Amy Nichols, Founder and CEO of Dogtopia Named as Finalist in 4th Annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business

Stevie Award Winners to Be Announced in Las Vegas on November 12 

Bethesda, MD – Amy Nichols, founder and CEO of Dogtopia, was named a Finalist in the Community Involvement Program of the Year and Best Entrepreneur – Service Businesses - Up to 100 Employees categories in the 4th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business, presented by Infiniti.

The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, and the companies they run – worldwide.  Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word “crowned,” winners will be announced during a gala event at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on Monday, November 12.

Dogtopia, a full-service dog daycare, spa, boutique and boarding facility known for its ability to provide dogs with a fun and positive experience was founded by Nichols, in June 2002. Under Nichols leadership, vision and drive, Dogtopia has experienced overwhelming success and growth that led to the initial franchise offering of the concept in April 2005. As an industry pioneer, Amy also recognized that others aspired to own their own dog day care and spa, but needed the support of those who understand how to best run the business.

Nichols is a Finalist for her success in growing Dogtopia, as well as for her community involvement with a charitable wing of her company called K-9 Support, which back and raise awareness for the military dogs working in the Middle East, along with other working dogs such as police and seeing-eye dogs. Since starting K-9 Support in 2005, Nichols and Dogtopia have raised $25,000 for working dogs through dog washes, dog fashion shows, Spring Flings and many other events that allow dogs and their owners to mingle.

More than 800 entries were submitted for consideration in more than 40 categories. Finalists were chosen by business professionals worldwide during preliminary judging. Members of the Awards' Board of Distinguished Judges & Advisors and their staffs select Stevie Award winners from among the Finalists during final judging.

“Being named a Finalist in The Stevie Awards for Women in Business is an important achievement,” said Michael Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards.  “It means that independent business executives have agreed that the nominee is worthy of recognition.  We congratulate all of the Finalists on their achievement and wish them well in the competition.”

About Dogtopia™
Dogtopia™, founded in 2002, began offering franchises in 2005. Dogtopia prides itself on being a place where pets are valued as family and­ where dogs enjoy endless playtime and spa treatments in a positive environment. Dog owners have the assurance of leaving their beloved pets in the hands of trained professionals. Dogtopia™ staff willingly nurtures each pet with attention and love. Each location offers a variety of fun activities, sociable training and comfortable boarding for dogs of all ages, shapes, sizes, abilities and temperaments.

About The Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in four programs: The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, The Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Selling Power Sales Excellence Awards.  Honoring companies of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide.

Infiniti is the presenting sponsor of The 2007 Stevie Awards for Women in Business.  Supporting sponsor is JetBlue.  Media sponsor is Pink magazine.  The Business TalkRadio Network will broadcast the ceremonies live nationwide.

About Infiniti
Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G Coupe and Sedan, the M luxury performance sedan, FX premium crossover SUV, the QX full-size luxury SUV, and the upcoming EX luxury crossover inspired by coupe design.