Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kathleen Walls, co-owner of Greene Street Animal Care, located in Philadelphia, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Greene Street Animal Care is an animal care center for cats and dogs that provides boarding, pet daycare, grooming for dogs, and wellness checks & vaccines from our visiting veterinarian.
Tell us about yourself
My father, Dr. Orville R. Walls, Jr., DVM, was one of the first three Black veterinarians in the state of Pennsylvania. He opened up Greene Street Animal Clinic on September 5, 1976. My father's practice was a staple in the Germantown community for 41-years, providing animal care to the community at large. He provided amazing service at affordable prices. He was very community-minded. Thus, after he made his transition on September 6, 2017, myself along with my younger brother Dr. Brian Walls decided to continue his legacy of animal care and took over the practice and turned it into an animal care center specifically for cats and dogs. Our commitment to family, legacy, community, and providing quality service to our furry friends is what keeps us going each day. Our motto, "We treat your pet like family," is one that we wholeheartedly mean and uplift each and every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am proud to say that I have several accomplishments as a business owner. I became a certified dog groomer within the first three months of opening the business. I have managed to continue to provide for my mother via the family business, just as my father had done for over 40 years. I have been able to continue to provide service for so many families and pets that my father also provided service for over the years. I have created new aspects of the business, which are needed in a new era, from a foundation that was so solidly built.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
In this line of work, the hardest thing is figuring out when to take time off. We work when others experience holidays and vacations. Many times clients/customers will ask, "what did you do for Thanksgiving or Christmas" and our response is, "we spent time with the animals." That's when they realize on a deeper level that we are a business that is serious about "treating your pet like family."
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take an honest inventory of what you can manage yourself and where you need to hire people.
- Hire an accountant from the beginning to ensure that payroll, taxes, etc., are done correctly and turned in on time.
- Be sure to take time to work on your business, not just in your business. I learned this at a conference many years ago, and it has stayed with me.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Running your own business is being aware of how you want to spend your time and knowing that you can manage your time effectively. It takes a lot of time and works to run a successful business. It is worth it. It is rewarding. Also, make sure that you incorporate time for rest and restoration. Also, be sure to make adjustments to the business and business practices as needed to ensure your definition of success.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://gsac.vetsfirstchoice.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreeneStreetAnimalCare/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenestreetanimalcare/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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