Our Team

Our Team

We are proud of the family orientated team we have formed here at Doggie Business in Holmen, WI. Our staff is dedicated, professional, and friendly with a passion and love for dogs! 

Parade — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC
Smiling Three People — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Our Team's Mission

It's likely that you, the individual reading this, understand how fantastic it feels to experience and share the joy and happiness between you and your pet. Everyone on our team feels it too, that natural connection, is what truly fuels us! When you meet any of us, you will know that your best friend will be cared for as if they were ours too because we're family. Are you going out of town, maybe your dog needs a wash or trim, do you need help with nutritional questions or supplies, need some advice with some behaviors, or simply need help burning some energy off while you’re at work- just call your Doggie Business family and we can help! We are dedicated to the idea that this is ‘where they stay to play!’ in every service here. 

Meet the Team

Meet our amazing team and one of your pets best friends! Click on each member to learn more.

Owners: Karla Toppen & Abbi Gates (mother-daughter)


Business Manager: Tracy


Daycare & Boarding Manager: Joe


Invisible Fence Brand of the Tri-States, Rochester and Southern Minnesota

  • Kyle (Manager, Technician, Trainer)
  • Allen (Technician, Trainer)

Certified Professional Trainers:

  • Abbi
  • Jasmine


Concierge:

Franci


Daycare & Boarding Attendants:



  • Ryan
  • Jordan
  • Zach
  • Grace N
  • Kaylee
  • Mathea

Grooming:

  • Joy
  • Jess
Group Photo — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Owners & Management Doggie Business

Karla Bio:

 I grew up on a farm outside of Holmen, Wi and I am a lifelong lover of all animals. It started with cows and has evolved. I started with 30+ years of management and decided I needed something different. Hence I founded this crazy place I like to call the utopia. I started Doggie Business in 2006 with a large vision and a small budget (well none to be honest). So, I went to work scooping dog poop. After a few years I had the opportunity to become an Independent Invisible Fence Brand Dealer. This was a natural move for me and has been a very rewarding part of our business. Soon after we decided to offer daycare and boarding, and well- why not grooming too. My whole family is or has been involved in the business and my youngest daughter is a co-owner with me. Her passion for dogs and training was a natural fit to add a training service to our business. Her love for all things pet has added another branch as well- our Pet Boutique. My oldest son Allen is working as a technician with our Invisible Fence Brand Dealership and my son in law Kyle is our technician Manager with Invisible Fence. We have several staff that have been with us for a number of years and are now family too. This has been my mission to create a family business where your whole family is part of the DB family. My hobbies revolve around my business and family. I do enjoy kayaking, riding trails with our UTV, and laughing with my family and wonderful friends with my husband Peter.

Karla — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Abbi Bio:

Hello! My name is Abbi and I am one of the owners here at Doggie Business & Invisible Fence Brand. I grew up in this business since it started in 2006 back when we used to scoop dog poo with 5 kids in a van. I have traveled the country showing dogs in AKC since 2008. In 2010 I got the opportunity to travel and show at Crufts in London

(the world's largest dog show). In 2015, I went off to National K9 to get more certifications and experience under my belt and then came back and started the training branch here. I strive to help coach both the dogs and owners that dog training is a lifestyle and art. Outside of work- my hobbies include hiking, crafting and spending time with family. I have 3 dogs (Cujo-lab mix, Valor (lab), Skylar (Miniature Schnauzer), a cat named Kronk and a bunny named Camo. I also have 2 kids (Berkley & Bear) and a fun fact is that we all share a birthday! I am proud to keep my mothers dream growing and alive by helping aid the business with my creativity and keeping that family culture!

Abbi — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Tracy Bio: Business Manager

Hello, let me introduce myself. My name is Tracy Barrett and I am the Business Manager. I’ve been with Doggie Business since March of 2012. I have 25+ years in customer service and project management in various industries. 


I moved from Canada 20 years ago to marry my husband Bruce. We currently have 2 dogs, Po and Bindi. I enjoy spending time with my family and fur babies; fishing, hiking and reading. 

I was a client at Doggie Business for a few years prior to working here. My role has evolved with the business, allowing growth and opportunities. Things I love about my job are being around dogs and bringing my dogs to work with me. The flexibility of working here has allowed me many benefits over the years as you are treated like family. 

Tracy — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Joe Bio:

Hello, my name is Joe Eckert and I am the Daycare & Boarding Manager. I have 30+ Years of Business Management (Restaurant, Retail, Marketing, Pet Care).

I came to Doggie Business February 8th 2021 with many years of experience in various business models of management however, very little experience with Dogs. Through training and experience over the last 2 years I have built a vast knowledge base and greater appreciation of Dogs as well as other pets including my 2 Cats Raven & Ward. 

The most rewarding part of my job is my growing understanding of what these animals want and need and building loving relationships with all types of breeds and personalities. Nothing is better than a dog hug and kiss.

Invisible Fence Brand of the Tri States, Rochester and Southern Minnesota

Allen Bio:

Hello, my name is Allen and I am a Technician and trainer at Invisible Fence. I have a son named Thorin. I love science fiction and dislike onions. My cat Felix keeps me on my toes with his rambunctious personality. My favorite part of my job is working outdoors and knowing that I am a part of positively helping dogs quality of life. I am also Karla, the owner’s son.

Allen — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Kyle Bio:

Hello My name is Kyle and I am the Lead Technician and Trainer. I am Perfect Start certified with 6 years experience. I have 3 dogs, an Aussie Blue heeler named Lucy, a Corgi named Shermy, an Aussie collie named Kenley. I also have a cat named Bella.

As far as my job goes there’s nothing more rewarding than getting pets the freedom inside and out and to be with the family wherever they are on the property, all while not having to worry about them leaving. Having 2 children my hobbies end up being a lot of their hobbies, whether we’re playing games or sports, tag or just horsing around. I play frisbee golf as well which the kids enjoy in short bursts. A fun fact about myself is I used to cook for over 10 years growing in the culinary arts. I started in the local bowling alley in Decorah Iowa, cooking fryer food, burgers, and pizza when I was 16. Then I worked at a few other restaurants growing in each department till I reached a more fine dining experience between the hotel Winneshiek in Decorah Iowa and also at the Waterfront in La Crosse Wisconsin. I am also in the family as I am Karla’s son in law!

Kyle — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Jessie Bio:

Jessie Nagel, Invisible fence trainer/ Daycare/ Bather. I have been with both companies for 2 1/2 Years. My dogs are Bella, April, and Rocky. My job is rewarding because I am in a different service each day so I can experience a little of everything. With invisible fence brand side - when I graduate a dog seeing it is so fulfilling to see them be able to run around in the yard so free and adventurous. . When I work in daycare- I get to play with them and get to learn their personalities.

Jessie — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Certified Professional Dog Trainers:

Jasmine Bio:

Hi, my name is Jasmine! I've been working at Doggie Business since July of 2022 as a daycare attendant and now I'm a certified dog trainer. I love being a trainer because I get to teach dogs new things everyday and I get to work dogs with different personality types. I also love being outdoors including fishing, kayaking and hiking. I have a dog of my own he’s a black labrador retriever named Loki!

Jasmine — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Concierge:

Franny Bio:

Hello, My name is Francis aka Franny. I am the receptionist here at Doggie Business. I am the first person that you get to see when you bring your fur babies here. I have been a client of Doggie Business for 7 years with my fur baby Red. He loves to come and play. All I have to say is “Let’s go see Karla” and he is ready! I have been working here for a few months now and my favorite part is to meet all the fur kids coming into the door and getting to pet them. I love being able to help love them while their parents are busy at work. My hobbies outside of work are skydiving, working my yard, decorating and spending time with my family. I also have a cat named Brody who is 20 years old. That does not stop his feistiness though. Thank you for trusting us and allowing us to care for you fur babies like our own. Love, Frannie

Daycare & Boarding Attendants:

Grace:

I’m Grace Nikolay and have been a daycare attendant at Doggie Business for about a month now. I love all animals, especially dogs which is why I really enjoy working at Doggy Business. At home, I have one dog who is a teddy bear mix but mostly shih tzu. His name is Bandit and he just turned 8 in October. I am 16 years old and hope to maybe pursue a career as a veterinarian when I’m older.

Grace — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Kaylee bio:

Hi, my name is Kaylee! I've been a Daycare & Boarding Attendant at Doggie Business for a little over a month. I have an 8 year old German Shepard mix name Lola at home. When I am not at work, I run track and do pole vault. I also love being outdoors doing things like kayaking, swimming, going to the river, and hiking.

Kay — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Ryan bio:

Hello my name is Ryan and I am a Daycare & Boarding Attendant Business. I've worked here for about two months. The reason I decided to join is because I love animals and I have always been fascinated by them. I'm still in High School and I'm a Junior. In my free time I like to play games or play with my cats Lulu and Luna when I'm home. When I'm not home I like to go to the pool or hangout with my friends.

Ry — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Mathea bio:

Hi, my name is Matheal! I've been a daycare attendant at Doggie Business since the beginning of May 2023. I grew up in Galesville and will be graduating in 2024. My favorite hobbies are baking, art, watching movies, and I love to shop. I've always loved dogs and I have my very own Yorkie. I like working with the dogs and seeing how playful and sweet they are. I look forward to seeing them when I work and they make my day better.

Mathea — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Grooming:

Joy bio:

Hi, my name is Joy! I have just joined the Doggie Business family as their new groomer! I have been grooming

for 26 years. I have also shown dogs- mostly poodles and chihuahuas. Outside of work I like to play the flute and I am in school for Criminal Justice. My favorite part of grooming is the one on one time with each dog and how they become family. I cannot wait to meet everyone and their pets in the weeks to come!

Joy — Holmen, WI — Doggie Business LLC

Met the Team? Now Come and Truly Meet Us!

You should have a pretty good idea of what our team is like now. Would you like to meet them in person? Why not get in contact and organize a meet and greet for you and your pal (or pals)! Our team is eager to meet both of you!

Need to schedule a service or want more information? Call us today at (608) 399-1266.

  • ★★★★★

    Since they were puppies, my two rescue dogs have enjoyed Doggie Business for training, boarding, and day care.  The staff are very engaging with the dogs, and my dogs love them.  Safety and health are top concerns at Doggie Business, and they insure top quality care.


    - M E.

  • ★★★★★

    The Doggie Business Training team had a natural way with our dog.  We were so impressed with the team and their extensive knowledge of dog behavior.  They are caring, professional, and skilled at seeing what is needed to help the dogs and owners succeed.


    Our dog, Kash, still responds to all commands and has been the ideal pup for our family!  Kash has a great temperament and personality, but the instruction and training helped lay a great foundation and establish great patterns and behaviors.


    Highly recommend!


    - Aly K.

  • ★★★★★

    I saw so much improvement in my dog when he went to train here. The staff was so kind. They were very clear about what areas my pup needed to work on.

    Great communication and very professional. I would suggest anyone looking for dog training to go here!


    - Lynae E.

  • ★★★★★

    Since they were puppies, my two rescue dogs have enjoyed Doggie Business for training, boarding, and day care.  The staff are very engaging with the dogs, and my dogs love them.  Safety and health are top concerns at Doggie Business, and they insure top quality care.


    - M E.

  • ★★★★★

    The Doggie Business Training team had a natural way with our dog.  We were so impressed with the team and their extensive knowledge of dog behavior.  They are caring, professional, and skilled at seeing what is needed to help the dogs and owners succeed.


    Our dog, Kash, still responds to all commands and has been the ideal pup for our family!  Kash has a great temperament and personality, but the instruction and training helped lay a great foundation and establish great patterns and behaviors.


    Highly recommend!


    - Aly K.

  • ★★★★★

    I saw so much improvement in my dog when he went to train here. The staff was so kind. They were very clear about what areas my pup needed to work on.

    Great communication and very professional. I would suggest anyone looking for dog training to go here!


    - Lynae E.

Share by: