Rescue dog from Leitrim inspires new business for Sligo couple

Bex Barlow and Mikey Hancock, originally from Shropshire and Kent in England, recently celebrated two years living in Sligo, where they have established PupCare Sligo, a dog walking and socialisation business inspired by their adopted rescue dog, Kobe.

Kobe, who was originally named Vinnie, had been found straying and sleeping in ditches. It had taken rescuers ten days to catch him because he was so terrified of people. Thin, exhausted and wearing a chewed piece of rope around his neck, he arrived at the rescue centre deeply traumatised.

“The fear in his eyes broke our hearts,” recalled Bex. “He didn’t know he was safe and he didn’t know how to trust.”

The couple adopted Kobe and slowly helped him rebuild his confidence. Initially withdrawn and fearful, he struggled to eat, tried to escape at night and required careful supervision. Gradually, with patience, kindness and the support of other dogs, he began to trust again.

Today, Kobe is at the centre of PupCare Sligo and plays an important role in helping nervous dogs gain confidence.

“He now exudes happiness and confidence,” said Bex. “He greets new dogs gently and watches out for them during our walks. Some of our quieter dogs have really come out of their shells because of him.”

Drawn to the region by its rugged landscapes, rural lifestyle and strong sense of community, the couple said they instantly felt at home among Sligo’s beaches, mountains and welcoming people.

“We were searching for a slower pace of life, with space, beautiful nature and time to do what we really love,” said Bex. “People here have been so welcoming. It really makes you feel like you can breathe deeply and relax. We’ve found a home.”

However, their journey was not without heartbreak.

Shortly after moving to Ireland, the couple lost their beloved collie, Sparky, who became seriously ill just two months after arriving in Sligo.

While grieving, Bex began walking dogs locally, finding comfort in spending time with animals. It was during this period that they came across Kobe through Leitrim Animal Welfare.

The couple believe that regular social interaction is essential for dogs’ wellbeing, and they have built their business around creating safe, enriching group experiences for pets across Sligo.

The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Entrusting your dog to someone is a huge thing because they’re part of your family,” said Mikey. “We genuinely care about every dog we work with and people can sense that.”

For the couple, the most rewarding aspect of their work is watching dogs develop friendships, grow in confidence and return home happy after a day outdoors.

Their story has also strengthened their belief in animal rescue. “We would encourage people to adopt rescue dogs,” they said. “All dogs are amazing and deserve a chance to be loved and happy.”

Looking back, Bex and Mikey say starting over in a new country was challenging, particularly while building a business from scratch and creating a community around them.

Yet through resilience, hard work and one remarkable rescue dog, they have created a life they love in the northwest.

“Kobe changed our lives,” said Bex. “He inspired everything that PupCare Sligo has become.”