Since its inception in 2014, K9 Activity Club has become more than just a business—it’s a thriving community for dog lovers, and at its heart is Alicia Collins, a dynamic and innovative entrepreneur. Driven by a lifelong passion for animals and a keen business acumen, Alicia didn’t just want to create a place for dog owners to connect—she envisioned a hub that would elevate the standard of care for pets, foster community engagement, and inspire new ways of thinking about pet wellness. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and a relentless drive to make a difference.

A proud Sonoma County resident, Alicia is not only a successful businesswoman but a devoted member of her local community. Her home is a sanctuary shared with her family, a diverse collection (or a menagerie) of dogs, horses, and bunnies—each a testament to her deep connection with animals. Beyond her role as a business owner, Alicia is recognized as a connector, bringing people together through her work and community involvement.

Alicia’s commitment to excellence in pet care is underscored by her PACCC certification, a prestigious designation awarded by the Professional Animal Care Certification Council. This certification highlights her mastery in animal care and her ongoing dedication to the highest ethical standards. Alicia didn’t stop at just meeting industry standards—she constantly pursues continuing education to ensure she’s not only staying ahead of trends but also shaping the future of pet care. Her knowledge and compassion permeate every aspect of K9 Activity Club, whether she’s teaching a puppy class, mentoring employees, or offering guidance to pet owners.

But Alicia’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop with K9 Activity Club. She’s built a portfolio of diverse and successful businesses, each designed to meet specific needs within her community. Some of her other ventures include:

• Betsy’s Moving: A partnership with Amanda Vineyard, her best friend since childhood, is a relocation service in Sonoma County tailored to seniors, providing not just logistical support but peace of mind for families going through one of life’s major transitions.

• Crazy Dog Club: A membership-based program offering perks like discounts on dog supplies and treats, along with access to innovative services like Vetster, which provides 24/7 virtual veterinary care.

• Navi Appliance Repair: A partnership with her fiancé Todd Gardner, NAVI is a trusted appliance repair business offering fast, reliable service to homeowners, providing peace of mind through expert solutions.

Each of these businesses reflects Alicia’s uncanny ability to identify unmet needs and deliver thoughtful, customer-focused solutions. Whether simplifying a stressful life event, improving pet care, or keeping homes running smoothly, Alicia’s ventures reflect her core belief: success lies in creating value and making life easier for others.

K9 Activity Club itself has won numerous accolades, including the prestigious Best of the North Bay (2020-2024) award from the Press Democrat and Best of Bohemian (2017-2024) for categories like daycare, training, and lodging. These awards are not just reflections of the club’s excellence—they are a testament to Alicia’s vision and tireless work ethic in building a space that goes beyond traditional pet services. K9 Activity Club has become a pillar of the dog-loving community, offering training, activities, and events that enrich the lives of both pets and their owners.

But Alicia’s vision isn’t limited to her current successes. She’s building a legacy, one that’s rooted in passion, innovation, and care. Her entrepreneurial journey is proof that when you’re driven by purpose and a deep connection to your community, you can turn your dreams into a thriving reality. By always looking to the future, Alicia continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in pet care and community engagement, leaving a lasting impact that will inspire generations of pet lovers and entrepreneurs alike.

Looking ahead, Alicia is poised to make even greater strides in the world of pet care and entrepreneurship with two exciting new ventures. First is Nuzzle, a groundbreaking online marketplace that will bridge the gap between traditional brick-and-mortar dog kennels and independent pet sitters. This platform will connect pet owners with trained, vetted professionals for in-home pet care, creating a seamless, reliable solution for pet owners who want the personalized touch of a pet sitter with the professionalism and expertise typically found in a kennel environment. Alicia’s vision for Nuzzle is to create a trusted community where both pet owners and caregivers can thrive, ensuring that pets receive the highest level of care in the comfort of their own homes.

In addition, Alicia is launching Learn to Speak Dog, an innovative online learning community designed to empower dog owners with practical knowledge in dog care, management, and training. Through this platform, Alicia & professional dog trainer Kobie Quashie, will share their expertise, offering courses, webinars, and resources that break down complex dog behavior into actionable steps. Learn to Speak Dog is designed to make training and dog care more accessible to a wider audience, giving owners the tools they need to build stronger, more positive relationships with their dogs. With both ventures, Alicia continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, always with the goal of improving the lives of pets and their owners through innovation, education, and expert care.

Her story isn’t just one of business success; it’s a blueprint for how to approach life with purpose, innovation, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place—for both people and pets. Check out her Instagram to see what she is up to!