July 2018

118 119 tensive education is available for every new Camp Counselor to ensure they’re set up for success and that everyone will be safe.” Not only does Camp BowWow provide training on how to care for the dogs, they also provide business training and on-going coaching to help owners operate a successful business and maximize revenue. All Camp BowWow caregivers are known as Certified Camp Counselors and are extensively trained in dog behavior, pet first aid, and CPR. All facilities provide regular exercise, socialization and rest opportunities. And each facility per- forms extensive socialization reviews for new dogs, ensuring their personalities are compatible with both dogs and Camp Counselors.Windler notes, “We have a very specific interview process that we go through with every dog to determine whether they are a good fit with this environ- ment.We make sure they are going to be safe and have fun and be able to play well with others – just like any other parent would want for their children.” CAMP BOWWOW location. They loved the model and decided to ex- plore the opportunity and open the business in their area.” She continues, “The sec- ond way is online search. There are a lot of people interested in franchis- ing first, then looking for opportunities in the pet space when they realize it’s growing 7% annually. We have a successful SEO program that helps people find us, or they can find us through franchise net- works.We have a strong public relations campaign focused on national brand- ing that is really meant to benefit our franchise own- ers, but it can also work as a potential franchise funnel.” When it comes to vetting and onboarding potential franchise owners, Laurie Windler, Vice President of Operations provides this insight: “Once a franchise owner has gone through the application process, the potential owners come spend a few days with us to meet the leadership team and tour a Camp.We want them to really under- stand what the operation will be about. It’s a mutual interview to deter- mine if they are the right fit for our brand.” If a partnership is awarded, both parties move forward with building a new business.Windler explains the elements of the education and training process: “We do extensive training. There is a lot more that goes into this than just the love of dogs. Safety is number one. So ex- Everything we do is focused on the safety of the dog. We have extensive training for staff, dog interview process, and requirements. JULIE TURNER VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING