Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronny Junkins.
Ronny, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was a manager for Stop’n’Go convenience store for 10 years. The corporation was going through bankruptcy and as a result, it changed hands a couple of times. As part of downsizing, I was let go. I have a BA from UT Arlington in Soviet & East European Studies which was not the most sought after field at the time… I owned my first Lhasa Apso show dog at that time and figured maybe dog grooming would be a natural fit for me. I came to For Paws to learn the ropes and ended up buying it for $30,000. I cashed in my 401-k from Stop’n’Go and maxed out my credit cards. At that time, I had no idea how to groom a dog but through my experience at Stop’n’Go and as an Army veteran to how to motivate employees. Twenty two years later and a lot of hard work, For Paws is known throughout the DFW Metroplex as a solon of great quality and expertise.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The always changing economy is probably the most difficult challenge. While people like to say their pets are like their children, pet care is mostly discretionary and pet grooming often goes to the near bottom of the list. Our other challenge is finding competent help. Many people think they are pet groomer but severely lack the talent. It’s like asking someone that paints houses to do your family portrait.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with For Paws – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We are pet groomers specializing in correct breed clips and balanced pet clips. I don’t know any of our other competitors that are able to honestly make that claim. People drive sometimes great distances passing numerous other “groomers” to get here. My associate and I have been associated with dog shows for decades. I personally am a licensed dog show judge. We have experience and expertise that is difficult to match.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am looking to retire soon to focus more on dog show judging. It has been a long time passion of mine.
Contact Info:
- Address: 7517 Campbell Road, Suite 609
Dallas, Texas 75248
Located on the NW corner of Campbell @ Coit in the same shopping center as Marshalls - Website: www.ardysforpaws.com
- Phone: (972) 931-7224
- Email: ardysforpaws@prodigy.net
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArdysforPawsLLC/
Image Credit:
Ronny Junkins
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