ELS Dog Walking
Emma Symington is the owner of ELS Dog Walking, which is a specialist service offering dog walking and dog sitting for animal owners throughout South Tyneside who are away from their pets for long periods of time.
Why did you want to start your own business?
When I left school at 16, I worked for two years as an office administrator but my heart was telling me to do something I felt passionate about and something I would get enjoyment from. I adore animals, in particular dogs, and also love the outdoors, so it made sense to start a business where I could combine the two.
How does it feel to be your own boss?
It feels really exciting to be doing something I'm passionate about. I couldn't have even dreamt about doing this without the support and advice I've received and the funding from South Tyneside Means Business.
What financial help did you receive for starting a business?
TEDCO referred me to South Tyneside Means Business, who offered me 50% funding for start up costs to set up the business.
How have you marketed the business?
I've been in and around South Tyneside dropping leaflets, putting up posters in pet stores and putting together a website to raise the profile of ELS Dog Walking.
Where do you see yourself in two years time?
I hope to eventually purchase a van to transport pets and in the future would perhaps like to branch out into dog training once the dog walking side of things has been established.
What has been a highlight from your experience?
I guess the fact that I am using my skills and have found something I am really passionate about. Its early days so I look forward to seeing the highlights emerge!
If you had one piece of advice for people starting a business, what would it be?
The key advice I would give would be to find out how you can start a business and who the right people are to help you to do it- once you've sourced this information it makes things a lot easier for yourself.
I approached teenage career advice centre Connexions who put me in touch with UCanB advisor, Nicky Gray, from TEDCO (The Tyneside Economic Development Company Ltd). Nicky helped research my target audience and assess how many other dog walking services were available in her area.
What is the best thing about doing business in South Tyneside?
I'm lucky because South Tyneside is a lovely place to do business and with the beach and the parks, it is ideally suited to the type of work I am doing
