Frisco Gets First Look at Proposed Public Private Partnership for Animal Facility

(October 7, 2025) City staff briefed the Frisco City Council on an innovative, proposed public private partnership for an animal facility, designed to be the first of its kind in North Texas. Staff introduced Frisco City Council members to the proposed facility during today's City Council work session.

Aside from a convenient place where residents can reunite with their pets - dogs, cats and exotics -- the new facility will provide the services below, using 'Fear Free' practices:

• Holding kennels and quarantine space
• Adoption, rescue, foster services
• Behavior and training services
• Community education
• Pet pantry
• Onsite veterinary care
• Spay and neuter services
• Microchipping
• Vaccines
• Day care, boarding and grooming

The proposed facility would be built on four acres, south of PGA Parkway, next to the Balcones Recycling facility, currently under construction. The proposed, two-story facility is designed to span nearly 19,000 square feet. The first floor features day care; play yards; boarding, holding and quarantine kennels; exam and isolation rooms, as well as space dedicated for radiology, surgery and recovery.

The second floor features rooms to hold cats and exotics; a 24-hour care dorm and a training room, spanning nearly 1,800 square feet. The second floor also provides office space for facility staff.

Under the proposal, the City of Frisco would build and own the facility. Development costs are estimated at $12.8 million.

Nicole Kohanski, founder of Wiggle Butt Academy, was introduced as the private partner and operator for the proposed facility. Kohanski will be responsible for monthly rent, as well as maintenance and operational costs. The facility plan proposes a 20-year lease for the land and facility. Up to 100 percent of base rent could be paid as a service in lieu of cash payment.

A 20-year resident, Kohanski founded Wiggle Butt Academy and Canine Lighthouse. She holds multiple dog behavior certifications including Fear Free elite. She is a member of Frisco's Animal Advisory Board, in her third term. She holds an MBA and BS in Management & Ethics.

The proposed facility would also provide educational opportunities for high school and university students. Volunteer opportunities would also be available to the public.

Dr. Markie Schiller is the proposed, onsite veterinarian. Dr. Schiller holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and BS from Oklahoma State University. She brings 10 years of experience in emergency medicine, urgent care and mobile veterinary practice.

City of Frisco Animal Services, a division of the Frisco Police Department, would continue to operate at FPD. The new city facility would provide veterinary care support for public safety working dogs.

The City of Frisco City Council and operator must agree on the terms of a proposed partnership before the proposed animal facility moves forward.