A year after launching her dream, Kelly Jordan's business is humming along.
Ms Jordan took the plunge in December 2012 and started up Kelsview Kennels in Okoia, providing not only kennel accommodation for dogs but also offering extra services for the pets in her care.
"We've been getting some really positive comments. Our clients are happy, and so are their dogs," she said.
Kelsview Kennels is a purpose-built complex at 507 No 3 Line at Okoia.
Only a matter of weeks before the kennels were built, Ms Jordan was an animal control officer working for Wanganui District Council but wanted a change.
The new venture included a grooming service, because she wanted to run a boutique-style kennels. A key to the operation is the fact that no dogs are worked in a shared exercise area, because she exercises each dog independently to prevent dogs from fretting.
An experienced groomer, Ms Jordan will also have a hydro bath on site.
"The kennels are secure and spacious. Even dogs that owners say have separation anxiety stay calm and settle in quickly," she said.
"All dogs that stay here enjoy proper exercise on our six-acre lifestyle block, either on leads or if they're identified 'safe' we'll let them off their leads to exercise with other good-natured dogs. These are all temperament tested by me to make sure there will be no behavioural issues.
"After all, when the owner goes, I'm temporarily their new mum. No dog is shoved in an exercise yard here to exercise themselves. The dogs all get cuddles and enjoy one-on-one attention."
Ms Jordan said she had never used boarding kennels in all the time she has owned dogs, because she was never satisfied the animals were properly looked after.
"What we're doing here is creating the sort of environment that treats the dog as one of our family," she said.
The grooming side of the business was busy.
"I've got lots of clients who drop their dogs off regularly for the full doggy beauty treatment, and others that come out for extreme doggy makeovers. All dogs are clipped, hydrobathed and have their nails done for one inclusive cost. I'll also pick up and deliver for a low charge."
But there's another string to her bow at Kelsview Kennels - one that she is keen to promote and certainly experienced enough to deliver. It's all about educating people how to behave around dogs.
Along with her two American bulldogs, Phoenix and Odin, Ms Jordan has been a familiar face at local schools, teaching children about dogs, their behaviour and how to behave around them.
And this past year she has been offering the same service to individuals and businesses.
"It's been huge this year, with several councils that have identified my skills and have contracted me to promote dog safety in their areas.
"We love this. It's great fun and very rewarding
"We've also presented to many private adult groups this year for staff training, safety sessions. It's especially useful for those whose staff have to enter properties where dogs may be present."
Details: www.kelsview.co.nz