A dedicated dog meadow has opened on the Shotley peninsula and has already been given a bark of approval.

Pear Tree Paws is four acres of open space, enclosed with deer fencing, especially to allow owners to let their furry four-legged friends run wild off their leads in a secure paddock.

Based in a large field between Pear Tree farm building and the bus stop at the top of Wades Lane, the dog meadow is the brainwave of Richard and Martine Carless who are already taking bookings.

Richard said: "Our first customers was a rescue dog that is not comfortable around other dogs so for him to be let off his leash and run wild without the owner worrying about coming into contact with other animals was ideal.

"We can see this working for some many people that want to exercise their dogs safely and judging by how excited the dogs are when they are let loose we can see this doing well."

The paddock has a wooden shelter, there is water tight, large enough for the pets to splash about in or just drink.

There are plans to add benches for the dog-tired owners to rest and recuperate or enjoy a cuppa with pals (bring your own flask for now) .

"It is all very new to us as well," said Richard.

"We are looking forward to seeing a wide variety of people and there dogs using this.

"We will listen to their feedback to see how we can make improvements if needed."

Pear Tree Paws has already attracted interest from across the peninsula with owners from Tattingstone, Stutton and Shotley making enquiries and calls have been made from as far afield as Woodbridge.

One enquiry is from a club that has 20 Sausage Dogs that will all fit in easily and the netting is small enough to ensure no escapees.

It is envisaged people will book their dogs in for training purposes or just exercise and can make it a sociable event if the dogs are already known to each other and can play safely.

It is also hoped more dog owners will stop letting their pets ff their leads while walking in the countryside and along the river banks causing disturbance to birdlife.

Incidents of sheep worrying is also a concern with farmers entitled to shoot dogs off their leads and not under control, a dog paddock is a secure and safe alternative.

The paddock is open to the public from 5am to 9pm to cater for early risers and late finishers and can be booked via the Pear Tree Paws website here...

A 55 minute session costs £10 for up to three dogs, and £14 for between four and six dogs.

Users are given a code to gain access to the large car park and the separate dog meadow.

Call for details of more dogs: 07818 425788

Or email: [email protected]

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