K9 dog shop launches in the wake of the Dog Barn's sudden closure

A popular hub for dog owners in Rainford and surrounding areas, the Dog Barn provided training and grooming services as well as a wide range of pet treats and essentials.

It had a very popular unit at Catchdale Moss Farm and Inglenook Farm in Rainford, but its sudden closure caused a shock online as its website and social media pages were closed down without any public statement.

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The Dog Barn provided a range of training classes, grooming services and treats (Image: St Helens Star)
Rumours on social media circulated that the business entered liquidation so had to cease trading immediately, with an email from the Dog Barn shared on social media seeming to confirm this.

The email adds that the decision to cease trading has been "devastating for everyone involved".

The Dog Barn, Catchdale Moss Farm, and Inglenook Farm did not respond to the Star to clarify this, but a petition to wind up the company was published online in July.

An email confirming liquidation was sent to customers (Image: Contributed)

While many customers have been left wondering what happened to the Dog Barn, and if they will be refunded for their classes or Santa Paws events, another dog shop has since relaunched in its place.

It's believed that the head trainer of the Dog Barn has launched the shop, named K9 Barn, which opened from Catchdale Moss Farm today (Friday, October 13), with a further unit at Inglenook Farm expected to follow.

K9 Barn is now taking over the Dog Barn space (Image: K9 Barn)
In a statement online, dog trainer Alison said: "Following the sad and sudden closure of the Dog Barn, I'm excited to announce that I have been able to negotiate a deal to take over the shop and launch my own business - K9 Barn - which will open at Catchdale Moss Lane.

"Many of you know me as head trainer at the Dog Barn and I've been inspired and motivated by my time there to launch this exciting new venture in a barn that feels like home!

"After 15 wonderful years working at the Dog Barn, I hope to carry the baton into this new chapter whilst trying to navigate the terribly tough times that all new businesses face in the current climate.

"Over the coming months, I want to build the business collaboratively - taking influence from what customers want the most.

"K9 Barn will continue to be the ultimate shop for dogs, offering training and the best selection of canine essentials in Merseyside, initially opening at Catchdale Moss Lane and also at Inglenook Farm in the near future.

"In the meantime, I thought I would take this opportunity to say thank you - I appreciate all of the amazing and loyal customers, trainees and pampered pooches that I've met over my time at the Dog Barn, and I hope to see you all again very soon at K9 Barn.

"Thank you in advance for your support".

K9 Barn has also confirmed that Santa Paws will be free for customers this year.