We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Kowalski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Wild Hearts Pet Care was inspired by my own experience seeking care for my paralyzed pup. I called around to dozens of pet care businesses and veterinary clinics and not a single place would board my dog. I knew I was not the only pet parent with a pet needing more specialized care as I was working as an animal rehabilitation therapist. While working at the rehab clinic I began caring for my patients when their owners went out of town. It grew organically from there!

What should our readers know about your business?
Wild Hearts Pet Care provides a continuum of care including pet care services, resources and education, insight and consultation, and encouragement needed to ensure that pets with impaired function can enjoy long, active and happy lives. .Pets in our care are not able to attend other facilities because of their mobility or medical needs and include those that are paralyzed, paretic, post-surgical, incontinent and others that need a higher level of care. Our team is composed of veterinary technicians and animal rehabilitation therapists that have years of unique experience and additional credentials + certifications that make us highly qualified and exceptional caregivers and educators.

Having multiple paralyzed and incontinent pets I’ve experienced first-hand the overwhelming demands and needs currently not met by any business in the area. Over the last decade I have furthered my own knowledge base seeking education, training, and certification in multiple disciplines including small mammal massage therapy, veterinary rehabilitation, and pet loss and grief counseling. I’ve also created, developed, and implemented educational classes and workshops for pet owners.

Because we cater to a unique niche of pets, we’ve already become a leader in the industry. There is no one providing a comprehensive list of services targeting this specialized and growing population of pets. The combination of my personal experience, professional achievements, network and demand allow this business to flourish.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting Chicago, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite things in Chicago is the architectural boat tour. It’s a fantastic way to see and learn more about the city. After the tour, we’d walk the riverwalk and stop at a few of the restaurants and wineries along the way. Another day we’d go to Humboldt Park and walk around the boathouse, lagoon, and revive our once very talented soccer skills at the soccer cage. After we’d walk over to the Hi-Lo for some cocktails before dinner at Segnatore.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Will, has been the most amazing partner in life and without him I wouldn’t be where I am today as a wife, pet mom or business owner. His support has gone above and beyond anything I could have asked for. From offering his design skills to covering caregiving shifts to always saying yes, he has embraced my dream with compassion and grace.

Website: www.wildheartspetcare.com

Instagram: @wildheartspetcare

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildheartspetcare

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.