Meet TAFFY: Our Resident Dog
If you look at the Paws & Stay Retreat logo, you’ll see the silhouette of the dog who started it all. Taffy isn’t just our resident dog; he is the heartbeat of this business and the reason I am so passionate about canine welfare. Taffy will be a regular on-site, however will always remain segregated and will take part in his own solo, bespoke rotation sessions in the same way as all other guests.
From a Street Dog to a UK Explorer
Taffy’s journey hasn’t been easy. He began life as a street dog in Serbia before being rescued from a euthanasia centre. When I first saw his eyes in a website photo, I knew he was coming home. He'd already spent 12 months in the dog pound but was soon boarding the "Happy Bus" to the UK in May 2019 to his forever home. When he arrived, he was so unsure of the world that I had to carry him over his first ever doorstep!
Leaps and Bounds
Today, you wouldn’t recognise that timid dog. Through patience, behavioural training, and lots of "scent work" (his absolute favourite!), Taffy has transformed into a confident, settled, and incredibly well-travelled companion. From various woodlands of the UK to the gardens of Chatsworth House, he’s been by my side every step of the way.
Taffy’s Fun Facts
Professional Sniffer: Taffy never misses his weekly "sniffy walk" quota, it’s his favourite way to unwind.
The Chatsworth Ritual: A visit isn't complete without a splash and a slurp in the freshwater Trout Stream.
The Butcher’s Favourite: Every Friday afternoon at our local farm shop, Taffy offers a polite paw to Craig the butcher, in exchange for some fresh stewing steak.
Sunday Treat: No week is complete without his favourite weekend tradition - Sausage Sunday!
Birthday Travels: Every year we celebrate his Birthday with a mini break at somewhere special.
Squirrel Scout: He takes his honorary duty of spotting woodland squirrels very seriously!
Taffy is living testament to the care, patience, and professional standards provided for every dog during their Paws & Stay Retreat. If I hadn't found him, I might never have recognised the gap for the elite, high-standard welfare and care that we provide today.