Today we’d like to introduce you to Jo-Ann Keith.
Jo-Ann, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Started the business in 1999 in Brighton. When the rent was too high to afford, move to Somerville in the Ball Square area. I started with the money from my savings and stocks and loans from my husband and son. An idea that I wanted to open up a business that was dedicated to pet grooming but cater to cats. Most stores do not cater to cats and being a cat person.
Believe it was time to offer this service. Not just this type of service but local and natural pet food, treats, toys and more for both cats and dogs. Along with In Home Cat Sitting Service for people who go on vacation and cannot find someone to provide service, love and care for their felines. I found this impossible when I needed to go on vacation.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was not a smooth road. It was a struggle to find the right products that I wanted in my store. Not the day to day items found in big retail stores – aka mass merchants. Had to prove myself so I had to pay cash for several years to become establish to local vendors. Some people who first visit the store laugh at my concept and name but I did not let that get to me. Along with always asking me who is the owner even if I mention I was the person who own the store. I still get that once in a while. Does not bother me I know who I am and how I got here.
Please tell us about Stinky’s Kittens & Doggies Too.
We specialize in unique products for cat s and dogs. From beds, bowls, giftware for humans and their pets. Each time you come to our store if the product is gone a new line will come not the same thing we keep it different each and every season.
We are known in our area to have the best cat toys, good and more. Our clients know we go out to look for the most unique toys, treats, and bowls that other will not have. I am very proud of this when people come by look around notice something new and say hmm , aww ohhh what do we have here. Or they just stop buy do not want to buy anything just look around and talk to us like family I love it.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Seeing Janis Joplin Live without my parents know where I was and having her sign my album in person.
Contact Info:
- Address: 110 Bristol Rd.
Somerville MA 02144 - Website: www.stinkysgrooming@msn.com www.ms-stinky.com
- Phone: 617-623-0265
- Email: stinkysgrooming@msn.com
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