2008
13
$300,000
$49,500
$1,000,000
No
Camp Run-A-Mutt is a one-of-a-kind dog daycare and boarding franchise that has set a new standard in the booming pet care industry. Known for its cage-free, interactive environment, Camp Run-A-Mutt combines daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, and retail all under one roof. This award-winning concept has gained national recognition for its commitment to providing a safe, fun, and enriching experience for dogs while delivering peace of mind for pet parents.
With the U.S. pet care market surpassing $136 billion annually, demand for high-quality pet services is stronger than ever. Camp Run-A-Mutt has positioned itself as a leader by offering an innovative approach: cage-free play yards, live webcams for owners, personalized care, and premium amenities. Franchisees benefit from a trusted brand with a proven system, making it an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the rapidly expanding pet services industry.
Exploding Market Growth: The U.S. pet services industry continues to grow, driven by rising pet ownership and increased spending on premium pet care.
Unique Business Model: Cage-free daycare and boarding with live camera access set Camp Run-A-Mutt apart from traditional kennels.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Daycare, boarding, grooming, training, and retail sales create strong and diverse income opportunities.
Strong Brand Identity: With loyal customers, glowing reviews, and national recognition, the brand stands out in a competitive market.
Proven Franchise System: Franchisees gain access to established processes, training, marketing, and technology that minimize risks and maximize growth potential.
Established Year
Camp Run-A-Mutt was founded in 2008 in San Diego, California.
Founders
The franchise was started by Dennis and Severn Peterson, two passionate dog lovers who envisioned a safe, fun, and cage-free environment for dogs. Their idea was to create a daycare and boarding facility that mimicked a dog park more than a kennel, giving pets freedom, exercise, and socialization.
Company History & Brand Journey
The first Camp Run-A-Mutt opened in San Diego and immediately stood out in the market with its cage-free boarding and live webcam system, allowing pet parents to watch their dogs in real-time.
The unique model quickly gained popularity among dog owners, setting it apart from traditional kennels that often relied on cages and limited playtime.
Due to growing demand, the company began franchising in 2010, helping entrepreneurs nationwide bring this innovative concept to their communities.
Over time, the brand expanded into multiple states and has been consistently recognized as a top franchise in the pet care industry.
Franchise Units (Current Number)
As of 2025, Camp Run-A-Mutt operates 13 franchise locations across the United States.
Ownership
Camp Run-A-Mutt remains a privately held company with a strong focus on franchisee success and brand consistency. Each franchise is independently owned and operated, but supported under the national brand umbrella.
Market Presence in the USA
The franchise has a strong footprint in California, Texas, Florida, and other pet-friendly regions.
Known for its dog-centric approach, it has built a loyal customer base and continues to expand into suburban and metropolitan areas with high pet ownership.
Industry Category
Camp Run-A-Mutt belongs to the pet care services industry, specializing in dog daycare, boarding, grooming, training, and retail.
Reputation & Recognition
Praised for its cage-free boarding model and commitment to animal welfare.
Frequently listed among the top dog daycare and boarding franchises in the U.S.
Known for delivering a premium customer experience while offering franchisees a scalable and profitable business model.
Camp Run-A-Mutt ensures that franchise owners receive comprehensive support at every stage of their business journey.
Pre-Launch Support
Assistance with site selection and lease negotiation.
Guidance on facility design and layout for optimal cage-free operations.
Help with securing financing options and vendor relationships.
Operational Training
In-depth training on dog behavior, safety, and staff management.
Technology training, including live camera systems and POS software.
Day-to-day operational procedures for daycare, boarding, grooming, and retail.
Marketing Support
Local and national marketing strategies.
Access to branded promotional materials and digital marketing campaigns.
Social media management guidance to increase customer engagement.
Academic & Staff Training
Training programs for employees to ensure consistent, safe, and high-quality care.
Ongoing workshops and refresher courses on dog handling and customer service.
Ongoing Support
Regular field visits and operational support.
Franchisee forums and peer support networks.
Continuous updates to systems, services, and marketing strategies to stay competitive.
The ideal Camp Run-A-Mutt franchisee is:
Passionate about animals – Must genuinely love dogs and want to contribute to their well-being.
Business-Minded Entrepreneur – Individuals with management, customer service, or retail experience will thrive.
Financially Prepared – Should have the investment capacity to cover startup and operational costs.
Community-Oriented – Must be willing to build relationships with local pet owners and become a trusted community resource.
Hands-On Operator – While semi-absentee models are possible, owners who are actively engaged often see the best results.
Location Preference – Best suited for suburban or urban areas with high pet ownership and disposable income.
| Category | Estimated Cost / Fee |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $500,000 – $1,000,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $300,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $49,500 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 2% – 3% of Gross Sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out | $250,000 – $600,000 (depending on location & size) |
| Initial Marketing Budget | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Working Capital (First Year) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Training & Support Fee | Included in franchise fee |
| Expected ROI | Within 3–5 years |
| Break-Even Point | Typically 18–24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dog Daycare, Overnight Boarding, Grooming Services, Dog Training, Retail Sales (food, toys, accessories) |
| Current Franchise Units | 13+ Locations in the USA |
