Case Study - Rob Schuler

I came across the Barking Mad franchise when looking for care for my chocolate Labrador, Rolo. I just knew that kennels wouldn’t be right for him so I wanted to find an alternative. I had seen Barking Mad advertised in my local town so I decided to investigate the website and soon realised what a fantastic concept it is. Rolo would have his own holiday with a host family when I go away, what could be better?!

It was when I was investigating my local franchise that I noticed the business was actually up for re-sale. Initially I skimmed over it, but kept revisiting the idea. Could this be something I could do?  I had never considered running my own business before, so I did my homework and looked into the opportunity further.

At this time I was working for the RSPCA at the West Hatch Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. I had been there for three years having completed a Wildlife and Conservation Degree at Plymouth University. I really love meeting new people and I was used to looking after and caring for animals and I had even studied pack dynamics during my time at university so I felt I had enough experience to take on a Barking Mad franchise. I went to meet the local Barking Mad franchisee to discuss the re-sale in more detail. The more information I was given the more excited I became.

I chatted to head office about the opportunity. They were very professional and helpful and I soon made my mind up and made an appointment to visit them in the Lake District. I met with Lee Dancy, Managing Director and the other members of the team. I learnt about the Barking Mad franchise model and we discussed the re-sale in detail. In a very short time I was attending the four day training session at head office and learning how to become a Barking Mad franchisee. I was supplied with my initial stationery and corporate apparel, head office arranged press releases and adverts in my local papers and they were always on hand if I needed their support. I had purchased a well established franchise with a large customer and host base so I knew I would be kept very, very busy.

That was in May 2008. In January 2009 I purchased the neighbouring territory, Dorset so I was now running dual territories. I have since taken on a full time member of staff, Emma, who helps me run the two territories successfully. Barking Mad Somerset and Barking Mad Dorset continue to go from to strength to strength and I am so proud to be part of one of the nation’s number one pet care providers.