Western Branch residents will have a new, local destination for their pet care needs in 2018.

PetSuites of America has broken ground on its first Chesapeake location at the intersection of Taylor and Pughsville roads. The 14,000-square-foot facility is being built on previously vacant property beside a 7-Eleven and with immediate access to Interstate 664.

PetSuites offers boarding, day care and grooming services for cats and dogs, along with retail sales. The location will employ 10 full-time and 14 part-time employees when construction finishes this June as expected, according to Owens Group Executive Director Julianne Reisenfeld.

“Our investigation of the market revealed that it is a very pet-friendly and pet-loving community,” Reisenfeld said of Western Branch in an email. “After spending a great deal of time and money on additional due diligence, we feel that this is a community in which we can provide a much-needed service.”

Cats and dogs will enjoy “townhouses” with raised beds and televisions, according to Reisenfeld. The press release stated that the Western Branch location will feature 7,000 feet of additional outdoor yard space and two pools for daily play time.

“Providing a best-in-class pet care and socialization experience is our highest priority and what puts us ahead of the competition,” Director of New Store Operations Jillian Sanchez stated in the press release.

Dog owners can sign their pets up for group or individual play time options, which can include “special cuddle” sessions.

“For our feline friends, there are also specialized play times that range from calm cuddles to exploring time, which is designed to satisfy the most curious of guests,” according to the press release.

PetSuites operates 16 locations in seven states and is owned by National Veterinary Associates.