Why I Started Dottie Paws

People often ask how Dottie PAWS began.

The short answer is because of one very clever and lovable, but slightly crazy dog called Dottie.

The longer answer is realising that not all dogs need the same kind of care.

Dottie came into our lives in March 2020 at the beginning of lockdown. Like many of us, at that time, our world was quite different. There were few cars on the road, no visitors to our home, the parks were empty - outside was very quiet.

As life opened back up, it became clear that she experienced things differently. Busy environments overwhelmed her. Group walks didn’t suit her and unpredictability caused stress.

At first, I did what many owners do and tried what was available. I booked group walks and hoped she’d settle. Instead, she told us in her own very clear way that it wasn’t working. On more than one occasion, she simply opted out and walked herself home. It wasn’t mischief and definitely wasn't the fault of the dog walker. Dottie was just trying to communicate with us.

Living with Dottie changed the way I thought about dog care. Supporting her meant working with behaviour specialists, learning to read body language more closely, understanding reactivity, and recognising early signs of overwhelm before they escalated. It often meant choosing quiet routes for our walk, dodging things that might cause upset, and accepting that “normal” looks different for different dogs.

At the same time, I was already living a life which meant I had to understand behaviour. As a parent to two autistic young adult sons, I’ve spent many years learning about emotional regulation, sensory needs, de-escalation and the importance of routine. I learned early on that behaviour is communication, and that meeting someone where they are, is far more effective than trying to make them fit a mould. Those lessons translated naturally into life with Dottie.

Dottie PAWS wasn’t created to replace traditional dog walking - there are many brilliant dog walkers doing an excellent job. It exists to offer something different. A service for dogs who don’t thrive in groups, who suit quieter environments, predictable routines, and sometimes, just more time to process the world around them. And for owners who may went a more individual service or who find that caring for a sensitive or reactive dog can sometimes be emotionally exhausting and want a day off!

The aim of Dottie PAWS is very simple. To offer calm, personalised walks and thoughtful home visits that support dogs’ emotional wellbeing and care shaped around the individual dog.

If your dog needs something a little different - Dottie PAWS might be the right fit for you.