Fetch! Pet Care featured on The Pet Show with Dr. Katy

Check out Fetch! Pet Care's Christian Cunnane on the December 1st edition of The Pet Show with Dr. Katy.  Christian dropped by to give an update about the FreshFit Challenge.  Fetch! is working with the fine folks at Freshpet to get pets in shape.  The FreshFit Challenge is an all-encompassing plan to attack obesity in pets, combining the natural foods carried by providers such as Freshpet and the active care regimen practiced by all Fetch! Pet Care professionals.

Check out the segment here, or click on the video below.  Christian and Chip McFly show up at the 2:12 mark.

Fetch! Pet Care featured on MO.com

In a story profiling Fetch! Pet Care founder Paul Mann, which includes great photos, it talks about the Fetch concept and how it was created. In addition to touting the Fetch 91% Net Promoter Score, the Q&A article also includes information about how the brand grew throughout the country, the successful use of strategic partnerships for the brand, and the ongoing training and support geared toward Fetch franchisees.

“With nine out of ten of our customers positively promoting us to others, it clearly points to the success of this mission.”
by MO

Paul Mann is the Founder and CEO of FETCH! Pet Care, the largest pet sitting and dog walking franchise in the United States, serving thousands of clients in hundreds of cities and towns from coast to coast.

Fetch! Pet Care is the nation’s largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services. With over 3,000 bonded, insured pet sitters on staff, we serve thousands of pets and their owners in over 1,500 communities nationwide.

Paul Mann, Fetch! Pet Care founder and CEO

...

Click here to read the article.

Going on a Holiday shopping spree? Don't forget your furry friends!

If last year's numbers are any indication, then it looks like 2012 is going to be another record year for holiday spending.  Where do pet owners factor in the equation?

Industry insiders anticipate that spending on pets will top out at nearly $53 billion this year.  That's a lot of dog biscuits! Can you imagine how many chew toys that would buy?

If you're hitting the mall, the online shops or coming up with some do-it-yourself gifts, don't forget to pick up something for your four-legged friends.  When it comes time to exchange presents, don't let your beloved animal friends come through the holidays empty-handed, er, empty-pawed we mean!

Heading out of town for the holidays? Don't leave your pets hanging!

If you're among the millions of Americans hitting the road this holiday season, then you have to deal with the hassle of travel, lodging and a host of other headaches.  What about your four-legged friends? Where do pets rank on your holiday travel to-do list?

Luckily, there's no need to cancel a visit to out-of-state loved ones or shelve that dream vacation because your pet is averse to boarding.  Fetch! Pet Care provides services that meet the needs for ALL busy schedules this time of year, including in-home pet sitting.

Check out our website for a list of our services and more information.  Don't leave your furry loved ones out of the equation this year!

Fetch! Pet Care featured on WHAS 11 in Louisville

During the segment, Olin Barnett from Fetch! Pet Care in Louisville and his dog Sampson created a fun visual and talked about what to look for when considering adopting a shelter dog. 

Clik on the video below or watch the whole segment here.

Fetch! Pet Care featured on KPLR-TV

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on St. Louis' KPLR-TV, which aired on Friday, August 24th. The segment featured Randy Ring of Fetch! Pet Care of St. Louis discussing tips to keeping our K-9 friends healthy in honor of National Dog Day. With dog obesity on the rise, he discussed how Fetch! Pet Care can help. See below for the entire segment or click here.

  

Fetch! Pet Care featured in San Diego Pets' Magazine

Fetch! Pet Care featured in the San Diego Pet's Magazine in an article entitled "10,000 Free Meals."  The brief highlights Fetch! Pet Care’s Facebook contest giving away 10,000 free meals to the winner’s animal shelter of his or her choice.  Click here for the entire article or begin below.

10,000 Free Meals

Animal lovers everywhere are campaigning alongside Fetch! Pet Care to bring 10,000 free meals to the animal shelter of their choice. Fetch! is the nation’s largest provider of professional dog walking and pet sitting services, with more than 3000 professionals in 1500 communities, and they are spear heading the Luckiest Pet Contest at www.Facebook.com/FetchCorporate where the prize is awarding an animal shelter with 10,000 free meals.

(Read More)

Fetch! Pet Care Featured in Tails Pet Media Group Inc.

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured in Tails Pet Media Group Inc. in an article titled "Your Favorite Shelter Could Win 10,000 Free Meals."  The brief highlights Fetch! Pet Care’s Facebook contest giving away 10,000 free meals to the winner’s animal shelter of his or her choice.  Click here for the entire article or begin below.

Your Favorite Shelter Could Win 10,000 Free Meals

One of the biggest financial costs for a shelter is providing food for all their admissions. Enter the Fetch! Luckiest Pet Contest and you could win 10,000 free meals for your favorite shelter!


Animal lovers everywhere are campaigning alongside Fetch! Pet Care to bring 10,000 free meals to the animal shelter of their choice. Fetch! is the nation’s largest provider of professional dog walking and pet sitting services, with more than 3,000 professionals in 1,500 communities–they are spear heading the Luckiest Pet Contest at www.Facebook.com/FetchCorporate, where the prize is awarding an animal shelter with 10,000 free meals through September 15.

(Read More)

Fetch! Pet Care featured on The Pet Show on ABC 7 News Channel 8 WJLA

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on The Pet Show on ABC 7 News Channel 8 WJLA on June 30, 2012. The segment featured Christian Cunnane, Fetch! Pet Care owner in Alexandria, who discussed tips that pet owners can use to keep their dogs healthy and safe when the weather heats up. With much of the country experiencing an extreme heat wave, Christian discussed some preventative measures that pet owners can take to avoid overheating, such as walking the dog early in the morning or in the evening and to never leave your dog in the car, even for a quick errand. Christian gave viewers some tips on how to keep your pets comfortable whether you’re on a hike or at the beach (bring plenty of water and a bowl, set up an umbrella for shade) and how to tell if your dog is overheating. This segment is a great way for viewers to ensure that their pets are happy and safe even when the temperature skyrockets.  Click here for the video link which begins at 5:49.

Fetch! Pet Care at the International Franchise Expo

Do you live near NYC and are you interested in learning more about owning a Fetch! Pet Care Franchise? Come visit our booth at the International Franchise Expo on June 15-17 at the Jacob Javits Center. Fetch! Pet Care will be at booth #553 and our team would love to have you stop by.  For more information, click here. 

Contact Fetch! Pet Care for your Summer Holiday

Going on a summer vacation and looking for a reliable pet lover to take care of your pet?  Fetch! Pet Care can help! We take the stress out of finding a sitter and add convenience to your life by doing all of the legwork for you. We match you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. Our reliable, courteous pet sitters ensure your scheduling needs and any special requirements are met with consistent, responsive care.

                             

Fetch! Pet Care begins voting for My Pet's Naughtiest Moment Contest

Fetch! Pet Care has launched the voting for My Pet's Naughtiest Moment on our National Facebook page.  With over 40 entries, Fetch! fans do not have an easy job!  The contest is sponsored by Trupanion Pet Insurance, the winner will receive a New Apple iPad.  Voting ends on June 30, 2012.

Fetch! Pet Care featured in 1851 Online

Fetch! Pet Care's founder, Paul Mann, was recently featured on 1851 Online in an article titled, "How to Work with Gen Y."  Paul Mann expands on the topic of Gen Y within a franchising industry.  Particularly how the majority of Fetch! Pet Care's Franchisees have been under the age of 30.  Read on below to discover why Gen Y flourished with Fetch! Pet Care or click here for the entire article.

How to Work with Gen Y
By: Brian Diggleman

2012 is a tough time to be entering the work force. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment still hovers at 8.3 percent and although jobs are slowly coming back to the market, the competition is steep.

Young professionals aren’t just competing against each other. Former executives and managers with decades of experience are vying for some of the same jobs as recent college graduates.

The reality of the job market has many young people searching for an alternative means of building a future. More and more, they’re turning to franchising.
(Read More)
  

Fetch! Featured in Iowa Bystander

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured in the Iowa Bystander in an article titled, "Habitats 4 Hounds: Giving Back To The Canine Community."The article discusses how Des Moines Fetch! Pet Care franchisees Lorrie and Eric Culp sponsored the first build for Habitat 4 Hounds, a program created in Des Moines to improve the outdoor habitats of dogs. Habitat 4 Hounds provides doghouses and fences to owners with dogs that are usually chained to give them room to run around. Lorrie and Eric, who are dedicated to multiple animal rights organizations, say that the first build was a great success and that they hope to be involved in many more projects with Habitat 4 Hounds. For the entire article, see below.

Fetch! Pet Care featured on RGJ.com

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on RJG.com in an article titled, "Fetch! Pet Care of Reno Celebrates Four Year Anniversary."  The article profiles the fourth anniversary of the Reno location and its success with more than 8,000 pet visits.  Click here for the entire article or see below.

Fetch! Pet Care of Reno Celebrates Four Year Anniversary

May 7, 2012

Professional pet sitting and dog walking service, Fetch! Pet Care of Reno, celebrated its fourth year in business on May 7. Part of a nation-wide franchise system, the Reno location is owned and operated by Jen Eastwood and Betty Scott.

Since opening in 2008, Fetch! Pet Care of Reno has made more than 8,000 visits to pets of all kinds in Reno, Sparks and Carson City and currently serves nearly 300 active clients and more than 500 pets with a staff of 27 professional pet sitters.

“It’s really been amazing to see how the business has grown,” said Eastwood. “Caring for pets is our passion. Nothing makes us happier than making sure all pets are cared for, played with and loved. We’ve had the chance to get to know so many clients and their pets. It’s like a big extended family.”

Fetch! Pet Care of Reno offers a variety of pet care services including private dog walks, private kennel-free dog boarding, in-home overnight sitting, group play excursions, cat and small pet visits, doggy day and evening care, pet taxi, yard waste clean-up and more. The large staff of professional pet sitters are all licensed, bonded and insured. Founded by Paul Mann in 2002, the Walnut Creek, Calif., company began franchising two years later and now has 200 franchise locations nationwide.

For more information on Fetch! Pet Care of Reno, visit reno.fetchpetcare.com or call 775-787-9090.

Fetch! featured on Fox Small Business Center

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on Fox Small Business’ website in an article titled, "How Walking the Dog became a Franchise."  The article details the inception of Fetch! Pet Care and Paul’s original idea behind the business. Cindy goes on to write about the development markets Fetch! is looking to expand into, and discusses the fees associated with starting a Fetch! franchise. Jamie and Sandy are quoted on their experience of running a Fetch! franchise, with Sandy noting the support and training Fetch! provides its franchisees. Harry Loyle, chairman of Fetch!, is also quoted about the Fetch! growth potential.  Click here to read the entire article or begin below.

How Walking the Dog became a Franchise
By: Cindy Vanegas

With approximately 78.2 million owned dogs in America, the pet care industry is flourishing with puppy-loving entrepreneurs looking to service dog owners, who now account for 39% of U.S. households, according to the American Pet Products Association 2011- 2012 National Pet Owners Survey. In this week’s American Franchise Spotlight, we find out how one business owner scaled his pet sitting and walking service into a national franchise.

According to Paul Mann, the company’s founder and CEO, Fetch! Pet Care grew out of a simple need. “I was looking for pet care and couldn’t find someone who I felt comfortable giving the keys to my house to and entrusting with my pet,” said Mann.

Mann said his background in business process re-engineering inspired him to create a highly automated business for pets everywhere. He spent two years developing the concept and launched the first service out of San Diego in 2004.

Since then Fetch! has grown to 124 franchises in markets made up of baby boomers, young working professionals and dual-income family households. The company is looking to expand in California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Illinois, Texas, Ohio and from Florida up to the northeast.

Fetch!’s initial franchise fee is $15,000 for a territory of 50,000 households. Franchisees pay a 5% royalty and a 1.5% brand development fund, both paid monthly.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Randy Ring of St. Louis, Missouri

Franchisee Since: February 2005

Location: St. Louis, MO

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A:  Before I decided to go full time with Fetch! Pet Care, I was involved with various sales and marketing positions. My wife and I also published a magazine in St. Louis. My wife is active in the pet industry and runs a website where you can purchase different novelty dog items.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A: I was looking for something to that I could enjoy and feel passionate about. I saw some advertising for Fetch! Pet Care's pet franchise opportunities and began to research the brand. After learning more about Fetch!, I was sold on the possibility of pursuing a business with pets as the focus.

Q: Regarding your previous experience, which skills do you feel helped you in your business?

A:  I had a basic knowledge of business from marketing and sales positions. Franchising with Fetch! Pet Care made sense because they could provide me with experience specific to professional pet services that I was lacking. The system was already in place for me, so I could focus on the business and not have to worry about any start-up nightmares.

Q: Why did you choose to enter the pet care industry?

A: Although pet sitting business was a new industry to me, I have always had an active interest in animals. It was a business that I could feel good about and enjoy.

Q: What makes your business different?

A:  I have been with Fetch! Pet Care since very early on in the franchise. Being one of the first franchisees gave me the ability to see the company change and grow. My business approach is unique because I have been able to mature with the franchise and was able to learn quickly from their attentiveness.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com. 

Fetch! Pet Care featured on Life With Dogs

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on Life With Dogs in a blog post titled, "Mugsy's Legacy: Adopted Dog Provides 10,000 Meals For His Rescue Shelter." The feature details the story of Kathy Hicky and Ryan Henderlong, who, after losing their Newfoundland named Gus, decided to adopt Mugsy through Big Dogs Huge Paws. Kathy and Ryan quickly grow a close bond with Mugsy and decided to submit their story to Fetch! Pet Care's "Rescue Who Rescued Me" Facebook search to donate 10,000 meals from Freekibble.com to Mugsy's adoption center. Mugsy's story won the contest, however, a day later, Kathy and Ryan had to say goodbye to Mugsy - they later learned he had extensive damage from bb's, trauma from a possible car accident, and osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. Even though the story is a sad one, it calls out the need for older pets to be adopted and loved. Click here to view the entire post.


Mugsy's Legacy: Adopted Dog Provides 10,000 Meals For His Rescue Shelter 

In September 2011, after the sudden and unexpected loss of their beloved Newfoundland, Gus, Kathy Hickey and her boyfriend, Ryan Henderlong, were left with a 175 pound hole in their lives.As lovers of big dogs, they decided to adopt a giant breed through Big Dogs Huge Paws (BDHP), a rescue they found near their house in Colorado. After looking through the available dogs, they decided on an 18-month old Mastiff and sent in their adoption application. Sitting at her computer, Kathy continued to look through the rescue site and a thumbnail image of an older nine-and-a-half year-old Fila Brasilero, Mugsy, caught her eye.

(Read More)

Fetch! Pet Care featured in Bark Magazine

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured in Bark's "Spotlight" section for the Rescue Who Rescued Me contest. The Spotlight details the story of Mugsy and Mugsy’s owners Kathy Hickey and Ryan Henderlong. The piece goes on to outline the 5,204 votes Mugsy received, allowing Mugsy to donate 10,000 Halo Spot’s Stew meals to the rescue of their choice. Please view the spotlight below.
Fetch.bark.March

Franchisee Profile: Erin McBride of Hinsdale, Illinois

Name:  Erin McBride

Opening Date: March 20, 2012

Brand: Fetch! Pet Care

Location: Hinsdale, IL and surrounding area

Q: Where do you live?

A: I live in West Beverly, IL.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: Before franchising, I was working for the Chicago Public Schools as a project manager. Currently, I am working with Grace Educational Resources where we provide educational books to schools, which I will continue to do part-time while operating Fetch! Pet Care.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A: One day on the train ride home from work, I came across an article in the Red Eye about Fetch! Pet Care. Even though I was going to school for nursing at that time, I had been exploring career options in pet care. As soon as I read the article, I knew that working with Fetch! was exactly what I’d been looking for.

Q: Why did you decide to open your own business in this industry?

A: I’ve always had a passion for caring for animals of all types. The Red Eye article showed me that it really is possible to do what you love for a living. I began to research Fetch! and countless other pet franchise opportunities. I was excited to learn how successful Fetch! is in the pet industry and inspired to see how much Fetch! owner and founder, Paul Mann, loves his job.  At that point, my life changed course and I immediately began paving my way to become a business owner and pet care professional.

Q: When choosing a franchise, what were the criteria you used to make your decision and choose Fetch!?

A: I looked at other franchises that were similar to Fetch!, but overall, I realized that Fetch! was the best one out there, as I was able to work out of my home and the franchise cost was low. Their tagline is “we’ve got your tail covered” and they really do!  Fetch! has a ton of pet services like pet sitting and dog boarding, and really strive to make their pet and human customers happy. The support Fetch! provides their franchisees in phenomenal.  When Paul Mann actually called me personally to thank me for choosing Fetch!, and encouraged me to open my location, that was the deciding factor. Normally you don’t get a call from the CEO of a company, and I thought for Paul to make that connection with me was extraordinary, and it showed exactly what kind of company Fetch! was.

Q: What makes your business different?

A: I plan to market Fetch! and it’s pet sitting business to the extreme, really creating great visibility for the brand and our services so everyone in my community is aware that they have fantastic options when it comes to pet care. I personally hand pick my pet sitters and will only hire those that I would trust with my own pets. It takes a special person to dedicate their time to animals. My clients consider their pets a member of the family and it is my utmost priority to ensure the sitters caring for those pets uphold the same importance. Fetch! sitters are unique in that they provide one-on-one attention, establish a lasting, positive relationship and maintain a consistent and safe environment for the pets they serve.

Q: How does your business connect with the community?

A: I will be joining my local chamber of commerce, attending any and all pet-related events, from parades to adoption events and everything in-between, including sponsorship of such events. My pet sitters and I will partner with local shelters in the area, volunteering and advocating pet adoption, foster care and health and wellness.

Q: Are there any prominent industry trends that you are experiencing right now?

A: I think pet supply pickups and delivery, as well as pet taxi services, will be big in my territory.

Q: What are some of your achievements that you think will help you along the way in your business?

A: As a project manager for Chicago Public Schools, I believe I have great management skills, as well as fantastic customer service experience. Every job I’ve ever had has had a customer service element. Also, my love for animals is strong and deep. As long as my family has allowed me to, I’ve always fostered animals, and working in the pet care industry will only strengthen the bond I have with pets, including my customers’ pets!

Q: What are your expansion or development plans for the next year or two?

A: Within 2 years I would like to run another territory for Fetch! and, of course, increase business.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com. 

Fetch! Pet Care was featured on Franchise Chatter

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on Franchise Chatter in an article titled, "How Franchises are Turning to Facebook to Engage with Loyal Customers and Gain New Fans." The article discussed how Fetch! Pet Care was able to increase their Facebook Fan page from about 3,000 to 13,000 fans over the span of a little more than 2 months without advertising by engaging fans to share why their dog had the greatest rescue story. With a goal of 30,000 fans by the end of the year, the article shows how Fetch! Pet Care is utilizing social media marketing as a key business growth strategy and to show support for the animal adoption community. Click here to view the entire article.

How Franchises are Turning to Facebook to Engage with Loyal Customers and Gain New Fans
By:  AMBROSIO

A number of franchises are exploring creative ways to grow their Facebook following and engage with

loyal fans. The method of choice (at least for now) seems to be the use of contests where other Facebook fans vote for the winner.  This strategy has proven effective in boosting fan numbers for as long as the prizes at stake are significant enough to generate buzz and participation.  While giving away free stuff can easily increase fan numbers several fold, the real measure of success is the cumulative impact of the number of new cyber fans who become paying customers, the increase in spending among loyal customers, and the number of new franchises sold.  Watching your followers multiply as a result of the contest is the easy part.  The real challenge lies in converting these fans into actual dollars and cents.
 

(Read More)

Fetch! Pet Care featured on SecondAct.com

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on SecondAct.com in an article titled, "How I Did It: Getting Started in the Pet Business." The article features Fetch! Pet Care franchisees Paul and Deborah Quinn as they discuss how they got started in the pet care industry. When Deborah was laid off during the onset of the recession from her graphic design job, Paul thought they would be secure with his career in the housing sales market. When that started to fall apart, Paul and Deborah started looking for a career they could do together, and one they were truly passionate about. The couple often volunteered to take care of their friends pets when they went out of town, but the Quinn’s realized they could make a career out of this new found pet sitting passion, which is when they found Fetch! Pet Care. With a low investment cost of about $20,000, Paul and Deborah were able to open their own pet sitting business. Click here to view the full article.

How I Did It: Getting Started in the Pet Business
By: Geoff Williams

Your customers may shed and bark really loudly. The cats can be kind of standoffish. Fleas are an occupational hazard. But many people still love working in the pet industry.

Even in a sluggish economy, the pet industry is standing on all four legs. Last year, two-thirds of American households spent north of $50 billion on their pets, mostly on dogs.

That's a comfortable number to consider if you're thinking of taking your next career into the animal kingdom. Pet owners are consumers with serious purchasing power and unique habits, and they represent a compelling market for many businesses.

But if it isn't practical to get your veterinary or zoology degree, don't worry. There are plenty of other career avenues for working with pets.

Here are five second-act careerists who talk about how they got started in the pet business.

(Read More)

Franchisee Profile: Greg Alonzo of Chicago, IL

Franchisee Since: November 2007

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A:  Before becoming involved with Fetch! Pet Care, my wife Carolyn and I were both working in corporate America doing jobs like accounting, sales and customer service. Most recently, I worked with 7-Eleven, which is how I became familiar with the franchising industry. Initially, we had decided that I was going to get the company up and running while Carolyn continued to work for the University of Illinois. However, our circumstances changed, and we decided she would stay home to start the business. I left 7-Eleven a year later to join her.  

Q: Why did you choose to enter the pet care industry?

A:  I remember the day Carolyn showed me an article on MSN.com featuring Fetch! Pet Care, which made me realize that this opportunity was just the venture we had always been looking for. We rarely traveled because we had an issue with not having anyone trustworthy with whom to leave our pets. With Fetch! Pet Care, you don’t have to disrupt your life to find someone dependable to care for your pets.

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A:  I loved the idea of having corporate support. Being able to have help or get advice whenever you need it is very important. If you start a business from scratch, you will have to rely heavily on family and friends for that support. When you’re involved with Fetch! Pet Care, there is a whole family of other business owners who are waiting to help you before you ever open your doors.

Q: With respect to your previous career experience, which skills do you think help most with your business?

A: The main source of help is our customer service background. Carolyn has dealt with many different types of personalities from her work at the University of Illinois, and I have experience providing excellent customer service from previous corporate jobs. This advantage is definitely one of our strongest when dealing with clients.

Q: What makes your business a cut above the rest?

A:  We have a variety of pet sitters who are equipped to handle all different types of animals. We never had to turn a client down because we weren’t able to meet the needs of their pet. Having strong, knowledgeable pet sitters keep our clients coming back.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com. 

Fetch! Pet Care: 5 Ways Pet’s Make Better Companions

This Valentine’s Day, You don’t have to look far for love

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for lovebirds.  It’s a celebration of love for its intrinsic worth, and no one offers more love than a pet.  For those who need reminders of just how much our furry friends fill our lives with happiness, take a look at these 5 ways pets make better companions this Valentine’s Day:

1. Unconditional love:  Pets will never judge you.  They don’t care what you wear or how you look.  As long as you feed, play with, and love them back, you will never have to worry about being alone.  Most pets are naturally affectionate and seek out the affection and approval of their owners.  Everyone wants to be loved, and pets are no exception.

2. Loyalty: There is a reason for the saying “dog is man’s best friend.”  That reason is simple: loyalty.  A dog, or any other pet, is never going to turn its back on you when times are tough.  You never have to worry about being stabbed in the back, cheated on, or lied to with your pet.  You are your pet’s first priority, and they will look out for you when no one else will.

3. Fun: Pets thrive off of energy and fun.  There is never a shortage of good times when a pet is in your life, because they are a constant source of laughter and play.  Playing with your pet can cheer you up on even the worst days.

4. Trainable: Have you ever wished that you could get your boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse to do something you wanted without nagging?  Not only are most pets trainable, but they often enjoy having discipline in their lives.

5. Listeners: No matter how bad your day is, your pet will always be there to listen.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com. 

Fetch! Pet Care's Valentine's Smoochiest Pet Contest

Fetch! Pet Care has a new contest for the month of February and it of course revolves around Valentine's Day! In our "Valentine's Smoochiest Pet Contest," Fetch! is asking for their fans to submit a photo of their pet's sweetest, wettest, and sloppiest kisses to either them, a family member or friend, or fellow pet! Winner will receive a $250 Gift Card to PetCareRx!

To enter, entrants must first like Fetch! Pet Care on Facebook. They they visit the tab "Kissing Contest", fill out their information and submit their Smooching photo.

Does your pet love to give sweet, slobbery kisses? Let us see!

Franchisee Profile: Peggy Kennedy of Los Angeles, CA

Name:  Peggy Kennedy

Opening Date: March 2006

Brand:   Fetch! Pet Care

Location: Los Angeles, CA - West Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Sherman Oaks of North Hollywood

After spending numerous years in the retail management and financial industries, local business owner Peggy Kennedy realized that she needed a career she was passionate about. After taking a two month leave of absence to intern at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, UT, Peggy finally realized where her heart belonged – with animals. Leaving the retail management and financial industries for good, Peggy moved to LA from Boston in order to pursue her new found passion. After being employed as a pet sitter with Fetch! Pet Care, the nation's largest and most trusted franchisor for professional pet sitting and dog walking services, she finally decided to open her own business.

Q: Where are you from?

A: Although I was in Boston for 14 years, I’m originally from Rochester, NY. I moved to Boston to attend college and fell in love with the city. In fact, I would still be there if I could.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: Before I got into franchising, I was involved in the retail management industry and financial industry. I began selling industrial equipment for a small family owned business in MA, but wasn’t thrilled with my career. From there, I got into the financial world and worked for Capital One for six to seven years. However, I became antsy and couldn’t stand being confined in the office anymore. In search of another career, I took a two month leave of absence to intern at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, UT to see if I wanted to work with animals. Although I loved it, the location was very remote and not a place where my husband could sustain his career. Shortly after my internship finished, my husband and I decided to move to LA, which was much more appropriate for him. We’ve been here since 2005.

Q: How did you learn about the brand?

A:  I learned about the Fetch! Pet Care brand from the existing location in west LA. I worked with that location as a sitter and finally decided to open my own pet sitting business!

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A: The most appealing aspect of joining a franchise system for me was the fact that everything was already in place. I didn’t have the time or money to invest in my own business, so the turnkey operations aspect was also attractive.

Q: With regard to your previous experience, what skills do you feel helped you in your business?

A: While in the industrial equipment sales industry and financial industry, I was able to gain a lot of customer service experience. As a result, I’ve become successful at diffusing situations and giving customers what they need. In addition to customer service skills, I was also able to gain administrative operation skills which have helped me become extremely organized. By becoming organized in my professional career, I’m able to work more quickly and efficiently.  

Q: What makes your business different?

A: I believe my business’s communication skills set us apart from others. As a business, we try to respond to every voicemail and email within an hour in order to acknowledge our customers in an appreciative manner. By doing so, we keep an open flow of communication. It’s what makes or breaks our business.

Q: How does your business connect with the community?

A: Our biggest contribution to the community is my involvement with the local Animal Rescue. I also do some free walks myself and try to donate my time and money.

Q: Are there any prominent industry trends that you are experiencing right now?

A: The industry has seemed to follow the economy. For instance, I grew significantly from 2006 until 2008. By the time September 2008 came around, I noticed our business slowly declining. Our business kept declining in 2009, but we managed to get by. By 2010, we started to see the industry slowly picking up. Now, in 2011, business has gone bonkers. I’m not sure if more people have found a need for mid-day walks, or if people are taking more vacations, but it seems as though people are back to traveling.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com.

Fetch! Pet Care featured on WGN Midday News

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured on WGN Midday News in Chicago. Fetch! Pet Care franchisees Carolyn and Greg Alonso brought four dogs along with them to demonstrate four different exercises that people can do with their pets as part of the show's Midday Fix segment. The couple spoke with news anchor Dina Bair at length about the benefits of exercising with your pet and just how easy it is to do. Click here to watch the entire segment.

WGN Midday Fix Segment

Fetch! Pet Care featured on Denver's CBS4 Morning News

Fetch! Pet Care was recently featured in a segment on Denver's CBS4 Morning News! The segment featured Felicia Quintana, Fetch! Pet Care owner in Denver, who discussed tips that pet owners need to know when the temperature drops. Felicia demonstrated a few tips by bringing her dog in-studio to show how to fit them for jackets to conserve body heat and talked about the importance of using pet-safe alternatives to snow-melting chemicals. This segment is a great way for viewers to ensure that their pets are happy and healthy during the winter months. Click here to view the video or watch it below.
 

Franchisee Profile: Chris Pulliam of Fort Worth, Texas

Fetch! Pet Care – Chris Pulliam

Franchisee Since: 2007

Location: Fort Worth, Texas

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A:  Before franchising with Fetch! Pet Care, I was working for a company that trains commercial truck drivers. My wife and I wanted to look into a business where I could keep my job and the benefits that they provided my family. I wasn’t ready to venture out on my own with a business.

Q: What was appealing to you about joining a franchise system?

A: My family has been always been entrepreneurs. My great grandfather started a swimming pool business which has been in the family for years. Swimming pools weren’t something that interested me so out of college I began thinking about the pet care industry and opportunities to start a business in that field. After my wife and I got married and had children, we were looking for something that we could do that would still allow me to keep a full time job. Going back to the pet care industry, I found Fetch! and decided it was an affordable opportunity in a field that I cared about.

Q: Regarding your previous experience, which skills do you feel helped you in your business?

A:  I think my previous experience managing people has really helped me. I have 8 contracted employees and I have had to be very selective with who I hire. You must have good pet sitters to run a successful business and be able to trust them. You have to have a good relationship with them so they can provide the best customer service.

Q: Why did you choose to enter the pet care industry?

A: We chose to enter into the pet care industry because we love pets! The people that use Fetch! are the type of clientele that hold their pets in high esteem, and since I have always had an interest in this field, it seemed like a natural fit that I would help care for other people’s animals.

Q: What makes your business different?

A:  Most pet companies are one person operations. We have many different pet sitters so no matter what you are going to get a qualified and trusted sitter from us. We will never have to turn a pet away because we are prepared to handle many different clients.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com. 

Franchisee Profile: Libby Mitchell of Dallas, TX

Name:  Libby Mitchell

Opening Date: May 2009

Brand:   Fetch! Pet Care

Location: Dallas, TX

Q: Where are you from?

A: I am originally from New Jersey but went to college in Massachusetts before I began working for the Forest Service.   I worked in a variety of different fields from computers to finance and moved to Texas 13 years ago.

Q: What was your career before franchising?

A: I received my degree in biology and worked for several companies before I decided personality-wise that I was better suited to working for myself.  I actually opened a small independent film business in 2002 and we do work on feature film, short films, and industrial work. 

Q: Why did you decide to open your own business?

A: I was very interested in running and managing a company. Corporate jobs do not offer a lot of freedom, so I wanted to do something that would allow me to use my ideas and personality. I have experience as an entrepreneur from owning my production company and have a love for animals, so I wanted to explore my options with a business that could combine the two.

Q: When choosing a franchise, what was appealing to you about Fetch! Pet Care?

A: I was looking at franchises on MSN and Fetch! kept coming up as a successful and thriving franchise business. I decided to look into it and met with Fetch! executives in May 2009. The ground work was already laid out and the name alone has a great reputation. Although no business is completely recession proof, it was clear they are expanding at a steady rate. I have worked with rescue animals since I was a teenage and have several rescue dogs living with us and also take care of my mom who lives with us.  I needed a business which focused on the well-being and care of others and something I knew I would enjoy.

Q: With regard to your previous experience, what skills do you feel helped you in your business?

A: I worked with a woman who owned five businesses and I was her operations manager charged with keeping everything on track. I own a small production company as well, so I have a lot of experience when it comes to managing and running a company.

From my experience as a leader, I have a good sense of how to encourage everyone to work as a team and for a common goal, which, in this case, are happy clients and pets!

Q: What makes your business different?

A: The sitters and I really connect with the clients, and they are very appreciative and loyal. All of our sitters are pet  first aid trained in case of an emergency; they know what to do and how to handle an urgent situation. Everyone that works with me is happy and upbeat. What is most important to me is are  sitters who can work with animals and understand people because those are the two most important qualifications in our line of work.

Q: How does your business connect with the community?

A: We reach out to the community in a variety of ways. We handle from different angles  from attending events to social networking such as posting on blogs. We work with adoptions and non-profit pet organizations, such as Garland Pawsibilities, Linens for Animals, and Richardson Animalluv.

Q: What are some of your achievements (professionally or personally) that you think will help you along the way in your business?

A: I set goals every year, and I do my best to achieve them every year.  I may not make it right on the time period I want, but they do happen.  I think it is important to set goals because I always have the motivation to work harder and make my business the best it can be.

Q: What are your expansion or development plans?

A: I would probably like to expand in the future. I’m really interested in Allen and McKinney (Texas), so I plan to put out some feelers and see what happens.

ABOUT FETCH! PET CARE

Fetch! Pet Care was founded in Berkeley, Calif., in 2002 by Paul Mann, who wanted his pets to remain in his home instead of kenneling them while he traveled. Finding no professional company suitable to the task, Mann started his own firm with the goal of providing as-needed, reliable, and loving care to pets of all kinds. Today, there are more than 3,000 Fetch! professionals operating in 1,500 U.S. communities. FETCH! Pet Care is the nation's largest and most trusted provider of professional pet sitting and dog walking services, serving thousands of pets and pet parents from coast to coast. Comprised of pet lovers turned business owners, each independently and locally owned Fetch! focuses on taking the stress out of finding a sitter and adding convenience to customer’s lives by doing all of the legwork for them. Fetch! matches you and your pets with the most qualified, experienced pet professional possible. For more information, visit www.fetchpetcare.com.