Don't Fret Pet- Dog minding proves recession proof!

Written on the 9 December 2010

“Don’t Fret Pet!” Franchise Operation Continues To Grow As Dog-Minding Proves Recession-Proof

No matter how tough times are, Australians don’t believe in compromising when it comes to doggie care. That’s the latest finding of “Don’t Fret Pet!”, the dog-minding service that continues to grow in leaps and bounds in response to the needs of a nation that has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the world.

“Don’t Fret Pet!” is the country’s largest dog-minding franchise operation which uses specially designed software to match a dog’s temperament and needs with the perfect host family. It’s become the popular solution for the large market of ‘pet parents’ who want to ensure their dogs won’t suffer stress and anxiety in their absence.

“Almost fifty percent of households in Australia own dogs and the majority see their pet as an important member of the family and care about their wellbeing 52 weeks of the year, including those weeks when they can’t be with them,” says Kathleen Mansfield, Director of “Don’t Fret Pet!”. “Our service is sought by the many dog owners who want a safe alternative to caging their dogs or leaving them alone when they travel for business or holidays.”

Ms. Mansfield says interest in franchises is skyrocketing as demand for the service isn’t affected by the economic turmoil. “Regardless of circumstances, people want their much-loved dogs to be well cared for when they have to be away from them.” That finding is mirrored worldwide. International associations of pet sitters also report that the recession hasn’t caused a decline in business.

With franchise fees at $35,000 and potential return on investment at $100,000 to $140,000 per annum, “Don’t Fret Pet!” is proving of interest to those who want a home-based business that allows for a life/work balance. Each franchisee recruits their DFP dog-minders. Currently, there are more than 700 across the nation, and more are signing on every day.

The “Don’t Fret Pet!” program provides training, support and specialized software that matches details of the dog’s personality, habits, and quirks with carefully screened host family preferences, routines, and house details to come up with the perfect fit for both pooch and dog-sitter. “We’re the envy of dating services with our match-making that ensures love at first sight,” laughs Ms. Mansfield.

The company, run by business partners Jenny Brearley and Kathleen Mansfield, was started in 1993 as a single outlet in Sydney by Ms. Brearley whose Rhodesian Ridgeback showed signs of distress during kennel stays. In the last nine years, business has increased eight-fold and there are 13 franchise operations in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Canberra.

For information about purchasing a “Don’t Fret Pet!” franchise fill in the contact form here.