Camp Bow Wow: Leading the Pack in Modern Dog Care

Established in 2000 by entrepreneur Heidi Ganahl, Camp Bow Wow has transformed the pet care landscape with a fresh, engaging approach to dog boarding and day care. Since launching its franchise program in 2003, the brand has grown steadily, now operating more than 200 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Based in Westminster, Colorado, Camp Bow Wow provides comprehensive services such as doggy day care, overnight stays, grooming, and training. Each facility is designed to create a safe, stimulating environment where dogs can thrive.

Unlike conventional kennels, Camp Bow Wow emphasizes freedom and fun through an open-play model. Dogs enjoy supervised play all day in spacious indoor and outdoor areas, under the watchful care of Certified Camp Counselors trained in pet CPR and first aid. This innovative setup allows for plenty of socialization and activity, contributing to the pets’ mental and physical wellness.

Training

Camp Bow Wow offers a robust and multifaceted training program to ensure franchisees and their teams are fully prepared to operate a franchise successfully. These programs cover both foundational training before launch and ongoing development afterward.

1. Initial Camp Services Training Program
   Franchisees and their managers must complete this program to Camp Bow Wow’s satisfaction prior to beginning operations. The program includes classroom and potentially on-site training, covering operational standards, customer service, and use of the Operations Manual. Costs for travel, lodging, and other related expenses are the responsibility of the franchisee.
2. Dog Training Program
   Any personnel designated to provide dog training services must complete CBW’s approved dog trainer certification. This ensures that services are consistent with CBW’s quality and safety standards.
3. Scout Training Program
   This marketing-focused program is aimed at individuals handling local marketing activities. Typically held in Westminster, Colorado, or another designated location, it is included in the Initial Franchise Fee for one participant and covers brand messaging and promotional strategies.
4. Ongoing and Additional Training
   CBW may require supplemental or refresher training at any time, especially if inspections identify issues or new services are introduced. Franchisees may also request further training, which may incur additional costs.

Territory Protection

Camp Bow Wow provides franchisees with a designated "Authorized Territory" in which they are licensed to operate. This territory is defined based on demographic and geographic data, and the franchisee is allowed to advertise and offer services exclusively within this area.

However, the franchisor retains significant rights that limit the exclusivity of this territory. The franchisor, Camp Bow Wow, reserves the right to operate or authorize others to operate businesses both within and outside the franchisee’s territory, under different trademarks or names.

They may also distribute products and services via alternative channels, such as retail stores, mail order, or the internet, without restriction to the territorial boundaries. Therefore, while the franchisee enjoys certain operational privileges within their territory, it is not a fully protected or exclusive zone against all forms of competition.