Onyapreneur: Kirra Graham, Co-Founder & Director of Pet Drs

Pet Drs has a distinct focus on providing a holistic approach to pet wellness. Crafting specialised products tailored to address the needs of dogs dealing with itchy skin, digestive issues, anxiety, and joint discomfort. We believe in treating pets from the inside out, employing a comprehensive approach that goes beyond surface-level remedies. Our range of internal supplements and topical treatments work synergistically to promote overall wellbeing, focusing on nourishing the body for long-term health benefits. Beyond product formulation, we are advocates for pet education, empowering our customers with knowledge to make informed decisions about their pets’ health.

Pet Drs was inspired by the success of the global family run business Grahams Natural, which provided relief for eczema. The idea for Pet Drs arose when customers of Grahams Natural sought a similar solution for their pets’ itchy skin. Recognising the need for a safe alternative to conventional veterinary medicine, Pet Drs was developed in collaboration with professionals in the field, offering products tailored to address issues such as itchy skin, digestive problems, anxiety, and joint pain in dogs. Since the launch of Pet Drs, my passion for pet health and wellness has grown significantly which has led me to further my studies to become a Certified Animal Nutritionist. This shift has steered the business in the right direction to focus on treating pet issues internally, as well as managing the symptoms on the skin.

Growing up in a household centered around business ignited a passion in me to follow a similar path. My journey began by diving into the family business, Grahams Natural, straight out of school, where I gained invaluable firsthand experience in various roles, from marketing to admin and packing orders in the warehouse. Despite initially pursuing nursing at university, the need for wanting something more beckoned, leading to the decision to launch the Pet Drs brand. This pivotal moment prompted me to shift my focus entirely, leaving nursing school to devote myself fully to Pet Drs.

My passion truly lies in the creative side of the business and working behind the scenes in product development. As a solopreneur, the dynamic nature of wearing multiple hats within the business presents both challenges and rewards. My workday doesn’t adhere to a typical flow; rather, I tackle tasks as they arise, adapting to the daily surprises that come my way. With a Type A personality, I thrive on planning and preparation, even when plans don’t always unfold as expected—a quintessential aspect of entrepreneurship. Organization and structure form the backbone of my role, driving the business forward. Additionally, I invest significant time behind the camera, curating our social media presence to foster authenticity and trust. On an average day, my tasks include daily sales and data review, managing emails, creating content for TikTok/Reels, strategic planning for social media, stock, and campaigns, overseeing Facebook and Instagram ads, and wrapping up the day by delving into upcoming projects.

For anyone embarking on the journey of starting a business, my foremost advice is centered on preparation, authenticity, and connection. Thorough preparation and strategic planning lay the groundwork for success, providing a roadmap to navigate the challenges ahead. Authenticity is key—embrace your unique voice and story, and don’t shy away from putting yourself in front of the camera to establish a genuine connection with your audience. Focus on selling to your niche rather than trying to appeal to everyone; by becoming a trusted source of knowledge within your niche, you’ll build a loyal following. Stay curious and continuously seek to expand your knowledge by researching other brands, entrepreneurs, and industry trends. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and embrace mistakes as learning opportunities—they’re inevitable on the path to growth. Remember, knowledge is your greatest asset in the entrepreneurial journey.