Austin Dogtown Employee Relief

At the end of last week, we were still planning to re-open our doors on Monday April 13th… but we have been notified by the city that that is not an option for us.  While we consider ourselves an essential business (it’s childcare after all!!)- since we are not directly connected to a vet’s office, unfortunately the City of Austin doesn’t… and they have clarified their definitions of “essential” businesses on their website. 

http://www.austintexas.gov/department/covid-19-information/businesses-and-industries  

This is such a hard situation for all of us.  As a business, it is very difficult to be closed for this long… for both the business itself and our staff... but we know that the entire world is undergoing hardship right now and we have to trust that by following the city's guidelines, we are doing the right thing.    Our hourly staff has been out of work since 3/25.  Government relief may be helpful, but it is very slow to arrive.  Even so, it will not come close to making our employees whole.  I am starting this donation drive hoping to raise at least $10,000.  100% of donations will be distributed between all our employees who have been furloughed (based on the number of hours  they work a typical week). ** Laurie & Becca will not be included in the distribution! 

We are so grateful for each one of our staff- and we truly consider them family. They are the reason that Dogtown is what it is! And... we are so thankful for our Dogtown customers (both two and four legged) and know that with your support, we will ALL make it through this!   

We are dreaming of the days of doggy pool time, sun bathing,  & hallway parties! Thank you so much for considering a donation- No gift is too small!

Laurie, Austin Dogtown GM ❤️