Nikki and Craig Bowden were inspired to launch their own business following the death of their beloved pet dog.

Five years later the couple, a college lecturer and a former engineer, are running Home2Home4Dogs Ltd from their home in Meir Hay, Stoke-on-Trent

They offer home boarding for up to six dogs at any one time and have recently expanded to offer extra places for more nervous dogs at Craig’s mum’s home.

Within the last 12 months they have entered into contracts with a local dog grooming business and a dog wedding chaperone business, to offer both of those services to their customers.

They have also invested in doggie shower facilities for post-walk pampering and underfloor heating to keep their house guests warm and comfortable.

“What was once a little idea after losing our own dog Max has now turned into a wonderful family business with regular day care and repeat customers to support people who don’t want to use kennels or need support in getting the best out of their pup,” said Nikki.

The couple, whose three children also help with the business, regularly take their canine house guests on trips to the seaside, woodland walks and even camping.

They are licenced with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and can offer long stays, short stays and day care.

Nikki added: “When we started the business we were looking after a couple of dogs per week to try to fill the void left by Max. Then in November last year we were in a position for Craig to leave his job to work in the business full-time.”

The couple’s next ambition for their business is to buy a ‘freedom field’ for the dogs to use.

Home2Home4Dogs Ltd has entered the Small Business of the Year category of the Staffordshire University Business Awards.