by Nancy E. Hassel, American Pet Professionals, Weekly Featured Member
Welcome to our weekly featured member of American Pet Professionals! This week, September 8, 2015 we feature Jungle Bob Smith of Jungle Bob’s Reptile World.
Jungle Bob’s Reptile World is the northeast’s largest reptile only shop. With 2500 sq feet , over 100 animal displays , 2000+ supplies live and frozen feeders.  Our parent company Jungle Bob Enterprises also produces it’s own line of specialty reptile supplies under the Jungle Bob brand.
Check out our fun Q&A interview with Jungle Bob of Jungle Bob’s Reptile World and his experience so far in the Pet Industry:
How long have you been in the Pet Industry?
6 human years
What drew you to the Pet Industry?
Love of animals
The best thing about your experience so far?
The daily challenge it presents
Are you a solo petrepreneur or do you have employees?
9 employees
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?
We are specialists in reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates
Do you set goals for you business? Weekly/Monthly/Quarterly/Yearly?
Annually
Do you remember the last time you had a weekend off?
Yes I do!
Do you regularly take vacations?
Usually wrapped around a show or business trip but yes I do
Your biggest complaint about the industry?
Lack of structure from manufacturer to consumer. NO one honors traditional channels
How many pets did you treat last week? Or pet clients did you cater too?
We ring 75 sales a day
What is your advice to a young person joining the pet industry?
Specialize
Your favorite thing about your customers (i.e. pet parents).
Diversity
What is the best thing you have done for your business to help you grow?
Run it like a business, not a hobby
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 haven’t realized that yet
If you weren’t in the pet industry – what other profession would you love to do?
International real estate sales
What is your favorite cocktail of choice?
Cabernet sauvignon
Most amazing place you have been to on planet earth?
Amazon Basin
When you were a kid, and someone asked, what did you want to be when you grow up? What was your answer?
Veterinarian
Your favorite or most inspirational quote?
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead
What is your: Dog/horse/cat/bird/lizard/bunny Breed of choice?
Cuban rock iguana
Hobbies you love that don’t involve pets, if any! 🙂
Frisbee
How many pets do you currently own?
One
Jungle Bob is located on Long Island, NY and can be reached by email at junglebobsmith@gmail.com or you can check out his website at www.JungleBobEnterprises.com.  ]]>