Fanwood, N.J. (September 25, 2025) – In a momentous and well-deserved recognition, Steven & Jason Parker, the visionary Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels, have been named winners of the IBBY Award for Industry Leader — the single most prestigious, career-defining honor in the global pet care industry.

Presented by the International Boarding & Pet Care Services Association (IBPSA) at its annual Business Conference, the IBBY Awards are widely regarded as the gold standard of excellence in pet care. The Industry Leader Award, akin to a Lifetime Achievement Award, is reserved exclusively for those rare individuals whose contributions have reshaped the entire pet care landscape. Steven and Jason Parker didn’t just meet the criteria — they set the standard.

As the masterminds behind K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels — the #1 luxury pet care brand on the planet, known for its international acclaim, relentless innovation, and wall-to-wall awards — the Parkers have not merely led the industry… they’ve revolutionized it. Coast to coast, K9 Resorts’ luxurious facilities have become the undisputed gold standard in pet hospitality, serving as the blueprint every competitor hopes to emulate but fails to match.

Steven and Jason Parker have not only raised the bar — they’ve redefined what luxury, professionalism, and care look like in the pet hospitality space. Indeed, few people have done more to elevate the perception of pet care from necessity to world-class, five-star service. The Parkers have not only built an empire — they’ve created a movement. Their industry leadership is marked by bold vision, unwavering excellence in animal welfare, legendary customer service, next-level company culture, and a ferocious commitment to growth, innovation, and community impact.

“The IBBY Awards spotlight the best pet care service providers in our industry,” said Carmen Rustenbeck, Founder & CEO of IBPSA. “They have become highly sought-after and are considered the most prestigious awards in our industry. As the pet care industry continues to explode and competition increases, it’s important to recognize those professionals who are setting themselves apart from the crowd. Pet owners should have a gold standard to look to when choosing a pet care provider — and K9 Resorts is helping set that standard.”

This coveted award is not handed out lightly. The Industry Leader category honors individuals whose careers have exemplified visionary leadership, exceptional animal welfare standards, strong company culture, world-class customer service, deep community involvement, and a relentless commitment to continuous learning and innovation. Steven and Jason Parker have not just checked every box — they’ve rewritten the checklist.

From humble beginnings to becoming internationally celebrated entrepreneurs, the Parkers’ journey has inspired thousands and transformed how the world views pet care. Their leadership has turned K9 Resorts into a powerhouse brand that has elevated the entire industry, proving that luxury and compassion are not mutually exclusive — they’re essential partners.

“To receive the IBBY Award for Industry Leader is not just an honor — it’s a milestone moment,” said Steven Parker. “We’ve spent our entire careers obsessing over the details that others overlook. This award is a reflection of that passion — and of the incredible team and franchise network that brings our vision to life every single day.”

“This recognition proves what we’ve always believed: pet care can — and should — be extraordinary,” added Jason Parker. “We are humbled, proud, and more fired up than ever. The future of K9 Resorts is only getting bigger, bolder, and more luxurious.”

From a single resort in New Jersey to a dominant international brand, the Parkers’ story is one of relentless ambition, unmatched execution, and a refusal to settle for anything less than the absolute best for pets, pet parents, and the industry itself.

This prestigious honor joins a collection of accolades the Parkers have received this year, including the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award, placement on the Inc. 5000 list, and the Franchise Times Deal Maker of the Year Award.

K9 Resorts is actively seeking single and multi-unit owners to bring luxury pet boarding and daycare to their community. To learn more about the K9 Resorts franchise opportunity, visit www.k9franchise.com. To learn more about K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels, visit www.k9resorts.com.

About K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels is the leading provider of luxury pet care and lodging, offering award-winning services that combine five-star accommodations with the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and fun. With multiple locations nationwide and a rapidly growing international footprint, K9 Resorts is widely recognized as the benchmark for excellence in the pet hospitality space.

About IBPSA and the IBBY Awards

The International Boarding & Pet Care Services Association (IBPSA) supports pet care professionals with education, resources, and advocacy. The IBBY Awards honor businesses and individuals raising the bar in professionalism, innovation, and service in the pet care industry.

Search