Trooper Takes the Prize, Fairfield Almost Finished

K9 Resorts has announced a winner in their most recent Facebook competition, "They're Just Like Us".

The winner is Trooper, a rescue dog who resides with his owner Saleena G. in Springfield, NJ. Trooper took the lead early in the competition and never looked back. Who could resist voting for a dog in a purple velvet jacket with zebra print lining? We believe it was the matching hat that pushed Trooper to the prize of a $150 Visa gift card. That's sure to buy a lot of milk bones for this cultured canine.

Trooper isn't the only new thing in New Jersey. K9 Resorts also posted photos from their new Fairfield location scheduled to open soon. Check out those sparkling hallways, and a sign that's sure to sparkle once the rain passes:

Franchisee Spotlight: Teresa DeSousa and Ivan Kaplan

Teresa holds a Bachelor’s degree in both sociology and history, and held a position as Director of Human Resources for a small consulting firm before realizing she wanted to start her own small business. Teresa is a big animal lover, and the chance to open up an animal-oriented business appealed to her and her business partner Ivan.

Ivan has been a lawyer since 1991, and decided to leave law to pursue a business that coincides with his love for animals. After 20 years of law practice, he decided to take his life down a different career path. 

How did you learn about the brand? Why did you choose the brand?

Ivan lives close to the franchise headquarters and saw a billboard for the K9 franchise. We were discussing doggy daycare options because, let’s be honest, who wouldn't want to play with dogs all day? I knew what I wanted and what I expected as an owner, and wanted to make that dream a reality.

What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A franchise allows you the freedom of owning your own business, while utilizing a model. I don’t have to recreate anything, but K-9 is specifically great because the owners are open to suggestions. There is room for give and take, and franchising in general is a smart thing to do. I wasn't thinking about buying into a franchise initially, however once I received more information, I knew this is what we wanted to do.  

What makes your business different?

K9 is a great location for dogs and it is known for its cleanliness. It’s a different experience for customers and their animals; it’s more of a spa experience. We don’t want these dogs left in cages all day; the animals should be taken care of well. It’s horrible when places isolate the dogs they’re boarding.

How do you connect with the local community through your business?

We want to give back to the community so one of the things we would like to do is work with developmentally challenged individuals who can receive therapy and socialization from working with dogs. Whether it be watching or feeding the animals, the act of spending time with dogs can be very therapeutic and nurturing. We will also get involved with civic community activities, as well as fundraising. We will work with the police and fire department for raising awareness on safety.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?

The uncertainty of opening up a new business is always a struggle. I had to quit my job and do temporary work so I had the time to start K9. There is a huge learning curve and a lot of involvement with architects, engineers, general contractors, and electricians. These things are new to me, as I've worked in corporate most of my career.

What are your expansion or development plans?

We would like to get this one off the ground first. Perhaps in the future we will open more locations.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?

I’m a huge fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants, and I also love to travel.

Franchise With K-9 Resorts!

Have you ever thought about owning a business? Think of how great it would be to be your own boss. When you buy into a franchise, you're buying into a proven business model without having to worry about all the stress that comes with a start-up. At K-9 Resorts, we have the tools you need to get started.

Today, one out of every three dollars spent by Americans for a good or service is spent in a franchise business.  A franchise increases your chances of business success because you are associating with proven products and methods. Purchasing a K-9 Resorts franchise allows you to be in business for yourself but not by yourself.  You will benefit from our 14+ years of success and proven track record in the pet care industry.  K-9 Resorts is the only pet care facility in New Jersey that is rated #1 by multiple major publications; that means we’re the best!  Don’t you want to learn from the best?

Brand Awareness

K-9 Resorts is the only facility in New Jersey that is rated #1 by multiple major publications.

The System

Our proven system works and will allow you to follow a proven track record and avoid the mistakes associated with starting a business on your own.  K-9 Resorts can offer you a level of support unmatched by others.

Economies of Scale

If you’re a single entrepreneur, you have the buying power of one.  If you’re a franchisee, your franchisor can negotiate bulk rates and pass along the savings to you.

Financing

Most new businesses require start-up capital, regardless of whether you franchise or not.  While most franchisors do not supply financing, we have relationships with lenders who will view that brand’s referrals more favorably than an independent business owner just starting out.

Marketing

We know what works and what doesn’t work.  With the help of K-9 Resorts Marketing Team, more of your advertising dollar is spent on advertising that has been proven to be successful.

Speed to Market

You can build the most beautiful dog boarding facility and fill it with the most expensive equipment.  That takes time as well as money.  Or, you can sign up with a franchisor who has done this before and be handed a shopping list of exactly what you need to set up shop, allowing you to open for business more quickly than if you had to research it all on your own.

Training

We offer extensive training in every aspect of running your business.  We cover everything from caring for pets to training new employees, from running a doggy daycare to purchasing supplies for your business. Our training program is designed with both classroom learning and practical training in a K-9 Resort to provide you with all the information and tools needed to run your business.

Support

We are here to support you as you begin your dream of owning your own business.  Our support begins the moment you sign your franchise agreement.  We work with you to help you select and secure the best site, obtain your financing and build out the location.  We will continue to support you as you open and grow your business.  Consistent communication and visits to your resort will be made by our team to provide business coaching, plan marketing, assist with employee development and create new strategies to build your sales.