Throughout his career in the Garda Síochána, Westport man Pat Cox nurtured an ambition that he would one day return to his native place and set up an ultra-modern canine complex which would include boarding kennels and gundog training facilities.
His ambition became a reality when he and his wife Kathleen opened Owenwee Kennels in a stunningly beautiful landscape, just four and a half miles from Westport.
Already the kennels are being used extensively by dog owners while they are away on holidays or absent from home for business or social reasons. And if the testimonials of satisfied customers are anything to go by, Owenwee Kennels is very much a home from home for dogs of all shapes, breeds, and sizes.
Service
The kennels are purpose built and have full planning permission as a boarding kennel. The kennels are heated, and for a modest daily fee each dog has a separate 8' x 5' kennel, an outside concrete run for fine weather, the very best of dog food, with special diets catered for, high level of cleanliness and hygiene, daily walks on the spacious site, and carefully selected background music to create a happy ambience for all dogs. The roof of each kennel consists of timber beams and insulated PVC cladding.
Pat and Kathleen and their staff are on hand at all times and visitors are welcome to call to the kennels any time within opening hours.
Gundog training
Pat's interest in gundogs dates back to his childhood and he has progressed to a stage where he is now an international judge for gundog trials. He has trained gundogs of spaniel breeds (springers and cockers ), retriever breeds (Labradors ), and Irish setters.
Pat, who is one of the first professional gundog trainers in Mayo, said: “The training aspect of the business is to cater for people who enjoy shooting but do not have the time or expertise to train their own dogs.”
Gundogs are trained to owners’ requirements by IKC "A" panel spaniel judge. Gundogs are trained to very high standards in excellent training grounds and facilities. Trained dogs and puppies are occasionally available for sale.
Veterinary care is available on a 24-hour basis. Hours of business: Monday to Saturday 10am to 12 noon and 4pm to 6pm. Telephone 098 21924 or 087 245 4961.
