Roy McHugh: Why I left a career in sales to become a Barking Mad franchisee

For dog-lovers with an entrepreneurial spirit, a Barking Mad franchise is the perfect choice, as Roy McHugh explains

In spring 2024 Roy McHugh left the corporate world for good following unexpected redundancy. What came next was the opportunity he’d been waiting for and the fulfilment of a long-held dream.

Roy went from the technical world of EE in a sales advice and support role to becoming a Barking Mad franchisee for the brand’s Sunderland & County Durham territory.

Unlike traditional kennels, Barking Mad offers bespoke boarding for dogs with a host family, giving the owner freedom to be away from home, knowing their pet is safe and well cared for.

Hosts are chosen to meet the dog’s specific needs and take on the care and responsibility for the dog for a mutually agreed period, with the franchisee serving as the primary point of contact for both parties.

Starting your own business can be risky and many self-startups fail within their first year. By contrast, a franchise offers a low-risk, proven business opportunity, and as the franchisee you get the benefit of training and ongoing support, something you don’t get if you go it alone.

Here, Roy shares the story of how he has found success with his franchise and his plans for the future.

What did you do before franchising?

“I worked for EE for fourteen years as a sales manager operating from a call centre in an advisory and coaching role. Everything changed when BT merged with EE and the two brands restructured the business and my role disappeared.

“If I’m honest, as much as that came as a shock to some people, I recognised this as the opportunity I had been looking for and the push I needed to consider my options.”

Why franchising and why Barking Mad?

“I was already familiar with franchising, and so when it came to deciding what business to pursue, it was quite easy really. I’ve always loved dogs and wanted to work with them but never knew what that looked like. I looked at franchises in general but then found the pet sector. After an initial search, I came across Barking Mad.

“I spoke with Rachel Stewart, the MD, who explained the role and the business model, and I had a total lightbulb moment! This was the one I had been looking for. I cancelled all my other enquiries and decided to go for it.”

“I really liked the franchise model because it takes care of all parties: the dog, the owner and the host family. It’s a model where everyone is looked after, with the best possible outcome.”

How was the training and support, both initially and ongoing?

“The three-day training was thorough. I learned every aspect of the business, from understanding the different systems through to the legislation surrounding dog boarding and working to best practice and correct standards.

“The support is great. If I need advice, there is always someone at head office to ask, or I can draw on the wider experience of my neighbouring franchisees. Help is only ever a phone call or email away.”

Describe your average day

“Every day is different. Today I collected Bugsy, a mischief-making Cockerpoo from the host and returned him to his owner. Then I had a call from a potential host, and we have an appointment to meet next week.

“I’ve also two calls to make to people regarding holidays for their dog. Sorting out dates and availability can be tricky because people need to establish dates before they book their holiday, which they sometimes forget!

“Also, finding the right host for the dog/owner is key. All dogs have a trial stay with their host for one night, so this is another aspect I organise.

“The rest of the day may be taken up with admin either in my office or in a dog-friendly café where people can see me, and I get to do some impromptu marketing.”

What challenges have you faced?

“I’d never run a business before, so learning how to manage my finances, keep track of invoices, receipts, manage cash flow and understand tax has been a big lesson.

“Plus, keeping my pipeline of enquiries flowing requires my constant input and attention.”

“This is the best thing that’s happened to me in terms of work. If it’s the right thing for you, then consider it seriously.”

How has your life changed since you launched your franchise?

“I have the flexibility to organise my day as I wish, which means I get to spend precious time with my partner and young daughter, something I could never do in an employed role.”

What’s your top tip for someone looking to buy their first franchise?

“Do your homework first, and make sure you’re financially able to do this, then go for it. Everybody should be given the opportunity to create their own success.

“This is the best thing that’s happened to me in terms of work. The idea of working for somebody else has never sat right with me. I honestly can’t believe I gave so many years to the work I used to do. If it’s the right thing for you, then consider it seriously.”

What are your plans for the future of the business?

“I hope to grow the franchise to the point where I get my partner on board and have a solid business to pass on to my kids. The beauty of this business is that it’s not affected by the economy. People love dogs, they will always have dogs no matter what, so I just have to make sure I put in 1,000% to get this where I want it to go.

Although it takes up a lot of time, it doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do.”

Life for Roy has certainly changed for the better. He’s growing a sustainable business and securing a future for himself and his family.

Even better, he spends his days doing something he loves, surrounded by dogs and fellow dog lovers and has never been happier.