2009
19
$70,000
$55,000
$448,900
No
Pet Passages® is a leading provider of dignified pet aftercare services, offering compassionate cremation and memorialization options for pet owners across the United States. Founded by Mike Harris, a third-generation licensed funeral director, Pet Passages® was established to address the lack of professional and respectful end-of-life services for pets. The brand has since set the standard in the pet funeral and cremation industry, providing franchise opportunities for individuals passionate about supporting families during their time of loss.
High Demand Services: With 70% of U.S. households owning pets and 88% considering them family members, the need for compassionate pet aftercare has never been greater.
Proven Business Model: Pet Passages® offers a comprehensive franchise system with established protocols and support, ensuring franchisees can operate efficiently and effectively.
Recurring Revenue Streams: Services include private cremation, memorial products, grief resources, and more, fostering long-term customer relationships.
Exclusive Territories: Franchisees receive protected regional rights, allowing them to serve their local communities without direct competition from other Pet Passages® locations.
Established Year: 2009
Franchise Units: As of 2025, Pet Passages® operates 19 locations across 13 states, with additional units in development .
Founders: Mike Harris and Andrea Harris
Brand Journey: After the loss of their two Rottweilers, the Harrises recognized a gap in the market for professional pet aftercare services. They founded Pet Passages® to provide families with compassionate and dignified options during their time of loss.
Ownership: Privately held by Mike and Andrea Harris
Market Presence in the USA: Pet Passages® has a growing presence across the United States, with locations in states such as Florida, Michigan, Texas, and New York
Industry Category: Pet Services – Pet Funeral and Cremation
Pet Passages® offers comprehensive support and training to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, facility design, and obtaining necessary permits.
Training: A two-week training program at the corporate office in Ontario, NY, covering operations, customer service, and business management .
Ongoing Support: Monthly Zoom meetings, 24/7 access to the corporate team, and regular field visits to provide continuous guidance.
Marketing Support: Access to branded marketing materials, digital marketing strategies, and local advertising resources to help franchisees build their customer base.
Operational Tools: Proprietary Pet Passages® Pet Cremation Software and a comprehensive operations manual to streamline business processes.
The ideal franchisee for Pet Passages® is someone who combines a passion for animals with strong business acumen and community-oriented values. This franchise requires both empathy and operational efficiency, given the sensitive nature of pet aftercare services. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Passion for Animals and Compassionate Service
The franchisee should have a genuine love for animals and a desire to provide dignified care for pets and support for grieving families.
Emotional intelligence and empathy are crucial, as clients often seek reassurance during a difficult time in their lives.
Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Ability to connect with pet owners and provide professional, sensitive guidance.
Skilled in listening, comforting, and educating clients about aftercare options.
Business Acumen and Management Experience
Experience in business management, customer service, or operations is highly valuable.
Should be capable of handling staffing, finances, marketing, and day-to-day operations effectively.
Financial Readiness
Must meet the franchise’s minimum investment requirements and have access to working capital.
Ability to manage operating expenses, marketing budgets, and maintain steady cash flow is essential.
Community-Oriented and Local Market Focused
Ideally located in a community with a significant pet-owning population.
Eager to build strong relationships with local veterinarians, pet stores, and animal organizations.
Resilient and Professional
Prepared to handle the emotional and operational challenges of a sensitive service industry.
Professional demeanor and commitment to upholding the Pet Passages® brand standards are critical.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Motivated to grow the business, implement best practices, and expand services where feasible.
Innovative and proactive in marketing and community engagement.
| Financial Parameter | Details / Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $71,150 – $448,900 |
| Franchise Fee | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Minimum Cash on Hand Required | $70,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 1% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Costs | $15,000 – $50,000 (depending on location and facility) |
| Working Capital Requirement | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Training Costs | Included in franchise fee (travel & accommodation extra) |
| Expected ROI | Up to 30% or more |
| Break-Even Time | Approximately 12 – 18 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Private cremation services, memorial products, grief resources, tribute services, additional pet services |
