We were lucky to catch up with Shannon Molasso recently and have shared our conversation below.
Shannon, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I found my purpose by wanting to make pets healthier. Prior to starting this company 7 years ago, it was very difficult to find treats that had limited ingredients and not full of fillers. I wanted to find a way, not only to help my own dogs and horses but to help other pets as well.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
A little over 7 years ago, I was having a hard time finding healthy, limited ingredient treats for dogs, horses and cats. After several months of research, talking to local veterinarians, I decided to move forward with my dream while working full time in corporate America and started a all natural pet treat company/dog bakery. Four years ago, I decided to get out of corporate America and focus on my business full time.
I love making pets healthier and happier with my products. I started with just a few treats at the beginning to now over 40 different options. I feel variety is key to give your pets several different options. I have several options on the bakery side of the business as well and honestly, that is the really exciting part. I can customize just about anything for the pups. I do birthday cakes, pup cakes, cake pops etc. I love to be a part of their special day or celebration.
I have just now started a dog ice cream line and will be adding several flavors for them to try in the coming weeks, I have also started talking to pet friendly restaurants in order to offer some amazing treats for the pups while their parents dine out.
One thing I would love to mention is that I have partnered with a friend and we are in the beginning stages of making all natural dog food. It will be made weekly in small batches and will be available for pick up, local delivery and we will offer shipping. The business name is Ga Dawg Food Company.
I am so excited for the growth and the new adventures we keep finding.
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?
The area of knowledge that I found most impactful was researching the best ingredients for this business. I use very high quality, organic, all natural products in everything I make. I also grow some of the ingredients on my horse farm. I also use my own eggs from my chickens right here from my property. I also found it very impactful to speak to highly specialized veterinarians as well, to ensure all ingredients would be helpful for any pet.
I believe with any small business, patience is a must and to give yourself grace in the trying times.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I have to say that my parents taught me a lot and are truly my mentors. My parents taught me to work hard for everything you have and that nothing is ever handed to you. Both of my parents worked hard in their careers, and made time for family and vacations. They both taught me that work ethic is very important and it truly is.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lolpettreats.com
- Instagram: @lotsoflickspettreats
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lotsoflickspettreats
Image Credits
Shannon Molasso
