Dewald Coetzee’s journey from humble beginnings in Benoni, South Africa, to becoming the founder of Fetch Dubai is nothing short of inspiring. It is a story of passion, perseverance, and innovation that has changed the pet care industry in the UAE. Through Fetch Dubai, Dewald has revolutionized how pet care is perceived and provided, creating a space where dogs receive not only physical care but also mental, emotional, and social enrichment. His commitment to excellence is driven by his deep love for dogs, a foundation in psychology, and years of experience in customer service and therapy.
The Beginning of a Dream: Humble Origins and a Passion for Dogs
Born and raised in Benoni, Dewald Coetzee was always an animal lover, with a particular affinity for dogs. However, it wasn’t until he moved to Dubai that he realized the need for a comprehensive and high-quality pet care service that catered to more than just basic needs. Before venturing into the pet care industry, Dewald honed his skills in customer service at internationally recognized companies like McDonald’s and Emirates. These experiences, along with a degree in psychology, provided him with the perfect foundation to build his expertise in understanding both human and animal behavior.
In 2014, Dewald decided to leave his corporate career behind and take a bold step into the pet care industry. He noticed a gap in the market for a facility that not only provided basic services but also focused on the holistic well-being of pets, especially dogs. This insight led to the founding of Fetch Dubai, a place that would offer not just daycare and boarding, but also enrichment activities that supported the emotional, sensory, and nutritional needs of dogs.
The Growth of Fetch Dubai: A Commitment to Excellence
Starting Fetch Dubai was no easy feat. Dewald faced many challenges in the early stages of his venture, from finding the right facility to ensuring that he could provide a level of care that stood out in a competitive market. But Dewald’s dedication and knowledge, combined with a strong network of local and international vets, dog behaviorists, and pet care experts, allowed him to create something truly special.
Under Dewald’s leadership, Fetch Dubai has grown exponentially, expanding three times to accommodate more clients and provide state-of-the-art services. The facility now boasts a purpose-built design that embodies Dewald’s commitment to fear- and force-free care, ensuring a stress-free environment for dogs. This thoughtful approach to design reflects his understanding of dog behavior and his desire to create a space that promotes happiness and well-being for every pet.
A Holistic Approach to Pet Care
Dewald’s training in therapy and his deep understanding of dog behavior have played a crucial role in shaping Fetch Dubai’s services. Unlike many traditional pet care centers, Fetch Dubai offers a holistic approach that goes beyond just daycare or boarding. The center provides personalized care plans for each dog, incorporating behavioral assessments and tailored enrichment programs that cater to their individual needs.
Fetch Dubai offers services like multi-day behavioral assessments to help address issues such as anxiety, aggression, and separation stress. Dewald’s expertise allows him to offer a range of customized enrichment activities that focus on developing a dog’s skills, building their confidence, and improving their mental health. This approach is not just about meeting physical needs but ensuring that every dog is mentally stimulated and emotionally fulfilled.
Dewald Coetzee: The Creative Mind Behind Fetch Dubai
In addition to his expertise in dog behavior, Dewald is the creative force behind many of the enrichment activities and events at Fetch Dubai. He continuously innovates new ways to mentally and physically stimulate the dogs, ensuring they have an enjoyable and enriching experience. Whether it’s a new game, an outdoor adventure, or a sensory activity, Dewald is hands-on in every aspect of his business.
Beyond his involvement in day-to-day operations, Dewald also manages Fetch Dubai’s social media presence. He uses these platforms to connect with the local community, share his passion for pet care, and provide insights into the work being done at Fetch. His goal is to raise awareness about the importance of high-quality pet care and to inspire others to embrace a more ethical and thoughtful approach to pet ownership.
Changing the Landscape of Pet Care in Dubai
Dewald’s mission is to raise the standard of pet care in Dubai, offering a level of service that goes beyond basic daycare and boarding. Fetch Dubai is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment for dogs, while also addressing their emotional and psychological needs. Dewald’s holistic approach is not only helping dogs lead happier, healthier lives but is also setting a new benchmark for the pet care industry in the UAE.
As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub, Dewald sees a huge opportunity for Fetch Dubai to become a leader in innovative pet care. His vision is to inspire other pet care businesses in the region to adopt a more thoughtful, ethical standard—one that prioritizes the well-being of animals in a way that is gaining momentum worldwide. Dewald believes that this shift is essential to creating a healthier future for pets and ensuring that pet owners are provided with the best care possible for their furry companions.
Future Plans: Expanding the Reach of Fetch Dubai
Looking ahead, Dewald has ambitious plans for Fetch Dubai. The pet care industry in the UAE is evolving rapidly, and Dewald is determined to be at the forefront of this transformation. He aims to expand Fetch Dubai’s services to include even more specialized care options, such as training programs, therapy services, and support for pet owners dealing with behavioral issues.
Dewald is also keen to explore the role of technology in pet care, using digital tools to enhance the experience for both pets and their owners. From pet tracking devices to mobile apps for communication, technology is playing an increasing role in making pet care more accessible and efficient. Dewald is excited to integrate these advancements into Fetch Dubai, further improving the quality of care offered.
Dewald’s Impact on the Pet Care Industry in the UAE
Dewald’s work is shaping the future of pet care in Dubai and beyond. Through his dedication, innovation, and passion, he has created a pet care model that prioritizes the emotional, physical, and psychological well-being of dogs. Fetch Dubai is not just a business; it’s a reflection of Dewald’s commitment to enhancing the lives of pets and their owners. His work continues to inspire others in the industry, and as the UAE’s pet care market grows, Dewald’s influence is sure to expand.
Fetch Dubai’s success is a testament to Dewald’s perseverance and his unwavering belief in the importance of quality care for pets. His journey serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and pet lovers alike, proving that with passion and hard work, it’s possible to turn a love for animals into a thriving business that makes a real difference in the lives of others.
Dewald Coetzee remains at the helm of Fetch Dubai, continuously striving to improve the services offered and expand the business further. His vision for the future includes continued growth and the development of even more innovative pet care solutions, solidifying Fetch Dubai’s reputation as a leader in the pet care industry.
