Man transforms industrial unit into top doggy day care

Daniel Annette, 40, lost his job in October and found himself in a tough financial position and facing a long period of unemployment.

However, the animal lover decided it was the perfect opportunity to take a chance on a derelict unit in the Charfleets Industrial Estate.

He used a bank loan and some money he had saved to revamp the unit and transform it into Dog Fur Days, a dog day care centre.

Volunteer Abby, caring for the dogs at Dogs Fur Days.

He hopes the day care centre will be perfect for people who have purchased puppies during the pandemic but now need to head back to their offices.

Mr Arnette said: “It’s been a massive challenge but rewarding.

“We’ve always loved dogs and decided to take a big leap of faith.

Happy puppy playing in the centre.

“The place was an absolute dump it needed new walls, new electrics and the outside needed to be made safe for dogs.

“It was a lot of hard work, but it’s paid off.

Mr Arnette and wife Bonita Annette re-trained for the job and have achieved a level-three diploma in dog behaviour and training.

They both now work full-time at the centre.

Wife Bonita, showing the dogs some love.

Mr Annette added: “The centre has provided a much needed outlet for the community, with people going back to the office and having to leave their dogs at home. They can now bring them to us, and we give them vital training and care instead of them being locked in a cage all day.”

Dogs Fur Days is aiming to be take on 20 dogs a day and plan to offer extra doggy treatments soon. It currently has four volunteers working there who are receiving training.

The centre has a variety of hours that people can leave their dog for ranging at different costs. They offer £7.50 for one hour and £25 for all day.