About Pet Passages®
What is Pet Passages®?
Pet Passages® is a national network of pet funeral homes with onsite crematories, offering compassionate, dignified services to families experiencing the loss of a pet. Founded by licensed funeral director Mike Harris in 2009, the company aims to transform pet end-of-life care with professionalism and empathy.
What makes Pet Passages® unique in the industry?
Pet Passages® is recognized for:
- Pioneering online pet obituaries
- Developing a patent-pending partition system for secure cremation
- Offering the “Finalize Your Pet’s Plans” online tool
- Providing comprehensive training for franchisees and staff
- Ensuring consistent, compassionate service across all locations
What sets Pet Passages® apart from other pet cremation providers?
Pet Passages® emphasizes professionalism, compassionate care, and transparency. Proprietary tools like Secure Passages™, trained staff, and consistent operational standards differentiate the brand.
Services & Operations
What services does Pet Passages® offer?
Pet Passages® provides a range of services, including:
- Private pet cremation
- Funeral and memorial planning
- Grief support resources
- Keepsake products
- Secure Passages™ tracking system for transparency
What is Secure Passages™ and how does it benefit clients?
Secure Passages™ is Pet Passages®’ proprietary pet tracking system that ensures transparency and peace of mind for pet parents by allowing them to track their pet through every stage of the cremation process.
Can I operate a Pet Passages® franchise from home, or do I need a physical location?
A physical facility is required to provide the full range of pet cremation and funeral services. The facility must meet Pet Passages®’ standards for security, cleanliness, and compassionate client experience.
Are there seasonal fluctuations in business?
Like many service industries, demand can vary, but Pet Passages®’ range of services, memorial products, and community outreach helps maintain steady revenue throughout the year.
Franchise Opportunities & Territories
What is the initial investment required to open a Pet Passages® franchise?
The total startup investment ranges from $285,397 to $524,712, which includes:
- Initial franchise fee ($55,000 – $95,000)
- Facility setup and equipment
- Operational expenses
- Marketing and training costs
What are the ongoing fees for a Pet Passages® franchise?
Franchisees are required to pay:
- A 6% royalty fee
- A 1% marketing fee
What are the qualifications to become a franchisee?
Ideal candidates should:
- Have a minimum credit score of 650
- Possess at least $55,000 in available capital
- Be willing to sign the franchise agreement within 90 days
Do I need prior experience in the pet or funeral industry?
No. Pet Passages® provides comprehensive training and support, ensuring franchisees are equipped to operate successfully, regardless of their background.
What territories are available for franchising?
Pet Passages® offers exclusive territories to franchisees, with a commitment to protecting markets from saturation. Availability varies, and interested individuals should inquire directly for current opportunities.
Are there opportunities to expand my franchise?
Yes. Pet Passages® encourages successful franchisees to explore multi-unit ownership and expansion within exclusive territories, helping grow their business while maintaining high service standards.
How do I select the right location for my Pet Passages® franchise?
Pet Passages® assists franchisees in selecting territories based on market research, demographics, and competition to maximize success potential.
Can I franchise in multiple territories?
Yes. Franchisees who demonstrate strong operational and financial performance may be offered additional exclusive territories for expansion.
Training & Support
How does Pet Passages® support its franchisees?
Support includes:
- Comprehensive training programs
- Marketing and operational assistance
- Access to proprietary technology and tools
- Ongoing business development support
What kind of training do new franchisees receive?
Pet Passages® provides a comprehensive training program that covers operational procedures, pet cremation and funeral services, staff management, marketing, customer service, and use of the Secure Passages™ system to ensure consistency and quality across all locations.
Is there ongoing support after opening my Pet Passages® franchise?
Absolutely. Pet Passages® provides ongoing operational guidance, regular check-ins, refresher training, marketing updates, and access to a network of fellow franchisees for collaboration and advice.
Do I need a background in business management?
While business experience is helpful, it’s not required. Training programs cover operations, finance, and staff management to equip franchisees for success.
What kind of staff will I need to hire?
Franchisees typically hire compassionate client service representatives and trained pet care specialists. Pet Passages® provides training protocols and guidance on hiring and onboarding staff.
Marketing & Growth
How does Pet Passages® help with marketing my franchise?
Franchisees receive marketing support, including national campaigns, local advertising guidance, website development, social media strategy, and promotional materials to attract clients.
What kind of community involvement does Pet Passages® encourage?
Franchisees are encouraged to participate in local pet events, support animal rescues, and host educational programs to build community awareness and strengthen local connections.
Financials & Performance
What is the typical revenue potential for a Pet Passages® franchise?
Revenue varies by market size, services offered, and client volume. Franchisees can access historical financial performance data in the FDD to understand realistic expectations.
Can I see proof of success from other Pet Passages® franchisees?
Yes. Pet Passages® shares testimonials, case studies, and FDD financial data to help prospective franchisees understand realistic outcomes.
Process & Timeline
What is the process to become a franchisee?
Interested individuals should:
1. Complete the inquiry form on the Pet Passages® Franchise website
2. Engage in discussions with the franchise development team
3. Review and sign the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
4. Secure financing and select a location
5. Undergo training and open the franchise location
How long does it take to open a new franchise?
On average, it takes about 4–6 months from signing the franchise agreement to opening the doors, depending on facility setup, local permits, and hiring staff.
Values, Mission, Vision & Purpose
What values guide Pet Passages®’ brand and operations?
Pet Passages® is guided by five core values that shape every aspect of the franchise–from staff training to client interactions:
- Dignity – We honor every pet’s life with the utmost respect and care, ensuring they receive the dignified farewell they deserve.
- Respect – We treat every client and their beloved pet with the highest level of respect, understanding the deep bond they share.
- Compassion – We approach each situation with empathy and kindness, providing comfort and support during this difficult time.
- Transparency – We maintain open and honest communication throughout the entire process, ensuring that our clients are fully informed and at ease.
- Integrity – We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our services, ensuring trust and confidence in our commitment to excellence.
Mission – Guiding pet parents through their pet’s passage. This mission ensures that every family receives compassionate support and a dignified farewell during a difficult time.
Purpose – Honoring and preserving the story and memory of a family’s beloved pet. Pet Passages® takes responsibility for each pet’s memory, providing services that respect the bond between pet and family.
Vision – Provide every pet parent with access to the Pet Passages® experience and service they rightfully deserve. This vision ensures that all pet families can receive compassionate, professional care for their pets, no matter their location.
