Helston businessman Gary McLintock will be the first to admit that he is barking mad.

Eager to find a business he could run from home, he has set up his own branch of “hotels” – for dogs.

A dog owner himself, of two Sprollies (a cross between a springer spaniel and a collie) called Samson and Maisie, he has joined forces with Barking Mad, which provides home from home pet care as an alternative to kennelling.

He first came across the concept when he was looking for a holiday home for Samson and Maisie.

After further research he discovered the franchise was available and jumped at the opportunity.

“I loved the business idea so much that I decided to take on the Cornwall area,” said Gary.

“I am now able to combine my love of dogs with running my own business. I really enjoy meeting like-minded people and being able to solve their pet care dilemmas, it gives me a tremendous amount of job satisfaction.”

Gary finds host families to look after animals while their owners are away.

The “dog sitters” continue the animal’s existing feeding and exercise routines, with host families matched for similarity to the dog’s usual home environment.

Many hosts are retired dog lovers who, having owned pets all their lives, do not wish to commit again to the full time responsibility of owning their own dog but miss the companionship.

“Our customers have complete peace of mind knowing their dogs are being cared for in a home environment similar to their own, whilst our host families are able to enjoy all of the benefits of owning a dog but on a part time basis,” added Gary.

“They say the best part about being a grandparent is that you have all the fun before handing the grandchildren back, and Barking Mad is the canine equivalent.”

Gary can be contacted directly on 01326 574752 or 07715 987678, or by emailing gary.mclintock@barkingmad.uk.com