Pet massage and swimming business growing
An interview with Ron Hanik, owner of A+ Pet Massage and Swimming with locations in Wood Dale and Oswego.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: We provide canine and human massage services. We also provide swim therapy and fun swims for dogs.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: I have a dog with very bad hip and knee problems. So I started initially to help her out.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: Getting out in the community and letting people know you are there has been the most difficult part of getting the business going.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: The parts of the business that I enjoy most are the great people and animals that we serve. It is especially gratifying when we can assist them in overcoming their physical issues.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: The business is similar to what I pictured myself doing. When I was young, I wanted to be a doctor. While I am not a doctor, I still have the opportunity to help people and their animals overcome their medical issues.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Not too much. I’m usually too busy to worry.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Don’t let others bring you down. I was told by the first business I approached that no one needs the services I provide. Four years later we have expanded quite a bit. We now have two locations, have added swimming services and massage for people. Believe and pursue.
Ÿ Every Monday feature a small business from the suburban area. We want to hear about yours. Email kmikus@dailyherald.com to find out the details.
-Kim Mikus
Business: A + Pet Massage and Swimming
Address: 743 N. Edgewood, Wood Dale, IL
and 23 W. Washington, Oswego, IL
Owner: Ronald Hanik
Year business started: 2007
Web address: apluspetmassage@sbcglobal.net