We are all in the middle of practicing physical distancing, and while this time is very challenging for everyone right now, it is especially difficult for small businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and we need to support them however we can, so every week we will be featuring some of our local small businesses.
Awesome Pawsome Ranch is our fifth business for Small Business Sunday.
What Is Unique About Your Business/What Made You Choose This Type of Business?
My business caters to a specific type of pet owner, those who like to see their pets relax and be calm and enjoy their holidays. We were the first boarding facility in Alberta to have webcams in EVERY room for owners to check in on their pets while they stay here with us. We also ensure while pets stay with us that they feel like home here, we have huge, over-sized rooms compared to all other boarding facilities and we are 100% family owned and operated. I had always wanted to work with animals all my life, so when the opportunity arose to strike out on my own and do something I knew I would love and that others would love, I had to grab the opportunity.
What Is Your Favourite Small Business (aside from your own)?
I have a few local small businesses that I like, but the one that pops into my head instantly is Central Hair & Beauty in Spruce Grove.
If You Had One Piece of Advice to Someone Just Starting Out, What Would It Be?
Be sure to seek professional entrepreneurial assistance before diving in head first with all your life savings, and stay objective about what it is you’re doing. Ensure your passion is going to support you and your life – do not let your passion run your life.
What Are Your Long-Term Business Goals?
Continue to provide quality pet care to those who need boarding, expand our grooming services, and continue to improve on our private off leash park areas. Ideally, we want to be the “go to” pet care provider for the greater Edmonton Area due to all our fantastic extra services we provide.
What Is Your Funniest/Weirdest/Most Memorable Experience With A Customer or Client?
My most memorable experience with a client is when she requested to spread her late dogs ashes on our property as this was his second favourite place to be other than home. It was SO touching and I was so honoured. I have plenty of other memorable client stories…far too many to count for sure and narrowing it down to one was very tough. My second most memorable is an old guest who has, as well, passed away; his name was Zeus, a bulldog who was very particular about who he liked or did not like, well Zeus always liked me from the get go. He would fold his giant round Costco bed into the shape of a taco to sleep on it while here and one time I found him IN the bed, he had somehow got the zipper open and crawled inside. He was very proud of himself. His owner and I still laugh about it to this day.
Be sure to follow Awesome Pawsome Ranch on Facebook here and check them out on Instagram here.
Thank you, Awesome Pawsome Ranch for participating in Small Business Sunday!
