NAME: KYLE GOGUEN
INDUSTRY: PET/ECOMMERCE
YEAR FOUNDED: 2014
PARTNER COLLEGE: COHORT 18, LONG BEACH CITY COLLEGE

How did 10KSB help you?
The 10KSB Program helped me learn to work on my business and not in it. Before being in the program, my business would come to a screeching halt if I took any time off. 10KSB helped me hire the right employees and put systems in place that allow me to focus on big-picture opportunities instead of getting bogged down by the day-to-day. I no longer handle any customer service, accounting, or purchasing and try to focus as much as possible on growing the business.
Tell us about a challenge you’ve faced in your business.
The majority of our natural dog chews and treats are made from animal body parts (things like pig ears, cow hooves, bully sticks, etc.). This means that size, shape, and weight can vary drastically depending on the animal itself. This makes order fulfillment very difficult since, often times, the exact same product will require a different box and shipping service depending on the variances in size.

What do you enjoy about being a small business owner?
The freedom that comes from owning my own online business has been life changing. I put in many more hours than I would elsewhere, but you really can’t put a price on having the choice of where and when to work. You can’t beat being your own boss!

Since graduating from the 10KSB Program, is there an accomplishment or goal you’re particularly proud of achieving?
Pawstruck was ranked #87 on the 2018 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private businesses in America.