After being employed at an Animal Shelter where I proudly wore many hats, I found myself without a job in the middle of winter.  I cannot go without mentioning  while under that employment, a day did not go by where something new was learned. The person who hired me (Hi Susan!) :-) was probably my biggest inspiration, a great teacher and a decent human being who appreciated and acknowledged her staff daily, brought the shelter back to life  and unfortunately also moved on. 

Between a natural instinct, experience with animals and the absolute love of animals, I knew I wanted to continue in this field. 

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Shortly after entering the unemployment system, I received a letter from New York State informing me I was qualified for a program called SEAP (self-employment assistance program) with an invitation to apply.  It took me a bit to think it over and that's when it all came to me.   I started writing notes, I applied for the program and continued to write more notes and researched an idea.  Within four weeks I was accepted into the program.  It was at this point when everything turned around.  There are mandatory aspects of this program and one must be fully committed, such as required hours of business classes, mentoring by counselors, and program packets that are due monthly as you complete each level.  It was then I met the Sullivan County SCORE folks (supported by the SBA). Charlene Finerty is the Chairperson of Sullivan County SCORE (boy does she know her business strategy/plan stuff!!).  Charlene set me up with a husband-and-wife team Bob & Carol who became and still are my mentors.  The feedback, advice, tips, and support both personal and business throughout this journey has been unbelievable!  It has been one of the most positive experiences of my life and I am forever grateful for their support, guidance, their kind words, their constant praise and enthusiasm of what I've achieved to date.  THANK YOU to them, my Dad, my wonderful son Michael, family and friends who have cheered me on.  A new door has opened!  With that I take a quote from one of the many business classes, and that is "starting a business is like jumping off a cliff while building your parachute on the way down."  Challenge accepted! :-)
 

In additon to the business classes, I've taken the initiative for certifications in Pet CPR/FIRST AID, Animal Behavior and Safety, Aggressive and Fearful Dogs, and plan on adding Geriatric/Special Needs Animals to the list.  I would like to thank Becky the director of PETS ALIVE for hosting the CPR class, with instructor Lauren Jones, LVT.  What a beautiful facility you have there!  I look forward to networking with you both in the future!   I am also very excited to be of service to future customers, their furry friends, all of the veterinarians, the Animal/Dog Control Officers, groomers and area shelters.   See you all soon!