A Rotherham-based dog training and walking service is set for further expansion following a ‘Kickstart’ grant from UKSE.
Nutty Mutts was founded by Gemma Mason in October last year, offering dog training and a walking service. The former account manager, who was made redundant from her job during the pandemic, launched the business after rescuing her own dog, Jax. Gemma went on to complete a Diploma in Dog Training and secured the UKSE grant, which she invested in training gear, dog trackers, a dog car crate and branded clothing.
Having established a regular client base with Monday-Friday walking services and one-to-one training sessions, Gemma is now planning to take on additional staff and acquire premises to host sessions as more people return to offices and workplaces following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.
Gemma said: “It feels great to start a business that I am truly passionate about, and I am absolutely delighted to have turned a difficult redundancy situation into a positive.
“Dog training is something I was always doing on the side as a bit of a hobby for friends and family, but with the surge in pet ownership during the pandemic, and the subsequent easing of restrictions which meant that many people returned to office working, it seemed like the right time to make things official.
“The grant from UKSE meant I was able to get all of the equipment I needed to get this business off the ground and running, and with such demand for my services already I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Nutty Mutts.”
UKSE invests in start-ups and SMEs in steel towns across the UK, to help businesses expand and create job opportunities. The company also provides loan and equity finance of up to £1m to existing companies that are growing and creating job.
Steve Lyon, regional executive at UKSE, said: “Nutty Mutts is a fantastic example of someone turning a hobby into a business and reaping the benefits of doing so. Gemma has already secured a strong client base, and it’s great to see she is already planning for further growth with a view to creating job opportunities in the local area.
“We wish her the best of luck moving forward.”
