The Pet Boarding and Daycare Franchise Caters to Pet Parents Who Want Best-in-Class Services for Their Fur Babies
Pet parents who want their fur babies to be happy and comfortable when they are away from home feel good about sending them to K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel for boarding and daycare services. With comfy bedding, premium food, beautiful, cage-free accommodations and a doting staff, dogs are treated like VIPs during their stay with K9 Resorts.
Christine Miller was a loyal customer before she invested in her Horsham, Pa. location. She loved the brand and its culture, so when it was time for her to make a career change, opening a K9 franchise in her area was a dream come true.
In Kim Tryon’s search for a pet-centric business, K9 Resorts stood out to her for many reasons. The animal lover and former veterinary technician wanted a business that met her high standards, and opening K9 Resorts in Mount Pleasant, S.C. was the answer.
Here, she shares her insights on the brand and offers advice for women in business.
Kim Tryon, Mount Pleasant, S.C. Opened for business: October 2019
What attracted you to K9 Resorts?
When exploring the initial idea of starting our own animal care business, we searched many different brands and even questioned if we could do it on our own. After our initial discovery day with K9 Resorts, we decided it was a good fit for us. The attention to providing the safest and cleanest environment for the dogs in our care was second to none. We knew it was a place we could be proud of!
What do you like most about the business?
I love the relationships we have made with our customers and their dogs. I have always been very comfortable around animals and have made some very strong bonds with the dogs in our care.
What is your advice for women in business?
Never be afraid to voice your opinion; surround yourself with a team that supports your vision. You can accomplish anything you want to do, but also know that it will require hard work and grit. Not every day will be easy and without challenge. You must do your best to balance work-home life. Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Know when to set limits for yourself when necessary to avoid burnout.
Christine Miller, Horsham, Pa. Opened for business: August 2021
What attracted you to K9 Resorts?
We were customers of the first K9 Resorts when we lived in New Jersey. I was impressed with everything about the operation and often commented that I wished I had come up with the concept myself! The idea of owning my own business, the core values of the brand, the opportunity to spend my day working with dogs, and the strong financial performance of the existing locations were what attracted me to K9 Resorts. I liked the idea of a franchise because at that stage in my career, I did not want to have to start a business from scratch.
What do you like most about the bushiness?
Besides working with dogs, of course, I like that it is my ship to sail. It’s a lot of hard work and responsibility, but I take pride in ownership— everything from keeping the facility welcoming and spotless to mentoring the staff, to making the customers (both dogs and owners) happy. I’m very hands-on and like the fact that the rapport I have developed with clients is a big reason why they come back.
What is your advice for women in business?
Lead with integrity! Be friendly and supportive with your team but set high standards with clear expectations. I know of some women who are successful but who “lead” using fear. I feel that people can respect you without having to fear you. Fear just creates a toxic environment. Do what is right for the business and admit when you make a mistake. Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability and understand that it is different from being “soft.” Developing a strong rapport with your staff, colleagues and superiors is key, but you also need to be smart and work hard.
For more information about the K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel franchise, visit www.k9franchise.com.
The Rise of Pet Parents
Pet ownership in the U.S. has jumped significantly over the past three decades. According to Forbes, as of 2023, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) own a pet. Millennials in particular have gone from pet owners to pet parents — treating their dogs and cats like children or equal family members. These pet parents want only the best for their fur babies and are willing to spend. The global pet market is worth $261 billion, according to Global Industry Analysts.