Starting a new business can be risky but starting it with your spouse or partner adds another layer of complexity. While the excitement of being your own boss is enticing, as business owners you are faced with big responsibilities and goals to achieve success quickly when you use your family’s finances and walk away from the stability of your full-time job and benefits. However, many couples will say the risk is worth the reward, especially when the couples choose to work with a franchise who has an established business model.

Dogtopia was the answer to Dogtopia of Rocklin owners and couple, Mike and Diane Foos, career change aspirations. The dog daycare business combined their passions of dogs and supporting people with disabilities with the Dogtopia Foundation. As a former special education attorney, Diane is passionate about the Dogtopia Foundation and providing employment opportunities for those with disabilities. “Now in my life – having my kids still at home and all that good stuff – it’s nice to be able to serve that same population and watch them flourish in the company while spending time with my family doing something we love.”

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