Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Ray.
Karen, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
After losing my job after Sept 11, 2001, I started to help my friends in the North End, where I was living at the time, with their pups. One turned in to two, two turned in to 30 etc. Before I knew it, I started my own North End-based petcare service, which I named The Dogfather. Three years ago I was approached by the developers of a project called One North of Boston. It was their vision to be first movers in the industry to incorporate a full-service doggy daycare as an amenity to their residents.
The initial company they had brought in to service the building was failing and the residents were upset at the lack of services being provided. This is where The Dogfather excels. Customer service is our top priority and we are hands down the best team in the city. The name The Dogfather came about because when you think about your dog, he/she is part of your family and that’s exactly how we see our pups and their parents as, family. We went in and turned Fetch around and due to its success are working with some of Boston’s top developers on their projects. It’s an exciting time for The Dogfather and Fetch Family.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been a smooth road. Fifteen years ago, the North End was not the most dog friendly neighborhood and I respected that. Throughout the years and a lot of very hard work, I too have earned the trust and respect of this amazing neighborhood, who now I consider family. Those who would frown on me, seeing me coming down the street with four or five dogs, or at the park, now come over to say hello, give a hug and share a concern about their own dog, whom we now care for. I love my North End Family.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Fetch by The Dogfather The Dogfather story. Tell us more about the business.
The Dogfather and Fetch, both provide personalized care services for you pet. We do private walks for those who aren’t social, group walks, playgroups, daycare, grooming and private social boarding at my farmhouse in NH. We also do vet trips and medication pick up when needed. What makes us different from other pet care providers is our staff. We have very little turnover, so you know exactly who is coming into your home and so does your pup. There are many companies, especially in major cities that don’t understand the importance of consistency and with that being said, keeping good, qualified, loving individuals by puting your growth and success right back in to them. Rather than putting an add on a billboard, I’d rather put it into my staff, who are a walking representation of who we are. We are family, that is what I’m proud of and that is what sets us apart from the others.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Wow, this would take a long time to write. I guess I’m the luckiest unluckiest person I know, but I’m never going to quit. I’m grateful for each day and thru all of the struggles and their have been so, so many, I always wake up with a positive mind and think “today is going to be a great day.”
Contact Info:
- Address: Fetch, 100 Heard St, Chelsea Ma.The Dogfather
51 North Margin St, Boston MA 02113 - Website: www.dogfather.com
- Phone: 617-227-2212
- Email: dogfather@dogfather.com
- Instagram: @dogfatherne @fetchbydogfather
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/thedogfatherne/ https;//facebook.com/fetchbythedogfather
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