Jeff Edens learned about Doggy Day Care in Pagosa Springs because his friends Maria and Linda worked there. He purchased the business in July of 2011 and now they both work for him. Edens had a good business background as a result of previous business experience as a home builder and realtor.
Doggie Day Care provides socialization for the dogs which includes reinforcing proper social manners such as no barking, no fighting and no jumping. This integration with other dogs is important to maintaining a calm pack thus protecting each dog and their handlers.
Daily day care and overnight boarding services are available to locals while on vacation and to visitors staying at the 500 room Wyndom nearby which does not allow pets.
Jeff met with advisor Rich Lindblad before he bought the business. Rich helped him put the projections and the business plan together to approach the SBA for a loan. Together they analyzed the business strengths and potential. Jeff shares, “Rich is a remarkable guy. He opened my eyes to lots of things.”
The five year projections they compiled enabled Edens to secure the SBA loan on June 17, 2015 to take over the whole 5000 square foot building. They occupied 3200 square feet when he bought the business. While analyzing the cost structure, they determined that a price increase was warranted. The Day Care facility now supports five employees who keep the place open 365 days a year. The dogs sleep at night and then exercise and play all day. Last year on Black Friday, they achieved a record of 61 dogs.
Edens explains, “Rich was really a friend. We talked about everything from business philosophy to challenges with employees.” Having Lindblad’s assistance with the business plan, “really solidified my relationship with the bank to get the loan. My credibility went sky-high.”
Rich encouraged Edens to “get to know the hard costs of doing business and to run a tight ship.” The business is thriving on word-of-mouth advertising with great compliments from their clients. And of course the best compliment a kennel can get is – “it doesn’t smell like a kennel.”
