Viv has come full circle from owning a pet shop years ago to making pets her career and passion once again. Meet the new director of We Love Pets Telford.
Why did you choose a franchise over setting up your own business?
With a franchise the groundwork has already been done and hopefully if there are any mistakes, these have already been made and corrected. You also get help with legal issues, accounting and marketing so that you don’t have to be an expert in everything to start with. This leaves you free to concentrate on getting new customers from the get-go!
What did the word ‘franchise’ mean to you before you came across We Love Pets?
For me it means being self-employed and having freedom. I have had franchise businesses which have been successful, so I wasn’t a stranger to how they work before I came across We Love Pets. That said, I did my research because that is essential in choosing the right franchisor. I spoke to about seven existing We Love Pets franchisees from across the country. That convinced me that I was on the right track.
How have We Love Pets made sure you’re the right person to carry the award-winning brand forward?
First and foremost, I have a love of pets. I think it’s obvious when you meet someone who loves animals. When you have a passion for pets yourself, it’s easy to recognise that in others. I’m so happy to be able to incorporate something I love into a business setting. I live and breathe the brand anyway so I think I was a natural choice for We Love Pets.
Do you have any pets of your own?
Yes! We have a black Cockapoo called Belle who is five years old and three Burmese cats; Rolo, Daisy and George.
What do you love most about your area?
I live close to a town with lots of amenities but I’m so close to the countryside too. So I get the best of both worlds. There’s plenty of places for dog walking from my doorstep or I could drive to Apley Woods for a great run around with the dogs. There’s lots of new housing going up in my area too which is brining more families and pets to the area which is great!
What have you done in the past that you think will help you in your new venture?
I’ve owned franchises before including a mobile coffee shop and a pet shop too! I owned the pet shop in Shropshire which had its own onsite groomer. It was here that I was first introduced to pet sitting and boarding small animals. I loved doing it then and so I think I have a very good insight into what owning a pet care franchise will be like. I’m excited!
What does running a business like this mean to you?
For me it means growing a successful business in my area serving happy customers and happy pets. I’m really looking forward to being part of a recognised brand building that awareness and profile up in my local area. On a personal note I’m also looking to achieve a better work life balance by running my own business that can fit in with my lifestyle.
If you’re looking for a dog walker, pet sitter or boarder in Telford covering, TF1, TF2 , TF3, TF4, TF7, then visit Viv’s dedicated web page here.
