Sarah Lunde

I attribute much of my success to the values instilled in me by my parents and grandmother, who emphasized the importance of a strong work ethic from an early age. They consistently encouraged me to strive for excellence, give my best effort, and approach every situation with commitment and integrity. Their guidance shaped my mindset and laid the foundation for the drive and discipline that continue to influence my achievements today.

In addition to their support, my personal passion for growth and success has played a significant role in my journey. I am motivated by a desire to continually challenge myself, pursue meaningful goals, and take ownership of my development. This combination of family influence and internal motivation has been instrumental in helping me reach the level of success I have achieved—and it remains a source of inspiration as I work toward future accomplishments.

The best career advice I have ever received is to remain open to possibilities. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve learned that growth often comes from unexpected opportunities — the roles we didn’t plan for, the projects that challenge us, and the paths that require us to stretch beyond our comfort zones. By staying curious, adaptable, and willing to explore new directions, I’ve been able to make more informed decisions and position myself for long-term success. Embracing possibility has not only shaped my career trajectory, but it has also strengthened my resilience and broadened my perspective.

For young women beginning their careers in the pet-care industry, my advice is to approach every opportunity with confidence, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning. This field is both emotionally rewarding and technically demanding, and your ability to combine compassion with skill will set you apart. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself, whether that means asking questions, pursuing additional training, or seeking out mentors who can help you grow. Trust your instincts, stay open to new experiences, and remember that professionalism and empathy are equally essential. By investing in your expertise and believing in the value you bring, you’ll build a career that is not only impactful but deeply fulfilling.

There are a variety of challenges in the pet care field at the moment. Many pet owners struggle with the increasing cost of care — from food and grooming to veterinary services. Higher prices can limit how often people seek care and put financial pressure on both owners and pet professionals. The pet care industry includes both small independent businesses and large corporate players. Small business like Central Bark often find it difficult to scale or retain clients amid strong competition. Running or working in pet care can involve long hours, administrative hassles, and staff turnover. Inefficient systems — from scheduling to billing — can add stress and reduce service quality.

Amid the challenges, there are also a variety of opportunities in the pet care field. While overall growth has plateaued somewhat since the pandemic surge, pet ownership remains high, and new service niches (like mobile care, subscription products, and senior pet support) continue to emerge. Premium care — including personalized training, luxury boarding, and specialized treatments — is a growing segment. Many owners are willing to pay more for high-quality service tailored to their pet’s unique needs. Pet owners are increasingly interested in holistic care — including nutrition, alternative therapies, proactive health plans, and wellness services beyond basic grooming or boarding, which is where the high demand for daycare services comes into play.

In both my work and personal life, the values that guide me most are integrity, compassion, continuous learning, and respect. Integrity is essential to me — I believe in being honest, dependable, and doing what’s right even when no one is watching. Compassion shapes how I interact with both people and animals, helping me create a supportive and understanding environment. I also value continuous learning; I’m always looking for ways to improve my skills and stay current so I can bring my best to any role. And finally, respect is foundational — treating colleagues, clients, and their pets with professionalism and care is key to building trust and strong relationships. These values help me stay grounded, consistent, and effective in everything I do.