Black Biz Interview: Red Poppy Pets
Red Poppy Pets is a Georgetown, TX based pet care service owned and operated by Amber Colon. This company has served the pet community for 2.5 years and they specialize in pet sitting, dog walking, daycare services, and boarding.
What made you start your business?
My business began by chance. My sister texted me and asked if I would like to walk a dog a couple of days a week. That dog happened to live at a senior independent living facility. Once I began walking the first dog my name was quickly passed around. I now walk multiple dogs there daily since 2017.
What is your experience in your field of work?
Previous to opening my pet sitting business I was a vet tech for almost two decades. I left that career due to burnout to be a stay at home mom. I also worked for Snickersdoodles training puppies with Puppy Culture.
What is the best part of your job?
I love being able to have a one on one relationship with my clients. As a vet tech it was all rushing to get everyone seen and cared for. There was rarely time to slow down and just spend time with pets and owners.
What is the best thing about being a black owned business?
My favorite part of being a black business owner has been having the ability to be a minority that give back to the community. As of my second year in business I was able to sponsor the season for a youth football player and make meals for the homeless in our town. If I were still working a standard job I would not have to had the time nor the finances to be able to do those things.
What advice would you give a pet owner looking for a new doggie daycare/boarding facility?
The advice that I would give to a pet owner searching for a new daycare or boarding facility would be to choose a facility that will allow a full tour. During that tour take notice of the dogs' behavior as well as the staff's behavior. The dogs should appear to be at ease with the facility, each other and with the staff. I would even ask how long some of the staff has been employed there. Having longevity of employment means that everybody is happy there and that the dogs are avle to form a bond with the people that are taking care of them. Of course the facility should also be clean and safe.
What makes your service standout from the rest?
I have really found two niches. One is catering to the large senior community in Georgetown. Many of them need help so that they are able to properly care for their, often senior, pets. The second niche is new puppies. I board and train puppies when they leave the breeder or shelter. I then follow up with midday visits once they have gone home.
Do you offer any unique services?
Thanks to my veterinary experience I can help owners with special medical conditions and treatments for their pets. A cat that needs twice weekly subcutaneous fluids is much more comfortable having the treatment at home.