague idea come to fruition in just a few months. Already CCS is getting bookings before the website goes live, and I am enjoying every moment of my new venture.
My decision to become a “crazy dog lady” was made around nine years ago, when I went to visit a friend who had set up a home boarding business – Just Paws. There I met a Hungarian Vizla called Hugo, who was adorable, and very quirky. He didn’t like to get his feet dirty, and went to great lengths to skirt puddles and mud, and was a perfect gentlemen with people. I decided then and there that I didn’t want to be a teacher, I wanted to work with dogs. I was further encouraged and inspired by my sister, who told me to work towards what I wanted, even when it didn’t seem clear how to get there.
Fast forward through the years, which involved me bringing my first dog Sox home, attending obedience classes, taking courses, volunteering with rescues, fostering, bringing my second dog Buffy home, and adopting Eddie, taking my total to three dogs. Three years ago, I gave up my teaching career to work full time with dogs as the manager of a rescue kennel. During the last eight years I was supported by Alex and Jim at Purple Paws who allowed me to help with their business, mentored me, and became very good friends of mine. In November 2017 Jan offered me some hours at the hydro pool after hearing that I was leaving the rescue, and I rushed off to Guildford to get qualified as a Canine Hydrotherapist.
Things seem to have come full circle, as in December Just Paws advertised for new staff, and enlisted my help as a consultant in choosing interviewees, preparing the interview process and taking part in the two day interview period. It was most enjoyable, and amazing to see how Just Paws has grown over the years to become a business that does doggie daycare, home boarding and training.
I hope to blog each week about hydro, dog walking, dog training, and look forward to meeting some of you and your pets! Keep an eye out for Cumbria Canine Services near you!
Jody McQuiston
