Doggie Bus, a new local rideshare app, aims to fetch a big audience while providing a unique pet care service for the exploding dog and pet industry.
Founded by local logistics expert and entrepreneur Troy Bergeron, along with technical expertise from DeLuca Technologies CEO Mario DeLuca, Doggie Bus launched in early 2024 and has quickly gained traction both in New Orleans and nationally.
“While taking his own dogs to daycare and vet appointments, Bergeron saw firsthand how difficult it was for pet owners to coordinate transportation for grooming, daycare and medical visits,” said DeLuca. “Drawing on his operational know-how and love for dogs, he launched Doggie Bus. The result is a tech-powered pet transport solution that blends convenience with care.”
While rideshare apps like Lyft and Uber have become ubiquitous, Bergeron sought to create something new with the ease of that experience for pet owners in a new way.
“Doggie Bus was inspired by the simplicity and convenience of modern rideshare platforms,” explained DeLuca. “Seeing how those apps transformed transportation for people, we saw an opportunity to bring that same level of ease, visibility and reliability to dogs and their families through a service built specifically around their needs and routines.”
Bergeron’s experience in logistics along with DeLuca’s knowledge of custom software solutions, helped launch the app on a large scale. Doggie Bus has already been featured in a Microsoft Global Customer Success Story, “showcasing the powerful synergy of local expertise and next-generation technology.”
According to a recent company press release, “The app uses Microsoft’s .NET MAUI and Azure platforms to deliver real-time scheduling, GPS tracking, and push notifications to pet owners.” Doggie Bus is available on Google Play and in the Apple app store.
“Pet owners can download the Doggie Bus app on their iPhone or Android device and follow a few quick steps,” explained DeLuca. “They enter their dog’s information, select the destination and confirm the pickup. As we like to say, it’s so easy, a dog could do it.”
Pet owners can then track their pet’s journey each step of the way, just like traditional rideshare apps.
“Even before the ride begins, pet owners can see the Doggie Bus on the map as it makes its way to their location,” said DeLuca. “Once the ride is underway, they can continue tracking the journey in real time and receive instant notifications at every key moment, from pickup to drop-off. The entire experience is designed to give pet parents peace of mind. Dogs ride in comfort and safety while their owners stay connected throughout the journey.”
The app aims to connect both with pet owners (who need an extra hand) and dog lovers to provide a unique service, franchise options and job opportunities for those who love animals.
“Doggie Bus isn’t just about transporting pets,” said Bergeron, “it’s also about creating meaningful, fulfilling careers for those who want to help others, whether it’s busy families, seniors or anyone who simply can’t transport their dogs on their own. By franchising, we are opening the door for others to build something of their own, rooted in purpose, connection and compassion.”
Doggie Bus already has its first franchisee in Rhode Island and is testing new locations across the U.S. Rates for rides vary from location to location.
“Each Doggie Bus region sets its own pricing based on local gas prices, operating costs and
travel distance,” said Bergeron. “Riders see clear, upfront pricing when booking through the app, and frequent users can access bundle or subscription options tailored to their routine.”
Bergeron noted that the company also provides subscription options for daily or weekly transport, tailored for dogs with regular daycare schedules. These plans offer cost savings and priority access during busy times.
Doggie Bus is hitting the market at time of rapid growth in the pet care industry. According to a May 2025 MarketWatch report, “Ninety-four million households in the U.S. currently have at least one pet — a 15% increase from 2024 according to the American Pet Products Association. This growth comes with increased spending on vet care, pet insurance and pet wellness plans.”
It goes on to note that dogs are the most popular pet choice — 68 million households have at least one dog.
Doggie Bus drivers and vehicles must undergo specific safety qualifications to ensure peace of mind for dog owners.
“Driver numbers vary by region, but all are carefully selected and trained,” said Bergeron. “Each candidate undergoes background checks, must have a spotless driving record, and must complete specialized training in dog handling and safety. Most importantly, they must have a genuine love for animals, ensuring that every ride is professional, caring and dependable.”
Pet owners and dogs that use Doggie Bus are required to provide current, up-to-date vaccination records. Owners’ emergency contact information and specific pet safety protocols ensure pets’ safety.
“Dogs travel in crash-tested harnesses secured to seat belt anchors, and all drivers are trained in dog handling and safety protocols,” Bergeron explained. “We follow guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association and meet certification standards from the Center for Pet Safety.”
While the app has started off with a bang, Bergeron and DeLuca are anticipating increased growth and expansion.
“With strong momentum in both New Orleans and Rhode Island, Doggie Bus is now expanding through a national franchise model,” said Bergeron. “But beyond growth, there’s a deeper motivation driving this next chapter. We believe that when people are given the opportunity to do work they love while making a real difference in their communities, everyone benefits.”
The Doggie Bus NOLA
thedoggiebusnola.com // 504-915-4645
