When Francesca Albo and Lea Burbidge Izquierdo crossed paths at a dog park, they quickly recognized their shared challenges. Both were grappling with corporate burnout while striving to launch their side projects. This connection sparked a friendship that led them to embark on a joint venture. Formally established in 2021, Puppy Sphere—a wellness initiative blending yoga sessions with puppy therapy—has experienced tremendous success since its inception.
A Unique Wellness Journey
Puppy Sphere quickly captured the interest of participants with its innovative puppy yoga classes. The concept originated from Albo and Burbidge Izquierdo’s own experiences; they were motivated by the mental health benefits their dogs provided and aimed to create a space where people could enjoy puppy companionship without the long-term obligations of pet ownership. Initially, the founders themselves were their business’s first clients.
“The idea behind puppy yoga was a bit self-serving at first; we just wanted to hang out with puppies,” Albo recalls. “We sought a reason to merge our passions—yoga and animals.” It wasn’t until the surprising growth of their business that they appreciated the scientific backing of the emotional benefits linked to animal-assisted therapy.
“Numerous studies indicate that being around dogs can significantly enhance one’s mood and mental health,” Burbidge Izquierdo explains. “Engagement with puppies triggers the release of serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin, which collectively alleviate stress and boost overall well-being.”
The positive effects encompass emotional and mental health outcomes—like diminished anxiety and loneliness—as well as physical benefits, including reduced blood pressure and alleviation of pain.
“When we understood the positive impact of puppy yoga on mental health,” Albo states, “it fueled our ambition to broaden our reach, making this experience available across North America, and eventually, internationally.”
Puppy Sphere now serves around 16,000 clients monthly through its 16 locations in 10 cities, with plans for further expansion. Albo and Burbidge Izquierdo aim to open an additional 30 studios by the end of 2026.
Mastering the Craft
While developing their business, Albo and Burbidge Izquierido frequently participated in classes themselves, leading to insightful revelations. One critical realization was that the typical class duration didn’t adequately meet participant needs.
“When classes were structured for 45 minutes, attendees weren’t focused on yoga,” Albo notes. “They were more interested in taking photos with the puppies.”
This prompted the duo to design a distinctive 75-minute experience, which integrates a dedicated 30 minutes of “puppy chill time” right after the initial 45 minutes of yoga. With half an hour set aside for photo opportunities with puppies, word of their classes began to spread.
They also recognized that puppy yoga serves as an inviting introduction to mindful movement, free from the pressure associated with conventional yoga environments.
“Wellness can sometimes seem daunting,” Burbidge Izquierido shared, recalling her own hesitations when she first began yoga. “At Puppy Sphere, you have the freedom to abandon a pose and simply play with a puppy. It’s an incredibly inviting atmosphere.”
Welcoming Everyone
The studios are designed as inclusive environments where families can celebrate occasions like birthdays, or engage in events such as Mother’s Day. Adolescents aged 14 and older are also welcomed, offering parents an avenue for introducing their children to the uplifting world of puppy therapy without the commitment of pet ownership.
For younger participants, the advantages of yoga combined with animal-assisted therapy encompass enhanced social skills, improved stress management, and better cognitive performance.
Albo and Burbidge Izquierdo have seen firsthand the positive transformations reported by their clients regarding their mental health. The thriving community at Puppy Sphere studios is one of the primary factors contributing to the enduring popularity of their classes.
“Individuals participate in our classes for myriad reasons,” Burbidge Izquierdo notes. “What binds us is the shared desire to enhance our well-being.”
Creating an avenue for stress relief, burnout recovery, and an escape from daily life is something both Albo and Burbidge Izquierdo take pride in, echoing the support they sought themselves when they first met at the dog park.
“Dogs are naturally affectionate and attuned to the present moment, providing immense comfort,” Albo explains. “People are in need of spaces where they can reconnect. Puppy Sphere serves as a modern-day dog park.”
This piece was initially featured in the September/October 2025 edition of Intomodel magazine (US version).
