Harry’s was born out of the love we both share for dogs. Growing up, we each had our own beloved pets, and when we first met, having a dog of our own simply wasn’t an option—especially in our small flat on Deal beach. Early in our relationship, we decided to get fitter and shed a few pounds (both being a little on the chunky side!), so we began offering dog walking and pet-sitting services under the name ‘Pets & Pads’. I’d been doing this for years, helping out friends while they were away—occasionally sneaking the odd Labrador or spaniel into my flat—but never in this way. Little did we know that this small venture would lead us to a life on the road, living out of suitcases, moving from mansions to maisonettes—looking after people’s beloved dogs and homes for a couple of years. After lockdown and the rise in dog ownership, Ryan was  volunteering at the Dogs Trust. We were shocked by the number of dogs abandoned simply because their owners had returned to work. So, we decided to take our small venture to the next level. Over the past few years, we’ve lovingly cared for over 300 dogs and house-sat in countless homes across Kent.
It soon became clear that we needed a proper home base for our furry guests. So, we took a leap of faith and bought a small house at auction!

After months of hard work and renovations, we transformed our space into a dog-friendly haven, complete with wooden floors, safety gates, and a secure, enclosed garden—all just a short stroll from some of Kent’s most beautiful dog-friendly parks and gardens. In memory of a beloved Labrador we cared for—one of the oldest Labs we’d ever known at 14 years old, and a real character who sadly never got to stay with us—we felt compelled to rebrand our business. To honour his spirit, we named our venture Harry’s Home Boarding.

Since then, we’ve obtained our licence, completing over 40 hours of exams and extensive preparation to ensure we meet the highest standards of care for every dog who joins us.

At Harry’s, we’ve created a cosy, home-from-home environment—no cages or kennels here. Dogs are free to wander wherever they please,  even snuggling up on the bed if they fancy. We’re licensed for four dogs at a time, so each one gets the love and attention they deserve without feeling overwhelmed.

Recently, Ryan completed his training as a dog groomer, and we’re proud to share that we’ve built a dedicated dog grooming cabin in our garden—just one more way we’re committed to providing the very best care for every dog who comes our way. B&R 🐾