Founded in 2011, Finishing Institute for Dog Ownership (FIDO) began as a modest home‑based boarding service in the Wills’ Lancaster, Ohio house. Their mission was simple but powerful: care for dogs differently.
For co-owner Heath Wills, that mission was deeply personal. His connection to animals shaped the vision for a place where dogs would be treated not just as pets, but as family. What started in a Lancaster home quickly grew into something much larger.
By 2018, FIDO expanded into a 12,000-square-foot facility offering doggy daycare, overnight boarding, behavioral training, grooming services, and even cat boarding. Families traveled from across Ohio for the level of care and trust FIDO provided.
“We treat everyone’s dogs like they’re our own,” shared co-owner Libby Wills. “They’re part of our family.”
Their community involvement reaches beyond the walls, too, sponsoring local school districts’ drama departments, athletic programs, as well as Destinations Downtowns Events.
The Flood That Changed Everything
July 26, 2025. Two floods in 13 hours.
Water rose to over four feet in minutes.
With 45 dogs inside, the situation became critical. Staff members opened kennels, carrying and guiding dogs through rising water; some rescued through windows as the building filled.
Miraculously, all 45 dogs survived.
But the building did not. What followed was a story not just of loss, but of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to rebuild.
The aftermath was overwhelming. The Wills family lost not only their business, but their home, personal belongings, and years of memories. Employees were displaced, and operations came to a halt.
The insurance coverage fell short, leaving a significant gap in recovery. For a moment, the future of FIDO was uncertain.
Community Love in Action
When the dust settled, Lancaster rallied, and the community stepped in.
Neighbors, clients, and local businesses showed up in ways the Wills family never expected. Fundraisers were organized. Donations poured in. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $73,000.
“It was easier to walk away,” Libby shared. “But the love from this community kept us going.”
That support became the foundation for what came next.
Partnering with NJW Renovations Unlimited
As plans to rebuild began, FIDO connected with NJW Renovations Unlimited to bring the project to life.
From the start, the focus was clear: rebuild not just what was lost, but something stronger, safer, and better suited for the future.
“The level of excellence, the communication, the care—they feel like family,” Heath shared. “They’re taking the time to make sure this is exactly what we need.”
The new facility is being thoughtfully designed with both animals and staff in mind.
Key priorities include:
- Raising the structure several feet above grade
- Adding a retaining wall between the building and nearby stream
- Creating separate indoor/outdoor play areas for improved flow
- Incorporating soundproofing to reduce stress for animals
- Enhancing air quality systems to support cleanliness and health
Every detail is focused on creating a safer, more efficient, and less stressful environment for both the dogs and the people who care for them.
More Than a Rebuild
For FIDO, this project is about more than construction.
It’s about restoring a place where dogs are known individually, where staff build meaningful relationships with each animal, and where families feel confident their pets are cared for like their own.
“There are no shortcuts here,” Heath explained. “Our team takes the time to truly understand each dog. That’s what makes this place special.”
The rebuilt facility will allow FIDO to not only return, but to operate in a way that fully realizes the vision they’ve always had.
A Community That Made It Possible
Throughout this journey, one theme remains constant: gratitude.
From the Lancaster community to local organizations and city support, the Wills family continues to reflect on the overwhelming encouragement they received during their most difficult moments.
“There’s no way to repay that,” Libby said. “So not giving up, that’s our way of saying thank you.”
FIDO’s journey is more than a construction project; it’s a testament to community resilience, thoughtful design, and the power of partnership. By raising the building, adding flood‑defensive features, and preserving the heart of the business, NJW Renovations Unlimited is proud to be part of the solution that helped turn tragedy into an opportunity for a stronger, safer future.
If you’d like to stay updated on the rebuild or support the upcoming reopening, follow FIDO on:
Take a look at recent news coverage of the demolition in action!
