How do you build a thriving business while staying true to its legacy? Lauren Dunkle, owner of The Pet Lady, shares how she transformed her aunt’s long-standing pet care business into her own while honoring its foundation. She opens up about the struggles of hiring and staff turnover, the transition from independent contractors to employees, and the power of clearly defined roles and SOPs. Lauren also discusses the emotional challenges of business ownership, from self-doubt to burnout, and how she reignited her passion by embracing new learning opportunities. Her story is a powerful example of how growth, structure, and personal fulfillment can coexist in a pet care business.

Main topics:

• Hiring Challenges & Staff Turnover

• Transitioning from ICs to Employees

• Defining Roles & SOPs

• Balancing Growth & Legacy

• Staying Engaged as an Owner

Main takeaway: “The lessons you learn as a business owner are things you’ll never expect, but they shape you. It’s overwhelming in the moment, but if I hadn’t gone through the struggles, I wouldn’t have the business I have today.”

Every challenge in business feels impossible in the moment—hiring struggles, staff turnover, client conflicts, financial uncertainty. But each of these hurdles teaches us something vital. Lauren Dunkle’s journey proves that the toughest moments are often the ones that push us to grow the most.

Instead of fearing the hard times, embrace them as part of the process. Every setback refines your vision, strengthens your leadership, and ultimately builds a business that can stand the test of time.

🎧 This week on Pet Sitter Confessional, Lauren shares how she navigated hiring challenges, redefined her role as a leader, and built a business that truly reflects her values.

How has a tough lesson helped you grow as a business owner? Drop a comment below! ⬇️

About our guest:

Lauren Dunkle is the owner of The Pet Lady, Ltd., a pet care company serving the western suburbs of Chicago. Taking over the business in 2016 from her late aunt, Lauren has navigated the challenges of leadership, hiring, and transitioning from independent contractors to employees while maintaining the company’s legacy. With a background in management and a passion for structure, she has built a thriving pet care business focused on professionalism, client trust, and a strong company culture. Lauren is dedicated to refining business operations, creating effective SOPs, and ensuring her team delivers top-tier pet care services.

Links:

The Pet Lady, Ltd. Website – https://thepetladyltd.com

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On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepetladyltd

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Full show notes and transcript

 

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