Pets Are Inn is a pet boarding franchise founded in 1982 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company is headquartered in Edina, Minnesota. It was created to offer pet owners a stress-free and kennel-free boarding option for their pets while they travel.

The company began franchising in 1986. Pets Are Inn was acquired by Ann and Jim Platt in 1992, who continued expanding the franchise system. The business model focuses on providing a unique, personalized alternative to traditional kennels by using carefully selected host families.

Pets Are Inn offers cage-free pet lodging in private homes. The service includes round-trip transportation and matches each pet with a compatible host family. This ensures the pet receives individualized care and remains in a familiar routine during their owner's absence.

What sets Pets Are Inn apart is its commitment to a home-like environment. Unlike standard kennels, there are no cages or communal spaces. Pets enjoy one-on-one attention in a calm, residential setting, making it an ideal solution for owners who want peace of mind and pets who need comfort and consistency

Training

Pets Are Inn provides its franchisees with structured training programs as part of its initial and ongoing support. The training is structured into two main components:

1. Initial Training Program: Before launching the business, the franchisor offers an initial training program. This includes access to proprietary software, standard operating procedures via the Operations Manual, and a list of required equipment and supplies. Hotel accommodations for one person are provided during training, but the franchisee is responsible for transportation and meals.
2. Ongoing Training and Consultation: Throughout the life of the franchise, Pets Are Inn provides continuous consultation and additional training as needed. This support includes updates to the Operations Manual and the opportunity to purchase branded products and supplies. This ensures that franchisees stay aligned with evolving system standards and operational improvements.

Territory Protection

Pets Are Inn grants franchisees a defined territory, but this does not equate to full exclusive territory protection. The franchisor requires that the business be operated within the approved Territory, and any site chosen must fall within that defined area.

However, the franchisor retains the right to open other units or allow others to operate businesses under the brand outside of your defined territory.

While you have some operational boundary protection, Pets Are Inn does not commit to refraining from soliciting or accepting business from outside your territory, nor does it prevent other franchisees or company-owned units from operating in nearby areas.