Why Small Businesses Matter Reimagined
Small businesses matter - now more than ever. They are answering the call with innovation and determination like never before.
We hope you join us in supporting them by sharing their story far and wide and shopping local! We are thankful to Fairfield County Bank for their continued support and making this series possible.
Step inside North Star Canines!
Three questions with Virginia Dare, founder of North Star Canines.
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What do you want the community to know?
Many people have decided to acquire new puppies during the Covid crisis. Now that folks have more flexible schedules, often working from home, they have more time to dedicate to working with a new puppy.
The thing is, Covid is adding some challenges for puppy owners. For instance, it’s much harder to properly address the task of thorough and positive socialization for young pups when we’re not in contact with as many people these days. We have fewer visitors at our homes, and social gatherings are infrequent. It’s more challenging to schedule puppy playdates now. And, we tend to avoid spending a lot of time out in public. But there are creative ways to provide plenty of positive socialization opportunities for young pups. For instance, just sitting with a pup on a park bench (well away from any bustling activity) could be a great socialization opportunity. The puppy can calmly experience all different sights and sounds from a safe distance – people walking their dogs, children playing, bikers/joggers/cars going by, truck or construction noises, etc. Pairing these novel exposures with treats can enhance the social experience.
Another challenge I’m regularly addressing with work-at-home clients is how to keep the puppy contentedly occupied when their owner has important work and virtual meetings to attend to. Finding a good balance of aerobic exercise and mental stimulation and enrichment is key.
I’ve been offering more Zoom live video sessions for clients. It’s really cool how many training and behavior issues can be addressed and resolved without ever having to meet in person. For folks who are at more of a health risk, or who just want to be extra cautious, this can be an excellent option.
I’ve also been working with numerous clients BEFORE their new pup actually arrives so they’re better prepared -- knowing what to expect of their new pup, learning how to set things up in the home to minimize issues, and learning what products to buy in advance to make life with their new puppy easier.
Zoom sessions have also allowed me to reach people well out of my travel zone, too.
Please share the ways your business is adapting to keep your customers and employees safe in addition to the standard guidelines.
I do meet with clients in person, and always use hand sanitizer upon arrival. We all wear masks and do our best to remain socially distant. And whenever possible, we meet outside or in a covered area like a porch or open garage. Safety first!
Visit North Star Canines website here, and also make sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram pages as well!
HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!