Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tanya Ellis, owner of Pooches N' The Bluffs, located in Scarborough, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Pooches N' The Bluffs is located in the Scarborough bluffs. We recently took over the business from previous owner Kristy from Kristy's mutt cutts. Karen and Leslie are the full-time dog groomers at the Bluffs, and they are amazing groomers and so great with the dogs. They specialize in puppies, seniors, nervous dogs. They will give the ultimate experience, treating every dog like family. After all, our business motto is "You're Family now" We feel this way about our clients and pets that come to see this. Our team is also our family. We will always treat you that way!
Tell us about yourself
My name is Tanya Ellis (Tanya E Ierullo) on Facebook; if you wanna look me up there. I'm happy to connect with you! I have been grooming dogs for well over 20 years, and it quickly became my passion in between trying other things. I started in my parents' basement... you can read more about that in My Upcoming Book. "Opening a Pet Grooming Salon" My full story is there. I started working for Petsmart full-time and had a five-year plan. I ended up getting an opportunity to take over a Pet Grooming Salon in Port credit that was almost ten years ago. It has been a roller coaster ride being an entrepreneur, but I love every minute of it. We have an amazing team that takes great care of all the pooches that come in. I'm so proud of all of them. We also have the best clients who love us. Last year I took over Kristy's business to help her out. She is a great friend, and I am happy that we could help. It's been wonderful getting to know Karen and Leslie. Such passion animal lovers. I am motivated to provide a caring and compassionate working environment for my team to grow and succeed at what they love to do. I love being able to provide new opportunities to young people.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel that starting out with one location and then going to 2 is definitely my biggest accomplishment. Also, starting a school called Best in Show Dog grooming teaches animal lovers to become gentle caring pet groomers. Our school is located in Oakville, and I am proud that I get to teach my passion.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I feel that my biggest accomplishment as a business owner was making it through the pandemic thus far. It definitely hasn't been easy and has challenged my character in many ways. Wanting to give up several times and finding my passion, again and again, has been an ongoing struggle.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you have a business plan in place.
- Make sure you have a strong support system.
- Make sure you are not afraid to ask for what you want.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I feel as a business owner; it is really important to find balance in your life. Take time for yourself and your family. Do things you want to do. I regularly love going on hikes with my husband Anthony and my toy poodle Stuey. I enjoy working out with Peloton and hot yoga. I also like vacationing to places I have never been to and eating out once in a while.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://poochesnpalsinc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tanya.ellis.3150
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Poochesnthebluffs/
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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