Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in animal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kristina Szabo, Owner of Star Veterinary Hospital, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are an independent veterinary hospital caring for animals and their pet parents in our downtown Toronto community.
Tell us about yourself
Well, I will tell you the story of our clinic name - Star Veterinary Hospital. Two years ago, I welcomed Star into my life. She suffered a facial deformity, had difficulty eating, and required several hours of care a day, but what a gift. Spending that time with her and helping her overcome these hurdles bonded us, and she became more than a cat. She became my companion. Star came everywhere with me —on my sailboat, stand-up paddle boarding, for walks with friends. Star is a symbol of resilience, bravery, and trust.
Our shared experiences formed the foundation of Star Veterinary Hospital. Star’s gentle demeanor, her ability to accept everyone she encounters, and her unwavering trust in me are the values that guide our hospital: Compassion, bravery, acceptance, and boundless love.
As someone who graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1999, my journey as a veterinarian spans 24 remarkable years. My passion for animals has only grown every year, fueled by moments that encompass the joy of cuddling kittens and puppies, the satisfaction of performing life-changing surgeries, and the privilege of being a guiding light in pets’ lives. I thrive on solving the mysteries of your pet’s health. While I never wish for pets to become sick, the process of figuring out their ailments and creating a tailored treatment solution is where my expertise truly shines.
Star Veterinary Hospital is more than a business. It’s a reflection of my lifelong commitment to animals. Being part of the King West / Fort York community is essential to me. I’ve lived in the area for years, and the opportunity to open this clinic in my neighborhood answers my calling to bridge the gap between pet owners and the community. I want Star Veterinary Hospital to be a place where the warmth of a family-run establishment meets best-of-the-best veterinary care.
As you step into Star Veterinary Hospital, you’re not just entering a clinic. You’re joining a community that revolves around love and care. And you might even catch sight of Star herself, as she continues to inspire us every day. Join us, and let’s create a haven where your pets are more than patients—they’re family.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
So far, my biggest accomplishment has been designing a modern and welcoming space for patients and pet parents. We are very new; we just opened in November 2023, so every day, we have new accomplishments.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Narrowing the hardest aspects down to three things - Being the creator, learning, and then managing all the departments and ensuring staff and clients are happy.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make a detailed plan.
- Talk to as many people who know your industry as you can.
- Trust your decisions.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.starveterinaryhospital.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarVeterinaryHospital
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starvethospital
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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