The doors to DogTown, USA were officially opened this year by founder and owner Frank Charles, former Mayor of St. Augustine Beach, Florida. However, the inspiration behind it actually stemmed from a real-life need years earlier.
When Mayor Charles was looking for a place to board his two Labrador Retrievers -- Cirrus and Gator -- he was unable to find a place that provided the right environment for his dogs. It was then that he decided to open his very own pet resort. In 2001, Frank co-founded Pet Paradise Resorts with local veterinarian Dr. Norma Haupt. Pet Paradise grew to be such a huge success that Frank began work on a second location at Jacksonville International Airport.
Prior to a deal with the Airport, Frank and Dr. Haupt decided to sell their controlling interest in Pet Paradise Resort to Mr. Fred Goldsmith. Frank believed Mr. Goldsmith brought with him the required capital necessary to grow Pet Paradise Resorts across the country. Although Mr. Goldsmith had no experience in pet care, he did have a passion for animals. Over the next 10 years, Frank remained with Pet Paradise Resorts to share his ideas on building the best pet resorts possible. He was also involved in opening 12 more Pet Paradise Resort locations across the southeastern U.S.
In 2005, Frank established 4th Estimate, Inc., a company that manufactured a variety of products related to the pet boarding industry. These products were sold exclusively to Pet Paradise Resorts. Today, 4th Estimate continues to create new products that will soon be available to pet boarding facilities globally.
Frank Charles’ passion for animals and the pet boarding business have now led him back full circle. DogTown, USA is a 16,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art, all indoor themed pet resort dedicated to providing a safe, clean and fun environment. When choosing a pet resort, Frank believes that the owner/operator approach is always your best option. For this reason, DogTown, USA is being prepared for immediate franchise availability.
“We truly look forward to expanding our location themed pet resorts across the country,” says the former mayor.
If you would like to become the "Mayor" of your own DogTown, USA please feel free to contact us for more information.