Unlicensed dog boarding in Worcester putting pets in danger

Lindsay Johnson became a qualified dog boarder and sighthound boarder in May 2022 and runs a business called The Hound Lounge Pet Services based in Trostshill Lane East in Worcester.

But she said there has been a spate of people trying to become dog boarders without a license which could put pets in danger.

Mrs Johnson said: "I do boarding and I got my licence.

Lindsay Johnson runs The Hound Lounge Pet Services in Worcester (Image: The Hound Lounge Pet Services)

"In order to get your licence, you have to prove your ability to look after the dogs and make sure they are safe.

"This isn't sour grapes, I am currently fully booked up until 2025. 

"It is not because they are taking my business, it is purely because I care about what I do.

"And it's about taking care of the dogs and doing it properly."

However, Mrs Johnson said she fears pet owners do not realise the importance of licensed dog boarders and may instead opt for cheaper options.

Mrs Johnson charges her clients £45 per dog for 24 hours but she said unlicensed dog borders can offer services for as little as £20.

"I don't think the public knows what it means to be unlicensed," she added.

"I don't think they realise how much work is involved.

"I have to outline to the council what I will be doing with each dog.

 "The fun parts of this job are the grooming and the walking.

"But my process also involves looking for injuries, swelling and anything else.

"I only take one dog on at a time and I use proper chemicals to clean between them to avoid cross-contamination."

Mrs Johnson said license holders are held to very high standards and there are certain rules people have to follow to ensure the safety of the dogs.

She said licensed boarders cannot have children in the house with dogs and must have a six feet fence in their garden.

"Since Covid-19 there has been a really high market for dog boarding.

"But people running unlicensed businesses has been an ongoing issue for years.

"But if you don't have a licence, you don't have any start-up costs."

According to the Good Kennel Guide, people can check whether an animal boarding service has a valid licence by emailing wrsenquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk.