Exploring Life & Business with Jocelyn Ruiz of Coco’s Fur Pals

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jocelyn Ruiz

Hi Jocelyn, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my pet-sitting business, Coco’s Fur Pals, because I got fired! The word “fired” is a negative word, but I decided to turn this negative word into a new chapter. Before I was fired, I would watch many videos about entrepreneurship and look up discussion forums on how entrepreneurs got started. I was intrigued by their charisma and the “hustle” life many of these entrepreneurs have. They would share their lifestyle on the internet. Waking up to work remotely at a coffee shop or taking the opportunity to travel just to network and expand their business. Despite the many different businesses niches, tips or “secrets” they shared, I noticed one thing they had in common. They started because they were sick of their current lifestyle. Something that I related to.

Coincidentally enough, once I started getting inspired I was fired. My first thought was, “Wow, I can’t believe that I was fired. Now what?” I really thought maybe my plan should just to hop on Google and search “jobs hiring immediately” because that is the practical route. But I realized that if I commit myself to another 9-5 job again, I would never have time to really go for what I want in life…to run my own business!

I started hopping on YouTube and looked up “passive income side hustles” to get ideas. Some were feasible, like creating designs and selling them on Etsy. However, I really wanted to do work where I can see the impact I make. So, I began reading on discussion forums of more realistic ideas where I can really learn the foundations of a business. Business to me isn’t just about making money, it’s about making connections where your work is valued.

With more online research, my next path became clear. That in the start of accomplishing my dreams, I can do that by first starting a pet-sitting business!

For the majority of my life, I have owned pets. Currently, I own a small chihuahua mix named Coco. Me and along with over 50% of the population in AZ…own pets! I thought, this is where I am going to start and that’s how I created my pet-sitting business, Coco’s Fur Pals.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It wasn’t entirely easy, but nothing new ever comes easy, right? On the surface level it might look like an adorable side gig to do. You get to take care of people’s pets and go to people’s houses and couch surf. However, when you arrive at the owner’s home, there is no time to couch surf! You need to make time to feed them, clean up after their poops if they made an accident, take the dog out on a walk, administer medication, and other necessities needed by the owner.

When I started, my biggest challenge is creating my first pool of clients. Pet-sitting is an oversaturated gig here in Phoenix. There are many owners, but there are a vast majority of pet-sitters, too. I had to start advertising myself on Facebook neighborhood groups and Nextdoor to start reaching out to potential clients. I’d write out strong hooks and showcase my experience that would urge people to connect with me.

Getting leads without spending money on ads or apps is no easy feat. However, with my office background I transferred some of the skills I have learned in the office to my business. I learned how to write pitches and closers, turning emails and social media DMS into leads. and building B2C relationships all from my office jobs. Which made me grateful that I was given the opportunity to learn.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a service based business that is specialized in pet-sitting!

I am a local pet-sitter here in Tempe, AZ and I took inspiration to start this business from getting fired and from my own dog, Coco.

I am proud that I have established a consistent branding that focuses on affordability, friendliness, and reliability. All which you look for in a pet-sitter!

I offer pet-sitting services such as drop-ins, dog walks, and overnight stays.

What sets me apart from others is I am First Aid Certified for Pets through the American Red Cross. I enjoy being a pet-sitter because I get to constantly learn about animal behavior and create lasting relationships with my clients.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Persistence, transparency, and accountability.

Pricing:

• $20 for 30 minute drop-ins
• $20 for 30 minute dog walks
• $50 for day care (in owner’s home)
• $70 for overnight stays (in owner’s home)

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocosfurpals/
• Other: cocosfurpals@gmail.com