Well, well, well, folks! Hold onto your leashes because we have some pawsome news to share. Hopes Therapy Dogs has fetched a very special accolade at the prestigious BIBAs Awards 2023! We were awarded the position of 'Highly Commended' in the start-up business category by none other than the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. Can we get a woof-woof?

The Blackpool Tower Ballroom

Picture this - a dazzling ballroom, a giant disco ball hanging from above, and a floor so shiny you can see your wagging tail in it. That was the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, the grand venue for the BIBAs awards. Everyone was dressed to the nines as they joined together to celebrate the great businesses across Lancashire. Who would have thought that Hope's Therapy Dogs would become one of them when it started in 2021?

Family Bonds: Ali's Dad and Husband Witness the Triumph

Ali's journey with Hope's Therapy Dogs has been a rollercoaster ride, but she hasn't faced it alone. Her family have been her rock, supporting her every step of the way. They've seen Ali overcome obstacles and turn her personal struggles into something amazing. Ali's Dad and Husband aren't just proud of her, they're proud to be a part of her journey; their presence at the awards ceremony (in their VERY smart suits!) speaks volumes about their unwavering support and the bond they share and it was only fitting that they were there to see Ali receive the award. Certainly some cherished moments.

The Bark-tastic Journey

It hasn't been a walk in the park, folks. Building a successful start-up business is no easy task, especially when over half of your workforce has four legs and a tendency to chase squirrels! But we have navigated the challenges with finesse (and an endless supply of dog treats). From training and educating, to spreading joy in nearly 20 schools, Hopes Therapy Dogs has made tails wag and hearts melt all across the North West. We've now grown into a thriving business of 4 humans and 6 (soon to be 7!) amazing dogs. And let me tell you, we've seen smiles on faces that haven't smiled in ages, brought hope to those on the brink of giving up, and witnessed the incredible power of the human-dog bond.

Opening Doors: How the Award Will Expand Our Reach

So, now that we've got this fancy award hanging around our necks, you might be wondering what's next for Hopes Therapy Dogs. Well, we're sniffing out new opportunities to expand our fur-tastic services to even more schools to bring Hope to even more children - like a dog with a bone, we will never stop. We already have lots of new exciting adventures planned for 2024, so watch this space!

Gratitude Overflowing: Thank You to Our Incredible Supporters

Being 'Highly Commended' at the BIBAs awards is a remarkable achievement for Hopes Therapy Dogs. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our school communities; your support, encouragement, and belief in our mission have been instrumental in our success. We are excited about the future and the opportunity to make an even greater impact on children's lives. We owe it all to the love, dedication, and, of course, the slobbery kisses of our incredible therapy dogs. As we continue to wag our way through the business world, we assure you that more smiles, tail wags, and hilarious adventures are just around the corner. Stay tuned, furriends!