Mother, Daughter Team Up To Run Pet-Sitting Business

Bobbi Ann DePierro and Jesse Mae Angst are a mother-daughter team who have started running In Home Pet Services (IHPS) of Patchogue-Medford, which opened in October. The business is the first IHPS pet-sitting franchise location to come to Suffolk County. DePierro and Angst own and operate their location, which covers the areas of Patchogue, Medford, Blue Point, Bayport, Holtsville, Holbrook, Bellport and Brookhaven Hamlet. Angst recently spoke with Patch about what its like to run their business.

Patch: Describe what your business is?

Jesse Mae Angst: In Home Pet Services is a loving pet sitting & dog walking business. Our rates are realistic for every day pet owners to afford, we have flexible hours, and we don't charge extra for any cancellations, weekends, last mintue appointments, or holidays. Not only is this my business, it is also my passion. With each animal I learn something new. Anyone could see the love I have for my business.

Patch: Where are you from and what is your personal/professional background?

Angst: I was born and raised on Long Island. My mom showed me the love I can have for each and every animal. We both volunteer at Brookhaven Animal Shelter. I help by taking the dogs out, feed baby kittens, and fostering animals until we find them homes. I currently have ten pets! I have had a wide variety of different animals. They bring such a happiness to my life.

Patch: Why did you decide to open your business in the Patchogue community?

Angst: I currently have been living in Bellport for five years. I love my community and being close to my family. Everything I love and do is centered around Patchogue.

Patch: What do you hope to accomplish with your business?

Angst: I hope I can make a difference for some families. Pets are people's babies as well. I want the owners to feel comfortable enough to not have to worry, and to know their babies are taken care of by loving, responsible people when they're at work, at home or on vacation.

Patch: What area of your industry do you specialize in?

Angst: Besides much of my experience being with dogs and cats, I have been around all different kinds of animals ranging from Hamsters to Horses, and also have a lot of experience with birds! I plan to offer in home nail & wing trimming which is currently only offered at our Queens location.

Patch: Who is your typical customer/client?

Angst: People who love their pets but are busy at work and want to make sure their pets have the proper exercise and socialization even if they can't be home all the time. Also people who go on vacation and need someone they trust with their pets to take care of them and their home. 

Patch: Describe some of the history of your business, such as when it opened, where it operates, etc.?

Angst: The President Robyn Elman started this business 10 years ago, and In Home Pet Services now has 11 successful locations throughout Brooklyn, Queens, and Nassau. Each and every owner is as passionate and caring animal lover. My current office is in Bellport and I cover the towns of Patchogue, Medford, Bellport, Blue Point, Brookhaven, Holbrook, and Holtsville!

Patch: What is your favorite and least favorite aspect of running your business?

Angst: My favorite aspect is the day to day working with animals. I couldn't have picked a better career. My least favorite would have to be all the computer work ;). Although knowing all the work you are doing is for yourself and your own business is very different and rewarding.

Patch: What specific challenges do you face with running your business and making it work in today's economy? 

Angst: Even though money is tight with a lot of people, they still love and adore their pets. If clients need to work, then their pets need to be taken out during the day. Most treat them like they are family and they will do what is necessary to fulfill the needs of their pets. We don't have too many challenges in today's economy because we always try to keep our prices affordable. Even when clients are out of work, they still are able to continue to use us for when they go on job interviews, etc. and then bring us back full time when they regain a position.

Patch: How can people reach you?

Angst: Lots of ways! People can either reach me, "In Home Pet Services of Patchogue-Medford" at my office number (631) 803-8808, my email: patchogue-medford@inhomepetservices.com, through our website:  www.inhomepetservices.com/patchogue-medford, or our facebook page at http://facebook.com/inhomepetservices