Canine Country Club
Anita Sedberry, Owner
Little Rock, Arkansas
Anita Sedberry wanted to create a fashionable haven where animal lovers much like herself could bring their pets to be cared for and pampered. Her business idea entailed first class service for pets in a fun and friendly atmosphere. After searching the central Arkansas area for the perfect location, she selected a site in west Little Rock for Canine Country Club of Arkansas.
Pulaski Bank & Trust referred Sedberry to Phil Harris, Business Consultant at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock SBDC. With more than 16 years of experience in marketing and sales, Sedberry had recently left a corporate job to assist the family business. Harris worked with Sedberry to assess overall feasibility, develop a business plan, and prepare financial projections in preparation for a business loan application. Harris determined Sedberry's business idea to be an excellent candidate for the SBA 504 loan program and submitted her application to the Arkansas Certified Development Corporation as a possible participant. With Twin City Bank as the lead lender, the ACDC board approved the 504 loan request. Realizing the goal of owning her own business was not an easy process, with several obstacles to overcome. Sedberry was undeterred, and with Harris' guidance and advice, became the owner of the Canine Country Club in November 2004.
Business continues to grow at the upscale retreat for pets. With spacious country club living areas inside and outside, dogs and cats can lounge in the shade or play in the sunshine. Clients bringing their dogs and cats for boarding feel comfortable leaving their pets with Sedberry's trained staff of caring professionals. The business also offers training, a full-service doggy day care play program and a web cam system that allows owners to check on their pets throughout the day.
