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Dogtopia of Dallas-Inwood has reopened under new ownership, bringing a renewed focus on canine wellness to the dog daycare and boarding facility on Inwood Road.
New owners Jennifer and Maurice Byrdsong reopened the 7,200-square-foot facility Aug. 31, offering dog daycare, overnight boarding and spa services. The business recently celebrated its reopening with a Metrocrest Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Jennifer Byrdsong, who describes herself as a "corporate refugee," said she wanted to build a business that serves her community rather than a corporation's bottom line.
At Dogtopia, that means more than providing a place for dogs to spend the day. The facility emphasizes physical exercise, mental stimulation and socialization, with activities ranging from games of tic-tac-toe to bubble parties featuring bacon- and peanut butter-flavored bubbles.
The facility offers three indoor playrooms where dogs are grouped by size, temperament and play style. Trained staff supervise the dogs throughout the day, providing exercise, socialization and activities designed to stimulate their minds.
"When we say we lead with canine wellness, everything we do is about your dog's wellness," Byrdsong said during the Oct. 19 ribbon-cutting ceremony.
That includes activities ranging from games of tic-tac-toe to bubble parties featuring bacon- and peanut butter-flavored bubbles.
"We're always playing games," said Ihsna Dosmohomed, the facility's marketing and communications manager. "We've done tic-tac-toe."
The dogs have also enjoyed chalk parties and watching episodes of the children's television show "Bluey."
Dogs wear activity monitors called PitPats, similar to fitness trackers for people, allowing owners to monitor their pets' daily exercise.
Byrdsong said her own dog averages 13 to 15 miles of activity during a day at the facility.
"When she gets home, she sleeps and she's a much better dog because she's mentally stimulated and her body is healthy," Byrdsong said.
Pet owners can also check on their dogs throughout the day using webcams accessible through an app.
The facility's playrooms have rubberized flooring designed to protect dogs' joints and paws, and temperatures are maintained between 65 and 72 degrees. Dogs must be current on vaccinations and pass an evaluation before participating in group play.
In addition to daycare, Dogtopia offers overnight boarding and spa services, including baths, nail trimming and ear cleaning.
The Byrdsongs also support the Dogtopia Foundation, which funds service dogs for veterans, therapy dogs for students and employment initiatives for adults with autism.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Farmers Branch Mayor Terry Lynne welcomed the business and emphasized the importance of local businesses to the city's success.
"Your success is our city's success," Lynne said.
Byrdsong thanked chamber members and city officials for welcoming the business to Farmers Branch.
Dogtopia of Dallas-Inwood is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Pet owners interested in the facility can schedule a complimentary Meet & Greet and tour by calling 214-328-3206 or visiting the Dogtopia of Dallas-Inwood website.
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