Taking the Reigns: Honoring a Business While Building its Future
“The SBDC made a process that felt impossible seem achievable. They gave me structure, confidence, and the right people to talk to when I needed them most.”
Sunny Ridge Kennels
Background
When Katie Shull chose to step away from her desk job, she did not begin with a sweeping business plan, only a clear desire to spend her days around dogs. What started as a simple wish to “work with dogs instead of computers” evolved into a growing small business defined by care, commitment, and steady ambition.
Katie explored her passion by volunteering at a local animal shelter and several rescue groups. While the work was rewarding, she soon realized the emotional demands and limited income made it difficult to sustain long term. Seeking a more sustainable path, she reached out to a local kennel to gain hands-on experience. Sunny Ridge Kennels, just minutes from home, proved to be the ideal setting. When the longtime owner shared plans to retire, Katie began working part-time, learning everything from daily care routines to customer service.
Over three years, she became part of the kennel’s rhythm and built lasting relationships with both the dogs and their owners. When the moment arrived for Katie to assume control of the business, she faced her greatest challenge: purchasing it. She sold her home to make the down payment and secured an SBA 7(a) loan to finalize the purchase. “It sounded a little crazy to some people,” she said, “but I knew this was what I wanted. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime chance.”
Working With SBDC
That determination led her to the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), where advisor Barry Henderson became an essential guide. “I didn’t know where to start,” Katie explained. “Barry helped me understand what banks needed to see. He taught me how to build a business plan and financial projections that made sense.” He also connected her with key resources, including an attorney who later became one of her boarding clients.
Outcome
With that support, Katie successfully transitioned from employee to owner in October 2024. She and her husband, Dustin, now operate Sunny Ridge Kennels and live on the property full-time, supported by a dedicated team of six part-time staff. Together, they continue to provide a safe, clean, and nurturing environment for pets while preserving the personalized care clients have come to trust.
Sunny Ridge Kennels has built on a foundation of trust, strengthening operations, supporting employees, and providing reliable care that gives pet owners confidence every day.
Economic Impact
Keeping Up with Sunny Ridge Kennels
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