We recently connected with Erica Tecce and have shared our conversation below.

Erica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Who is your hero and why? What lessons have you learned from them and how have they influenced your journey?

My hero is my older brother, Justin. He passed away a few years ago after a battle with prostate cancer. Although he left this world too soon, his influence and impact on me was immeasurable. As a child I copied everything he did, as a teenager I watched in awe as he left college to become a musician and tour the world and as an adult I had a front row seat to his courage and bravery as he took on advanced cancer. Technically I was his caregiver but he did more for me then anyone ever has. He taught me patience, dignity, confidence and bravery. Through intense research he discovered the importance of nutrition which became a big focus in our lives. His body was failing him but he was still sharper and smarter then anyone I’ve ever met. After losing our mother, her dogs were grieving, sad and unhealthy. We tweaked their diets, handmade their treats and food and watched as they transformed. It was after that success, Erica’s Healthy Pet was born. Together we started a business from nothing. He was truly the brains behind the business and built a foundation so sturdy the business is still going strong and growing years after his passing. Looking back, I realize he knew he wouldn’t be around much longer and poured his heart and soul into the business for me and my future. I have taken the lessons he taught me into every challenge I face, including my own battle with cancer. Although his time here was way too short, his impact on everyone around him was astounding. I strive every day to honor him. He was my brother, my business partner and my best friend.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

Erica’s Healthy Pet was started after my brother and I witnessed the transformation of our dogs after our mother passed away. They were overweight, lazy and riddled with allergy issues. After much research and quite a bit of trial and error, we changed the dog’s treats, food and everyday products like shampoo to hand made, healthy and simple and the results were phenomenal. They lost their excess weight, became more active, happier and much much healthier. It was amazing to watch the change unfold. Once we saw the difference we made with our pups, we knew we wanted to do the same for other dogs and Erica’s Healthy Pet began. Our mission is to bring healthy, simple treats and products to pet parents at an affordable price. For years now we have helped countless dogs live happier and healthier lives.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I started my business with my brother who was the brains behind the operation to say the least. We began the business shortly after our mother passed away and both of us were battling cancer. In the business’s infancy we lost our father suddenly and my brother passed away a couple years after that. Each tragic blow could easily have been the demise of the business but it truly only became stronger. I had massive doubts about my ability to run and grow the business without my brother. but I knew he would want me to try. Every time the business crosses another milestone or grows even a little, I know my brother is proud and that keeps me striving for greatness.

How’d you meet your business partner?

My business partner and cofounder was my older brother Justin. Despite going through severe health issues, he worked his butt off to make this business a success. He built such a strong foundation, I was able to continue after his passing. I know every time we take on another big customer or have a fantastic quarter he is looking down and smiling.

Contact Info:

• Website: EricasHealthyPet.com
• Instagram: @EricasHealthyPet
• Facebook: Facebook.com/EricasHealthyPet