Former Camp Pendleton Marine Opens New Business Amid Coronavirus

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA — While many businesses have temporarily closed or permanently shuttered their doors during the coronavirus pandemic, a former Camp Pendleton Marine recently opened a new business in San Diego.

At the start of April, San Diego native Tony Gallarado opened a Mosquito Joe pest control franchise.

Founded in 2010, Mosquito Joe has more than 335 locations across the United States. Gallarado's franchise is the first in California. Based in Carmel Valley, the business is positioned to serve all of San Diego County.

"We are thrilled to have Tony Gallardo bring Mosquito Joe to California and make outside fun again for the San Diego community," Mosquito Joe President Lou Schager said.

As a pest control company, Mosquito Joe is considered an essential business and allowed to stay open during the statewide stay-at-home order. The company provides mosquito and other insect control treatment services to residential and commercial customers.

"Mosquito Joe is able to eliminate mosquitoes, ticks, fleas and other outdoor pests so customers can enjoy their backyards," Schager said. "It is more important than ever to have a safe space in which to get fresh air, sunshine and spend time with family. We are proud to provide outdoor pest control solutions to our customers across the country so they have peace of mind when getting outside."

Although his business is considered essential, it hasn't been easy launching a new career amid a pandemic, Gallarado said.

"Since I recently opened, I feel the current economic instability has made people wary of acquiring new services," he said.

Still, it's long been a dream of Gallarado's to open his own business.

Gallarado served as an active-duty member of the Marines for 22 years and was an attack helicopter pilot. He spent the majority of his service in the Marine Corps stationed at either Camp Pendleton or Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He was deployed six times and served on more than 300 combat missions.

After retiring from active service in early 2015, Gallarado worked in fiscal and operational analytics for consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton. After four years in corporate America, he was determined to start his own business.

Gallarado, who graduated from San Diego State University prior to joining the Marines, worked with a franchise business coach. Of the variety of business options, he decided to move forward with Mosquito Joe.

"Mosquito Joe is veteran-friendly and an awesome franchise opportunity," said Gallarado, who committed a year ago and began the licensing process in California, which takes several months to complete.

"After a career of serving our country, I wanted to continue service to my native city of San Diego and provide this amazing service to the local area," he added. "I enjoy being able to help people with their mosquito and pest control needs using all-natural and botanical products to ensure effective results and low environmental impact."

For more information, visit mosquitojoe.com.