Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriyela Ayarzagoitia.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Love for animals got me started in this business. I have dogs myself and I wanted to provide a service to the community where dogs can be kept cage free- play safely with other dogs and at the same time cater to that dogs particular needs. Believe it or not, every dog has their own personality and their own quirks – just like people. The majority that comes to Doggie Daycare of River Oaks are 90 % rescues that come with their own particular needs, it’s a challenge but I believe they deserve a chance and the very best that can be provided.
The dogs play time is monitored – supervised around the clock. Seven days a week. Day and night someone is always present. I am completely cage free and this is a place for dogs. I don’t have tv’s in rooms. I don’t read to them. I don’t have luxurious furniture. I don’t have that eye candy that pleases a human. I am the real deal. This is a place for dogs to come in to play and have fun in. The dogs run in – in the morning. They are excited to see their play buddies and at the end of the day- they are ready to go home.
Doggie Daycare of River Oaks is a place where dogs can have fun in a cage-free setting and just be dogs.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Well, I would have to say the biggest struggle that I had in the past would be with the City of Houston (BARC). They really didn’t want a daycare for dogs in the city. Every year I had a huge struggle with them. Getting my permits from them was a huge ordeal. Every year I would have The City of Houston BARC Marshals come in and threaten me with fines – with shutting down my business. It really was a huge battle and every year I was thankful my business survived
Thankfully the mindset of (BARC) changed with the continuous efforts from all the pet industries, pet business – we all rallied together to change the ” We don’t want your kind of business here mentally “… It’s been a peaceful couple of years from the city and I am very thankful for that.
The second struggle has been with the back neighbors. I am located on a business stripe but the back neighbors were and still not happy to have a doggie daycare. I remember when I first opened the doors. The second day. The back neighbors (who I am not going to mention their names) walked in and said: “We don’t want your business in this community – we are going to shut you down!” My response was, “okay” thank you and have a great day! Thirteen years later and I am still in business. :0) I do my best with trying to keep my side and back neighbors happy. I am aware not everyone loves dogs. So, I try to keep it peaceful.
I am a very small business and I do want to keep it that way. The economy. The city movements ” construction” and drastic weather like hurricane, tropical storms have a real financial negative effect on the business. If I didn’t have special people that believe in my services. I really don’t think I would have survived it. I have met the most wonderful supportive people through this business and that’s priceless.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Doggie Daycare of River Oaks is “CAGE FREE” place for the dogs to play in- get all of their energies out and get that unique care that they deserve. I am a small business and I do pride myself in getting to know the personality of each dog that comes in and giving the customers a friendly home feel when they walk in as well-Try my best in providing the best services that I can. All I can say is ” Love” what I do and trust me… it’s not about the money. It’s about the love I have for the dogs.
What were you like growing up?
I was pretty much the same as I am today. I love nature and the arts and continue to be. I am a very loyal true blue kinda person. I just wish I had enough time to spend with friends and family. Running a 24/7 business really takes a lot of time away from me and if I didn’t love what I do ..trust me… I would not be doing it.
Love art:
I do have a studio in Spring Street Studios # 135 where I can create and show my art. Sale – Be apart of a wonderful art community. I am thankful to know such wonderful artists. Such Beautiful people there.
Love nature, Love water, Love animals, Love life, I am very appreciative of everything in my life.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1805 S. Shepherd Dr Houston, TX 77019
- Website: www.doggiedaycareriveoaks.com
- Phone: 713-8741300
- Email: gabie@doggiedaycareriveroaks.com
- Instagram: doggiedaycareriveroaks
- Facebook: Doggie Daycare of River Oaks
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
