A couple who met while they were out with their dogs have taken over the Swindon business Paw Pals.

John and Shelley Clarke, from St Andrews Ridge, took over the Swindon branch last week after being one of 20 couples who wanted the business.

"We both love animals and it just seemed to be the natural business for us both," said Shelley.

"We appreciate it's going to be a tough business but we'll be fine with it."

Paw Pals is the professional pet sitting and dog walking business which was started two years ago by mother and daughter Sally and Victoria Reinthal.

Inspired by the positive response from local people to the Paw Pals brand, the decision to franchise seemed the most natural progression for the mother and daughter team behind the pet care business that began in 2005.

"The decision to make Paw Pals a national company with the hope of individual outlets operating throughout the UK is largely thanks to the people of Swindon and the incredible reaction they've had to the business so far," said Victoria.

"There were 20 couples in Swindon who wanted to take on the business and it took us a long time to settle on John and Shelley.

"They will be offering the same service but will be also adding a home boarding service for dogs and a bunny and guinea pig hotel!

"John and Shelley went out to meet our customers first and the feedback was excellent."

The two women have now sold franchises in Spalding, Chester and Gloucester as their business goes from strength to strength.

"We were astounded by the rapid success of our pet sitting service, hence our decision to offer other pet caring enthusiasts the opportunity to own their own Paw Pals branch," said Victoria.

"We want to continue to grow our business but only complete with committed, loyal and genuine pet loving candidates.

"A good business head is an asset, but much more important is the desire to offer the best possible care to customers' pets and homes too.

"Our stringent application process will ensure only the best and most sincere individuals become Paw Pals."

Further details can be found on www.paw-pals.co.uk