ENTREPRENEUR Helen Dixon has unleashed a novel experience for dog lovers whose pets have everything . . .dog paddling alongside their pampered pooches in a special canine swimming pool.

Helen, 24, created Grubby Paws - the UK's first day care centre for dogs - after spotting that dog-loving Britain lagged far behind their American cousins in pet care.

And Paddle Paws, offering owners hour-long swimming sessions with their dogs in an indoor pool, has proved to be a big attraction.

Helen said: "The pool is perfect for dogs with arthritis as it is good exercise and helps build up their muscles. It's really very therapeutic for them and a great opportunity for owners to bond with their pets."

But it is not all about therapy. Helen says that for most dogs, getting into the water is really good fun.

Said Helen: "Some dogs are cautious about getting wet, just as some children are, but once they have been introduced to the pool they love it. It means they can build up confidence in the water.

"Owners can get into the pool with their pet and the rest of the family and enjoy a swim and a splash about. Some families come for a special occasion such as the dog's birthday for something different to do."

Helen's idea for the dog care centre came to her when she realised how much she hated to leave Cathy - her German Shepherd - on her own.

With financial help from Merseyside Special Investment Fund, Helen set up a day care centre which would not only ensure the dogs were fed and watered during the day, but also cared for and exercised.

A personal training plan is also arranged for regular clients and the centre has a host of facilities for training classes with the dogs' owners.

Helen explained: "We have both a large indoor training arena and an outside arena where we train the dogs and run classes."

For more information, visit Grubby Paws at www.grubbypaws.net or ring 0870 232 7297.