by Erin Killian

Puppy love: Alexandria gets new boutique and spa for dogs

A dog day care, spa and boutique is heading to Alexandria and expected to open by June.

Local entrepreneurs Jeff and Sandy Lutton signed a franchise agreement with Dogtopia, formerly known as Happy Tails Dog Spa, to open at 3121 Colvin St.

Eight Dogtopias are either planned or opened including locations in Chicago; Houston; Lake Forest, Calif.; Bethesda and Vienna, where the Luttons used to take their golden retriever, Josie. Other franchisees are planning locations for Clarksville and Manassas.

The company, founded by Amy Nichols in June 2002 in Vienna, plans to have 25 Dogtopia franchises in operation or under development by 2008.

"We are thrilled to bring Dogtopia to the Alexandria area," Jeff Lutton says in a statement. "We appreciated the care given to our dog, Josie, and now we look forward to turning around and providing area dog owners with that same peace of mind, knowing their dog is in a safe and happy place while they're at work or away from home."

The average Dogtopia cares for 50 to 80 dogs a day and employs about one caregiver per 10 to 15 dogs. The locations are 5,000 to 9,000 square feet and have a gymnasium, romper room and lounge for the dogs.

Dogtopia started offering franchises in 2005, with the help of the Findley Group owned by former Curves International President Gary Findley. /P>

© Washington Business Journal 2007