Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Butler.
Hi Alexis, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started The Dog’s Meow in 1996, as a single mom with a 10-year-old daughter. I had always dreamed of owning my own business and just went for it. It all started after a visit to my hometown in the NW suburbs of Chicago and I saw a dog store that had been there since I was a kid. the thought came to mind that we don’t have anything like this in our area.
We started as an artisan store with 25% natural supplements, treats food, and 75% artisan-made dog and cat products and art and were the first of its kind in the state of Utah. Over the years we grew to become what I call the “whole foods” for dogs and cats. During the 26 years, we have evolved being the go-to store for education, healthy products, and friendly staff.
In 2003 we opened our second location in the draper area. In 2017 we added a DIY dog Wash to our Draper location. We are very grateful for the community that supports us and who helps us support local non-profit organizations. My passion from just “owning a business” to owning one that supports the health and well-being of our customers and their pets has made this part of my journey in life so rewarding.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say a smooth road for the first 5 years I worked 6 days a week with one part-time helper just trying to raise my daughter. My daughter would occasionally work with me after school and around 18 years of age she started to put in more hours and became a part of the team.
Today she basically runs the store and has become a partner of the business. The constant challenge, which is a common theme these days, is the workforce or lack thereof. Finding reliable, dependable help isn’t as easy as one would think. I am currently fortunate to have a great team to work with at both my locations.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We are a health food store for cats and dogs. We try to be unique in our selection of products and carry only products we believe in. We are here to educate and support the health needs of pet parents who are looking to give their pets the very best. Our Draper location has a DIY dog wash for Big and small dogs.
We love to offer our customers friendly service and when you sign up as a customer with us you earn points with each purchase you make that can be applied to future purchases. We also have a shop feature on our website that allows you to order, pay and pick up from our store at your convenience.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The Covid-19 Pandemic was not for those who couldn’t shift gears. In the beginning, everything was so unknown, We rode the roller coaster as things came up. Our online business picked up. I learned that almost everyone appreciated our efforts during that time and I was proud of our team for navigating that.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dogsmeow.com
- Instagram: @the_dogs_meow
- Facebook: @thedogsmeow
