This month Ponsonby News caught up with16-year-old local business owner Otta Rusholme.
Tell us about Paws to Doors?
Well Monday to Friday, on foot I pick up from their home a small group of dogs and take them to socialise and exercise in Grey Lynn Park and surrounds. I walk dogs in Ponsonby, Grey Lynn and Westmere.
How did you end up dog walking?
We couldn’t have pets in our rental property so I started playing with walking a neighbour's dog, we really hit it off and the dog loved our time together. As I walked it a few times a week people saw me and started asking if I could collect and walk their dog whilst they were out all day working. I soon realised I loved having my little group of dogs and it was a service people really liked, having a reliable local and personal approach unlike some of the bigger more mechanised dog walking businesses.
How is Paws to Doors different from other services?
I do home pick up and the dogs spend no time in big vans. I am very flexible, people sometimes work from home last minute and I will often get a text saying can you swap to tomorrow or I'm home sick with a child and we don't need you today. Obviously affordability is a big thing, especially right now and I’m more economical than any one else in the area.
Do you currently have space and how do readers get in touch?
Yes I do! My mobile number is 021 046 4657. You can also find me on facebook @PawstoDoorsNZ