Meet Tanera Swan | Pet Grooming Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tanera Swan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tanera, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started my business back in 2012, I did not have an actual plan to do so. I was a veterinary technician, working in a vet’s office and very unhappy with my job. I ended up losing that job, and needed a new source of income. I thought to myself, what am I good at? What is my expertise? I was good with animals, I always have been. However, I only knew the medical side of animals, I had no grooming training. But nonetheless, I knew animals. So I thought to myself, if I started an animal business, what kind could I start? And grooming was the idea I came up with. I bought some “How To” grooming CDs, and I taught myself how to groom. I put a few ads out on Craigslist for really cheap dog grooming, I was a natural talent, and the rest is history!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am a double minority (black + woman) multiple business owner. It has not been easy keeping a successful business running over the past 14 years. I was diagnosed with Lupus in 2004, so battling my disorder on top of running a business has been very challenging. There are many ups and downs owning a business. From hiring employees, making payroll, paying multiple location’s bills, paying my own bills, employee drama, handling equipment breaking, along with a host of other issues, entrepreneurship is not for the weak. I was able to get to where I’m at today by persevering through all the hardships. I have always been the type of person that loves a challenge. I love the feeling of accomplishing goals. I’ve always taught myself that even though hardships happen at work, the bills keep coming, so I have to do whatever is necessary to keep them paid. That might include working holidays, working late nights, etc. The more successful I become, the more I know I have to step up my game. That includes hiring help, hiring attorneys, making strategic business moves, strategic tax planning, etc. I currently own two brick and mortar locations and a mobile grooming van. I plan to open more locations in the future as well. The Strutt Your Mutt Grooming brand is here to stay!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m not sure I can answer this question this way. But, I would take them to the airport lol and we would go on a trip to Panamà. I have a thirst for traveling and learning new cultures. Panamanian people are so friendly. I love their culture and their food. I would take them to the Caribbean side of Panama and we would visit the beach in Portobello.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mother! My mom gave me the money to start my business. She is the foundation for my success. Even now, when I have a business question or concern, she is the person I go to.

Website: https://www.StruttYourMutt.org

Instagram: StruttYourMutt

Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/struttyourmuttgroomer

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