Interview with Waggy’s
January 15, 2010
Hosted by: Madi, The Cat
Kritters That Twitter
http://www.waggysecopetproducts.com/
MADI: Hi Waggy’s, and thanks for coming down to the Kritter Koffeehouse today to chat it up with me. It is fun to have a Linked In friend come down and see us! Waggy, this is a great opportunity for my furry friends and their parents to get to know you better. Let’s start off by talking about your very charming name; what exactly does it stand for and what is the history?
WAGGY’S: Hi Madi. First of all, I’d like to thank you for having me here today. I’m very excited to talk to you and your followers. The name Waggy’s came from my name. My last name is Wagner and when I wanted to open my own pet sitting business, there was no question that it would be called Waggy’s Pet Sitting. Also, years before my business, our email address already had Waggy in it, so it was fate. Thank you, I’m always up for new challenges and just kind of decided that I wanted to open an online store. When I was searching the internet for products, it was evident that I was attracted to natural, eco friendly products, however not all of my products are eco friendly.
I also noticed that I was draw to small, mom and pop businesses that were trying to make their way in the world. I truly believe that small businesses are the cornerstone of this country and think we should stick together. In that same vein, I decided to only offer products that are entirely made in the USA.
We offer leashes, collars, hand painted bowls, treat jars and urns, dog clothes, treats, cat and dog toys, all kinds of grooming products, aromatherapy/essential oils, dog and cat eco beds and more.
I dedicated Waggy’s Eco Pet Products to my father. He was from a small town in Southern Italy (tip of the boot) and was recycling long before it became fashionable. He always tried to fix something before going to buy something new. A lot of it stemmed from meager beginnings and not wanting to be wasteful. All of that has definitely rubbed off on me. My husband calls me Vincentio after my father when I’m trying to fix something beyond repair.
Two of my favorite items right now are the Hurley dog toy and a hands free leash. Not only has the Hurley been around the house for the dogs to play with for a long time, and it still look new, but they float! In the Summer, I throw them in the pool and the dogs have a great time fetching them.
Another product is the hands free leash. It’s comfortable and it’s like you’re not even walking a dog. The waistband has a place to put your phone, doggie bags or money. However, if your a smaller person and have a huge dog that pulls, this may not be for you. I’m 5’8″ and can walk more than one dog on this leash with comfort and when it’s cold, both hands can be in my pockets!
MADI: Do you spend most of your time working at your store or pet sitting?
WAGGY’S: During the busy times for pet sitting, I probably spend more time with the dogs. We just ended the Christmas/New Year’s season. I board dogs in my home and have sitters that work for me, so the bulk of my time is tending to the business. It’s hard to spend time on the computer when you have those cute faces looking at you for attention. Luckily, I live across the street from a dog park, so it makes it easy to give them lots of exercise. The time I spend on the store is mostly social media and blogging which is very new to me and there’s a lot to learn! My favorite times are snuggling with the dogs – I’m a big nurturer.
MADI: When you pet sit, are you usually taking care of cats or dogs or is it an equal mix?
WAGGY’S: Dogs for sure, Waggy’s specializes in boarding in a private family home. We do go to the client’s homes especially for cats, but it’s not the main stay of our business. My clients love knowing that their dogs are staying with a family cage free. It greatly reduces their stress while they’re away and that’s what it’s all about!
I have to tell you Madi that I was originally only a dog person, but since I’ve been pet sitting, I’ve grown to really like cats and might even consider having one in the future.
Madi: Oh that is good! Felines are quite different and more superior than dogs *paw over mouth* oops, did I say that out loud??? I didn’t mean it, I have lots of doggy friends especially on Twitter. Hee hee, I like to tease. But in all seriousness, we own you…… it just is what it is……
Besides your websites, do you use other Social Media channels like Facebook or Twitter? Blog?
WAGGY’S: Yes, I just started blogging which has been a big hurdle for me to get over. I’m not really a writer, but I try to bring good information that I think pet lovers will find useful. I blog about pet info, my products and about the pet sitting business. It’s a mixed bag, but it’s all about the pets! I ‘m also on Twitter, and have a Fanpage for my store for updates on products, pet info and specials. I finally am getting the hang of this social media world. I’d love to have new friends to get to know. If you like, you can follow me on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/chrislwagner, join my Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/waggyspetproducts, or read my blog at http://www.waggyspettipsandtales. I’d love to see pictures of your pets and comments.
MADI: Waggy, do you have pets of your own? If yes, tell us about them.
WAGGY’S: I did have a Cocker Spaniel named Nikki, however she died in August of 2009. She was almost 16 years old. I often call her my first born because we got her before my first son was born. She was the greatest dog in the world and we all miss her presence around the house. She was feisty, beautiful and fun. Whenever I had a consultation with a new client and their dog, she would chase them around to show them who’s boss. I had Rotts and German Shepherds that would be afraid of her and walk the other way when she was around. She really ruled the roost around here! But as time went on, she lost a lot of that vigor. I hope he’s waiting for me by the Rainbow Bridge.
MADI: Oh no! I am sorry to hear about Nikki and I have no doubt she is waiting for your by the Rainbow Bridge…. tail a wagging and everything!
Well Waggy’s, I have taken up a great deal of your time and I just want to say thank you so very very much for interviewing with me. It has been a lot of fun getting to know you better. It has been great fun learning more about you and the businesses you manage. Thank you again!!!
WAGGY’S: Thanks again Madi. It’s been so fun taking with you and look forward to hearing from you and meeting new friends.
-Madi The Cat
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