By Lia Bichel
FOR the past five years, Home-Based Business Award winner Pakenham Boarding Cattery has provided felines with the ultimate in kitten-care while their owners are away from home.
Animal-lovers Ted and Phyllis Bould started the business on their four-and-a-half acre Pakenham property and have since catered to almost 600 customers from all over Victoria.
Their son-in-law helped build the boarding-facility, while their daughters continue to help with the business.
“We love animals and we love having cats here,” Mrs Bould said. “We should have started the business 15 years earlier.”
While their owners are away, cats are housed in the facility’s individual units, or dual accommodation if they are from the same family. The radio is played continuously throughout the cattery to remind the cats of friendly voices at home and all bedding is supplied, including home made sleeping bags, blankets mattresses and toys.
If the owner requests it cats can get special pampering by getting groomed and clipped.
Mrs Bould said she has been surprised by the success of the business.
Clients continued to increase as she and her husband offered special deals to customers, such as pamper packs or a free night’s accommodation for cats if the owners have referred another customer.
“Most people have learnt about us through word of mouth,” she said.
“Everyday we have about 10 people ringing us. People come from Traralgon, Wonthaggi, all over. It’s been very successful.”
In the future, Mr and Mrs Bould hope to have a minimum of 10 cats occupying the facility every day of the year.
They said they hoped to achieve this by continuing to work hard, be actively involved in the community, and maintain high quality service at their unique bed and breakfast for cats.
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