A dog grooming business in Borehamwood has applied for retrospective permission to turn a home into a dog boarding facility.
The Hound and the Cat—which already has a business licence from Hertsmere Borough Council—has been operating from 14 Lombardy Way in Borehamwood for the last eight years.
An application submitted on behalf of the business said they had “unknowingly” been running a “limited but successful canine care and dog care business from their home for up to nine dogs”.
The business offers day care and boarding for dogs, as well as grooming for dogs and cats.
They have not previously received approval to turn the semi-detached home into a business.
The application said: “The house operates as a house, and the dogs integrate within the household.
“The only specific area that relates to the care of dogs is the garage, which has been turned into a dog grooming salon.”
Under the business’s licence, up to nine dogs can be cared for at any one time, but the application said there are usually six or seven dogs at the property.
The business usually operates between 8am and 6pm, with “occasional” grooming appointments on Saturdays.
The application added: “The dogs are usually dropped off on foot by their owners, while some are dropped off via car. This is generally very quick and at the beginning and end of the working day.
“Dog boarding is strictly reviewed by the applicant to ensure that the dogs are well socialised and cared for, with owners required to visit and ensure that the applicant’s house is suitable for their requirements and to assess the dog who will be staying.
“The facility seeks to ensure that dogs are well socialised, exercised and cared for (…) the key being to provide the best care possible in a residential family setting.
“The possible increase in noise resulting from barking dogs is considered highly unlikely to be excessive or any more detrimental than would result from a domestic dog owner, due to the stringent practices the appellant takes in ensuring that dogs are of the right temperament for them and their family.”
They insisted that “as the use has been ongoing for some considerable time, it would appear that these uses are compatible and that they are not of detriment to the area”.
A decision will be made by Hertsmere Borough Council on whether to approve the retrospective application.
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