Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlene Niemi.
Hi Charlene, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up, my family always had dogs. I can recall every dog we had, their names, where we lived at the time, and the special unique traits of each dog. The simple act of petting a dog lowers one’s stress levels, while the social interaction increases oxytocin, the feel-good hormone. As an RN working in and teaching mental health, I know the importance of mental health. Our pets bring joy, giggles, and stability to our lives. They are family members. I knew what I wanted High Paw Dog Daycare to provide: a safe and fun place to send a family member to. It has brought joy to me to provide belly rubs, to see a dog smile when he sees us, and have them sit on me with as I look out the window. I have the best job in the world! We have been honored to care for dogs of all ages; from puppies to those elderly dogs. To have the owner’s trust when they drop off their dog is a privilege.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
We wouldn’t say things have been smooth. Of course, a smooth beginning to a new business is a desirable outcome but sadly that’s not the way life is. But we had a goal and knew the need for a loving, boutique-type dog daycare was needed in the Warner Center. High Paw’s location is lined with modern and beautiful apartment buildings in which the majority of people own dogs. It was the prime location to start High Paw Dog Daycare. We were so excited when we had our first dog! We knew one dog would not be enough to pay the rent or the supplies needed without dipping into our personal finances. But we had our first dog! Over the course of the past two months, 20 dogs have come to spend time with us and we continue to have new dogs join us. We are still learning the business world, but the dogs’ make the process a pleasure. We are truly fortunate to have this opportunity to open High Paw.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
The story behind our logo reflects our dedication to your furry loved ones. Mattie, our family dog, developed a brain tumor and passed away in our home. The veterinarian who came to the house made a paw print with plaster. Our logo design is based on Mattie’s paw model. The color purple was specifically chosen to reflect High Paws commitment of luxury for your dog. The color represents creativity and inspiration. To see a dog so excited to see us as their family drops them off inspires us. To see a dog, we know in the neighborhood, greet us and roll over for a belly rub causes us to smile! When you walk into High Paw you are greeted with fun paintings with light gray walls. This gray was also chosen with purpose. Light gray signifies stability and calmness; gray sooths and relaxes.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
If I was to describe our essential qualities, the ones that come to mind are friendly, trustworthy, caring, dependable, and a seeker of knowledge. These qualities are what makes us a family.
Lastly, High Paw Dog Daycare prides itself on professionalism. We have employees on staff that are trained in dog CPR and first aid. Staff is able to administer most medications your pet may require. No other dog daycare has completed two courses on disasters and animals/pets from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). We have an emergency plan and a 3-day supply of dog food, first aid supplies, and other essentials that may be required.
Pricing:
- $30 Half Day (under 5 hours)
- $43 Full Day (5+ hours)
- $15 per hour
- 10 Half Day package $280
- 10 Full Day package $ 400 and 20 Full Day package $740
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.highpawdogdaycare.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highpawdogdaycare
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@highpawdogdaycare
