Luxury pet resort comes to Ponte Vedra

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Sawgrass Pet Resort began like many other ventures do, as a dream, an idea driven by passion. The Wagner family, Scott, Kate and their children, Austin and Leeli were excited to make this dream a reality. Founder, Kate Wagner, has volunteered for shelters and rescues caring for animals for years prior to becoming the vice president and southeast rescue coordinator for The Grayter Good Weimaraner Rescue. Having a special affinity for weimaraners and hosting more than 90 in her home since 2015, she says that all of them have had an impact on their family.

“Kids growing up with animals, dogs in particular, develop an early understanding of compassion, empathy, companionship, responsibility and acceptance,” Kate Wagner said.

Austin and Leeli play a big part in their mom’s rescue efforts and many a weekend day were sacrificed to complete a transport or help with a dog that needs placement.

This ever-present passion for animals propelled Kate Wagner to embark on her next big venture, Sawgrass Pet Resort, a dog daycare and boarding facility, which is projected to open Winter 2019. Kate Wagner’s mission for this venture is “To provide a safe, active, recreational, healthy environment while improving the quality of life for dogs and serving the local community.” 

Scott and Kate Wagner are both incredibly excited about this project and eager to provide this service to the Ponte Vedra Beach area. After a long day of playing and socializing in this new resort, the family dog will be relaxed and ready to come home or continue to enjoy their stay in one of the Luxury Kennels. A veterinarian is also available on property making this a full-service facility. 

The Wagner family live by the mottos of moving forward and living life with love, laughter and purpose.

The Small Business Development Center, and consultant, Marge Cirillo, assisted in connecting Kate with funding sources and development of her business plan and forecast.

“Every business owner should contact the SBDC for assistance. I couldn’t have done it without them,” Kate Wagner said.

Sawgrass Pet Resort procured its final approvals to move forward and break ground after almost two years of planning and permitting. The 5,000-square-foot facility for dog daycare and boarding will be located at 8050 Sawgrass Village Circle in the heart of Ponte Vedra Beach in winter 2019.

Keep up with Sawgrass Pet Resort on Facebook and Instagram #32082DOGLIFE.