At Petpals, the nation’s longest-running multi-service pet care franchise, its network of franchisees prides itself on supporting the areas it serves, and this does not stop at providing quality pet services to its community of furry friends. 

A growing number of franchisees are placing importance on supporting their communities through charitable initiatives that raise money and awareness for the causes they and their communities care about most.

Most recently, Maxine Neal (left) at Petpals Cardiff, Robbie Brown at Petpals Christchurch and Franchise Support Manager Tracey Dawber have all gone above and beyond through various fundraising activities that support those in the community, including the four-legged kind.

“I’m always looking for ways to get involved in charitable activities and bring awareness to causes that show that we’re not just dog walkers, we’re people that care about people too,” says Maxine. “I’ve taken part in fitness challenges such as skipping, walking and planking and even completed a 5k dog run with one of my client’s four-legged friends, Fudge! 

"I recently raised money for Cancer Research, a cause close to Petpals Cardiff's heart, as one of our clients is currently undergoing treatment. I've also supported animal charities such as Blue Cross and Dog’s Trust. As a franchisee, I take pride in not only running a successful business but also in supporting charitable initiatives that benefit those around us.”

Robbie Brown firmly believes in using his business's success for good after only launching in December and already seeing fantastic results.

"As a Petpals business owner, I see first-hand the impact that my business has on the local community,” says Robbie. “That's why it's important for me to not only provide excellent service to our customers but also give back through other means. I recently donated to FurBuddies Animal Rehoming Centre, a fantastic charity that works to rehome dogs in my local area. 

“Like myself, FurBuddies is passionate about animals and clearly love the dogs they look after. Every dog deserves a loving home and proper care, and I feel that it's my duty as an animal lover and Petpals franchisee to support organisations that work tirelessly to make that a reality. For me, it isn’t just about writing a cheque, it's about making a difference in animals’ lives and showing my community I care."

It is not only franchisees going the extra mile. Members of head office are also making a concerted effort to raise money and awareness for causes close to their heart. Franchise Support Manager Tracey is currently training for this year’s London Marathon to raise money for Dog’s Trust.

"Preparing for the London Marathon has been both a physical and mental challenge, but it's all worth it when I think about the impact I can make on my community through raising money and awareness for charity,” says Tracey. "I am proud to be a part of a franchise that cares deeply about the welfare of pets and the wider community as a whole, and I hope my participation in this year’s marathon raises important funds for such a worthwhile charity and inspires more charitable activities within our network.”

As a community-focused franchise, for Kevin Thackrah, Director of Petpals, it is important that the network dedicates time to giving back to the communities it serves.

“While much work is needed to become a successful franchisee, the importance of spending time to give back to your local community shouldn’t be overlooked,” explains Kevin. “Whether you donate an hour of your time or 15 hours, when you give back, you gain a deeper connection and a stronger relationship with your customers.

“At Petpals, we recruit our franchisees because they exhibit a real passion for helping their community. Owning a franchise comes with a certain amount of responsibility to the community you serve, whether that’s on your own doorstep or a particular cross-section of an industry or sector. Our franchisees do a fantastic job of supporting their local communities, and they really do practise what they preach.”

To support Tracey’s run in this year’s London Marathon in aid of Dog’s Trust, visit https://2023tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/tracey-dawber

For more information on franchise investment opportunities with Petpals, visit

www.petpals.com/purchase-a-new-franchise/