Hands N Paws
About the Company
Hands N Paws provides in-home pet care services, including dog walking and pet sitting, designed to give pet parents peace of mind while balancing their busy schedules. Founded in 2017, the business aims to address a growing demand for reliable, trustworthy pet care. Benny’s vision for the company extends beyond a local service; he envisions creating a franchise model similar to McDonald’s, prioritizing systematization and consistency across locations.
The company employs a team of six dedicated individuals who work independently while adhering to the company’s documented systems and processes. By focusing on customer satisfaction and operational excellence, Hands N Paws has cultivated a strong reputation in its service areas. The business's structure also allows pet owners to onboard easily, leveraging user-friendly technology to enhance the client experience.
Benny believes in building a company culture that prioritizes collaboration and accountability. He has implemented various tools to streamline internal communication and operations, creating an environment where employees feel empowered and connected to the company’s larger mission.
Idea Behind Company
The idea for Hands N Paws emerged serendipitously when Benny discovered dog sitting while searching for babysitting jobs during his college years. Initially unaware of the potential in professional pet care, Benny began offering services on Rover.com and quickly realized the opportunity to turn his side hustle into a business. His passion for animals, combined with entrepreneurial inspiration from books like The E-Myth by Michael Gerber, fueled his desire to create something larger than himself.
Benny emphasizes the distinction between being a business owner and an entrepreneur. While a business owner works in their business, an entrepreneur focuses on working on it, building systems that allow for growth and scalability. This mindset became a cornerstone for Hands N Paws as Benny transitioned from a hands-on pet sitter to a strategic business leader.
He found inspiration in iconic entrepreneurs like Ray Kroc, who built McDonald’s by systematizing processes to ensure consistent operations across all locations. Similarly, Benny began documenting every aspect of Hands N Paws’ operations to create a replicable framework for future growth.
Creating the Company
The early days of Hands N Paws were marked by trial and error as Benny navigated the challenges of starting a business without prior experience. In September 2019, he made the pivotal decision to shift his focus from working directly with clients to working on building the business itself. This shift allowed him to take an aerial view of the company, identifying areas for improvement and growth.
Benny began documenting all systems and processes, from client onboarding to employee training, to ensure consistency in service delivery. By doing so, he empowered his team to operate independently while maintaining high standards. This documentation also laid the groundwork for Benny’s long-term goal of franchising Hands N Paws.
Today, Benny continues to refine these systems, ensuring they align with the company’s mission and values. His commitment to working on the business has instilled a sense of purpose, allowing him to contribute to a larger cause while building a sustainable and scalable enterprise.
Launching the Business
Benny credits much of Hands N Paws’ success to its use of technology and effective tools for managing operations. Platforms like Precise Petcare streamline client and staff management, while Google Sites and Drive store Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training manuals. Internal communication is facilitated through Slack, and JazzHR simplifies the hiring and recruitment process.
In addition to operational tools, Benny has focused on creating a strong company culture. Drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Dr. Brené Brown, he emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and teamwork. This approach has fostered a supportive environment where employees feel valued and motivated.
The company’s growth has been fueled by Benny’s dedication to continuous learning. He believes in staying open to personal and professional development, recognizing that the business can only grow as much as its leader does. This mindset has allowed him to navigate challenges and seize opportunities effectively.
Earnings
Hands N Paws generates $25K in monthly revenue, a significant milestone for a business that started as a college side hustle. The company’s success lies in its subscription-based model, which offers consistent cash flow while allowing for scalability. Benny has also invested in professional bookkeeping and accounting to maintain financial organization and support long-term growth.
One of the key drivers of revenue has been the emphasis on systematization. By documenting processes and empowering employees, Benny has created a business that operates efficiently without requiring his constant involvement. This approach has not only increased profitability but also provided Benny with the freedom to focus on strategic initiatives.
Looking ahead, Benny plans to continue refining Hands N Paws’ operations in preparation for franchising. His ultimate goal is to build a network of service locations that maintain the same level of quality and consistency as the original, setting the stage for exponential growth in the pet care industry.
