Hound HQ Omaha Client Spotlight: Building a dog care powerhouse
1123 connected with Jake Sarver in 2023 as he was in the process of building a dog daycare, boarding, and grooming business. In the time since that first meeting, Jake has grown Hound HQ into a pet care powerhouse. We were thrilled when Jake said yes to being our very first interviewee in a Rolling Stone style Q & A, 1123 Client Spotlight.
Hound HQ has been open for just over two years. Describe the past 24 + months in 90 characters or less.
Every day is a new challenge with new opportunities. The people and dogs I have met keep me going and looking forward to each day.
When did you realize or know that you wanted to own and operate your own business?
My prior career was in corporate finance and I had hands-on experience running and evaluating companies. Through this, I knew I wanted to have my own. I was able to combine my love of dogs with my prior experience to create Hound HQ.
What does an average day in your life look like?
The average day is wake up around 5:00am, get the coffee started and get to work around 6:15am. Mornings are filled with getting the facility ready, check in with clients at drop off and get started on our cleaning procedures. Next, I will go through some dog photos and get some social media posts going. Mid-day is time to catch up on emails, ensure bookings are good to go and more clerical tasks. In the afternoon and evening, as pick ups occur, talk with the owner about their day, how their pup is doing, etc and make sure they have their next booking scheduled. Finally, will head out around 5:30pm – 6:00!
What’s the most unusual or wild question you have been asked by a customer or potential customer?
“Why is there tax on the invoice?” – that one through me for a loop. I had someone come in once asking if we sold puppies… No, we do not.
If dogs could leave Google Reviews, what would your dog say about Hound HQ?
Bourbon would say: “Perfect for outside time with your pals and can always find a new friend.” Captain would say: “All the staff let you take a nap on their lap no matter your size if you are persistent enough.” and Scotch would say: “I get so excited I start to smile and when we take the turn off 156th St I don’t even know what to do with my paws!”
What is something you still want to achieve that you haven’t yet?
My son was born at the end of February. Like my dad and his dad, they all earned the title of not just “Dad” but “Coach” so I am looking forward to earning both of those titles as well.
If Hound HQ was a band, what genre would it be? And why?
Punk Rock – little bit crazy but somehow it works and you keep wanting to listen to it.
If Hollywood made a movie about Hound HQ, who would play you?
Adam Sandler
What has your experience been like working with 1123?
1123 has been great to work with. They communicate and can be flexible as needs change. Their recommendations are not blind and come with reasoning and support. I wouldn’t want to work with anyone else.