Today we’d like to introduce you to Patti Howerton.
Patti, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I have been lucky enough to have been raised with and owned a variety of animals from horses to goats! Nothing in mind can compare to love of a dog. My family has been active in showing, breeding and training dogs for over 50 years. In 1975, I began teaching dog obedience classes at the Schaumburg and Elk Grove Park districts as a way to pay for my bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Biology from the University of Illinois. After graduating, I continued teaching by adding additional classes at the Wood Dale and Roselle Park Districts along with private lessons. Since 1975, I have had over 13,500 dogs in my classes. This experience has allowed me to develop a successful method of training while having a career that I am passionate about.
Over the recent years it became clear to me that many dogs did not have as much of an obedience problem, but a lack of exercise. Because of busy lives, dogs are more often left home alone. People love dogs, and want dogs but find it difficult to give them enough exercise, while leading busy lives. Trusted, full service play care centers allow people to have happy dogs who otherwise might not even be able to have a dog. Years ago my former partner at Pals for Pups, Val LaFontaine, and I became fast friends while working together in the dog training industry. Combining our skills, we were determined to open a full service play care/ training/grooming/boarding facility together. Finally in December of 2006 our dreams were fulfilled. From there, Pals For Pups has grown to what it is today.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Entrepreneurship is rarely a smooth road. My biggest struggle has been my lack of knowledge of construction. My challenges were with two build outs of my original rented space. As time went on, I outgrew that space and purchased a building and land. I practically replaced almost everything in the build out but three walls.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Pals For Pups story. Tell us more about the business.
Experience sets us apart from other day care centers. Since I have been professionally training dogs for over 40 years, I understand that dogs are pack animals and love the company of dogs and people. Well socialized dogs prefer good company over colored TV and fancy furniture. Dogs want to have plenty of outdoor and indoor room to run and play with their friends. As the pictures illustrate, we have more than enough room for our dogs to run. Owners want their dogs to be happy, safe and clean. Customers come home tired from a hard day at work and enjoy the company of a tired dog to cuddle with. Pals For Pups allows people to enjoy having a dog who might not have been able to have one without us. My customers trust me to take the best care possible of their dogs including grooming, play care, boarding and training. I oversee it all and take their trust seriously. I am proud of my experienced staff who understand how important their job is.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The grace of God has played a role in my life. I have done my part by planning and always looking ahead from 5, 10 and 20 years from now. I prepared by educating myself and working on my goals every day. I paid attention to opportunities and acted on those that arose that aligned with my goals. I considered my mistakes as a chance to learn and not repeat them. I do what I love and have become good at it.
Contact Info:
- Address: 60 Central Avenue
Roselle, IL 60172 - Website: palsforpups.com
- Phone: 630-894-7704
- Email: palsforpups1@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PalsForPups/
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
