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Founder & CEO of Dogtopia Franchise Recognized as Mid-Atlantic's Successful Woman Entrepreneur

Amy Nichols Awarded "Brava! Woman Business Achievement Award"

May 20, 2011 // Franchising.com // Bethesda, MD – Dogtopia founder and CEO Amy Nichols, an inspiring entrepreneur who turned her lifelong love of dogs into a growing national franchise of upscale dog day care, spa and boarding facilities, was one of 25 women awarded SmartCEO Magazine's "Brava! Women Business Achievement Award."

As part of the 2011 Brava! Women Business Achievement class, Nichols was highlighted as a woman who embodies the best in entrepreneurial spirit, passion, success and philanthropic focus in her community. A large portion of this award is accredited to Dogtopia's non-profit arm of the franchise called "K-9 Support", a program created to support all types of working dogs, from military dogs to rescue dogs to Seeing Eye dogs. Annual events hosted by Dogtopia raise funds to send care packages to K-9 Handlers and their working dogs in Iraq and Afghanistan . Furthermore, Nichols encourages the local Dogtopia owners to maintain an active and healthy relationship with their local humane societies and shelter organizations.

"Being recognized among the finest female entrepreneurs in the Mid-Atlantic is an incredible honor," Nichols said. "I have to give a big thank you to my franchisees who have worked so hard to dedicate themselves to the communities that they serve through philanthropic outreach. Without them, Dogtopia would not have the positive impact that it does today."

Under Nichols' leadership, vision and drive, Dogtopia has experienced incredible success and growth, even in tough economic conditions. As part of the $43 billion pet industry, Nichols has grown the national franchise to 24 locations throughout the country, with plans to open more than 20 locations by the end of 2012.

Nichols will be inducted in the Hall of Fame at the Brava! Women Business Achievement Award cocktail hour taking place Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue N.W. , Washington , D.C. For more details visit http://www.smartceo.com/blog/2011-brava-women-business-achievement-awards.

About Dogtopia®

Dogtopia®, prides itself on being a place where pets are valued as family and­ dogs enjoy playtime, spa treatments and overnight stays in a positive environment. Dog owners have the assurance of leaving their beloved pets in the hands of trained professionals while they're at work or away on vacation. Dogtopia® associates nurture each and every pet as if it were their own. Each location offers dog daycare, boarding, spa services, and most also have professional grooming. Dogtopia does not breed discriminate and welcomes social dogs of all ages, sizes, and abilities. The company was founded by Amy Nichols in 2002 and began franchising in 2005. Currently, there are 20 Dogtopia franchises and three company-owned locations in operation across the U.S. Visit www.dogdaycare.com for more information.

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