We were lucky to catch up with Rachel Scher recently and have shared our conversation below.
Rachel, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Starting my business was unexpectedly how I found my purpose. While working in a corporate job, I felt unmotivated and hopeless, a sign that I needed a change. I’ve always loved dogs, and during hectic days, dropping my dog off at daycare sparked a recurring thought: “I can do this.” After sharing these persistent thoughts with someone, the pieces began to fall into place.
I left my corporate job and quickly secured positions at various doggy daycares, a sharp contrast to the endless corporate interviews that led nowhere. Suddenly, the roadblocks disappeared, and opportunities in dog care opened up. Surprisingly, transitioning from a corporate manager to an entry-level service role was smoother than anticipated. Immersed in this new environment, I learned about dog behavior and developed my philosophy that dogs are sentient beings deserving respect and kindness.
Embracing this belief and managing a yard of dogs became natural. This journey not only gave me a purpose but also deepened my connection with dogs. When I began to share my philosophy of empathy over dominance, others resonated with it, supporting my venture into starting my own pet sitting and dog walking business. Now, I continue to advocate for our voiceless friends, finding fulfillment in connecting with like-minded individuals who prioritize compassionate care for all beings. This passion keeps me driven and confirms that I’ve found my true calling.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share my story of The BFF Club. I founded our service with a deep love for animals and a vision to offer more than just basic care; we strive to meet the emotional and social needs of pets, recognizing the importance of mental health for both animals and humans.
What really excites me about The BFF Club is our commitment to treating each pet as an individual, with their own unique personalities and preferences. Our mission extends beyond providing a service—it’s about nurturing a community of pet lovers who treat their animals like family members and advocate for their humane treatment.
As The BFF Club grows, I hope to find opportunities to contribute positively to the pet care industry and to help set new standards that reflect our values. We aim to ensure that every effort we make fosters a kinder, more empathetic world for pets. At The BFF Club, we believe every pet deserves a best friend, and we are dedicated to being just that.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, the single most impactful factor has undoubtedly been the people around me. This very interview, for instance, materialized through a connection with Kenny, a friend I met while working at a doggy daycare and the Founder of The Lazy Hound. Taking the leap from a secure corporate job into the uncertain world of entrepreneurship was made possible by the unwavering support of my mother. Her belief in my potential and her financial assistance were crucial in this transition. Similarly, when I launched The BFF Club on my Instagram, a college acquaintance of just four months amplified my reach by sharing it within her Google network.
As my business expanded, my network proved invaluable again, helping me recruit skilled pet sitters and walkers. These individuals have shared how working with animals has positively transformed their outlook, enriching our collective experience.
While I could highlight specific skills honed during my corporate tenure—such as creating efficient processes or tailoring communication to diverse personalities—these pale in comparison to the power of building meaningful relationships. My advice to those starting their journey is simple: cherish the connections you make. Be kind and open to everyone you encounter, as these relationships may shape your path more than any skill or knowledge ever could. Always look for and nurture the positive in those around you, and let that guide your way.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months, my greatest area of growth has been developing a stronger faith in the natural progression of events. Running a pet care business means facing constant changes—clients relocate, families grow, and sadly, pets pass away. These fluctuations can make financial stability a challenge. However, I’ve learned that as long as I remain proactive and open, solutions and opportunities for new clients always emerge. This trust in the process has significantly reduced my stress and improved my ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thebffclub.co
- Instagram: @thebffclub.co
- Other: TikTok: @thebffclub.co
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