After researching pet care industry trends and carefully planning the venture to serve dogs and their busy owners, Amy Nichols founded the first Dogtopia® (formerly Happy Tails Dog Spa), a full-service dog day care, spa and boutique, in June 2002.

Under her and her management team's leadership, vision and drive to expand the dog day care industry, the company has experienced overwhelming success and growth. Because of its unique product and recipe for success, Dogtopia® began offering franchises in April 2005. The franchise company, Happy to Be Here, Inc., is able to offer franchises nationwide and is expanding rapidly. It is anticipated that because of the success of both companies, 50 franchises will be in operation or in development by 2009.

From its inception, Dogtopia® has been committed to giving back to the local as well as international communities. In 2005, Dogtopia® created a permanent charitable arm to the company called K-9 Support , Inc. to raise funds, collect supplies and generate awareness for working dogs worldwide, including military dogs, rescue dogs and Seeing Eye dogs.

The company is also proud to sponsor local foster dogs and support local rescue missions. From hosting safety classes to planning fundraising events such as "dog washes" and "K-9 fashion shows," Dogtopia® is always ready to pitch in and help dogs in any way they can.