Starting a business is exciting, but it also comes with a steep learning curve. For first-time entrepreneurs, the first year is often filled with new responsibilities, unexpected challenges and rewarding milestones. At Pet Wants, franchisees aren't expected to navigate that journey alone. With a flexible business model, comprehensive training and a collaborative franchise community, new owners are equipped with the tools they need to build momentum from day one.

For Colorado Springs franchisee Kariann Harker, who launched her Pet Wants business with her husband, Jerrod Bohannon, in 2025, the first year has been everything they hoped for and more. 

"Prior to Pet Wants, I was working in the health care field, mostly doing front desk and clerical work, but it wasn't really what I wanted as a career," Harker said. "My husband and I decided we wanted to do something together. We looked into franchising because of the support it offers, and we started with our passion for animals. We really started there and haven't looked back."

Finding the Right Franchise Fit

After exploring other concepts, Harker and Bohannon found that Pet Wants immediately stood out because of its mission and business model.

"The idea of owning a business was always in the back of my mind, especially something pet-centric because I love my dogs," Harker said. "We were looking at another franchise, but it didn't work out. Then we found Pet Wants, and it really checked all the boxes."

The couple's personal experience caring for their pit bull Ruby, who struggled with severe food sensitivities, made Pet Wants' focus on nutrition especially meaningful.

"The message about pet health and wellness is something we are always striving for," Harker said. "We have dogs with severe allergies, so finding something they could even eat was a struggle. I wish we'd had something like Pet Wants back then."

Building Customers Before Opening a Store

Like many first-time franchise owners, Harker quickly realized business ownership would require developing an entirely new skill set. Rather than feeling intimidated, she embraced the learning process. "Every day is something new as we stay on top of what we need to get done," she said. "It's a whole new setup that I wasn't used to, but we're learning and we're making headway."

One of the biggest surprises during Harker's first year has been how quickly they were able to establish themselves through Pet Wants' mobile-first model.

Rather than waiting months for construction on a retail location, the couple immediately began selling at farmers markets, community festivals and pet-focused events while simultaneously searching for a storefront.

"We don't have a brick-and-mortar yet, but we're negotiating a lease as we speak," Harker said. "Starting mobile allows us to really build our clientele and not just sit and wait around while the storefront is being found."

The approach has allowed them to build relationships throughout Colorado Springs while generating revenue and creating brand awareness before opening a permanent location. Today, Harker runs the business full time while Bohannon continues working in his previous career while they grow the business together. That gradual transition is one advantage of the Pet Wants model. Franchisees can build revenue while maintaining flexibility, allowing families to scale at a pace that makes sense for them.

"We had a really successful first month, and now we're setting goals for the future," Harker said in an earlier interview. "Right now, we're focused on getting out there as much as possible. We've got 20 events lined up this month."

Leaning on the Franchise Community

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from Harker's first year has been realizing just how valuable the Pet Wants support system truly is. From the corporate team to fellow franchisees, she says there's always someone willing to answer questions, share ideas or provide encouragement.

"Their support is astounding, which is a huge asset when you're starting a business," Harker said. "They don't just wait and talk to my husband if they need something. They support me and treat me as an equal."

Just as important has been the collaboration among franchise owners. "I can't say enough about the support we've gotten from the Pet Wants team and the other franchisees as well," she said. "That's something I love because we're always talking with other franchisees. We aren't in competition."

Becoming Part of the Local Community

While Pet Wants provides national support, Harker says success also comes from becoming deeply involved in the local community. One of the smartest decisions she made during her first year was joining the Women's Chamber of Commerce in Colorado Springs.

"My biggest advice is to make sure you take note of any questions so you don't forget," she said. "Also find a good support and networking group. We've found a lot of businesses to work with, and knowing they all support women-owned businesses is amazing. It's been wonderful being able to go to those networking events.”

Combined with Pet Wants' emphasis on local events and community engagement, networking has helped the business establish trust while expanding its customer base.

Looking back on her first year, Harker says preparation and curiosity make all the difference. Most importantly, she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to trust themselves.

"Believe in yourself," Harker said. "It's definitely worth it."

Ready to build a business rooted in purpose, passion and pet health and wellness? Visit https://1851franchise.com/petwants to learn more about franchising with Pet Wants.