By Ben Lawson
ben@seymourherald.com
After working as a manager in the food industry, Linda Hammond jumped on an opportunity to go into business for herself in a field she never imagined – hotdogs.
David Harris created the hotdog fast food drive through called “Whassup Dog” as a standalone store.  But as business picked up, he set out to create a franchise, establishing locations on Northshore Drive and Chapman Highway.  
On Nov. 1, Hammond became the first franchise owner when she took over the Chapman site.
“I really like it,” she said.  “This way I meet new people everyday.”
“Whassup Dog” sets itself apart by offering a unique menu selection at affordable prices, including Chicago style, brats and pizza dogs.  They have a special Double Dog deal offering two conies with a drink and chips for $4.99 and children’s deal with plain hotdog, drink and chips for $2.99.
“But we’re really known for our sweet tea,” said Melissa Heywood, who’s been with the company for two years.
Heywood and her husband have considered starting up their own franchise, but for now she’s happy offering the best hotdogs in town.
“We put a lot of love and care into our hotdogs,” she said.
Located next to card services company Elavon, the hotdog venue has done well from lunch customers.  But Hammond hopes to do more in the community.
“We’d love to get some schools to sponsor us, to do a game night,” she said.
In the meantime, they’ll focus on keeping the customers happy.
“I’d like to get this one picked up, then open another in Sevierville,” Hammond said.
“Whassup Dog” is located at 7218 Chapman Hwy.  They are open Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to  4 p.m.  They are closed Sunday.  To see a full menu, visit www.whassupdog.com.

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