Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Victoria Park, owner of Park Pet Supply, located in Atlanta, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have a full-line pet supply store that offers everything a pet parent needs for a healthy, happy fur baby. We specialize in pet nutrition and natural pet products that are good for the environment. Like humans, pets need fresh food, so we have seven freezers full of options for dogs and cats. Our customers want the best for their pets, and they love our outstanding customer service and knowledgeable team. We take the time to talk with our customers about their needs and help them find the best solutions for their pets.
Tell us about yourself
Like many pet entrepreneurs, I had a sickly dog that was not getting better following the vet's protocol. In the 1990s, I read books by holistic veterinarians. I learned so much about natural supplements, species-appropriate diets, and herbal remedies that helped my dog with his ailments, which were all directly caused by a cheap kibble diet. This education started me on my journey to assisting other pets to live longer and healthier lives, and I opened my store in 1999. I now follow about ten holistic vets, and I am learning more and more every day. I use this knowledge to curate the selection of products that are currently in my store. I love explaining basic pet nutrition to people and nurturing their passion for learning more about this fascinating subject.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am about to celebrate 23 years in business, and my business continues to grow every year. My business survived the pandemic, which was the most stressful time of the past 23 years.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There is so much responsibility, and managing people can be a big challenge. I love to travel, and I don't get to do that as much as I would like to. My partner helps me run the business, and we spend more time talking about the store than anything else, so it is hard to disconnect from that.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Join a small business mentoring program.
- Carry products that people regularly need but that are niche.
- Find a great CPA/bookkeeper.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.parkpetsupply.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parkpetsupply
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkpetsupply/
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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