by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
It was just a doggone good deal.
Attorney Bill Joel was happy as a shareholder with the former Stoneburner, Berry, Glocker and Joel law firm handling commercial real estate transactions, commercial lending transactions, title insurance and commercial litigation. Then he got a call from Fred Goldsmith, CEO of Pet Paradise, who was a client at his law firm and decided it was time to make a change.
“I had been doing work for them in private practice for about four years,” said Joel, former president of the Jacksonville Bar Association and its Young Lawyers Section. “Several months back he asked me if I’d be interesting in joining the company. It’s a great company with a great concept that is growing rapidly.”
Pet Paradise was formed in 2002 and currently operates 14 upscale pet boarding facilities throughout the United States. Expected 2008 openings include Tallahassee and airports in Houston, Charlotte and Atlanta. At least five more are scheduled to open in the following two years. There are two in Jacksonville with one near the airport and its newest on University Blvd.
The latest Jacksonville location was opened Nov. 6, 2007 and boasts about 12,500 square feet with 177 dog suites and 12 kitty condos. The pets have access to a play area nearly the size of a football field and the area offers a signature bone-shaped wading pool for them to cool off in. Owners are also given special treats as well with web cams allowing them to check up on their pet while they are away.
Joel will oversee all legal matters, corporate development and investor relations for Pet Paradise.
“We’re thrilled to welcome such a seasoned professional to our executive team,” said Goldsmith. “His background and judgment will be critical in the next phase of Pet Paradise’s growth.”
The company is experiencing rapid growth following its business model of providing an upscale kennel experience within close proximity to airports to make it accessible for travelers.
“I have a dog and some cats, so its nice to work for a company that works with pets and their owners,” said Joel. “It’s a different experience to be able to step out of the office and throw a frisbee around with some of our guests.”
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