It was December 2011 when Sue and I began talking about bringing a dog into our lives. We always knew we wanted to rescue rather than buy a puppy—there are so many wonderful dogs out there waiting for a second chance and a loving home.
So, in January 2012, we made the trip to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in London, hoping to meet the dog who would steal our hearts. After wandering through the kennels for over an hour, we came across a gentle soul labelled simply as a “Rottie X.”
Unlike the others, she wasn’t barking or jumping excitedly. Instead, she quietly sidled up to us, pressed close, and gently licked our hands through the bars. In that instant, our hearts melted—and we knew she was the one.
We soon learned that Robyn had been found as a stray, wandering the streets of Lewisham. Little was known about her past—only that she was around 18 months old and thought to be a Rottweiler–Labrador cross.
Just three weeks later, after Battersea had completed their usual checks and she’d been given her final medical all-clear, we finally brought Robyn home.
From the very beginning, she was an absolute joy. She doted on us, and we adored her in return.
Robyn had a wonderful way of simply enjoying life—whether she was racing happily around the garden, joining us on long countryside walks, or curling up on the sofa (or her favourite bed) to watch the world go by.
When we moved to our current home in Kemsing, it was with Robyn in mind. The house offered her plenty of space—she had a bed in almost every room—and the big garden quickly became her kingdom. She loved nothing more than running around outside, or stretching out in her favourite sun-spots to watch the day drift by.
We were heartbroken when Robyn passed away in the Autumn of 2022, after more than ten wonderful years of filling our lives with joy, love, and wagging tails.
After leaving my long IT career, I longed to have the happiness of dogs around the house again and to share our home with them.
Remembering how challenging it was to find caring, reliable daycare and boarding for Robyn on the rare occasions we needed it, I realised this was something I could offer to others in the area.
So, Happy Paws & Sofa Snores was born—a home-from-home filled with love, comfort, and plenty of tail wags, inspired by Robyn every step of the way.
Robyn may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in every dog that walks through our doors.
Her love of life, her joy in simple pleasures, and the comfort she found in our home inspire everything we do at Happy Paws & Sofa Snores.
Every cuddle, every playful romp, and every cosy sofa snooze is a tribute to her, ensuring that her legacy continues to bring happiness, care, and a sense of family to all our future guests.
I can’t wait to welcome you—and your dog—into our home, where Robyn’s spirit of love and joy continues to shine.