Prime Dog Pad wouldn't exist without our own dog, Optimus.

Born on Valentine's Day 2017, Optimus joined our family in April 2017 and it was love at first sight.

A few months later, we discovered he had come from a puppy farm. Whilst that news was upsetting, it made no difference to how we felt about him. He was already a much-loved member of the family.

As a puppy, Optimus was a typical mischievous Labrador. He loved stealing toilet rolls, had an endless appetite and kept us entertained with his cheeky personality. As he grew, he became an active, affectionate and sociable dog, earning the nickname "John Wayne" because he never quite walked in a straight line.

Over the years, Optimus has faced more than his fair share of challenges.

In August 2021, he underwent his first TPLO surgery following a cruciate ligament rupture and the onset of osteoarthritis. Just six months later, the cruciate ligament in his other leg ruptured, requiring a second TPLO surgery. Through dedication, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and Optimus's incredible determination, he recovered brilliantly from both operations.

Further investigations revealed that Optimus has nine different allergies, many of which are commonly found in everyday dog foods. In May 2024, he was also diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), requiring ongoing treatment and careful dietary management.

More recently, he underwent lateral suture stabilisation surgery on his right hind leg in September 2025 and his left hind leg in February 2026.

Despite everything life has thrown at him, Optimus remains the happiest, most loving dog you could ever wish to meet. His resilience, patience and gentle nature continue to inspire us every day.

Living with Optimus has given us a deep understanding of the challenges some dogs and their owners face.

We know how important it is to follow medication schedules, manage complex dietary requirements, recognise signs of discomfort and adapt care to suit each dog's individual needs.

This experience means we're comfortable caring for dogs with:

• Special dietary requirements

• Allergies and sensitivities

• Medication needs

• Mobility issues

• Recovery and rehabilitation requirements

• Age-related conditions

• Additional emotional support needs

Every dog deserves patience, understanding and care that is tailored specifically to them.

At Prime Dog Pad, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.

We work closely with owners to understand their dog's routine and do our best to maintain familiar habits during their stay. Whether that's sleeping arrangements, feeding schedules, exercise routines or quiet time, we know that familiarity helps dogs feel safe and secure when away from home.

Some dogs settle quickly into new surroundings, whilst others may need extra reassurance and support. We adapt our care to suit each individual dog, always putting their welfare first.

We are pleased to welcome:

🐾 Small and large breed dogs

🐾 Intact male dogs (subject to suitable temperament and behaviour)

🐾 Unspayed females when not in season

🐾 Senior dogs

🐾 Dogs with dietary needs

🐾 Dogs requiring medication

🐾 Dogs with mobility considerations

Above all, our focus is on ensuring every dog feels happy, relaxed and part of the family during their stay.

A genuine family-run home boarding service with first-hand experience caring for dogs with complex health, mobility and dietary needs.

Combined with:

Home-from-home dog boarding tailored to your dog's individual needs.

We believe these two principles are what make Prime Dog Pad special.

By keeping numbers small and focusing on personalised care, we're able to get to know each dog as an individual and provide the attention, routine and support they need to thrive.

When your dog stays at Prime Dog Pad, they are welcomed into our family and cared for as if they were our own.

Our aim is simple:

To provide complete peace of mind for owners while giving every dog a safe, comfortable, loving and enjoyable stay.

🐾 Prime Dog Pad - Home-from-home dog boarding in Braintree, where every dog is treated like family. 🐾