Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robin McDonald, founder of Howl, Inc., located in Baltimore, MD, USA.

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

Howl sells high-quality, healthy foods for dogs, cats, small animals, and birds. Our customers are people who want to give their pets the best. Our well-educated staff is here to help you choose the best foods, supplements, and treats for your best friends.

Tell us about yourself

I opened Howl (then Chow, Baby) while caring for a dog with digestive issues. My extensive research led me to realize that almost all commercial pet food was not the healthiest diet for my dog. After my 2nd layoff in a year, I decided to take the leap and open my own pet food business. Even then, I was able to discover healthier options for my pup. Today, there are myriad choices for the conscious pet lover.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Creating a thriving business on a dream. Helping pet owners give their pet friends the best possible life.

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

The thing that I was not prepared for was the requirement to be “on” all day, every day. You are socially exhausted at the end of the day. Customers are your first priority, and even when they are perfectly lovely, it takes a lot of energy out of you.

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

  1. Expect to work harder than you ever have. (It will be worth it.)
  2. Don’t go into retail if you’re not a people person.
  3. Unless you have accounting experience, hire an account.
  4. One more, learn to delegate!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Find what makes you happy and figure out how to turn that into a business. Don’t start a business just because you think it will be profitable. You will need passion to keep going when times get tough.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.howlinhampden.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howlinhampden
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howlinhampden/

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.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.