Family First & Family-Owned

Wags & Wiggles Dog Daycare, a family-owned business in Orange County, California, was founded in 1999 by Laurie Zurborg, CPDT-KA.

Laurie, with a background in veterinary care, started the facility to provide socialization for her rescue dogs, aiming to complete their rehabilitation. Her lifelong passion for dogs and commitment to positive reinforcement training have been central to the company's philosophy.

When Laurie started, there were no other dog daycares in Orange County. Now, Wags & Wiggles is one of the last remaining family-owned dog facilities in OC.

There was skepticism among the local veterinary and dog community, but in her heart, Laurie knew this was precisely what dogs needed. Over the last 26 years, she has helped form various dog daycare groups where owners could learn from one another. Now, dog daycares have their own professional industry, conferences, and support.

The leadership team also includes Dave Zurborg, Laurie's husband, who became a partner in the business in the first year. For those who have been with us since the beginning, you know that we started with just 2,000 sq ft, located by the post office in RSM. We then expanded to the Arroyo Vista building, followed by the addition of the 2nd training building, and finally, the 3rd building, Tiny Town. Dave's construction background helped grow the empire.

Then, in 2017, Ranaye Kahn became a co-owner alongside Laurie and Dave at the Tustin Facility. Ranaye's journey with Wags & Wiggles began in 2004 as a client. She joined the Wags & Wiggles Apprenticeship Program, passed her CPDT exam, and progressed through roles including Training Manager and Training Director.

Her background includes teaching children, conformation with her Great Danes, and now agility with her Shelties. She is also actively involved in the community with her family. She is often seen at local schools teaching dog safety. Ranaye and Laurie are also best friends and neighbors, and take care of each other's families.

Together, Laurie, Dave, and Ranaye have cultivated a family-owned company culture that prioritizes the well-being of dogs and the ongoing improvement of their facilities and staff. We are committed to providing the best care for your pets and continuously strive to enhance our services and facilities to meet their needs.

The company emphasizes a family-oriented approach, investing profits back into the facility and employees to enhance the experience for both dogs and their owners. With a team of over 130 local dog enthusiasts, Wags & Wiggles continues to thrive, offering services in daycare, boarding, and training.

The management teams at both locations have grown from within. Many members starting in entry-level positions and advancing through dedication and passion for animal care. Our Facility Managers, Operations Managers, and Training Managers have been with us for 10-15 years.

Using a family-owned business instead of a corporate-owned one can offer several unique advantages, especially in service-based industries such as pet care, restaurants, retail, and home services.

Here are the main benefits:

1. Personalized Service

Family businesses often take greater pride in their work and prioritize customer relationships. You’re more likely to receive tailored, consistent, and thoughtful service because they are most invested in their clients on a personal level.

2. Stronger Community Ties

Family-owned businesses are usually more involved in their local communities. They often sponsor local events, support charities, and reinvest in the area, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity. Wags & Wiggles offers two free festivals every year as a way to thank our customers. Laurie and Ranaye also attend many charity events and support local adoption events by providing free games, such as agility, rally, and sport dog.

3. Greater Accountability

Owners are often directly involved in the day-to-day operations. If there's a problem, you're dealing with someone who has a real stake in the outcome, not just an employee following policy.

Three hundred sixty-five days a year, you can personally connect with Laurie or Ranaye at any time. You can use the web bot on our website, contact us through the website contact form, call us by phone, email Laurie or Ranaye directly, or contact the facility directly. Laurie and Ranaye always follow up with clients. Yes, even when on vacation, they always take care of clients.

4. Stability and Long-Term Focus

Unlike corporations driven by quarterly earnings, family businesses often take a longer-term view. They may prioritize sustainable growth and legacy over short-term profits.

5. Employee Loyalty

Family-run companies often cultivate strong internal cultures, which can lead to improved staff retention, higher morale, and employees who are more invested in their work.

6. Authenticity and Transparency

You typically know who you’re dealing with, and there’s less marketing spin. Decision-making is closer to the customer, enabling faster and more honest communication.

7. Ethical Values and Traditions

Many family businesses operate on a set of deeply held values passed down through generations, which can mean a more ethical and values-driven approach to business.