An independent dog shop in North Yorkshire has come up with an unusual way to help older and stiff pets enjoy days out by the sea.
Maureen's by the Sea, in Saltburn, has started hiring out dog strollers to visitors whose pets struggle with longer walks, are recovering from surgery, or simply need a break from being on their feet.
The idea was launched just over a week ago by owner Nick Cunningham and her colleague Jess, but demand has already exceeded expectations.
The strollers have been quickly snapped up by customers.
Nick and her husband moved to Saltburn from Manchester four years ago, and opened the dog supply shop 18 months ago.
The pet shop sells natural treats and a range of products not typically found at larger retailers.
The inspiration for the new hire service came from a familiar face around the shop - Nick's 15-year-old dog, Maureen.
"Jess, who works with me, had the brilliant idea of the buggy hire," said Nick.
He added: "My dog Maureen has a buggy and I use it every day with her, so I don't know why I hadn't thought of it before.
"Since we put a post out about it, it's just gone crazy.
"Everybody's wanting to borrow them and saying what a good idea it is."
The strollers available for hire are named after dogs close to the business.
The smaller model is called Maureen and the larger pet vehicle is named Peggy.
Nick said they have already proved popular with holidaymakers visiting the coast with older dogs.
One stroller was recently hired for a whole week by visitors who were struggling to get around with their pet while on holiday.
Demand was particularly high during Saltburn's recent food festival.
Nick said: "We could have hired so many out that day, but both were already gone."
The idea has become such a hit that locals have started offering their unused dog strollers to the business.
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The strollers offer owners an alternative to leaving their pets behind when they can no longer manage long walks.
Instead, furry friends can still get involved in all the outdoor fun.
Nick said strollers can be useful for elderly dogs, dogs recovering from injuries or operations, and even younger pets that tire easily.
"If you want a day at the beach, your dog can still be with you," she said.
"They can enjoy the fresh air, have a sleep when they need one and still be part of the day."
The service also has benefits in warmer weather; it allows dogs to stay off hot pavements and rest on cooling mats while their owners explore the town.
Nick believes the scheme fills a gap locally, having discovered a similar hire service was in the Lake District.
She hopes it will allow more owners to try a stroller before investing in one themselves, while helping dogs continue enjoying adventures well into old age.
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