PAW PALS, Swindon's professional pet sitting and dog walking business, is to franchise, offering pet lovers across the UK the opportunity to operate their own successful pet sitting business.

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

Victoria said: "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.

"With so many pet sitters in the town, we are delighted to be selected on our professionalism and people's love of the Paw Pals caring image and website.

"Many customers choose us purely on the strength of our logo!

"We are 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."

To enable Sally and Victoria to focus on this new business direction, the Swindon branch of Paw Pals is also for sale, complete with staff, company vehicle, customer database and order book.

However, the sale will only go the most dedicated of pet lovers!

"We want to grow our business complete with committed, loyal and genuine pet loving candidates," said Victoria.

"A shrewd 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."

Paw Pals believe that owning their pet sitting franchise combines the pleasure of working with animals with the freedom and independence of operating a proven and successful business.

And unlike other similar franchise opportunities, individuals can own their own business for as little as £5,000 with no annual fees - if they sign up before September 1.

Anyone interested in operating their own Paw Pals business or taking over the Swindon branch, should contact Victoria on 01793 770759 or email franchise@paw-pals.co.uk. Further information can be found on www.paw-pals.co.uk.