A NEW 'one of a kind' bespoke dog day care centre has opened its doors offering pooches a premium pampering. 

Mabel & Friends, just off the A12 at Hatfield Peverel, is serving up a retreat for dogs where all their needs will be catered for. 

Following a poor experience with a day care for her own dogs, Annette Hurst, 58, decided to leave her corporate career and open Mabel & Friends.

“Instead of retiring I decided to pursue my initial thoughts about opening a premium day care like no other,” Annette said.

“We built the retreat with the aim of offering the best possible dog day care services to local residents.

“Our number one priority at Mabel & Friends is to provide an environment that’s comfortable, safe and stimulating.”

Run by a number of experienced and qualified staff, the retreat recently achieved a Higher Standards licence to trade and provides a range of facilities including play areas, resting zones, and outdoor space.

The centre offers a number of services, including grooming, personalised training sessions and allergy testing as well as bespoke canine nutritional consultations, and veterinary nurse visits.

The Mable & Friends TeamThe Mable & Friends Team (Image: Mable & Friends)

The Mabel & Friends day retreat caters for puppies as well as older dogs, and features puppy-only lounges with a separate outdoor play area – designed to make the pups feel safe.

“Seeing so many waggling tails and dogs having so much fun at Mabel & Friends – it’s a joy to see and makes my day,” Annette said.

“There’s nothing quite like watching a dog transform from a little anxious pup on their first day to running in excitedly, tail wagging, every time they visit.

“Knowing that we’re contributing to their happiness and overall wellbeing.

“I also love being able to provide that peace of mind for dog owners, knowing their four-legged friends are not only safe, but thriving.”

The centre offers a range of transportation options, including pick-up and drop-off services to and from Witham and Beaulieu Park train station.

Staff strive to offer a high standard experience, and ensure no dog goes home from the centre dirty regardless of the weather.

“Thanks to our achievement of receiving a Higher Standards licence to trade, my hope is that this centre will become a trusted haven for dogs and their owners,” Annette said.

Excited - Annette Hurst and Meg Brett from Mabel and Friends DayExcited - Annette Hurst and Meg Brett from Mabel and Friends Day (Image: Public)

“We want to ensure every dog receives the highest level of care, attention and enrichment they deserve.

“We aim to foster a sense of community among dog lovers in and around Essex.

“Since our launch, we have already hosted our first Doodle Day, which was a huge success, and we will continue to offer more events.

“Our ultimate goal is to enhance the well-being of every dog that comes through our doors and to build a home-away-from-home where dogs enjoy a fulfilling and happy experience.

“Who doesn’t look forward to coming to work and starting the day with puppy cuddles? I can't wait to see where this exciting adventure takes us.”

For information and enquiries, visit mabelandfriendsdayretreat.co.uk