Self service 'dog wash' to open at Thomas Hardy's birthplace visitor centre

It includes a range of shampoos and a blow dry

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 14th Feb 2024

Dog-owners visiting Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre and Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve can now leave for home with their furry friends squeaky clean, thanks to the new Self Service Dog Wash provided by Polygon Pets Ltd.

Fun, flexible, and easy to use - this useful new self service facility provides warm water infused with a range of shampoos and a two-speed blow dry function. Customers can select their choice of services and decide how many minutes are required (contactless payment and Apple Pay accepted).

The Dog Wash is located just behind the Visitor Centre main reception and is available seven days a week. The facility was set up following successful installations at two of Dorset Council’s other country parks at Avon Heath and Moors Valley.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:

”Our country parks are perfect for dog-walkers, and we’re especially proud of our dog-friendly reputation at Hardy’s Birthplace Thorncombe Wood.

“But there’s no escaping the mud during the colder months, so we’re delighted that Polygon Pets has provided such a convenient and useful service for our visitors. I’d like to thank everyone involved in getting this set up and ask customers to let us see any pictures or videos of your canine friends using the facilities!”

Polygon Pets say, “We are delighted to be working alongside the friendly team at Dorset Council at Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre Thorncombe Wood to bring our new Dog Wash service for local residents and visitors alike. Our self service Dog Wash machines truly make life easier. Thorncombe Wood is a wonderful dog walking destination together with the dog friendly Under the Greenwood Tree Café”.

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