A PET boarding and dog-walking service provider is encouraging people to move into self-employment to look after furry friends.

Bury-based Digs for Dogs is hoping to provide the perfect New Year career opportunity for people in a growing and seemingly recession-proof pet service marketplace.

As 2017 commences, thousands will likely be returning to jobs they are unhappy in – according to website CareerBuilder, at the start of 2016 the top New Year’s resolution in the workplace was to find a new job, rather than to progress a career within their current role.

For many, a complete change in career is desirable, as is a move into self-employment.

But a lack of confidence or skillset means many sit back and continue with the easier option of staying where they are and continuing the 9-5 rat race.

Over the last two years, Digs for Dogs owners Debbie Pomfret and Lisa Hulton have seen substantial growth within their pet franchise organisation, having helped over 20 individuals and couples to start their own businesses providing dog walking, home boarding and dog grooming services across the North

West.

The Digs for Dogs franchise, based in Tottington, aims to provide animal lovers with an opportunity to change their career, and without any previous commercial experience, to build a pet business.

Debbie and Lisa work closely with all their franchisees providing initial training as well as continued support as their business grows and moves forward.

Debbie said: “Digs for Dogs not only provides our franchisees and home boarders with a business, but it brings companionship and an opportunity for exercise, fun and new friendships.

“It’s so rewarding to have worked with people that have significantly reduced their stress levels and improved their social life through working closely with Digs for Dogs.”

They say the franchise is perfect for people looking to wind down their hours and to run a part time business.

Franchise packages include a designated “walking” area, an appropriately fitted van, as well as the brand and goodwill of the business.

Services include door to door dog walking, puppy visits, elderly dog care, holiday house visits, doggy day trips and pet taxi services.

The Home Boarding Franchise opportunities provides dog owners with an alternative to kennels and the reassurance that their pet is being cared for in a friendly and loving environment.

As full time business, becoming a Digs for Dogs home boarding franchisee means you will build a network of host families to arrange happy holiday homes for your customers’ dogs.

And finally the Grooming Spa franchise is available to qualified dog groomers who are looking to start their own business with the backing of a well-recognised, established and successful brand.

Grooming services operate from retail premises and cover an approximate six mile radius.

To find out more about the Digs for Dogs services and franchise opportunities, and to download the prospectus, visit www.digsfordogs.uk.com