First look inside Shildon’s new indoor dog soft play centre

Ashley Bennett has officially launched Zoomies Dog Soft Play in Shildon on Saturday (July 25) after spending six months transforming an empty industrial unit into a private indoor play space for dogs.

Ashley Bennett with her two dogs Lily and Pickle, Ashley has just opened up Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The new facility, based at Dabble Duck Industrial Estate, has been created to provide a safe and controlled indoor environment where dogs can play, explore and exercise whatever the weather.

The opening comes after delays pushed back the original launch.

Here is a first look inside the brand new business:

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Plans for the business were first revealed in January, with 50-minute exclusive sessions allowing owners private use of the play area.

The venue also features two separate play spaces, with staggered booking times introduced to reduce the chances of dogs seeing one another.

Now, with work complete, Ashley says she is ready to welcome customers through the doors.

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

She said: “After months of hard work, determination, and overcoming countless challenges, I’m incredibly proud to announce that Zoomies Dog Soft Play is officially open on.

“This is more than just the opening of a new business – it’s the beginning of a completely new chapter in my life.

“I’ve been a hairdresser since I was 15 years old, so making the decision to leave a career I’ve loved for so many years and start something completely different has been both exciting and terrifying.

“Owning a dog soft play centre has been a dream of mine for a long time, and I’m so proud to finally say I’ve made that dream a reality.

“The last six months have tested me in ways I never imagined. From transforming an empty industrial unit into a safe, welcoming space for dogs and their owners, to navigating all the challenges that come with starting a business, it’s certainly been a journey.

“Looking back, every obstacle has been worth it to reach this moment. As a small independent business, community support means everything.

“Every booking, recommendation, and social media share really does make a difference. I hope people will come along, support a local business, and enjoy everything Zoomies has to offer.

“Zoomies has been created as a fun, safe, and private indoor space where dogs can play, explore, and spend quality time with their owners, whatever the weather.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has encouraged and supported me throughout this journey. Their belief in me has helped me keep going, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone through the doors.”

Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Ashley Bennett with her two dogs Lily and Pickle, Ashley has just opened up Zoomies Dog Play in Shildon (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Bookings at Zoomies Dog Soft Play run in 50-minute sessions, with customers having exclusive use of the play area during their slot.

You can book online HERE.

Separate play zones and staggered booking times have also been introduced to minimise contact between different dogs.