For those of you who have known us for the past 13 years, you know that we ran a successful small dog daycare. We started the daycare in 2012 with our friend, Renee Morin, and took over full ownership in 2017. Over the following 7 years our little daycare that could continued to grow and we reached full capacity in 2024.
We survived Covid and came out stronger than ever, but without enough room to expand, we ran into some trouble. The last year we had to say no to so many dogs wanting to book because we just didn't have room.
So we set off to find a new location where we could expand and grow. But we found ourselves repeatedly asking – is this what we want?!? Can we sustain more growth and still be proud of who we are?
Both Garth & I felt like we were at work all the time. I had a full time job outside of daycare, and Garth was often left on his own to deal with issues with dogs, staffing and scheduling. We were both burning out and we weren't sure what the right step was for our future.
Then we met the folks from The Dog Circle. Also a successful daycare, but much younger than us (3ish years). We met to discuss options. They had lots of space and were looking for someone to board their small dogs in their home. After discussing options, we came up with a plan that would give everyone what they needed. Growth for The Dog Circle and some of our life back for Garth & I. And so a plan was born. We were moving our daycare to The Dog Circle.
This past month has been super busy, stressful and I can't even tell you about all the emotions we felt on a daily basis. Talk about a roller coaster! It was more like a slingshot, lots happening at the same time.
It is now June 21st and many of our Little Dog House Dogs have had their first week at The Dog Circle. Dogs are happy. Parents are happy. The move seems to be a success!
Garth & I will focus on sleepover services and provide information and advocacy for small dogs. This is plenty to keep us busy!
Every day I question if we made the correct decision. We did. Our dogs deserve more than we were able to give. Our staff deserved more. We deserved more. This way, we all get what we deserve.
Stay tuned for what's to come!!
Lee & Garth Wilcox
