We were lucky to catch up with Katiebeth Brandt recently and have shared our conversation below.

Katiebeth, appreciate you joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

The air crackled with a mix of excitement and terror. August 1st, 2024, a date that would forever alter the course of our lives. It began with a phone call, an unexpected opportunity to purchase a 40-kennel facility, complete with a grooming salon and a sprawling half-acre training field on the other side of town.

For years, our dog training business had been a labor of love, conducted from our home and within the familiar confines of our community. It was a comfortable existence, a steady stream of furry clients and the satisfaction of witnessing dogs flourish. Yet, a nagging desire for something more, something grander, had always lurked beneath the surface. This unexpected offer felt like fate knocking, a chance to transform our passion into a tangible, thriving entity.

The decision was agonizing. The leap from our cozy home-based operation to a large-scale facility was daunting. The financial burden loomed large – increased operational costs, the uncertainty of a new market, and the weight of a significant investment in renovations. Over $100,000 poured into modernizing the space, a hefty sum that hung in the balance, a testament to our belief in the facility’s potential, even as we waited for that potential to materialize.

But the allure of this opportunity was too strong to resist. The support of our loved ones, their unwavering belief in our vision, provided the final push. We closed the deal on October 1st, a whirlwind of activity culminating in a momentous shift.

The initial weeks were a whirlwind. We navigated the challenges of managing a larger team, optimizing operations, and building a strong presence in our new location. Yet, amidst the chaos, a sense of exhilaration prevailed. We were living the dream, albeit with a healthy dose of trepidation.

The future remains uncertain, of course. There will be setbacks, unexpected hurdles, and the constant pressure to succeed. But with each passing day, with each happy bark and wagging tail, we are reminded of the courage it took to take this leap of faith. We are building something special, something that reflects our passion and dedication. And even though the road ahead may be paved with challenges, we are confident that this risk, this audacious pursuit of our dreams, will ultimately be worth it.

Katiebeth, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

About Tandem Canines

At Tandem Canines, we’re passionate about providing top-quality care for your beloved pets. We understand that leaving your furry friend in someone else’s care can be a big decision, and we’re committed to making that experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Our team brings a unique blend of expertise to the table:

Jess: A seasoned dog trainer with over 12 years of experience, Jess brings a deep understanding of canine behavior and training techniques.
Katiebeth: With a lifelong love for animals, Katiebeth brings a compassionate and nurturing approach to pet care while being the operations for the business.
Jeanine: The original groomer that trained under the original owner and founder of the kennel. Through all the changes she has been a presence for all the people and dogs through the years.
Carmen and Frank: Property and kennel wizards! Both retired military personnel, they’re attention to detail and work ethic is unmatched across the board.

Here’s what we offer:

Comprehensive Training Programs: From basic obedience to advanced behavioral training, we offer tailored programs to address your dog’s specific needs.
Comfortable and Secure Boarding: Our facility provides a safe and comfortable environment for your dog to stay, whether it’s for a short overnight stay or an extended vacation.
Stimulating Daycare: Our daycare offers a fun and social environment where dogs can play, interact, and burn off some energy.
Professional Grooming Services: Our experienced groomers provide a variety of grooming services, from simple baths to full-service grooming.
What sets us apart:

A Legacy of Care: Our facility has been a trusted name in the community for over 42 years, built on a foundation of love and respect for animals.
Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for your furry friends. We believe in providing a stimulating and enriching environment for your dog, both physically and mentally while keeping their safety at the top of our priority. We prioritize open communication with our clients, keeping you informed every step of the way.
We invite you to experience the Tandem Canines difference. Contact us today to schedule a tour or to learn more about our services.

Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?

The two months leading up to the purchase of Holidawg Pet Resort were a blur of paperwork, inspections, and sleepless nights. We were falling head over heels for a 40-kennel facility, complete with a grooming salon and a sprawling training field. It was a whirlwind romance, a two-month “courtship” filled with excitement and a healthy dose of apprehension.

Securing financing, navigating complex contracts, and conducting thorough due diligence felt like juggling chainsaws. We were simultaneously planning our move across town, leaving behind the familiar comforts of our old life. The pressure was immense. I, Katiebeth, was preparing to leave my stable job to dedicate myself entirely to this new venture.

Then came the day – closing day. We officially owned Holidawg Pet Resort. The next morning, we opened for business, a whirlwind of activity amidst the chaos of our own move. We were juggling client inquiries, managing staff schedules, and initiating the first phase of renovations – all while still unpacking boxes.

The clients were incredibly understanding, graciously accommodating the inevitable disruptions caused by the ongoing construction. We focused on building strong relationships with our furry guests and their humans, ensuring their comfort and well-being remained our top priority.

Phase one of the renovations is complete. We’re now upgrading 10 kennels to our “luxury” standard. These VIP suites will feature enhanced privacy, comfortable cots, and even cameras for pet parents to check on their furry friends remotely. We’ve also transformed the outdoor runs with soft, inviting AstroTurf, and installed automatic water bowls to ensure our canine guests have constant access to fresh, clean water.

It’s been a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. We’re building something special here, a place where every dog feels loved and cared for.

Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?

Instead of chasing a single “viral” campaign, we’ve focused on building genuine connections within our community. Partnering with the “Helotes Neighbors Magazine” has been a cornerstone, providing valuable exposure to local residents. Joining the Chamber of Commerce has allowed us to network with other businesses, fostering a sense of community and valuable referrals. We’ve also implemented a client-centric approach, rewarding both referrers and loyal customers. These long-term strategies, while perhaps less flashy, have proven to be incredibly effective. Building trust and cultivating strong relationships within our community is the foundation of our success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tandemcanines.training/tandem-canines-pet-resort/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tandemcaninespetresort

Image Credits

Tandem Canines Pet Resort