“This was Gilly’s first overnight stay away and we have been so impressed with Steve and family for providing safe, secure, comfortable and loving care for her. We can highly recommend them and will certainly have Gilly back to stay in future.”

Glenn J.

“A big Thankyou, Catherine stepped into help us out at short notice. The family made Connie welcome straight away and provided well for all her needs. I was confident that Connie was being cared for allowing me to get on with my day. I would definitely recommend Catherine and her family to provide pet care.”

Martin P.

“Boo is the most kindest and thoughtful person. I received photos and updates throughout my puppy's stay, which was reassuring as it was his first time away from home. Boo ensured my puppy had all the love and attention he needed, which gave me peace of mind. Thank you Boo, I know Larry can't wait to come back 🥰”

Louise R.

“Tina and family looked after Scoobe perfectly and adopted him as one of their own. I could not be more pleased. I returned to a happy, relaxed and very well cared for pooch! Could not recommend highly enough and have already rebooked!”

Pamela S.

About: Hi, we are Emma and Mark. For as long as I can remember, both myself and my husband have had a deep passion for dogs. I can remember my first family dog; Penny, who we got when i was 2 years old. Having a family dog taught me so much about their unique personalities, and it was when I realised my love of all dogs. My husband also has had family dogs from a young age, and his love of dogs shines through, and every dog we meet adores him. We relocated to Barnstaple 9 months ago and realised that we now have a great opportunity to look after and care for other family's dogs whilst they are either at work or on holiday. We have a large garden which is completely enclosed by a 15ft wall, making it extremely safe for your dogs to play and have fun in. We have our own family dog; Basil. He is 5 years old and is a bundle of mischievous joy! He loves the company of other dogs, and enjoys playing and having fun with them. We have an abundance of walks to go on which include woods, fields, The Tarka Trail and beaches. We have both spent many years caring for friends and family's dogs, and we can't wait to extend that same love and care to yours. Your pet will be treated like one of our own—receiving plenty of love, attention, and fun. If your dog likes to sleep on the bed, they can sleep on the bed in our house too. We treat our dog and every dog we take care of as part of the family. We look forward to meeting you and your furry family members! We have both retired, although Mark still does a few hours work from home. So we will always be here to entertain and take care of your furry friend/s. We have a 15ft walled garden so you can be assured it is a safe environment for your dog/s to be in, and our friendly family dog will be here to keep your fur baby company and have fun with too.

“Nicky is so wonderful, it was our first time leaving our dog with a sitter and she made it such an easy experience and Puts had a great time. Super quick at responding, lots of lovely pictures and will definitely book again. Couldn't recommend Nicky enough!”

Aisha O.

About: The Ultimate Sausage Sanctuary I offer bespoke boarding and daycare exclusively for Dachshunds. My service is born from a simple desire: to provide the loving, attentive, and specialized care that I would want for my own dogs. By socialising only with their own breed, your dog gets to play with like minded friends who have similar play styles and temperaments, ensuring a safer and happier pack dynamic. As the dedicated owner of two miniature dachshunds, I don't just love the breed, I understand them inside and out. My home is fully "sausage-proofed," and my routine is tailored entirely to their unique quirks. Expert IVDD care One of my own sausages has IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), so I have intimate, firsthand experience managing the breed's physical fragility. You can rest easy knowing I am deeply familiar with: • Back Safety • Medical Needs • The "Dachshund Personality” My services: • Exclusive Boarding: Forget cold kennels. I know how much Doxies hate the cold! Your dog will be a cherished member of our family, enjoying comfy sofas, a secure garden, and all the burrowing and cuddling they demand. • Dachshund Daycare: A perfect solution for busy days. Your dog will enjoy a stimulating environment with safe canine companionship. Because I only accept Dachshunds, you don't have to worry about them being knocked over by large, boisterous breeds. A Note on Peace of Mind I know how hard it is to leave a Dachshund; they are incredibly bonded to their owners. Because I specialise in this breed, I have the patience and tricks to help them settle in quickly. Relax on your trip or during your workday knowing your best friend isn't just being watched—they are being loved, understood, and cared for by a fellow Dachshund fanatic. I am fully licensed, first aid trained, and insured. Because I am currently not in work, I am home all day. This means your dog isn't just a visitor; they become a true part of our family and our daily life. My entire schedule is built around providing consistent, loving care. Here’s what a typical day looks like for your dog: • Morning: We start the day together with a supervised garden visit, followed by breakfast. I feed all dogs separately to ensure everyone eats their own food peacefully and at their own pace. • Medication: If your dog requires any medication, it's administered precisely on schedule, exactly as you would at home. • Daily Walks: We head out for walks tailored to each dog's energy levels and needs. As a miniature dachshund specialist, I am very mindful of little legs and different exercise requirements. • All-Day Companionship: This is the key. Your dog will not be left alone for hours. I am always here for cuddles on the sofa, supervised playtime, or just to offer a comforting presence. They will have constant human companionship and the company of my two friendly mini dachshunds. • Check-in & Updates: Throughout the day, I'm happy to send you photo and video "pupdates" so you can see your dog is happy, safe, and settled. • Evening (For Boarders): Evenings are for winding down. Your dog will relax with us in the living room, enjoying all the normal home comforts before bedtime. They'll sleep in a safe, comfy spot, just as they would at home. Weekly Routine My weekly routine is all about stability. Unlike some sitters who may have to leave for work, my presence here is constant. This consistency is incredibly beneficial for: • Anxious Dogs: Dogs with separation anxiety thrive here because they are rarely, if ever, left alone. • Dogs on Medication: I can reliably administer medication at any time, day or night. • Puppies & Seniors: Young puppies and older dogs who require more frequent potty breaks, or just a bit more TLC, get them without fail. • Specialist Care: My experience with dachshunds means I'm very comfortable handling dogs who may need a bit of extra care or gentle handling. In short, your dog’s routine (for walks, feeding, and medication) becomes my routine. They receive the one-on-one attention that simply isn't possible in a larger, kennel-style facility. 1. Safety & Security • 24/7 Supervision: Because I am home all day, your dog is never left alone for extended periods. They receive constant, dedicated supervision, which is especially important for anxious dogs or those with special needs. • A Secure Home: My home is fully dog-proofed. All cleaning supplies are kept out of reach, and there are no stray wires or hazardous plants. • Safe Outdoor Space: My garden is fully-fenced and secure, allowing for safe and supervised potty breaks and playtime. • Medication & Health: I have experience administering medication (tablets, liquids, etc.) and will adhere strictly to your vet's instructions. • Breed-Specific Knowledge: As a specialist in miniature dachshund care, I am extra-vigilant about safe handling, gentle play, and ensuring dogs don't engage in risky activities like jumping off high furniture. 2. Building Trust • I'm a Dog Owner First: As a devoted owner of two mini dachshunds, I know exactly what it feels like to be on your side. I will care for your dog with the same love, empathy, and attention to detail that I give my own. • Constant Communication: You will never have to guess how your dog is doing. I send regular photo and video "pupdates" throughout their stay so you can see them relaxing, playing, and having a great time. • Meet & Greet: Trust is earned. I always require a "meet and greet" before a first stay. This gives you a chance to see our home, meet me and my dogs, and ensure it's the perfect fit for everyone. • Consistency is Key: Your dog's routine is my routine. I will follow your feeding, walking, and medication schedules precisely to provide stability and comfort. 3. My Home Environment • A True Home from Home: This is not a kennel. Your dog will be welcomed as a member of my family. They will relax in our living room, cuddle on the sofa (if allowed!), and sleep in a warm, comfortable spot. • Calm & Loving Atmosphere: My home is a calm and loving space. I provide a low-stress environment that is perfect for dogs who are easily overwhelmed in busier, more crowded facilities. • Canine Companionship: Your dog will have the company of my two friendly, well-socialised miniature dachshunds. They are the perfect size-appropriate playmates and excellent at helping new dogs feel welcome.

“Good communication and Katherine was a caring sitter”

Ian K.

“Fig, our greyhound had a wonderful time whilst staying with Sophie and her greyhound. Prior to our holiday we had a “meet and greet” with Sophie and Soul the greyhound at her home. Instantly I knew Fig would be safe and very well cared for. Each day Sophie sent us photos of Fig and an update which was wonderful and very reassuring. Sophie is a very experienced dog owner and handler. She cared for Fig as if he was her own dog. I’d recommend her services with absolutely no hesitation and Fig will most certainly be having more “holidays” with Sophie and her greyhound.”

Lisa G.

“Susie was more than happy to have Griffin again even though it was a very last minute visit. He was very well looked after and she kept us updated while he was there. We would definitely recommend and book Susie again. Thank you!”

James J.

“Ernie loved his time with Jenny. She kept us informed with regular photos and updates which was lovely! We brought home a happy and relaxed dog, we couldn’t ask for more! Thank you Jenny for taking such good care of our boy :-)”

Nicola M.

“My labradoodle Davey had the most amazing time with Isabelle. She is a super-nanny for dogs with lots of walks, play dates, puppiccinos and doggie muffins and even a coconut scented bubble bath just before being collected. Davey was happy and relaxed when I arrived. I thoroughly recommend Isabelle x”

Tertia H.

About: With 6 years of experience caring for dogs, I offer reliable, loving care tailored to your pet’s needs. Their safety, comfort, and happiness come first! Pet care fits perfectly into my routine, I offer weekend boarding, evening walks & drop ins on weekdays, and full availability on weekends for walking, check-ins, and quality care. In my home, pets are treated like family, safe, comfortable, and loved. I provide a calm environment with plenty of playtime, cuddles, and personalized attention.

About: I have grown up with cats my whole life & have owned 4 in total (one of which was a rescue). I have also owned rabbits, hamsters and fish before. In my first 5 years of life I also grew up with a golden retriever. We looked after my Grandpas sheepdog regularly whilst he went away and as I came into adulthood I would then care for my family & friends pets too. It is safe to say I am a complete animal lover! I have cared for a range of kittens to cats (including elderly cats, blind cats and those who need oral medication administered). I have also looked after puppies, small & big breed dogs ranging from Pointers, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Pitbulls, Cockapoos, Spaniels, Labradors, Staffies (my fave breed) and many more! I have also cared for: geckos, guinea pigs, snakes, hamsters, rabbits, fish, ducks and chickens. I adore animals and have volunteered on farms, an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand and I even became a duck leader in Vietnam once! I work from home (core working hours with a lunch break). I am able to work from my laptop at your house if house sitting and can be flexible around your requirements. I have access to a big car so getting around is very easy for me to get to and from your home / local parks / fields / beaches. I have cared for pets such as cats, dogs, reptiles, hamsters and rabbits in a variety of different homes. I schedule a meet & greet with all new owners & pets that is suited to your availability prior to me looking after your animals. This is so you can get to know me a bit better & run through everything with me fully. This allows me to get a better understanding of how to best care for your pets and is also a great introduction for them to meet me as well. It will also allow us to go through where everything I may need is kept e.g. toys, food/water, leads, litter trays/puppy pads etc. and to ensure I understand all of your home & pet security e.g. where keys are kept, automatic alarm systems, cat flaps (some owners require them to be locked at night & unlocked in the morning). Not only this but it’s important you feel comfortable by knowing you have met me first (being a previous pet owner myself, I feel this makes all the difference for reassurance). I hope by doing the above, this will put your mind at ease knowing your pets will be thoroughly cared for. I will be respectful of your house and ensure it is exactly how you left it for when you return. I am a genuine, honest & empathetic person who will always put pet needs & owner requirements first to ensure you & they both know they will be loved, cared for and safe within my company.

“Jet & Shadow had a lovely time with Maz & Coco with lots of fresh air and exercise. Maz kept us updated with photos of the dogs out walking and having cuddles on the sofa. Jet & Shadow were happy and relaxed when we picked them up, and fell asleep almost as soon as we got home! Thank you for looking after them so well Maz & Coco: we'll definitely book with you again!”

Grenville C.

“Very friendly family! It’s my first time using a board and I was nervous about leaving my dogs! I got updates on how they were (treated like the family) and they were so genuinely caring towards my dogs! Would recommend to anyone! :)”

Rhian T.

“Lalaine was very caring with out pet from the start. She sent us daily updates while we were away (and we obviously loved it)! Thank you again Lalaine for taking care of Veronica :)”

Estela R.

“Izzy was great, flexible on timings and gave us lots of updates and photos. They have plenty of space for dogs to play and clearly a lot of love for animals”

Guy C.

“Absolutely fantastic! Jo was exceptional in her level of care and made Beau Bo's holiday stay a wonderful experience. Beau Bo was cared for, loved and treated as one of the family and she had so much fun and enjoyment playing with Jo's dog, Mario, and daughter, Skye. Communication was exceptional and I was kept informed and updated each day with plenty of messages, photos and videos. Jo is a kind, caring, responsible and reliable person and I would not hesitate to entrust her to look after my dog again. A wonderful experience for both dog and owner! Can not recommend highly enough!”

Catherine K.

“I cannot recommend Stasia highly enough! Whisky had an incredible time during his week-long stay, and it was clear that he was well taken care of. When we picked him up, he was not only healthy and happy but also better behaved than when we left him. Stasia's communication throughout the entire process was excellent, and she was very open with communications throughout his stay, by sharing photos and videos. If you're looking for a trustworthy and caring dog sitter, Stasia is the one. Whisky will definitely be staying with her again in the future!”

James L.