Who is Dani Harris and how did she start Dani's Pet Palace?

I have had a passion for animals for as long as I can remember. My dad let me pet some horses at a very young age which led to horseback riding lessons and I began entering competitions and shows.

My dream was to work with and care for animals. Growing up on a farm we always had a dog. I have fond memories of caring for them. I cannot imagine my life without the love and affection that having a four-legged family member brings.

Working Towards my Dreams

In highschool I started researching jobs involving animals; veterinarian, veterinary technician, dog grooming, and animal rehabilitation. Who knew I would end up being an entrepreneur?

Taking your kid to work day led me to Ilderton Pet Hospital. I was offered a job, and continued to work there for the next four years. (At the age of 15, I was already working towards my dream!?)

A highschool co-op placement course at the Shaggy Dog Grooming, taught me to bathe and brush dogs properly. The following year another placement took me to Oakridge Animal Clinic, where I was offered employment on my first day. I gained knowledge from a variety of experts including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants. With this experience I learned how to properly care for pets, administer medication and overnight pet care. I was able to expand my knowledge in pet hospitalization, surgeries and much more.

After graduating high school in 2012, I went on to study Animal Care at Durham College. The following year, I attended Pets Beautiful School of Styling, where I learned about dog grooming. In 2014, during my last month of the Animal Care program I started up my business, Dani’s Pet Palace.

Dani's Pet Palace Beginnings

I started Dani’s Pet Palace while still living at home on the farm. My parents who are also entrepreneurs were supportive of my dream. I worked very hard to build and achieve a clientele base. Customer service is number one to make sure that both the pets and owners are happy.

To gain grooming experience I worked at the Pampered Pooch. As I became more knowledgeable and comfortable grooming, I focused my time and energy on my own business as it started to expand.

In 2016 I met and moved in with Sean. Sean has been supportive of Dani’s Pet Palace since day one. Dani’s Pet Palace is now finally and officially at our set location. It has truly been amazing having everything set up. This is the busiest we have been yet and I know it will continue to grow from here.

A Bit More About Me

I am a person who loves to keep busy. Two years ago I started getting into running with completing my first half marathon of 21.1km. It was one of the best feelings of accomplishment. It has greatly motivated me and I am already signed up for many more.

Training for this hobby is something I can do with our dogs Tia (Siberian Husky) and Duke (Great Pyrenees). Tia loves to run and never wants to stop, so she always pushes me. Duke just likes to come along so he is not left alone. They are both great motivators.

I also enjoy hiking and have recently started completing the Bruce Trail one section at a time. This trail runs from Niagara Falls to Tobermory and is approximately 900km long. Unfortunately, I have been very focused on my running lately, so I haven't had the chance to complete as many sections as I had hoped.

“Don’t put any restrictions on it. Don't overthink it; just allow yourself to envision the most magnificent possible future version of yourself”- Rachel Hollis

Conclusion

That is a little bit about myself and how Dani’s Pet Palace began. My main goal with starting these blogs is to give you information, tips and guidance on how to professionally care for your pets.