Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jill Valuet, Founder of Radiant Paws, located in Ferndale, MI, USA.

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

I own Radiant Paws, and I do dog massage. Massage is done in conjunction with veterinary care. If they live within 20 minutes of me, I do each session in the comfort of the client's own home to make it easiest for the dog. Dog massage helps dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds, and ages. In older dogs, massage reduces pain and inflammation, stimulates muscles, and improves circulation, all of which help them move and feel better. It speeds up the recovery from surgery or illness. In high-energy or anxious dogs, it helps to disperse that energy and gives them a chance to relax and let go. And in healthy dogs, it acts as preventative care, helping to keep them in the best shape possible.

Tell us about yourself

I started out as a graphic designer but felt burned out by that work. In 2018 I decided I needed to pursue something that I was passionate about, and that something was dogs. After researching different options, I found pet massage and found a school in Toledo, OH (an hour from home) where I went for my certification. It brings me great joy and peace of mind to bring rest and relaxation to all kinds of dogs.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Dog massage is a fairly new industry, and most people have never heard of it. It brings me great joy to have brought awareness of this to people, and it has improved the lives of countless dogs. One of my clients has a dog with a neurological disorder that makes her hind legs weak. They brought me in to work on her once a week, and within three months, she was running, jumping, and playing again like she hadn't done in years. Another client lost his ability to stand. The owners were considering putting him down. Instead, they brought me in to work on him, and through massage alone, we were able to get him standing and walking on his own again. So many of my dog clients grin or burst into happy dances when they see me arrive at their house. Stories like that are my great accomplishment.

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

The downside of most people not knowing about dog massage is it can be a challenge to reach clients. I have to market hard to get my name and what I do out into the world, which requires trying all kinds of different marketing tools to make that happen. And I am the sole person in my company, which can be tough to do everything yourself. It has been a rollercoaster few years getting to where I am, and I have had to have faith in myself and my business every step of the way. Fortunately, I have a great support circle that helps to keep me motivated and on track.

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

  1. Follow your passion no matter how outlandish it sounds. I have found more joy in working with dogs, whom I love, than I ever did in my previous profession.
  2. Don't give up. Building a business doesn't happen over time. It takes hard work, patience, and persistence.
  3. Don't feel like you have to do it alone. I have found countless tips and help from people I meet in networking groups, dog groups, and other dog massage business owners. It's tough to know everything there is to know about owning a business, so don't be afraid to ask for help.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.radiantpawspm.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/radiantpaws
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiant_paws/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-valuet-5aa6204/

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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