Q&A: Does PetStay Franchise in the UK?

Alice Tuffery, writer

Published at 19/05/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Q&A: Does PetStay Franchise in the UK? — Photo © Petstay_.jpg

If you've always loved dogs or you’re interested in working with animals, PetStay could offer you the business opportunity you’re after. With over a decade of experience in the pet care industry, it’s one of the world's leading dog-boarding specialists. But does PetStay franchise? Let’s find out.

PetStay is a globally recognised brand committed to providing specialised care for its clients’ dogs. It positions itself as an alternative to kennels, where pets often feel cooped up, and separates dogs from different households so each visitor can enjoy their own mini holiday.

Does PetStay franchise?

Yes! It’s a leading pet franchise currently looking for new franchisees, so it can expand across the UK. If you think you can deliver high-quality dog boarding services, take a look at the business’s investor requirements - you may find you’re already qualified to become a PetStay franchisee.

History of PetStay

The business was founded in 2005 by Carole Davy, and now has a network of 35 franchise units and 500 dog carers across the UK. It’s also considered to be one of the fastest growing franchises in the pet industry, which bodes well for investors who want to take a slice of the pie.

Born from Carole’s frustration with the lack of alternatives to traditional kennels, PetStay aims to provide a dog boarding service that gives all dogs the love and attention they need. Since its launch, the company has won various awards and consistently earned five-star ratings by franchisees and customers alike.

Over the years, the franchise has distinguished itself from competitors by becoming one of the first dog boarding services to receive licences in many vital areas of pet care. Plus, all dog-sitters and handlers are licensed and insured, while franchisees are selected for their ability to uphold PetStay’s high standards of service. When customers drop off their dogs at the franchise, they know their beloved pet will receive five-star care.

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Starting a PetStay franchise unit

Running a franchise unit with PetStay involves more than dog-sitting. Each pet is different, so you must be able to tailor your care to their individual needs if you’re going to make sure every dog is happy and healthy during its stay.

Every PetStay franchisee creates and trains a network of carefully-selected dog carers, matching dogs to the most suitable employee. PetStay is a home-based franchise, so overheads are low and franchisees can adopt flexible working practices to suit their lifestyle and requirements.

Becoming a PetStay franchisee:

Although PetStay is highly selective about the franchisees it appoints, you don’t need experience of working with animals to succeed in the business.

Instead, PetStay looks for individuals with a firm grasp of business fundamentals and an ability to interact with customers in a positive, friendly and understanding manner. You’ll also need a willingness to learn and a desire to grow your business as quickly as possible.

Of course, the most essential quality in any PetStay investor is a genuine affection for dogs. If you meet all these criteria, you could make a great franchisee.

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How much you need to invest:

If you’re considering opening a franchise, you’ll need to be able to cover an initial minimum investment of £9,995 +VAT. You should be able to fund up to 70 percent of it through bank business loans.

As a PetStay franchisee, you’ll run your business under the PetStay name and get the rights to grow it across your geographical territory - but you’ll never be in business alone. The PetStay package is one of the most extensive ones offered by a dog franchise in the UK, and you’ll continue to receive guidance and support as your unit matures.

What you get for your investment:

As well as the right to trade under the PetStay name, you’ll gain access to a comprehensive franchise package with the vast majority of materials you’ll need to get started. The pack includes everything from the all-important operations manual and digital systems to sales literature and stationery. Marketing materials are also provided; you’ll get immediate access to 10,000 leaflets, business cards and campaign products.

One of the biggest benefits of the PetStay franchise package is the training and ongoing support it provides. All new franchisees have the chance to take part in a three-day learning course at the business’s headquarters. The programme covers topics as diverse as business management, the dog-carer matching process and social media marketing, among other topics.

You’ll also receive ongoing support in the form of top-up training programmes, regional and national meetings and conferences, and high-quality business management advice and guidance.

When it comes to franchisee support, PetStay has repeatedly been awarded five stars and scored eight percent higher than the industry average. The franchise guarantees excellent guidance and advice throughout your business’s lifetime.

Join an animal business in the franchising world

While launching a business from scratch involves a fair amount of risk, franchising can offer valuable security. Rather than experiment with different strategies and techniques, you can buy the rights to a proven model, knowing that it works. You’ll also gain access to an existing customer base and positive brand reputation - which is helpful when you’re asking people to trust you with their much-loved pets.

PetStay gives dog lovers the chance to turn their passion into a full-time job - and become their own boss in the process. The franchise’s stellar reputation is one of its greatest appeals, giving franchisees the assurance they need to make the leap into entrepreneurship.

But if the PetStay franchise model doesn’t quite fit your requirements, you might find more suitable options in our catalogue of animal businesses. The investment opportunities range from dog washing and walking to pet food retail, so you’re likely to find something you love.