Up N Over Dog Training, based at Heyford Park in Oxfordshire, was founded in the late 1990s by a small group of friends raising money for dog rescue charities.
The club has since become a community-led project that provides affordable and accessible dog training. This came about as Dave Baker asked a question: ‘Why not prevent dogs from ending up in rescue in the first place.’
Dave Baker, founder of Up N Over, said: “Without the support of Dorchester Living, we wouldn’t be here.
“They gave us the space, and we turned it into a thriving community project.
“Every penny goes back into keeping the place running, safe and fun for our members.”
The club is run entirely by volunteers and operates from the former USAF dog training kennels on Camp Road.
It offers professional and effective training to dogs of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds.
Unlike traditional training courses, Up N Over uses a ‘pay as you go’ model that allows attendees to pay only when they turn up.
The flexible system makes training more accessible for shift workers, young people, and families with busy schedules.
Long-term backing from Dorchester Living has been key to the club’s continued success.
Paul Silver, chief executive of Dorchester Living, said: “Places like Up N Over are exactly the kind of community-led initiatives that turn a development into a true neighbourhood, not just a collection of homes.
“They bring people together, build confidence and create a sense of belonging.
“At Heyford Park, we are committed to creating the infrastructure, schools, parks, shops but the true community spirit comes from groups like this.”
Mr Baker said the group has always aimed to be more than just a dog training club.
He said: “We never wanted to just be a dog club; we want to be part of the community.
“From supporting the youth club to helping the food bank.
“If we’ve got funds, we use them to help others.”
The club donates around 20 per cent of weekly fees to animal rescue groups and raises money for causes such as the Heyford Food Bank.
Mr Baker said their focus is on family and community, not competition.
He said: “Some clubs are all about trophies and ribbons.
“We want to give families a positive place to bond with their dogs.
“Over the years, we have even had one of our juniors go on to compete at Crufts and build her own dog training business.
“That’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
Heyford Park continues to grow as a community with homes, schools, shops, green spaces, and support for local businesses and initiatives.