Walter Morris grew up around animals; his father was a professional dog show handler. Later, he would graduate from Villanova and spend 14 years in the corporate world, but he never lost his love or passion for animals. In 1979, he decided to make a significant change.
Walter joined his father in his grooming business, and when their customers started asking for a place to board their pets, he saw an opportunity to create a much-needed pet business of his own.
“He found a piece of property in Harding Township to build a pet care facility, and it’s where our original location still is,” says his daughter, now president and co-owner of the business. “It was ahead of its time. Large indoor pet care facilities weren't something people were doing at that time.”
Thanks to Walter and his wife, Marianne, Morris Animal Inn emerged as a leader in the industry. It later expanded into Montville and Warren.
Joanne, like her father, didn’t get into the pet business right away. She helped out, of course, along with her brother and sister, but after college, she went her own way. It wasn’t until she had children that she joined the family business.
“I'm so passionate about it now,” she says. “I love seeing how we impact pets and their families. We want them to be healthy and happy—both emotionally and physically. We give families peace of mind, and it's very rewarding.”
Her sister, Patricia Downs, is the full-time director of finance, and Joanne’s daughter, Ashley, along with nieces and nephews, help out as needed.
The Morris family recognizes that not all dogs and cats are the same, so they take a customized approach. “We offer many options,” says Joanne. While some cats want to be held and pet, others may enjoy more active pursuits. For those, there are kitty teasers, kitty TV, a treadmill wheel, a kitty playroom, and even outdoor stroller rides.
Dogs are not shortchanged either. Instead of being kept in a crate for hours at home or seeing a pet sitter for only a short time, dogs are kept busy, getting the all-important stimulation and socialization that can help prevent mischief at home.
There are safe group-play options, an indoor pool, and treadmills. Long walks in beautiful outdoor yards are also provided. At night, there are tuck-in services, where dogs get a visit from a pet care team member, a warm, cozy blanket, and a healthy treat.
Morris Animal Inn also offers obedience training and grooming that can be incorporated during a pet’s stay or provided separately.
Safety, of course, is the family's and staff’s number one priority. Pets are monitored at all times, and facilities feature climate control with air-purification systems, soft lighting, skylights, and background music in every room. They also include smoke and fire detection, lightning protection, and backup generators.
The business also invests in its staff, many of whom have been with the family for years, by providing training, seminars, and other resources. “I'm so proud of our staff, and we're really passionate about building their careers.”
The family also believes in giving back to the communities in which it operates its facilities by donating baskets, collecting food and pet supplies, and supporting other worthwhile causes.
“I know how fortunate we are to have a functional generational business,” says Joanne. “I’m so grateful to my parents for giving me the opportunity.”
To find out more, go to MorrisAnimalInn.com.
