Christchurch Park, Ipswich
Supervised play, fresh air and endless fuss for your dog, right in the heart of Christchurch Park. And every visit helps local people with additional needs build confidence and friendships.
“He didn't want to leave his new friends.”
Welcome to the squad
Whether you've got a dog who deserves a brilliant day out, or you're looking for a calm, kind place to spend time with dogs, there's a place for you here.
For dog owners
A full day of supervised play, walks, enrichment and cuddles, Monday to Friday. Your dog comes home tired, happy and already looking forward to next time.
For people with additional needs
Friendly, structured sessions with our dogs for adults and young people with learning disabilities, autism or low mental health. Build confidence, learn new skills and make friends.
Supporting people to care for dogs
Our dog day care and our community work aren't two separate things. They're one big, happy squad.
Drop them off in the morning for a day of play, walks and new friends in our big, secure outdoor space.
With our team alongside them, members walk, groom, train and fuss the dogs, building confidence and skills as they go.
Your dog comes home tired and content. Our members go home proud of their day. Not bad for a Tuesday.
We're a Community Interest Company (CIC). That means we exist to benefit our community, and your dog's day out helps make our community work possible.
Dog day care
Room to roam, friends to play with and someone to cuddle. Our home on the Old Upper Bowls Green has a big, secure outdoor space for zoomies and cosy indoor spots for chilling out, whatever the weather.
A big, secure outdoor space in the heart of Christchurch Park, made for exploring and play.
Dogs are supervised at all times by our trained team, with high staff-to-dog ratios.
Cosy indoor areas for naps, rest and drying off when the Suffolk weather does its thing.
Calm introductions and positive reinforcement help nervous dogs find their paws.
Agility, snuffle mats, sniffing games and toys to keep busy brains happy.
Our members add even more attention, grooming and love to your dog's day.
Here's a sneak peek at what your pup can expect.
Drop-off, a sniff and say hello, then straight into free play.
Freedom to explore, plus a structured walk around the site.
Fun on the agility course, and lunch for dogs who bring their own.
A brush and a clean if needed, then snuffle mats and enrichment.
Quiet time to recharge, with plenty of cuddles from the squad.
Collection by 5.30pm, or 5pm on Fridays. Expect a sleepy dog.
Simple, honest pricing
£28per dog, per
full day
We ask dogs to come at least once a week on a set day. It helps them settle in, make friends and grow in confidence.
“I took my dog Rupert here (he is an anxious little dog) and he had an amazing time. The staff really looked out for him… I nearly had to wrestle him back into my car because he didn't want to leave his new friends.”
“My Shih Tzu just loves his day there. As soon as his day comes round he is up and running around, pulling me to get to the centre… He is extremely well looked after.”
“Dottie absolutely loves it here. Staff are fabulous and always happy to accommodate any changes… Guaranteed they will sleep well when they get home.”
Supported sessions
We welcome adults and young people with learning disabilities, autism or low mental health to spend time with our dogs in a calm, friendly and inclusive space. Time with dogs can ease stress, build confidence and bring a real sense of purpose.
We start with a cuppa and a chat, then introduce you to the dogs and help you find your perfect match.
Teach basic commands, practise lead walking and tackle our agility course together.
Brushing, feeding, cuddles and bonding time. The dogs are brilliant listeners.
Plant, weed and harvest in our community veg patch, or build bird boxes and bug hotels.
Monday to Friday
Costs depend on the type and length of session. Ask us and we'll talk you through it.
Book a taster session for yourself or someone you support. Professionals and carers can refer directly, and we'll send over an application form.
Arrange a taster session Make a referral
Lisa Correll
Founder & Director
Our story
Lisa Correll founded The Dogs Squad to bring together two things she cares about deeply: dogs, and supporting people with additional needs. With a postgraduate qualification in autism and a Level 5 in Health & Social Care, she set out to build somewhere dogs get the best possible day, and local people get a place to belong.
Today our Christchurch Park home is exactly that: a safe, fun and welcoming space for pups and people alike.
“If I were a dog, I'd be an Irish Wolfhound: tall, skittish and easily distracted!”
Trained in canine first aid, canine body language, safeguarding and the Oliver McGowan programme. Brilliant with dogs, even better with people.
Business Operations Manager
If I were a dog, I'd be… a Lhasa Apso, because I'm stubborn and think I'm human!
Site Supervisor
If I were a dog, I'd be… a Greyhound. Gangly, quick and loves a sofa!
Animal Care Assistant
If I were a dog, I'd be… a Cocker Spaniel: loving and hungry, with moments of madness!
Animal Care Assistant
If I were a dog, I'd be… a Whippet! Slim and constantly running around.
Gardener & Activities Assistant
If I were a dog, I'd be… an Italian Spinone! I enjoy my food and a good walk.
Jacob, Charlie, Abi and John keep the veg growing, the grounds tidy and the tails wagging.
Coming up
Saturday 12 December 2026, 11am–3pm
Festive fun, games and dog-friendly cheer. Everyone's welcome, so bring the whole pack!
In the news
Life at the squad
FAQs
We're happy to welcome all breeds and sizes, except those on the UK banned breeds list (opens in a new tab).
Yes, always. Dogs are monitored at all times, and we keep high staff-to-dog ratios so everyone gets close attention.
Lots of our regulars started out shy. We use positive reinforcement and tailor everything to your dog, working with you (and your trainer, if you have one). We also work closely with The Ipswich Dog Trainer (opens in a new tab) to keep our methods up to date.
Your dog's lunch if they need it, any comfort items, and their vaccination records if you haven't shared them with us already.
Yes. We ask dogs to come at least once a week on a set day, as it helps them build friendships and confidence. You can add extra days on top whenever you like.
Of course! We'd love to show you around. Get in touch to arrange a visit.
Adults and young people with learning disabilities, autism or low mental health who'd enjoy spending time with dogs in a calm, friendly setting. Young people are welcome alongside their tutors or support.
Not at all. We tailor every session to each person's comfort level, so you can go at your own pace.
Yes, they're very welcome. Our trained team is also on hand to help throughout every session.
We watch every interaction closely. There are quiet spaces for time out, and we'll offer breaks or other activities whenever anyone (human or dog) needs one.
Costs depend on the type and length of session. Get in touch and we'll talk you through the options.
You can refer yourself or someone you support. Just send us a message and we'll send you an application form and arrange a taster.
Say hello
Book your dog's free trial day, arrange a taster session or ask us anything at all. We'd love to hear from you.
