Today we’d like to introduce you to Addison Boessen.
Hi Addison, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story really started when I rescued my first dog, Pink. She’s my soulmate, and she’s the one who opened my eyes to how much love an animal can bring into your life. Then came Clyde—my big, shy guy. He has taken a lot of work, patience, and understanding, but I’m grateful I get to give him exactly what he needs.
Through taking care of them, I learned everything firsthand—training, structure, confidence-building, and what true animal care looks like. That’s when I realized just how deep my love for animals is. I don’t just love dogs—I love pets of any species, and I’ve always felt naturally connected to them.
What started with my own pets grew into friends asking for help, then their friends, and eventually a full pet care business. Now I get to spend my days doing what I love most: helping animals feel safe, happy, and understood. It’s truly the best part of my life.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. When life hits, everything gets crazy, and I actually started this while working a full-time job. I was walking dogs seven days a week on top of that—and honestly, I still walk seven days a week.
Some days are challenging. The schedule can be heavy, the weather isn’t always great, and balancing everything can get overwhelming. But most days, I actually find it relaxing. Walking clears my head, and the dogs really keep me grounded. They kind of force you to stay present and calm.
It’s not the easiest path, but the dogs make it worth it. They’re the reason I keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business is really just an extension of who I am. I genuinely love animals, and I don’t limit myself to just dogs—I work with any species. I’ve cared for cats, small animals, reptiles, farm animals… you name it. If someone’s got a pet that needs love and attention, I’m happy to show up for them.
I think what I’m known for most is my patience and the way animals warm up to me, especially the shy or anxious ones. That probably comes from raising my own two rescues. With them, I learned how to take things slow, build trust, and really understand an animal’s personality. A lot of people tell me, ‘My pet doesn’t like anyone—but they like you,’ and honestly, that means everything to me.
What sets me apart is that I treat every animal like they’re my own. I’m not just stopping by and leaving. I send updates, I play with them, I pay attention to the little details, and I show up consistently. I work seven days a week, so people can rely on me no matter what their schedule looks like.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust I’ve built. My whole business has grown from word of mouth because people can feel that I really care. I want readers to know that when they book with me, their pets aren’t just getting a service—they’re getting someone who genuinely enjoys spending time with them.
Whether it’s walks, drop-ins, pet taxi, or helping care for more unique pets, my goal is simple: keep every animal safe, happy, and understood, and give their owners peace of mind.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
When I think about the future of the pet care world, I picture it becoming more community-based and more fun. And honestly, my own dream is a big part of how I see the industry growing.
My goal is to create a full dog emporium—one big place that has everything pet owners need. I want a daycare, plus a few rescue animals sprinkled in who are available for adoption. I want a grooming area where you can either book a groomer or groom your own dog. I’d love to have my own treat line, plus a shop with accessories, leashes, collars, coats—basically all the good stuff.
And the part I’m most excited about is a nice dog park attached to it with a little burger joint where people can hang out while their dogs play. I want it to feel like a place people look forward to going, not just another errand.
That’s the direction I hope the industry goes—more heart, more community, and more places where both pets and their humans can enjoy themselves.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: PuppyPickup.STL
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FzTYXPe3Z/?mibextid=wwXIfr
