Snuffl is a ‘secret’ sensory indoor garden for dogs in hScarborough, North Yorkshire. It’s a special place where you and your dog will discover a new way of being together. Part curated ‘scentscape’ and part obstacle course, Snuffl is part of a growing trend. There are enriched environment facilities and sensory gardens in the UK. There are many in Europe and in other parts of the world. I help to run the ‘Sensory Gardens 4 Dogs’ project along with Birgitta Geerlings.
Dogs are built to explore their environment. When they get the opportunity to slow down and use all of their senses in a sensory garden or enriched environment, the results can be magnificent…
Sensory gardens offer an enclosed space for dogs to move at their own pace. Snuffl sensory indoor garden welcomes one dog per visit. Sometimes two dogs from the same house can come together but it’s better 1:1. The solo visit takes any worry your dog may have about other dogs approaching them. They can relax completely in the space.
As you observe your dog from our comfy sofa, you will learn what their preferences are. Your dog will choose to climb onto a ramp, a log or an unusual texture in the space. They may stop and sniff the air or lie down. They will explore in their own way with your passive support. You don’t need to provide verbal support or commands. They will learn to problem solve on their own. This experience will strengthen your relationship with your dog.
This secret dog garden is a curated for a complete sensory and body movement adventure. There are items with scent history and different levels for proprioception and balance. The indoor garden soundscape will be ‘natural’ and soothing. All visitors to the space will leave their scent without even trying!
Dogs benefit in many ways from sniffing in freedom. Inhaling scent is the most basic of dog natural behaviours. Their nose is their world! They grow new neural pathways and their body releases calming hormones. When checking out a new environment, dogs use all their senses. Their nose, eyes, ears, sense of touch/skin, vestibular (balance), and taste. As many dogs have limited walks, only on pavement, one level or at the dog park, Snuffl is like a relaxed ‘spa day.’ An oasis in Scarborough Town.
It takes a lot of energy to visit any new place for a dog. Visiting Snuffl and exploring for 45 minutes will leave your dog relaxed and ready to digest it all. Make sure that you head home after the session and allow your canine friend to have a good sleep.
When you book, I will send you a short questionnaire so that I may get to know your dog better. If you have a dog with allergies to specific foods, please book the 10am slot (or first slot that day), or the 1pm slot so I can be sure to remove all other food treats from the space.
Dogs go ‘naked’ once secured in the completely safe and secure indoor space. I lock the door and it’s just your dog, you and myself to enjoy an oasis of calm and sensory interest.
If you arrive early, and I am with another client, please enjoy the window shopping until you see my Snuffl customers leave the premises.
Cost £27 for 45 minutes (includes pure protein treats, pate and 2-3 appropriate chews) and the watchful eye and input from a dog behaviour consultant. The fee of £27 is an introductory price. Pay by cash and pay only £25!
All Snuffl clients enjoy a 20% discount for first time Lala Human Dog Coach dog coach consultations.
General opening hours are below. I have the ‘shop’ part of the premises open when the enrichment section is closed.
Please check the Snuffl booking calendar for exact times available:
Tuesday to Saturday 10-5
Sunday 1-5
(hours may change in the summer to avoid the heat of midday)
Located at 64 Eastborough, Scarborough, YO11 1RJ.
See you in the Snuffl ‘secret indoor garden’ soon!
24 hours notice for cancellations or to re-book please. I am on site one hour before my first client.