Our next Client Spotlight is highlighting an incredible company with an incredible story. Shelley Laine-Gorton is the founder and owner of The Pet Squad based in Lewisville, TX. Shelley and her team bring an incredible passion to their work that is focused on providing an unmatched quality of care to both the pets in their care and their owners. The Pet Squad goes above and beyond the standard vacation services by offering much more. This includes mail/package retrieval, managing lights for home security, medicine administration, plant maintenance and much more. Be sure to learn more about The Pet Squad on their website and like them on Facebook as well. And be sure to read the rest of this spotlight to hear more about Shelley, her company and their incredible inspiration.
What caused you to get into pet sitting/dog walking?
I am a singer/songwriter (www.ShelleyLaine.com) and had just returned from a country music radio tour, promoting my patriotic single, Born Again American. My son, Lance, was 8 years old at the time. I came home to discover that he was very sick. Unfortunately, it was much worse than we thought and ended up being Cancer. During the 3 1/2 year treatment for Leukemia, I wanted to find activities that would bring a smile to his face, take his mind off chemotherapy, and most importantly, create a learning experience. Lance was getting requests by neighbors to care for their pets while they traveled. I am an entrepreneur, and he and I both recognized that a professional and reliable pet sitting service was a need in our community.
The news began to spread and we gradually brought on new clients each week. Creating a learning experience was the initial goal, however, I noticed it became a positive experience for both Lance and the pets. I continued to grow the client base each day until eventually I decided to turn it into a full blown company. Lance is now 13 and I'm happy to report, in remission. He helps out on weekends and holidays and is learning the importance of a good work ethic.
What is the most fulfilling part of owning a pet sitting/dog walking business?
The most fulfilling part for me is the unconditional love from the pets. I truly love what I do and enjoy each day. It never feels like work!
What is the most challenging?
Since I am still a growing company, I tend to take on most of the work myself and I don't turn down any bookings. While the staff I currently have on board is excellent, finding more is my biggest challenge!
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
Because of my experience in providing care for Lance during his cancer treatments, I truly take each day one at a time. I try not to look too far into the future. However, I would like to build the business and sell it. The bigger goal would be to turn it into a franchise.
What has Time To Pet changed the most about how you run your business?
I am a very organized person, but I don't know how I ever kept things straight before Time To Pet. The system is very well structured and continues to improve due to owners who listen to the users. My clients really like it as well. They feel like they are well informed, and scheduling and communicating with The Pet Squad is made easy!
