All Things Dog Blog

Posted: 03 Sep 2009 03:00 PM PDT

Everywhere I look lately, in pet services guides, the Yellow pages, and even the newspaper, I am finding more and more franchised pet services businesses. Groomers, trainers, boarding and daycare, pet sitters, veterinarians, pet products stores, and much more, have all turned to that big business arena where they can gain instant notoriety through national advertising.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with this strategy, of course, except when you want to have a relationship with a local owner. While generally the owner is a hands-on manager and fully involved in the business, it is up to you to determine if their training has gone beyond how to run their business.

What am I saying exactly? It's simple: Buyer Beware. If you want to hire, for example, a trainer, check out their references or training and experience. Have a few conversations with your prospect before signing on the dotted line. Your experience will depend largely on theirs.

Best wishes for a successful choice in every area of your dogs' needs. Have you had a positive experience with a local franchisee? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Perhaps I can share them with my readers, confidentially, of course. You can reach me via email at LetsAdoptaDogPark@gmail.com . Good pet businesses are good for pet businesses, if you know what I mean. I'd love to hear from you if you have some favorites that should have their horn tooted a bit.

One last note. Did you know that you can email my posts to a friend with a single click? Look at the bottom of this post and you will find a cute little envelope icon. Click that icon and fill in the email address you'd like to send my post to--anytime you like. It's that easy. Feel free to share my tips with your dog friends and family. I hope to see you again soon. Happy tails!