Experienced, Insured, & Forever Passionate.

Dog walker, sitter & pet carer

  • Started in 2014.

  • Keswick-based dog walking & pet sitting business.

The small and vivacious town of Keswick is perhaps one of the most dog-friendly places in all of Europe! It has been voted the UK's most 'dog-friendly town' by the Kennel Club three years in a row!

Having lived in Keswick for over twenty one years I have seen the numbers of dogs here in the Lake District increase hugely.

Five years ago, my husband worked away and I was employed as an assistant teacher in my daughters' primary school. I would talk to parents who were going away for the weekend and was always very surprised when they told me that their dog or cat was just going to be checked on by a neighbour or toileted by a friend on the garden whilst they were off with the children.

I always took (and take) my dog to the kennels if we are away longer than one night, or I have my sister stay in my house for the weekend so that my pets are in complete care.

These conversations with parents and holidaymakers became more and more regular and I eventually decided that I had the tools to make some sort of an impact. My love for dogs was always great as a child, and having carried that passion alongside me throughout my adult life I knew that I was going to be able to make a real difference for these dogs and of course, their owners.

I am now a full time dog walker and have my own business - Active Dogs. As a fell runner, I often take the dogs out on runs over the gorgeous Cumbrian fells! For a dog, there's nothing better than feeling the wind through your fur and dirt beneath your paws!

I work individually so that I can always be 100% certain that the pets put under my care are safe and happy.

Active Dogs has always been a small family business with the sole purpose to provide and care for your very special pets.

All my life, I have adored animals.

As a toddler living in south Yorkshire, I grew up with giant shepherds and a quick little whippet. My family were very welcoming toward stray animals and we often had street cats wandering around the garden and sleeping on the sofa.

I grew up alongside German Shepherds - Sheeba and Ska. We also had a collie named Kurt. My grandmother's dog was a little whippet named Prince; who eventually came to live with us.

I grew up wanting to be a vet or start up a rescue centre. When I was 12, I started volunteering at an Animal Shelter nearby my house.

Afterwards, I carried on with my volunteering but this time with RSPCA . All my work in kennels and rescues was very eye-opening and much of the time, upsetting. I made many bonds with animals who had lost their owner or had been disgracefully abused. A young adult, being around so many sweet personalities left alone in the world made me angry and depressed.

One particular dog named Jasper had warmed my heart so much, that I just couldn't imagine letting him go. I managed to convince my mum to take him home. We all loved him dearly.

In my thirties, me and my husband adopted a stunning German Shepherd named Axel. Our eldest daughter - only six months old at the time - grew up alongside him and the two formed a bond which made me see even more just how soulful and loving dogs really are.

Currently, we have one beautiful Shepherd named Storm, and a rescue cat - Whisker Priscilla. Both our girls are a part of the family, just like I'm sure your pets are to you!

I plan to keep Active Dogs running for many many years, so that the parents of any animal - be it dog, cat - or any other for that matter! -can always feel confident in the care and attention that is being given.

Catchment: Typically, I take on dogs who are based, or staying in, Keswick town & the surrounding areas.

Out on walks, or whilst pet sitting, I will always be sure to keep you updated and send regular photos if you would appreciate it.

Pricing: I will offer the price upon requirement via telephone, email, or direct messaging.

I offer flexible prices for walks during the day; all of which depend on the duration of the walk and number of dogs on it.

Overnight house sits are also available over small and large time periods.

I do not just care for dogs - I am also often called out for cat sits and daily check-ins on smaller pets.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if curious regarding prices.

All of my customers here at Active Dogs are always so friendly and enthusiastic about their pets. It's so lovely to see that there are people out there who really care about their animals and the responsibility that comes with looking after them. Below you can see some of my reviews that come in via Facebook from some really lovely pets and their owners!

'I would absolutely recommend Andrea and Active Dogs. Bella loves her many walks and the river. I will be back same time next year and definitely asking Andrea to look after Bella again. Andrea did an amazing job and went above and beyond. She is a lovely lady and I could clearly see she loves dogs, she took great care of Bella even though it was a late booking for an entire day. Andrea went above and beyond what i expected and i would 100% recommend Andrea for anyone that needs a dog sitter, her prices are excellent too.' - Collette + Mark + Bella.

'My dog loves Andrea and she had a fantastic time walking in the Lake District with Active Dogs. She also gets to play with other friendly dogs. Really flexible and caring service - highly recommend!' - Claire & Holly.

'Andrea and Jessie have looked after Loki while I was away for the weekend, as well as walking him once a week. He absolutely loves them, and is always super happy when he goes off on his adventures with Jessie! Highly recommend them to take care of your dog!' - Jeff & Loki.

'Andrea looked after mine and my sister's dog on my wedding day. We were looking for someone who was happy to take the hounds from place to place for photos. Andrea was more than happy to do this, meeting us outside Cockermouth Town Hall and waiting until after the service for photos before taking them on the adventure of their lives. I still don't know where they went (Arnie is keeping tight lipped over it), but they were returned exhausted. All through the day we were kept updated as to how they were, with photos sent to us too. I definitely will be using her again, and so will my sister. Richard xx' - Richard & Arnie.

'Andrea looked after our dog while we were out all day doing the Fred Whitton cycling event. She is clearly great with dogs (Colt took to her immediately) and she is also very personable.She ensured Colt was well exercised and catered for all day, and we were given regular updates. Felt like it was a 'home to home' service. Would definitely recommend and would certaintly use Active Dogs again. Thanks Andrea!' - Alison & Colt.

'Andrea looked after my scatty whippet puppy for a half day to let me take part in the Keswick half marathon. She was absolutely wonderful, giving up her Sunday to look after Brock, first of all taking him for a walk in the forest before bringing him into the town to meet me at the finish. Great to know there is someone we can trust for holiday visits to the Lake District!' - Jennifer & Brock.

'We left our dog with Active dogs for the day while we went to the city. She had a great time, a long walk in the fresh air and was well fed and watered by this experienced dog handler. Would recommend to others and would definitely leave our dog in Active Dogs care again' - Lindsey & Olly.

'Our dog has never been happier. Comes home well exercised, socialised, and happy as can be. Feel much better about going out to work now knowing he is well cared for' - Lorraine & Buster.

'Jazz loves going out with Andrea. Being a trail hound means she likes a lot of running around on the fells, and always gets a great day out with Active Dogs'- Tom & Jazz.

'Thanks Andrea for looking after Souzy, I can see she has enjoyed herself, it was very reassuring that you kept us updated. Certainly stopped us worrying. Thanks again!' - Mary & Souzy.

You can contact me through facebook and direct messages.

If you wish, I am available over telephone too. I will usually arrange to meet up with you and your pet before the organised care as I feel it is only right that the animal can become familiar with me and you can meet me as a potential carer for them. Upon booking, please be sure to inform me of any health issues or requirements your pet may have before the care takes place. Also be reminded that young puppies and older or largely unfit dogs will not be taken out on the steep fell runs as this is unacceptable and significantly damaging for their health; the route and distance of the walk would be altered individually. Thank you.

Tel: 07776 155205

Click on icon above to open my Facebook page ^