Summary

Availability: 24hrs/day, all week unless already booked

References: Yes

Insurance: No

Services Offered

Dog Walking

Dog Sitting

Dog Daycare

About Me/ Company

Hi my name is Pip Croft and I am a fit and healthy 44 year old ex farm worker, postie & florist. My Doggy Retreat is in the heart of the Peak District near Bakewell in the beautiful Derbyshire Dales. I have recently closed my little flower shop and I am now concentrating on spending my time with the real love of my life...animals.
I am available for dog walking and am happy to walk your dog as part of a group or on its own if needs be.
For dog sitting services I am happy to travel anywhere in the country for the right customer as I have no family commitments. I am particularly keen for jobs involving dogs coming to stay with me. The countryside and walks available here in Derbyshire are second to none. Within a minute I can be walking along Bradford Dale and if your dog likes a swim or a paddle it's absolute heaven. I've even been known to have a dip myself!
I live in a small country cottage where dogs are allowed on the settee! I can offer a stay filled with fresh air and lots of one on one love and attention.
If your dog stays with me I have the option of letting my dog go and stay with her grandma (an experience they both love to bits). I can collect/deliver your dog if needed but am equally happy if you would like to visit me.
We now have the Internet out here in the sticks and if you're that way inclined I'm happy to send epostcards and photos of your holidaying pooch to give you piece of mind while you're away.

Previous Experience

For several years I helped run a rare breeds farm here in the Peak District which was open to the public for tours, school visits and workshops. This involved farm sitting when the owners were away and being responsible for the care and well being of the animals and general running of the farm.
I have also worked in a boarding kennels doing the nice jobs (walkies, grooming and cuddles) and the not so nice jobs (cleaning up).
I have house and dog sat for a lovely couple who have since moved away. This involved caring for a Labrador and a very cheeky Jack Russell while looking after a large house and additional holiday cottage.
More recently I have had a Whippet/Bedlington cross come and stay for the odd weekend retreat and week day walks.
I also have a group of 3 dogs who I walk when needed during the week.
And I'd better not forget my own little pooch Molly the Mooch, a Yorkie/long haired Jack Russell cross.

Qualifications & Training

I have BSc Degree in Zoology taken in my 20's which doesn't prove much in terms of my dog walking or sitting abilities but hopefully shows where my loyalties have been over the years.
I have no qualifications in Animal Care but have attended a course learning a wonderful way of working with animals to help them overcome a variety of health and behavioural issues called the T Touch technique. It's a hands on approach working with posture and uses body work to release tension and promote a feeling of calm and well being.

Relevant Info

I am fully insured. We have a very good local vets only 10 minutes away (see Bakewell Veterinary Clinic).

Other Services

I don't have qualifications in dog training but have trained my own and am happy to continue any training you have been doing with your dog.
If I dog sit in your home I am more than happy to take on any domestic/garden/shopping duties to ensure your home is all ready and waiting for your arrival.
I am also prepared to look after any other household pets (rats are a particular favourite!)
I have a love of photography also & am happy to take photos of your pooch to get a fantastic memento of their stay.
If your dog comes to stay with me I have a good friend who deals with animal healing & communication. Her website is www.speakingwithanimals.com & I would be happy to incorporate any sessions you might like for your dog during their stay.