Mini business success story: How a high school graduate turned her passion for pets into profit

From a high school graduate’s dream to a thriving mini business, Tyler Old, founder of Stay N Play Petz, explains how she turned her passion for pets into a profitable business – proving that starting small can lead to big success.

How did Stay N Play Petz get started? 

Stay N Play Petz was born at the start of 2022, just after I finished high school. I’ve always loved animals – especially dogs – even though I never had one of my own (thanks to my brother’s allergies!). Despite that, I gained valuable experience working at a dog groomer and a doggie day care, which sparked the idea that I could start something on my own. 

I noticed a gap in Sydney's Hills District market: plenty of kennels, but not much for pets who’d be happier at home, or those too energetic or anxious for traditional boarding. I started by caring for local dogs and cats, and soon, word spread. Before I knew it, I was looking after horses, sheep, goats, chickens, lizards and even 30 alpacas! Stay N Play Petz grew from a simple love of animals into a full-fledged mini-business. 

What does your mini business do?

Stay N Play Petz brings personalised pet care right to your door. I offer overnight pet sitting, check-ins, dog walking, dog washing, pet taxi services, and horse care for all kinds of animals – dogs, cats, horses, chickens, guinea pigs, lizards, birds, goats and sheep.  

I believe every pet deserves care, regardless of breed or temperament, so everyone is welcome! My focus is on peace of mind for pet owners: you can relax, knowing your pets are genuinely loved and well cared for.

What’s something your mini business has taught you about yourself? 

Running Stay N Play Petz taught me how crucial communication is. From detailed enquiry responses to personalised phone calls and meet-and-greets, I’ve learned to put clients and their pets first. 

I’ve also discovered how to juggle multiple roles – dog walker, marketer, accountant, puppy patter and even poop scooper! Wearing all these hats has shown me that I’m more versatile and resilient than I ever imagined. 

What’s your favourite part of your day as a mini-business owner?

My favourite moments are the greetings I get from my regular clients – the dogs, of course! There’s nothing like being met with wagging tails, bright eyes, and excited bounces. Sometimes their humans are just as happy to see me! Those slobbery kisses between the pet and their owner during happy reunions make every day special, and I love capturing those moments to share with their owners. 

What’s more valuable as a mini-business owner, social presence or word-of-mouth?

Word of mouth is everything when growing your business! While I keep up my social media and enjoy posting photos and videos, referrals from happy clients have driven my business’s growth. One client recommends me to ten friends, and suddenly my calendar is packed.  

I’m especially grateful for my “army of Hills mums” who champion me online without even being asked. Their support is invaluable.

Tell us about your first customer. 

My very first client was a little kelpie – adorable and full of energy! I was nervous but excited to launch my dog walking service, not knowing it would lead to where I am today. 

My first overnight pet sit was a big, fluffy black dog and two cats. I remember staying up all night because the dog just wanted to play! That nervous excitement set the tone for the adventure ahead. 

What’s something you never thought you’d be doing but now is part of your business?

I never expected to become my own accountant – learning to send invoices, deal with GST, and master business taxes and bookkeeping. Staying organised is essential to save time, even if it means long nights with spreadsheets!  

I also didn’t expect to care for such a variety of animals; looking after 30 alpacas is now just another day at the office. That’s a lot of fluff (and clean-up)!

What’s been your biggest ‘OMG I’m actually doing it!’ moment? 

The first time I was fully booked out for Christmas and New Year’s was surreal. Spending sunny Australian holidays with so many pets, taking dogs to the beach, and building a business from my passion – it felt like a dream come true.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about running a mini business? 

Behind the scenes, it’s a lot more than just walking dogs. There are hours of invoicing, budgeting, juggling bookings, dealing with emergencies, and – of course – tax time. But I love the flexibility and the fact that I can choose my hours and work around my life.

Any advice for someone with a mini business idea but hasn’t made the leap yet? 

Do it! It’s scary to take the leap, but you don’t have to go all in straight away. Start small and local. Every business starts somewhere – mine began with one dog. You’ll learn as you go, and the experience will force you to grow. There will be tough moments, but they’re worth it, and you’ll always find new challenges to conquer.

What’s a ‘failure’ that actually moved your business forward? 

Firing my first client was tough. Their dog was lovely, but I wasn’t being treated respectfully and it was taking a toll. Letting them go was hard, but it made room for three wonderful new clients the very next week. Sometimes, saying no opens doors to better opportunities.

AMP Bank GO is proud to share Stay N Play Petz’s Mini Business Success Story — recognising Tyler’s commitment and the positive impact on her community, AMP Bank GO awarded Stay N Play Petz $5,000 worth of radio ad airtime — giving her the opportunity to connect with even more pet owners throughout Greater Sydney. Learn more about how AMP Bank GO takes care of mini businesses here.

Interested in more mini-business journeys and business tips and insights? Visit AMP’s Insights Hub for inspiration, advice and more.