The person at the other end of the lead

Hi, I'm Soph — also known as the running dog lady.

I live in Minety with my partner Richard, our four dogs and an unusually patient cat.

My story

Animals, all my life.

I have lived and worked with animals of all shapes and sizes my entire life. It has always been my dream to set up my own business. So in 2022 I took a course in dog grooming and later started my business.

My happy place is being outside come rain or shine, and even better with a wet dog or two. I'm an avid runner and I'm always looking for new running partners (4-legs only please).

Happy animals are my passion — from walking and boarding to grooming and cuddles, your pet will be loved and well looked after, as if they were my own. Whether it's a one-off stay or a regular walk, the same care and attention will be given to every animal. I pride myself on the care I give to your pet, your peace of mind and my reputation.

— Soph x

Come and say hello
Soph — the running dog lady — Minety, Wiltshire
Hi! I'm Soph
A vizsla amongst autumn leaves on a woodland walk
Autumn vizsla
A black spaniel standing on a wooden bridge
Bridge stop

Credentials & insurance

The boring-but-important bits.

Everything you'd hope a dog carer would have — and several things you'd be surprised they don't.

Wiltshire Council Licence

Animal boarding licence LN/000021710. Annual inspection, full risk assessments on file.

DBS cleared

Enhanced DBS check on file (renewed annually). Happy to share the certificate on request.

Fully insured

Public liability, care-custody-control, key-cover and theft-from-vehicle. Petplan Sanctuary cover.

Canine First Aid

Pet First Aid & CPR certified. Vehicle has a full pet first-aid kit, blankets and water.

What you can expect

Every booking, every time.

  • A meet-and-greet before the first booking — at your home, no charge, no pressure
  • A written profile of your dog (foods, fears, vet, routine) on file
  • GPS-tracked walks with a photo at the end
  • Daily photo + check-in for boarding stays
  • Plain-English invoices, bank-transfer payment, no card fees
  • An honest "no" if Soph doesn't think it's the right fit — better for everyone

Come and say hello

Best way to know if Soph's right for your dog?

Book a free meet-and-greet. Half an hour, your kitchen, a cup of tea.

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