An established Halsall-based kennel and cattery is set for expansion after being acquired by new owners, thanks to a six-figure funding package from Lloyds Bank.

Carr Moss Kennels & Cattery opened more than 40 years ago and offers overnight accommodation and care for cats and dogs for short and long-term stays.

When the previous owner retired, the business was put up for sale leading Peter and Andrea Rouch to make an offer. Combining a love of animals and more than two decades of experience running their own IT consultancy, the business approached Lloyds Bank, securing a six-figure funding package.

The support allowed the couple to purchase the company which included 35 dog kennels, eight cat pens, an office, and a house where they now live. There is also 1/3 acre of unused land on site that the firm plans to develop over the next two years to extend the kennels and build a second outdoor run for dogs.

The business also hopes to hire an additional part-time member of staff next year once travel restrictions have fully eased and demand rises.

Peter Rouch, joint owner of Carr Moss Kennels & Cattery, said:

“Taking over a business that’s already well-known in the North West can be daunting, but when we saw it was for sale, my wife and I jumped at the opportunity.

“Thanks to the support from Lloyds Bank, we’ve managed to keep the IT consultancy going and buy the new business. It’s been a big change from our usual day-to-day work but we’re off to a great start. During lockdown, many people got pets of their own, and now that travel restrictions are lifting, we’re seeing a big increase in demand for our services.

“As dog owners ourselves, we never left our pets anywhere we didn’t fully trust and hope our customers continue to choose our services for years to come.”

Craig Chernouski, specialist business centre manager at Lloyds Bank, said:

“Carr Moss Kennels & Cattery is a prime example of a business transferring its skills from one sector to another to capitalise on new growth opportunities.

“Peter and Andrea have put their heart and soul into what is already a successful business, and we look forward to seeing what the future brings for the business.

“We’re so pleased to be supporting the ambitions of businesses like this and will continue to help firms across the UK reach their full growth potential.”