Lifestyle Brand & Community for Pet Parents

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ingrid Castro, owner of Toronto Dog Moms, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

Dog ownership is a huge responsibility, but it’s also a rewarding one. I created Toronto Dog Moms to help other moms connect, show pride, and share our love of pets. In addition to selling modern dog mom clothing and swag, Toronto Dog Moms is home to valuable information on pet health, events, and a community where all moms can connect and feel supported.

At Toronto Dog Moms, we believe in collaboration and community, which is why we will donate a portion of all sales to local rescue humane societies and support GoFundMe pages as well. We also support dog-friendly events and places, so make sure to email us with any updates to share with our dog mom community. We want to provide you with fun and cute ways to celebrate.

Tell us about yourself

My dog Chino is what has inspired my work for the last ten years. Previous to Toronto Dog Moms, I operated a dog walking service in the city. He was the reason for this and why the idea of Toronto Dog Moms even came up. He's always been the driving force behind my work.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being an entrepreneur while being in school was a huge leap I took many years ago without knowing how to navigate it all. I can say that I am really proud that I did it and was able to turn a small business I started and grow it into more than what I anticipated. In 2019 I was able to sell that business and continue with Toronto Dog Moms full-time. Selling a business was a huge milestone as I don't know anyone who has gone through the process, and it's something I now have experience in.

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

I think the hardest is sticking it through when things aren't panning out how you'd like them to. It's something that you have to continuously motivate and drive yourself to do day in and day out regardless.

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

The best tips I could provide would be to ensure you have a long-term plan. It's important to know the direction you want your business to grow. Always remember your why is a huge driving factor and will keep you going on a daily basis, so never forget it. Know that no matter what, there are people out there supporting you and rooting for your success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://torontodogmoms.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TorontoDogMoms/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontodogmoms/

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.