Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Casandra Fowler, Owner of Harmony Animal Hospital, located in Alexandria, VA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Harmony Animal Hospital is a Fear Free Certified small animal veterinary clinic serving the pet parents of Alexandria and the surrounding areas.

Tell us about yourself

I have always loved caring for animals and helping people - what better way to do both than to be a veterinarian! Once I gained several years of experience as a clinician, I felt I was ready for the next step in my career. In starting Harmony Animal Hospital 3 years ago, I have been able to see my vision for what a veterinary clinic could have come to life. I continue to love learning new things and providing care for my patients and clients, and I now get to help my associates and staff do the same.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am proud to have created a place where people enjoy their work every day, even on hard days. This then shows in the work that we do with our patients and clients.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

By far, the hardest thing has been the times when it was necessary to let an employee go, especially when I knew they were trying their best but just were not able to live up to our standards.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Hire people that are smarter than you! None of us is an expert in all facets of running a business, so hire those that are. Don't try to be your own lawyer, accountant, social media/marketing expert, etc. It is well worth it, in the long run, to get good help and focus your time on what you do best.
  2. Study emotional intelligence. We all have room for improvement here, and it makes for a much more productive work environment if the leader can model and coach these skills.
  3. Hire employees that believe in your mission and culture goals. You can teach skills, but you can't usually change someone's outlook on life.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.harmonyvetva.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarmonyVetVA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harmonyvetva/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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