Founder’s ‘dream’ business celebrates ‘really successful year’ as it nears a decade open in Northampton
A founder’s “dream” business is celebrating a “really successful year” as it prepares to reach a decade open in Northampton in 2026.
First launched in July 2016 by Jules Guy, Pamper My Poochie offers holistic dog spa and dental treatments, dog sitting, walking and their popular wedding chaperone service.
The founder has worked with dogs since she was 11 and saw a gap in the market after hearing that many people miss out on weddings to look after dogs – as well as the pooch missing out.
The business has had a great response across the county, as people increasingly want wedding venues to welcome their furry friends.
It was in 2021 when the company’s groomers was launched in Gloucester Avenue, where the spa treatments take place and pet products are available to shop. These have both proved popular.
“It’s been a really successful year,” Jules told the Chronicle & Echo. “We’ve taken on new members of staff – groomer Ashton and spa assistant Lucy. We’re building a really good team and welcoming new clients as our books were closed before.
“I’m always optimistic and ever hopeful. We started the year with a plan in place to expand the business as we were at full capacity, and we spent a long time searching for the right people.”
Though things are going from strength to strength for Pamper My Poochie, Jules explained that outgoings are ever-increasing – and her business faces a setback if they want to expand to a bigger premises.
Dog grooming businesses fall into the ‘Sui Generis’ category, which means that if Pamper My Poochie wanted to move from Gloucester Avenue to a new location, the business would have to seek planning permission.
Jules has been campaigning against the “archaic system” and believes dog grooming businesses should fall into the Class E category instead. She sought the support of Northampton South MP Mike Reader on this matter and he paid Pamper My Poochie a visit on Small Business Saturday.
When asked what feedback she has recently received from her loyal community of customers, Jules said: “They like that we’re now offering a loyalty scheme. After five grooms, they get £10 off.
“We are now a one stop shop and offer a richer tapestry of products. They are still so happy to trust us and wouldn’t go anywhere else. They like that we don’t have crates and cages, and their dogs leave happy and relaxed.”
Jules’ proudest achievement of 2025 is welcoming two new members to the Pamper My Poochie team, which she described as a “solid foundation for growth” moving forward as everyone is a team player.
“We want to keep growing, developing and welcoming new clients,” said Jules. “The only way is up.
“Thank you to all the clients who trust us with their dogs and leave positive reviews. We really appreciate the feedback and we rank very high on Google because of that. People now travel further afield to visit us.”
Social dog walks are popular among the Pamper My Poochie community, and the next one is the Christmas jumper walk at Upton Country Park from 10.30am on December 21. Dogs and their owners are invited to wear Christmas jumpers.