Taylor Clarich is an enterprising young woman who started making dog treats for her furry best friend when she was not satisfied with the ingredients in other treats. This led to friends and family asking if they could buy the treats for their best friends. This, Frank & O’s (named for her dog) was establsihed. Here is her story in her own words
1. Why did you start your business?
I started this business shortly after I got my dog, Frank. I was so excited to spoil him with all of the best toys and treats when my boyfriend and I welcomed him into our home. I did a lot of research on several different treat companies and after reading the ingredient lists on some of the treats I was shocked. Many of these companies that claim to be healthy have so many added and unnecessary sugars, preservatives, and ingredients that I cannot even pronounce in them. I want only the best for my pets and the treats I found at the store were not cutting it. I did even more research on what is healthy and not healthy for dogs and started to play around in the kitchen and created some recipes. I have always had a love for cooking and baking and was surprised to find that after a little research and some trial and error, I was able to create some treats that Frank LOVED! I can feel confident giving him these treats because they contain the best human-grade ingredients, and there are no artificial flavors or preservatives. I started sharing these treats with friends and family. Eventually the word got around my community and people began to offer to pay for these treats. That’s when I decided to turn this little hobby into a business to provide healthy treats for dogs all around the country!
2. What services do you offer?
I started just giving these treats to friends and family for their dogs, but since opening in May, I have already shipped to over 15 states!
5. What’s your best advice for someone starting out?
My best advice for someone starting out owning a small business would be to only do it if it’s something you love. If your heart’s not in it and you just want to earn some quick cash, try something else because you more than likely will not succeed. Also, for a small business, you should start small. Don’t go out and spend a bunch of money on tons of products and materials at the very beginning. Wait it out and see how your customers and supporters react to your products so you are not stuck with a huge inventory of items that nobody wants. Save time and money by just starting small and with something you are passionate about.