PLANNERS have agreed that vacant premises in Greenock can be used as a dog day care unit.
Inverclyde Council officials approved a change-of-use application for the former Whiteside Memorials base at 1A Orangefield Place.
Up to seven dogs will be looked after by two staff, Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 6pm. A fenced dog run area will be created as part of the proposal.
The council received 17 representations in support of the proposal indicating that such facilities are required in the area. There were no public objections.
A statement included with the planning application by Klyde K9 Friends explained: “Daycare is an alternative to leaving a dog at home when owners have to be away from their pets for an extended period of time. It is also an alternative to the conventional dog walking service.
“It is similar to a nursery/creche environment owners would use to care for their children whilst they are at work. Daycare also allows dogs to develop vital socialisation skills which in turn leads them to being better behaved and less reactive to other dogs outside.
“Our safe, secure outdoor and indoor play areas are an ideal place for dogs to play, rest and get much deserved attention. During each daycare session, we promote interactive play and spend time engaging with and educating owners’ dogs on how to become a better, well-rounded companion.
“Dogs are a part of the family and being entrusted to care for the local community’s pets is something we take very seriously. Each of our staff members will be trained in Canine First Aid and Canine Welfare.”
The document continued: “Daycare and training that we provide may also reduce the numbers of anti-social behaviour calls to the council from concerned neighbours from dogs being left home alone all day.
“We have already potentially fully booked our spaces just from the notes of interests from the dog owners in the local community.”
Any dog that is considered a noise nuisance from excessive barking would not be tolerated.
