Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Renee Moore, Owner of Canine Craze, located in Urbandale, IA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Canine Craze is a dog training facility that offers dog training services both locally and in-person, and virtually. We have a variety of training services offered, such as traditional classes, private training, group play, and training within our Private School program, and online learning through virtual courses and Zoom private training. Canine Craze has been serving the greater Des Moines area since 2001, using positive reinforcement and clicker training to help people and their dogs learn how to communicate and have fun!

Tell us about yourself

My name is Renee Moore. I started my career with dogs when I was nine years old by volunteering for my local animal shelter in Boone, Iowa. By the young age of 12, I received the "Pets Choice Award" for my kindness and love of animals, in addition to my dedication and work ethic. I have been professionally training dogs since my graduation from Animal Behavior College in 2006. I have experience competing in obedience, training service dogs, conducting group classes, and teaching private lessons. I have designed and implemented successful dog training programs for Obedience, Puppy, and Therapy, as well as the popular Canine Craze's Train & Play™ program. In 2015 I completed my certification through Karen Pryor Academy as Certified Training Partner, and in 2019 Moore attained her Certified Canine Fitness Trainer through the University of Tennessee. Moore was the Lead Trainer for the non-profit service dog organization Puppy Jake Foundation from its inception in 2013 through February 2018, where I designed and implemented their original service dog training program.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being an overcomer. Running a business is not easy, and challenges you never expect will be thrown your way. Learning to pivot, process emotions, and not let them paralyze me, allowing me to find solutions in the most challenging of moments, is my biggest accomplishment. I think the hardest moment I ever had was when my first husband unexpectedly passed away in 2016. He was the founder of Canine Craze, and we were partners in crime. To move forward in his absence and keep his legacy alive has not been easy, but for sure, my biggest accomplishment to date.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Always having to have the answers when everyone looks to you. You have to be humble enough to admit you don't have all the answers but have the tenacity after admitting you don't have an answer to go find it. That is one quality that makes a good leader.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Build a network of professionals that you can consult in times of need. Good business coaches are worth every dime!
  2. Go buy the book Profit First and run Mike's program to keep on top of your finances...it will change the way you do business for the better and help your business be a success.
  3. Always stay humble...even as you become an expert in your field. You will never have all the answers.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

My motto in life is "Do what I love, love what I do" I would encourage anyone to chase their dreams. Waking up each day and looking forward to what the day will bring is worth its weight in gold.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.caninecraze.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caninecraze
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-moore-2b212921/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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