When an opportunity to purchase a Dogtopia daycare location in Jacksonville, Florida, became available at the end of 2023, Arizona-based retirees Peggy Cunningham and Barbara Laska seized the chance to take on this exciting next step. Fueled by a love for dogs, an existing desire to invest in a dog wellness and daycare franchise, and retirement-induced boredom, these partners became Dogtopians at the end of January 2024. Fast-forward to March, when they opened their doors, they immediately began meeting pet parents and caring for pups in their community while supporting dog-related community events and partnerships.

When searching for a franchise opportunity, what stood out to the partners were Dogtopia’s charitable efforts, including the Dogtopia Foundation’s employment initiatives for adults with autism, helping fund service dogs for veterans, and providing therapy dogs for hospitals and schools. “We love the fact that Dogtopia has this whole charitable side to it called the Dogtopia Foundation,” Laska said.

Learn more about Cunningham and Laska’s transition from retirement to franchisees of Dogtopia of Jacksonville Beach Boulevard in the Jacksonville Daily Record.