“I love dogs of all shapes and sizes – from yappy ones to howlers!”

She knew she couldn’t replace them but needed to fill the void they’d left in her life.

In the aftermath of grief came Happy Paws – a perfect pet business that was born out of Amy’s personal loss and it’s just been named Mid Cheshire’s Best for Pets 2024.

Bobby and Pippa, who are sadly missed

In April, we launched our Best of 2024 competition and we’ve given out 13 awards.

• Best for Hair - Fox Hairdressing
• Best for Pies - JD's Café
• Best for Nails - Blue Beauty Cheshire
• Best for Roast Dinner - The Bowling Green
• Best for Cocktails - The Grape and Bean
• Best for Breakfast - Zaza Café
• Best for Fish and Chips - The Corner Fish and Chip Shop
• Best Beer Garden - The Carriers Inn
• Best for Fitness – Lucas Debek
• Best for Tattoos – Face Base
• Best Independent Shop or Business – Pulse of Perfumery
• Best for Dessert – Layers Treats
• Best for Kids – Popcat’s Music Time Northwich

Voting for Mid Cheshire’s Best for Beauty is currently taking place and we’re also looking for nominations in our latest search - Best for Pizza.

Vote for Mid Cheshire’s Best for Beauty 2024

Nominate your favourite for Mid Cheshire’s Best for Pizza 2024

Ten perfect places for pets in Mid Cheshire made the shortlist for the latest Best of 2024 award and Happy Paws has taken this year’s coveted crown.

Amy and Max

Amy Ashbrook started Happy Paws in Northwich less than 12 months ago in September last year.

The 42-year-old has worked in childcare and retail but it was when she lost her own beloved fur babies Bobby and Pippa that she decided to open a pet care business.

Amy said: “When I lost Bobby and Pippa it was absolutely devastating.

“I knew then that I couldn’t have another dog myself but I needed the rush of love and the wagging of the tails.

“So, through heartache grew Happy Paws.

“It’s dog boarding business that offers a relaxed home from home environment.

“We don’t stick to set times and we engage in many sensory experiences with lots of cuddles on the sofa.

“I treat every dog as if they were my own.”

Woody

What do customers and clients of Happy Paws think of the business? Why did they want Amy to win our latest Best of 2024 award?

One happy pet owner said: “Having never been able to have a break for three years due to our extremely anxious dog being unable to be left in kennels, Amy reached out to us and offered to help.

“Our dog loves Amy – she has such a natural way with dogs – and we only have to say Amy’s name and our dog starts wagging her tail!

“Highly recommended.”

Amy said: “My clients often say that they wished they’d found me sooner, which is a huge compliment.

“I’m relaxed and happy to adapt to any needs of each dog in my care

“This is my passion – I love what I do and it shows when the dogs are with me and they go home happy.”

She added: “I just love dogs of all shapes and sizes, young and old, in need of a little support or leading the pack, the yappy little ones to the howlers.

“Each and every one makes my day brighter and makes me smile.”

When Amy heard that she’d made the top ten in Mid Cheshire’s Best for Pets 2024 she was happy to have made the shortlist and didn’t expect to win.

Nova

Amy said: “I loved reading all the comments from my clients – they were truly amazing.

“I honestly couldn’t believe it when I won.

“I’ve not been open a year yet!

“I’m so proud of myself.”

She added: “I would like to thank all my Happy Paws family past and present for supporting me since the beginning – I wouldn’t be here without you guys.

“My daughters and my mum and dad have been the biggest help and support.

“They love coming over to meet the furry friends!

“Lastly, thank you to everyone who has taken the time to vote for me - it really does mean a lot.”

Amy and Bella