.svg){kind=small}
Sara Vandenbergh is an inspiring entrepreneur who has turned her passion for dogs into a thriving business. With her company PetFriend, she focuses on dog welfare and offers unique services that improve the lives of dogs and their owners.
Dog well-being is key
In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sara decided to launch her business. Her goal was clear: “Dog well-being needs to take center stage in the training of our family dogs. I wanted to make that my mission,” says Sara.
Sara works as a coach using the Connection Method®, helping (future) dog owners better understand their pets. She advocates for a well-being-focused approach to training and a natural way of interacting with dogs. Sara explains: “By recognizing and understanding our dogs’ language, we can take their limits and talents into account. Dogs aren’t robots.” Her approach differs from traditional dog training, which still relies on outdated science.
“I enjoy seeing the relief on dog owners’ faces when they realize there’s a different—and better—way.”
In addition, Sara offers professional in-home dog-sitting services. This concept is unique but essential for the dog’s well-being. “We stay within the dog’s safe space: their home and yard,” Sara explains. As a result, the dogs experience less stress, and their owners can leave the house with peace of mind.
The startup phase was tough
Sara’s entrepreneurial journey has had its ups and downs. The startup phase was tough, partly due to pressure from the RVA and the limited time to grow. Still, she remains positive and motivated. “I believe that keeping the faith is what helps you move forward,” she says.
To other starting entrepreneurs, she says: “DON’T GIVE UP. Getting a ‘no’ is normal. Develop a thick skin, and you’ll be better able to handle setbacks.” Realizing that where there’s a will, there’s a way was a real game-changer for Sara. After all, perseverance is an essential trait for an entrepreneur. “I’m glad I didn’t know it could be this hard. That’s why I just took on the challenge—and I’ll keep taking them on.”
The road to greater peace of mind
As an introvert, Sara loves the freedom of running her own business. “I don’t have to go work somewhere else from 9 to 5. This allows me to listen more to my body and mind.”
Her next milestones are now focused on financial growth and improving her marketing strategies. Working more efficiently through automation should give her greater peace of mind and allow her to focus on what’s truly important: the dogs.
And that’s where Dexxter comes in. Sara has been doing her accounting with Dexxter for two years now and wouldn’t want it any other way. “The clear interface, the learning center, the blogs, videos, and customer service… it all fits perfectly with how I want to run my business.”
She highly recommends the software to fellow starting entrepreneurs. “It gives you a clear overview of your numbers. You don’t need any prior knowledge—Dexxter guides you through the platform. And the customer service is top-notch!”
Do you also dream of turning your passion into a thriving business, just like Sara? We’ve outlined all the steps to starting a sole proprietorship for you.
