Dog lover launches pet business inspired by beloved pup

A woman from Sunderland has transformed her lifelong passion for dogs into a thriving business with the launch of Maddie and Me, a pet services company based in Ryhope.

Established in January with support from the North East BIC, Julie Haines launched Maddie and Me to offer dog home boarding, a specialised wedding chaperone service, and various forms of dog walking, including individual walks, group walks and in-home visits.

Julie's inspiration for the business came after the loss of her beloved dog Maddie, after whom the company is named.

"I've loved dogs all my life. I had my own dog, and she sadly passed away in January, so I named the business after her," Julie said.

After 28 years working at EDF Energy, Julie took the opportunity to pursue her long-held dream of starting a dog services business and reached out to the BIC in summer 2023 to gain the knowledge and skills required to set up a business.

Having first attended a number of its free start-up workshops in 2019, then again in 2023 when she was finally ready to set up, Julie was able to gain knowledge in essential areas such as bookkeeping and business planning.

"The workshops have been incredibly beneficial, and Hina [Joshi] has provided exceptional support throughout my journey," she said. "From our one-on-one sessions to her guidance on essential information and securing a grant, her assistance has been invaluable."

The grant funding helped Julie to purchase crates for her car, enabling her to transport small groups of dogs safely. "The crates are excellent but expensive, so the BIC's help with the grant application made a big difference." she added.

Since launching the business part time in January and transitioning to full-time in May, Julie has continued to invest in her development by undergoing additional training, including a canine care and welfare course. She attributed much of her motivation to her own experience with her late rescue dog Maddie, which sparked her deep interest in canine care.

Looking ahead, Julie aims to expand her dog boarding service and wedding chaperone offering to include honeymoon boarding, ensuring couples can enjoy their special day without worrying about their furry family members.

She said: "I would absolutely return to the BIC for help. Their sessions for tax return guidance are incredibly helpful, and I know I'll rely on them again.

"I've already recommended the BIC to a few people who are wanting to start their own business, they really help you with everything you need to set up."

The start-up support from the BIC forms part of the Enterprising Sunderland project which has received £1,271,885 from the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund Programme, managed in Sunderland by Sunderland City Council on behalf of the Sunderland Partnership.

Hina Joshi, Business Adviser at the BIC, said: "It was a pleasure helping Julie on her journey into self-employment. Her passion for dogs and providing the best service truly set her apart. We are so excited to see Maddie and Me continue to grow."

Councillor Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for regeneration, housing and business at Sunderland City Council, said: "Sunderland is a brilliant place to start and grow a business, with a plethora of support available and a collaborative network of organisations that ensure every start-up has the best chance of success.

"It's brilliant that the BIC has made such a positive contribution to Julie's plans for Maddie and Me and we wish her every success as she establishes and grows her company."

Julie is now welcoming more clients for home dog boarding and her unique wedding chaperone service.

To find out more about Maddie and Me, visit her Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551116983801