by Nancy E. Hassel, American Pet Professionals, Weekly Featured Member

Welcome to our weekly featured member of American Pet Professionals! This week, August 10, 2015 we feature Catrina Tedesco of Call of the Wild, LLC.

Check out our fun Q&A interview with Catrina of Call of the Wild and her experience so far in the Pet Industry:

How long have you been in the Pet Industry?
10 years
What drew you to the Pet Industry?
The love of animals
The best thing about your experience so far?
It’s not always about the animals. the most rewarding part of my job is when we can do something for a client that nobody else can do. Just going a little bit farther and having them being so grateful!
Are you a solo petrepreneur or do you have employees?
I usually work alone, but when needed I have 2 other technicians
If you could change/add/create ONE thing in the pet industry what would that be?
What is the most interesting thing about your business or rescue group?
That we are certified veterinary technicians. We are medically trained to take care of all species!
Do you set goals for you business? Weekly/Monthly/Quarterly/Yearly?
Yes we do. Do we always meet them. Naturally, no. But we try to set a goal for ourselves.
Do you remember the last time you had a weekend off?
Nope. Weekends are always are busiest time of the week.
Do you regularly take vacations?
Nope
Your biggest complaint about the industry?
My biggest complaint is not having set times established. People call at all times of the day and expect you to jump for them. I use to but I have started to set boundaries.
How many pets did you treat last week? Or pet clients did you cater too?
10
What is your advice to a young person joining the pet industry?
Know your trade and know business skills. Take classes. Just because this business is about taking care of animals does not mean that it is easy. There is a lot of competition. You need to find something about yourself or business that sticks out!
Your favorite thing about your customers (i.e. pet parents).
My favorite thing about my clients is that they become my family!
What is the best thing you have done for your business to help you grow?
Became a licensed veterinary technician
When did you realize that this industry was more fun/rewarding/compassionate (add your own!) than a previous industry you may have worked in?
I found that pet care was more rewarding than working in a veterinary office. i found that I was interacting more on a one-to-one basis than rushing through each client and exam.
If you weren’t in the pet industry – what other profession would you love to do?
Marine biology
What is your favorite cocktail of choice?
Mango margarita with sugar!!
Favorite book/movie/TV show?
The Da Vinci code/gladiator/ that 70s show
Most amazing place you have been to on planet earth?
Thailand
Favorite meal?
Pasta and sauce – true Italian
When you were a kid, and someone asked, what did you want to be when you grow up? What was your answer?
VETERINARIAN
Favorite color?
Green
Your favorite or most inspirational quote?
Always shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you will land upon the stars
What is your:: Dog/horse/cat/bird/lizard/bunny Breed of choice?
I love my large breed anything. Belgians/Clydesdales/mastiffs/Macaws etc
Hobbies you love that don’t involve pets, if any! 🙂
Drawing and painting
How many pets do you currently own?

11

Catrina is located on Long Island, NY and can be reached by email at c.tedesco@lutechvet.com or by checking out her Facebook page. 

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