About Us
Independent Pet Franchise Research
Helping prospective franchisees make informed decisions through objective data and analysis.
Our Mission
PetFranchises.org exists to help prospective franchise owners navigate the complex landscape of pet industry opportunities. We believe that better information leads to better decisions—for franchisees, for the brands they join, and for the pet owners they serve.
The pet franchise space includes dozens of concepts with dramatically different business models, investment requirements, and operational characteristics. Understanding these differences is essential before making a significant financial commitment.
We provide objective comparison tools and educational content designed to help you ask the right questions, understand the key metrics, and evaluate opportunities based on what matters to your specific situation.
Our Methodology
Data Sources
All franchise data on this site is sourced from official Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) filed with state regulators. FDDs are legal documents that franchisors must provide to prospective franchisees, containing standardized information about fees, obligations, and system details.
Investment Ranges
Investment figures reflect the ranges disclosed in Item 7 of each franchise's FDD, which includes franchise fee, build-out, equipment, inventory, and initial working capital. Actual costs may vary based on location, lease terms, and market conditions.
Fee Calculations
"Royalty + Ad Fund" represents the combined ongoing royalty fee and required advertising fund contribution disclosed in the FDD. "Additional Fees" includes technology, software, and infrastructure fees but excludes local marketing requirements and mandatory product purchases, which vary.
Staffing Estimates
Staffing numbers reflect minimum requirements for safe and effective operations as described in FDDs, franchise marketing materials, and industry research. Actual staffing needs vary based on location volume and operating hours.
Updates
We update our database as new FDDs become available, typically annually. The pet franchise landscape evolves, and we recommend verifying current figures directly with franchisors before making any investment decisions.
Editorial Approach
Our content aims to educate rather than advocate. We present factual information and highlight considerations that may not be immediately obvious to first-time franchise researchers.
We believe certain business characteristics—staffing efficiency, liability profile, skilled labor dependency, fee structure transparency—are important factors that deserve attention. We explain why these matter and let readers draw their own conclusions based on their specific priorities.
We don't accept payment from franchisors for inclusion in our database or favorable coverage. All franchises meeting our criteria are included regardless of their relationship (or lack thereof) with our organization.
Important Disclaimer
This website provides general educational information only. Nothing on this site constitutes legal, financial, or investment advice. Franchise investment involves significant financial risk, and individual results vary widely.
We are not affiliated with any franchise listed on this site. We do not represent any franchisor, and inclusion in our database does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation.
Always conduct your own due diligence. Before investing in any franchise, you should: review the complete Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), consult with a franchise attorney, speak with current and former franchisees, and seek advice from qualified financial professionals.
Data may not be current. While we strive to maintain accurate information, FDDs are updated annually and our database may not reflect the most recent filings. Always verify current terms directly with the franchisor.
Past performance does not guarantee future results. Financial performance of existing franchisees does not predict what new franchisees will experience. Market conditions, location, execution, and many other factors affect outcomes.
Our History
PetFranchises.org was established as an educational resource for prospective pet franchise investors. Over the years, we've expanded our database, refined our methodology, and updated our presentation to meet the needs of modern franchise researchers.
In 2026, we completely rebuilt the site with improved comparison tools, comprehensive category guides, and expanded educational content. Our goal remains the same: provide the information you need to make informed franchise decisions.
Start Your Research
Explore our comparison tools and educational guides to begin your franchise research journey.