A new dog washing service for people visiting a beauty spot near Dorchester has been introduced.

Dog owners visiting Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre and Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve at Higher Bockhampton can now head home with their furry friends mud free, thanks to the new self service dog wash provided by Polygon Pets Ltd.

The new facility has been set up following the successful installation at two of Dorset Council’s other country parks at Avon Heath and Moors Valley.

It will provide warm water infused with a range of shampoos and a two-speed blow dry function, with customers able to select from a choice of services and decide how many minutes are required to get their pet clean before venturing home. 

The dog wash is located just behind the visitor centre's main reception and is available seven days a week and is being offered at a low cost, according to the Polygon Pets.

Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: ”Our country parks are perfect for dog walkers, and we’re especially proud of our dog-friendly reputation at Hardy’s Birthplace Thorncombe Wood.

“But there’s no escaping the mud during the colder months, so we’re delighted that Polygon Pets has provided such a convenient and useful service for our visitors.

"I’d like to thank everyone involved in getting this set up and ask customers to let us see any pictures or videos of your canine friends using the facilities.”

A spokesperson for Polygon Pets added: “We are delighted to be working alongside the friendly team at Dorset Council at Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre Thorncombe Wood to bring our new dog wash service for local residents and visitors alike.

"Our self service dog wash machines truly make life easier. Thorncombe Wood is a wonderful dog walking destination together with the dog friendly Under the Greenwood Tree Café."