When it comes to behavior modification in dogs, Leah Sager is a dog whisperer.
She owns Halo Hills Training and Boarding in Cave City. Leah approached the Arkansas State University ASBTDC seeking startup assistance and guidance. Center Director Laura Miller consulted with Leah on the steps to start her business and provided market research.
Before Halo Hills, Cave City area dog owners would board their pets with two local veterinarians. When the vets stopped boarding, Leah stepped in to fill a need.
The new business is named for Sager’s dog, Halo, who appears on its logo.
“There are no bad dogs. There are bad owners and bad situations, but dogs know how to be themselves,” she says.
Halo Hills has drop-off and pick-up every day of the week and offers public training classes on Monday and Tuesday evenings. In addition, Leah volunteers at the Independence County Humane Society.
One of Sager’s challenges with starting a business was financial. She needed money to repurpose her shop into a boarding facility. The ASBTDC provided budget resources to help Leah discover the best route to fund her venture.
With determination and creative thinking, she was able to secure a loan from a friend and hire her first employee.
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring business owners, Leah said, “’No’ just stands for ‘next opportunity.’”
Starting a business can be daunting and intimidating. The ASBTDC is here to help lighten the load and walk alongside current and aspiring business owners.
Visit the Halo Hills Facebook page to learn more about the business.
