Pug Snug day care and boarding centre, in Great Barton, near Bury St Edmunds, scoops top national award

The delighted owner of a pug day care and boarding centre has scooped a top national award.

The Pug Snug, based in Great Barton, near Bury St Edmunds, was crowned the UK's best boarding business at the Pet Industry Federation Awards.

It was an emotional moment for the business owner, Heather Scott, who started the businesses in March 2022, to help her grieve after her mother’s death.

“I didn’t really think I had a chance,” said Heather.

“When they called out the winner, my mouth dropped open and I was completely overwhelmed.

“On the way to the stage, I just burst into tears and I wanted to tell my mum and dad.”

Heather launched the Pug Snug after her mother, Jeni, died three years ago from breast cancer.

After losing her dad a few years earlier, Heather had moved in with her mum to look after her.

“After mum died, I felt a bit lost. I decided to channel my grief into the business.

“I have always loved pugs and I have owned them for around 14 years. I have had three rescues with serious health issues, so also learned a lot about them and the care they need.

“A friend suggested I set up the boarding centre and I decided to give it a go. Quite a few people thought I was mad because it pugs are a bit niche, but it took off straight away.”

The Pug Snug now has more than 100 pugs on its books from all over the country, including London and the Midlands.

It offers day care and long term stays with a range of facilities including a day room, play sofas, a third of an acre to play in, paddling pools, beds, and even a small dog-sized electric car to ride around on.

Heather even allows pug visitors to sleep on her bed if that is what they do with their owner.

“Pugs are very person-centred and it’s reassurance for their owner,” she said.

Heather and the business has now won a string of awards, including the AI International Businesswoman Awards for Specialist Pet Daycare Business Leader Of The Year 2024, East of England - and was the the winner of the SME UK Enterprise Awards Best Specialist Doggy Daycare and Boarding Business 2023 for East Anglia.

Heather said: “I've worked very hard to build my business over the past two and a half years and it’s absolutely flown.

“Being a specialist in the pug world, my name has spread, and I am honoured to serve my furry and human clients.

“My mum and dad would be as proud as punch.”