Justin McLeod
Owner
That Dog Company is a dog waste pick-up and removal service. We will pick-up and remove all dog (and animal) waste, and then spray the lawn, deck, paths, etc. with a bio-enzymatic solution that rapidly degrades organic residues, effectively deodorizing and sanitizing the area. It is the application of this solution, included in the price, that sets That Dog Company apart from its competition.
What inspired you to start your own business?
Tired of the Banking and Corporate world, I was looking for something new and different, and I was ready to work for myself. The idea for That Dog Company came to me when a neighbour was temporarily laid up, so I took care of picking up after his dog for him. When he was able to get back to doing the job himself again, he said, “You know, I’d gladly pay someone to keep doing the job for me.” At that moment That Dog Company was born.
What helped you when working with BACD and how did it impact you and your business?
The advisors are all very knowledgeable & available and the reference materials are straightforward, probing, and require one to analyze their business (model, policies, procedures, etc.) in ways you likely haven’t yet, but will be of great benefit moving forward.
- Tell us about the growth of your business. How many employees, locations etc?
Presently we are a sole-proprietorship, but the goal is to add more dog services as we grow, and will include:
1. A premier dog ‘walking’ service that will take dogs on group hikes vs. on-leash walks.
2. A doggie day camp, not merely a ‘daycare,’ that goes far beyond the current models out there now.
3. Dog boarding services that take a different approach by providing constant human supervision and companionship in an open, kennel-free environment identical to a home with couches, armchairs, human beds on which to sleep instead of using segregated, cold, impersonal kennels.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business?
Take full advantage of BACD and the wealth of expertise, knowledge, advice, and insights they can provide, and research, research, research!
