“I HOPE I can inspire other single mums to achieve their dreams.”
Pawz Ink owner Nicole Timmons was beaming as she accepted the Retail award at this year’s Casey Cardinia Business Awards.
“The judges have confirmed what I already knew – that each and every one of my staff go above and beyond every day,” she said.
Ms Timmons’s decision to switch from dental nurse to dog groomer is well and truly paying off.
She opened the pet boutique in Berwick Village two and a half years ago.
“I was raised in the City of Casey. I wanted to open up where I live,” she said.
“Berwick Village was perfect with its ambiance. It’s the perfect place to have a boutique.
“I’ve always grown up with animals – horses and dogs and cats.
“My very first job was at a pet shop. I used to help wash the dogs.”
Ms Timmons worked as a dental nurse for five years before changing careers.
“I always wanted to do a pet shop but with online sales I knew it wasn’t going to last,” she said.
Grooming couldn’t be bought with a mouse click and sent through the post.
Ms Timmons expanded into Toorak last November and hopes to open in Warragul within the next year.
“The staff make the business what it is,” she said.
Pawz Ink offers complete grooming and clipping, accessories and pet care products, fresh meat, aromatherapy and massage, and baked and organic dog treats.
“It’s a bit of an Endota Spa for dogs,” Ms Timmons said.
The Berwick salon welcomes about 100 customers each week.
“I’ve been overwhelmed and surprised by everyone’s loyalty,” she said.
“There’s about seven staff so we keep nice and busy.
“We have lots of laughs together. We spend more time together than family.”
A Pawz Ink product line including shampoos, cologne and dog treats is next on Ms Timmons’s agenda.
It’ll be available in-store and wholesale.
“Our favourite products got discontinued. We went ‘oh well, if it’s not available we’ll make our own’,” she said.
“I went over to China and spoke with manufacturers. I went to a big trade show to see what they could offer us.
“All of the shampoo ingredients are from Australia.”
