Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Pope, president of Poll to Pastern, located in Matthews, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business offers acupressure and red light therapy sessions for horses, dogs, and cats! Both modalities are non-invasive and pain-free. Sessions provide both preventative and complementary care options for these animals. I also teach acupressure classes to pet/horse owners to learn about what acupressure is, how to find the points, the benefits of the points, what to look for when doing point work, and more! Acupressure sessions can help boost the immune system, increase blood flow, balance emotions, and so much more. Red light therapy works on a cellular level to relieve pain by stimulating endorphins, stimulating cells to heal quicker, and increasing collagen production. It is a great option for working animals who experience sore muscles and need a pre or post-workout recovery. I also offer red light therapy pad rentals for between sessions or surgery recovery.
Tell us about yourself
I am a graduate of the University of Florida with an Animal Science Specializing in Equine degree. I learned of many avenues in the industry during my time at the university. I always wanted to help animals, but I never wanted to go the vet route. So, I looked into acupuncture for horses since I watched a vet student perform on one of our school horses. Found out you needed to be a vet to do acupuncture. So, I found a school who teaches acupressure and got certified with them for horses and small animals. Then became nationally certified in both horses and small animals. I also took courses on red light therapy and became certified in that as well. What makes my passion for this business to continue is the reactions and changes I see in the animals I touch. They show me a yawn, lick, or chew to show they feel good throughout their session. This makes me feel empowered to help more animals feel their best. Seeing reduced healing times on dogs recovering from surgery has also been a reminder this is what I want to continue to do. I can help animals recover faster and stay healthy, and that is special to me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Running the business myself. I know that's a pretty simple accomplishment, but it really surprised me that I am actually owning my own business and doing everything the way I want. I have had support from family and friends, but my passion has pushed me to create something I can call my own.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Marketing. It is hard to get people to understand what I do and that it does help their pets. Being a preventative care option, some people choose not to spend money on my services and prefer to wait until their animal is sick before they take action. They do not understand that preventing issues is key! I try to explain it like brushing your teeth. You brush your teeth to prevent cavities; why wouldn't you want to use preventative options for your animals too?
I specialize in my sessions; I do not specialize in marketing. I have trouble keeping up with social media posts and email marketing. Doing all the things in my business by myself is hard, and I often forget all the things I need to do.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Set a goal and stick to it.
- Be sure to keep connections with your clients.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.polltopastern.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polltopastern
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poll2pastern/
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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