Doggie Adventure Park idea.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 7:09am #1

Hi all.
Would just like to put out the feelers of what people would think of opening a Doggie Adventure Park ( agility equipment, open runs, sand pits, sensory gardens, tunnels etc)
close to the city...Dublin 15 to be exact not too far from Hollystown/Tyrellstown. There is one in Wicklow/Enniskerry that seems to have great reviews. I cant seem to see one closer to the ìcity which amazes me.

I have noticed a few public ones in the parks in Blanchardstown but they are pretty dismal to say the least. They are always busy.

I would maybe consider a horsebox conversion on the site too to sell coffee/snacks.
The idea would be to have time slots people could book in ( say for an hour) private use of the park to play with/train their dog(s). The cost would be €15 -€30 per hour depending on the number of dogs they had.

I see a compnay in england makes really good quality agility equipment out of recycled plastic so would be totally maintenance free(its expensive) and v high quality. I like the idea of having an ECO friendly park.

Other points:
1. I have a big stone cut farmhouse (which is attractive for people, old world charm etc) with plenty of parking and 5 acres flat field to front that i fully own-no mortgage
2. I have about 40k to invest
3. I am a qualified accountant so can do all the business side myself.
4. I worked in the cafe trade many moons ago so know a bit about coffee.
5. The location of the site is walkable to from hollystown but people would need to drive from say blanchardstown(10 mins away)
6.i understand insurance will be v important and likely my biggest cost. Also to get proper planning permission. I also understand the need for proper secured perimeter of the park, no expense will be spared on health and safety and good quality equipment.
6. I undertstand it will be mostly seasonal and weather could affect business. My business plan would take this into consideration. I would be happy to close for say January and February anyway.

I suppose i would just like feelers put out to see if people would use such a park for their furry friends. Is it a good idea?I love dogs, they are my passion and I have always wanted to have my own business where they are involved.

buttercups88 · 07-05-2021 7:12am

brenno1 wrote: »

Hi all.
Would just like to put out the feelers of what people would think of opening a Doggie Adventure Park ( agility equipment, open runs, sand pits, sensory gardens, tunnels etc)
close to the city...Dublin 15 to be exact not too far from Hollystown/Tyrellstown. There is one in Wicklow/Enniskerry that seems to have great reviews. I cant seem to see one closer to the ìcity which amazes me.

I have noticed a few public ones in the parks in Blanchardstown but they are pretty dismal to say the least. They are always busy.

I would maybe consider a horsebox conversion on the site too to sell coffee/snacks.
The idea would be to have time slots people could book in ( say for an hour) private use of the park to play with/train their dog(s). The cost would be €15 -€30 per hour depending on the number of dogs they had.

I see a compnay in england makes really good quality agility equipment out of recycled plastic so would be totally maintenance free(its expensive) and v high quality.

Other points:
1. I have a big stone cut farmhouse (which is attractive for people, old world charm) with plenty of parking and 5 acres flat field to front that i fully own-no mortgage
2. I have about 40k to invest
3. I am a qualified accountant so can do all the business side myself.
4. I worked in the cafe trade many moons ago so know a bit about coffee.
5. The location of the site is walkable to from hollystown but people would need to drive from say blanchardstown(10 mins away)
6.i understand insurance will be v important and likely my biggest cost. Also to get proper planning permission. I also understand the need for proper secured perimeter of the park, no expense will be spared on health and safety and good quality equipment.
6. I undertstand it will be mostly seasonal and weather could affect business. My business plan would take this into consideration. I would be happy to close for say January and February anyway.

I suppose i would just like feelers put out to see if people would use such a park for their furry friends. Is it a good idea?I love dogs, they are my passion and I have always wanted to have my own business where they are involved.

I definitely would use. But I think u need to post on the pet forum. I only saw by chance

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 7:13am

buttercups88 wrote: »

I definitely would use. But I think u need to post on the pet forum. I only saw by chance

Hi there thanks so.much for reply and advise re: Pet Forum!! Have a great day

Kaybaykwah · 07-05-2021 7:37am

UYou would likely have good attendance.
If you had a way of coupling your idea with kindergarten sessions for dogs with trainers to help with positive reinforcement. You could have series of.meetings to have dogs socialize and play w each other for awhile, and then by themselves in the park.

We just got a dog 6 weeks ago and I would definitely like to let it run freely more often. There is an old abandoned golf near us that would be perfect except we are afraid of our dog getting hit by ticks.

You seem to have thought about this properly. I think it is a nice project if you already have a nice piece of land to play with. You would have no problem finding young staffers for the job. Lol

Sky King · 07-05-2021 7:43am

brenno1 wrote: »

1. I have a big stone cut farmhouse (which is attractive for people, old world charm etc) with plenty of parking and 5 acres flat field to front that i fully own-no mortgage
2. I have about 40k to invest
.

If it was me with this I'd look into opening a motorhome aire, they're getting increasingly popular - popping up all over the place and could yield steady cash flow with low running costs and efforts and not too outlandish set up costs.

cruizer101 · 07-05-2021 7:49am

I think it is a good idea, I've heard and seen of them in uk and could see me using one alright.
D15 is bit far from me so wouldn't use often but possibly occasionally.
Tbh even a well secured field without any of the equipment I think would generate interest as somewhere for people to let dogs with bad recall off the lead.
I'm surprised more farmers wouldn't just secure an acre or two to do it, insurance might be the problem.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 7:58am

Kaybaykwah wrote: »

UYou would likely have good attendance.
If you had a way of coupling your idea with kindergarten sessions for dogs with trainers to help with positive reinforcement. You could have series of.meetings to have dogs socialize and play w each other for awhile, and then by themselves in the park.

We just got a dog 6 weeks ago and I would definitely like to let it run freely more often. There is an old abandoned golf near us that would be perfect except we are afraid of our dog getting hit by ticks.

You seem to have thought about this properly. I think it is a nice project if you already have a nice piece of land to play with. You would have no problem finding young staffers for the job. Lol

Hi there and thanks for reply. Yes i think the training/socialisation side could be a great way to expand the operation eventually if it took off. I am amazed at the lack of these facilities closer to the city that I am questioning is there a reason. Maybe insurance is the problem

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:00am

Sky King wrote: »

If it was me with this I'd look into opening a motorhome aire, they're getting increasingly popular - popping up all over the place and could yield steady cash flow with low running costs and efforts and not too outlandish set up costs.

Hi there and thanks for reply and advice. Being honest that wouldnt be my cup of tea. I would more like to combine a passion of mine into a small business and provide a good ecofriendly amenity to my area.
But a good idea all the same, cheers!

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:02am

cruizer101 wrote: »

I think it is a good idea, I've heard and seen of them in uk and could see me using one alright.
D15 is bit far from me so wouldn't use often but possibly occasionally.
Tbh even a well secured field without any of the equipment I think would generate interest as somewhere for people to let dogs with bad recall off the lead.
I'm surprised more farmers wouldn't just secure an acre or two to do it, insurance might be the problem.

Hi there totally agree i am amazed at the lack of these facilities around for people. Maybe it is the insurance as i know insurance is stopping alot of people open business nowadays which is so sad. I will research that side of it more. Thank yoj

Buddy Bubs · 07-05-2021 8:05am

Good idea, but don't see a business in it in it's own. Would maybe work as a part of a bigger venture. Selling dog food, treats, toys, grooming, coffee to the owners as you suggested. Overheads will be high enough with staffing, maintenance and insurance etc
Plus it's seasonal. You'll be busy in summer but not winter. Just note, there's 2 free public dog runs within walking distance of me in Lucan parks. And I'm not that far from Dublin 15. They are generally busy at the moment.

cruizer101 · 07-05-2021 8:10am

Buddy Bubs wrote: »

Plus it's seasonal. You'll be busy in summer but not winter.

So long as the ground is well drained so it doesn't become sodden and mucky you should still be busy enough in winter.
Dogs got to be exercised all year round.
Once it is well secured I don't think you would even need that much lighting for it to be usable at night.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:13am

Buddy Bubs wrote: »

Good idea, but don't see a business in it in it's own. Would maybe work as a part of a bigger venture. Selling dog food, treats, toys, grooming, coffee to the owners as you suggested. Overheads will be high enough with staffing, maintenance and insurance etc
Plus it's seasonal. You'll be busy in summer but not winter. Just note, there's 2 free public dog runs within walking distance of me in Lucan parks. And I'm not that far from Dublin 15. They are generally busy at the moment.

Hey thanks for reply! I would definitely look at selling on site too to help with revenue streams. Staffing would be me and the equipment id buy would be relatively mainetenance free (more expensive capital outlay initially which is tax deductible though). Noted re: seasonal. That is part of my business plan. I dont want to open in winter as the plan is to live in the sun then lol.

Interestingly though, there is a place in Enniskerry wicklow that does this and all they do is the dog park. No ancillary services as such on site. They are always busy in summer and their setup is basic enough, you need to book well in advance.. They dont even have a local catchment area. I am on the doorstep of the city.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:15am

cruizer101 wrote: »

So long as the ground is well drained so it doesn't become sodden and mucky you should still be busy enough in winter.
Dogs got to be exercised all year round.
Once it is well secured I don't think you would even need that much lighting for it to be usable at night.

Agree totally.

Whelo79 · 07-05-2021 8:16am

That's a great idea, I know I would definitely use it.

I've always been thinking there should be something like this, and even an indoor dog park due to the poor Irish weather.

Best of luck with it.

CelticRambler · 07-05-2021 8:20am

brenno1 wrote: »

I see a compnay in england makes really good quality agility equipment out of recycled plastic so would be totally maintenance free(its expensive) and v high quality. I like the idea of having an ECO friendly park.

For eco-friendly (plastic isn't generally ecofriendly!

) I recommend you look at German parks and their suppliers. This kind of park is very popular there, so you might find a greater variety of equipment and/or better value than in the UK.

Incidentally, with reference to SkyKing's comment, the German dog park I know best is the one I know best because it's located beside a motorhome stehplatz. Similarly, until I changed my working routines, I had a tiny parcel of my own land listed on France Passion - negligible cost to attract a typically high-spending customer. If you've already got to create parking spaces, adding an extra 100m² for motorhomes wouldn't be a huge inconvenience.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:21am

Whelo79 wrote: »

That's a great idea, I know I would definitely use it.

I've always been thinking there should be something like this, and even an indoor dog park due to the poor Irish weather.

Best of luck with it.

Hi Whelo79. Thank you for the reply and encouragement, appreciate it. I am taking a leap of faith in January and leaving a business/job i am utterly unfulfilled in and looking at a venture like this. Gona do my research over this summer and all going well go for it early next year.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 8:24am

CelticRambler wrote: »

For eco-friendly (plastic isn't generally ecofriendly! ) I recommend you look at German parks and their suppliers. This kind of park is very popular there, so you might find a greater variety of equipment and/or better value than in the UK.

Incidentally, with reference to SkyKing's comment, the German dog park I know best is the one I know best because it's located beside a motorhome stehplatz. Similarly, until I changed my working routines, I had a tiny parcel of my own land listed on France Passion - negligible cost to attract a typically high-spending customer. If you've already got to create parking spaces, adding an extra 100m² for motorhomes wouldn't be a huge inconvenience.

Hi there thanks for the reply and advise. Appreciated. I will definitely look at the German market per your advise. Re: Ecofriendly...i take your point but i think the plastic is better recycled and put to good use than ending up in landfill in fairness!!
Thanks again

FromADistance · 07-05-2021 9:17am

I stumbled across this post by accident and noticed that you're quite close to where I live. I think I have a fair idea where you're located. There are plans for a dog park on part of the Golf Course grounds (you're probably aware of this already) which I think would be a massive benefit to you.

In theory, you have a good idea and the ground for it but as other posters have pointed out, to really maximise the opportunity you should certainly explore what other ancillary services you could provide. The Dogs Trust is only over the road, another plus IMO. The only thing I would question is if 40k would be enough to get this venture up and running but look if there's a will there's a way. I don't have a dog but there's lots of people locally who do. I'd certainly call up to you for a coffee if you go ahead with that side of the plan (and assuming you allow the public walk up on spec).

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 9:40am

FromADistance wrote: »

I stumbled across this post by accident and noticed that you're quite close to where I live. I think I have a fair idea where you're located. There are plans for a dog park on part of the Golf Course grounds (you're probably aware of this already) which I think would be a massive benefit to you.

In theory, you have a good idea and the ground for it but as other posters have pointed out, to really maximise the opportunity you should certainly explore what other ancillary services you could provide. The Dogs Trust is only over the road, another plus IMO. The only thing I would question is if 40k would be enough to get this venture up and running but look if there's a will there's a way. I don't have a dog but there's lots of people locally who do. I'd certainly call up to you for a coffee if you go ahead with that side of the plan (and assuming you allow the public walk up on spec).

Hi there thanks for reply. I actually wasnt aware of the plans for a dog park in hollystown golf club. I though the GAA bought it ðŸ˜† would that be a benefit im wondering if people have access to a free one would they use mine??? Mmm . As you know yourself the area is growing rapidly with young families. The amount of dogwalkers around is unreal.

And of course pop in for a coffee if its up and running next year! . And maybe ill sell you the free range eggs from our hens too. ðŸ˜†ðŸ˜†

FromADistance · 07-05-2021 10:25am

brenno1 wrote: »

Hi there thanks for reply. I actually wasnt aware of the plans for a dog park in hollystown golf club. I though the GAA bought it ðŸ˜† would that be a benefit im wondering if people have access to a free one would they use mine??? Mmm . As you know yourself the area is growing rapidly with young families. The amount of dogwalkers around is unreal.

And of course pop in for a coffee if its up and running next year! . And maybe ill sell you the free range eggs from our hens too. ðŸ˜†ðŸ˜†

The dog park is part of a wider proposal to build a park and develop 69 houses on part of the Hollystown GC grounds. The GAA is a seperate proposal closer to where the clubhouse is. I doubt it's going to be a large dog park as the developer (Glenveagh Homes) is planning to build a playground and a multi use area on the same ground (the whole park will be c3.5 hectares). I also think parking is going to be an issue to be honest and there will be too much demand for the dog park. People have been crying out for a dog park over in Tyrrelstown for years.

I do think you're on to something but of course I don't know enough about the market but you certainly have lots of positives going for you. I'll certainly be up for the coffee and eggs anyhow! Best of luck with it.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 10:36am

FromADistance wrote: »

The dog park is part of a wider proposal to build a park and develop 69 houses on part of the Hollystown GC grounds. The GAA is a seperate proposal closer to where the clubhouse is. I doubt it's going to be a large dog park as the developer (Glenveagh Homes) is planning to build a playground and a multi use area on the same ground (the whole park will be c3.5 hectares). I also think parking is going to be an issue to be honest and there will be too much demand for the dog park. People have been crying out for a dog park over in Tyrrelstown for years.

I do think you're on to something but of course I don't know enough about the market but you certainly have lots of positives going for you. I'll certainly be up for the coffee and eggs anyhow! Best of luck with it.

Thanks again for that information its good to know. And for the words of encouragement too, thanks. From the little market research ive done it seems people are crying out for it. And generally there is a lack of facilities in hollystown anyway so i think it can only make the area better.

My road is a little country lane (without mentioning it, you might know it). I.e its not on a main road. I wonder would that be a hindrance in terms of marketing. It feels like ur in the middle of nowhere where i am. Lovely and peaceful but you would need to know about it.

CelticRambler · 07-05-2021 10:56am

If you have existing buildings available, you might consider renovating one as an empty multi-functional space that dog-clubs and trainers (behaviour, agility, etc) can rent. While this may be your passion at the moment, and you're prepared to put the work in to make it work, you should already be thinking of how you can pull back from day-to-day involvement. Just carrying out the exercise on paper will make the business case stronger, as you'll see where best to lay the foundations (figurative or literal) for future development.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 11:11am

CelticRambler wrote: »

If you have existing buildings available, you might consider renovating one as an empty multi-functional space that dog-clubs and trainers (behaviour, agility, etc) can rent. While this may be your passion at the moment, and you're prepared to put the work in to make it work, you should already be thinking of how you can pull back from day-to-day involvement. Just carrying out the exercise on paper will make the business case stronger, as you'll see where best to lay the foundations (figurative or literal) for future development.

Funny you mention that i have a decent size shed that lies idle (probably the same size as four standard car garages combined) and i have just been looking at it there thinking how indoor business could eventually be generated there.
I also have 5 unused stables that i could picture as indoor playrooms for the dogs ...one full of hay or straw to find their balls in ..lol..i know my own dog just loves that activity!
But great food for thought thank you.

FromADistance · 07-05-2021 11:14am

brenno1 wrote: »

Thanks again for that information its good to know. And for the words of encouragement too, thanks. From the little market research ive done it seems people are crying out for it. And generally there is a lack of facilities in hollystown anyway so i think it can only make the area better.

My road is a little country lane (without mentioning it, you might know it). I.e its not on a main road. I wonder would that be a hindrance in terms of marketing. It feels like ur in the middle of nowhere where i am. Lovely and peaceful but you would need to know about it.

Ah right I see... very familiar with the roads locally. To be honest, all places now can be located by Eircode so I don't think it would be a hindrance. And a business entry on Google Maps would also assist you. Of course a presence across social media is a given for any marketing strategy. Handing out flyers locally wouldn't cost a fortune either. In fairness if people find the service useful they will make the effort to locate you. Your offering is authentic and has a rural feel which I think people will value. As you said yourself, people will have to book a slot so you're not really going to be relying on passing trade per se.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 11:18am

FromADistance wrote: »

Ah right I see... very familiar with the roads locally. To be honest, all places now can be located by Eircode so I don't think it would be a hindrance. And a business entry on Google Maps would also assist you. Of course a presence across social media is a given for any marketing strategy. Handing out flyers locally wouldn't cost a fortune either. In fairness if people find the service useful they will make the effort to locate you. Your offering is authentic and has a rural feel which I think people will value. As you said yourself, people will have to book a slot so you're not really going to be relying on passing trade per se.

Ye i am amazed at the place in wicklow. Their slots are booked out all weekends in may and june hasnt even opened yet. They are v rural. I am booking myself in for a slot there in June myself..just to be nosey haha

FromADistance · 07-05-2021 11:54am

brenno1 wrote: »

Ye i am amazed at the place in wicklow. Their slots are booked out all weekends in may and june hasnt even opened yet. They are v rural. I am booking myself in for a slot there in June myself..just to be nosey haha

Well I think you have your answer right there.... you definitely have an idea worth exploring even if it turned out to be a good 'side hussle'.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 11:56am

FromADistance wrote: »

Well I think you have your answer right there.... you definitely have an idea worth exploring even if it turned out to be a good 'side hussle'.

Insurance could be my biggest barrier. Cant seem to find a broker that knows anything about getting insurance for this type of business.

Patsy167 · 07-05-2021 12:31pm

brenno1 wrote: »

Insurance could be my biggest barrier. Cant seem to find a broker that knows anything about getting insurance for this type of business.

Would recommend nailing down where you stand on insurance before looking into the idea further. It's been a show stopper for many businesses in this area. As an example, Bouncy castle business is effectively dead because of insurance. Clara lara, tayto Park also had issues with it.

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 12:54pm

Patsy167 wrote: »

Would recommend nailing down where you stand on insurance before looking into the idea further. It's been a show stopper for many businesses in this area. As an example, Bouncy castle business is effectively dead because of insurance. Clara lara, tayto Park also had issues with it.

Agreed. First thing i will need to pin down. I chatted to a nice lady in petbusinessinsurance.ie which is actually based out of UK. They covered all this type of stuff before Brexit and she said they are hoping to re-enter the Irish market this summer once they iron out some trading issues so i will keep an eye on them. I wouldnt be setting up until next year anyway.

I am wondering also if it would be possible to just get Farm Public Liability insurance in case of injury to a person when on my land. I am chatting to FBD about this currently. Then in terms of the Dog,i wonder could i make it a condition of entry they produce their own valid pet insurance certificate. I viewed allianz pet policy document and there doesnt seem to be anything in their exclusions if there is an injury or accident to the dog caused by a third party.

Also, im visiting the park in wicklow in june and i will ask them how they went about their insurance.

Segotias · 07-05-2021 12:59pm

This is a brilliant idea, totally on my lotto to do list when I win!!

Its great for dogs who are nervous of other dogs or those who just aren't great with other dogs, especially if they can book quiet slots

With regard to it being seasonal, dog people don't get to dodge the winter, dogs still need to be exercised and I'm frequently out in the cold and rain. You may not personally want to do it then but you could have a market. More so that the heat of the summer when I never have my dogs out during the day, its not safe for them

brenno1 · 07-05-2021 1:05pm

Segotias wrote: »

This is a brilliant idea, totally on my lotto to do list when I win!!

Its great for dogs who are nervous of other dogs or those who just aren't great with other dogs, especially if they can book quiet slots

With regard to it being seasonal, dog people don't get to dodge the winter, dogs still need to be exercised and I'm frequently out in the cold and rain. You may not personally want to do it then but you could have a market. More so that the heat of the summer when I never have my dogs out during the day, its not safe for them

Thanks so much for the encouragement. The site i have is perfect for such a venture. Im lucky in the sense i have the place and capital all ready to invest, i just hope insurance problems dont hold me back.i see the need for this in the area big time. Its sad the way the insurance market in this country is so dysfunctional for enterprises like these that could really benefit the community and the pets too.

Hopefully you will see it go live next year!!

Doggie Adventure Park idea.

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