Paws & Play wins 2026 Best of Florida Regional Award

Paws & Play, a family-owned pet resort in Ocoee, was named a 2026 Best of Florida Regional Award winner for its pet care approach and long-running ties to local families. The recognition highlights a 12,000-square-foot facility that offers boarding, daycare, grooming and on-site retail for Central Florida pet owners.

Why it matters: - The award spotlights a local pet resort that has built repeat business through personal service, not just amenities. - The recognition also reinforces demand for convenient pet care near major travel and commute routes in Central Florida. - Families use the resort for boarding, daycare and grooming, which makes the business relevant beyond overnight stays.

What happened: - Paws & Play was named a 2026 Best of Florida Regional Award winner. - The family-owned pet resort is in Ocoee, Florida. - The business opened in 2015. - The resort serves boarding, daycare and grooming customers.

The details: - Paws & Play operates a purpose-built, 12,000-square-foot facility located between FL-429 and the Florida Turnpike. - The location is positioned for families heading to Orlando attractions, dropping off pets on the way to the airport or commuting to work. - The resort has a 3,000-square-foot air-conditioned indoor playroom. - Outdoor walks give dogs fresh air during their stay. - Standard Suites provide more than 30 square feet of private indoor space. - Deluxe Suites offer nearly 50 square feet of space and a playroom view. - Grooming services include baths, nail trims and full grooms. - The Bakery sells high-quality dog food, treats and snacks for pet parents who need supplies on the go. - Owner Mike Cavinder said the most meaningful part of the business is the relationships built with pets and their families over more than a decade. - Cavinder said some dogs have been with Paws & Play since the resort first opened. - Cavinder said staff has watched customers’ children grow up and heard about milestones such as baseball games and dance recitals. - More information

Between the lines: - The award appears to validate a service model built on familiarity, convenience and repeat visits. - The emphasis on family relationships suggests Paws & Play is competing on trust and continuity as much as facilities. - The location near major highways likely helps the resort capture travelers and busy households that need flexible pet care.

What's next: - Paws & Play will likely continue leaning on its local reputation, travel-friendly location and multi-service model. - The award may give the resort more visibility with pet owners looking for boarding and grooming in Central Florida. - The business is positioned to keep serving families that want a consistent place for their dogs to stay, play and be cared for.