From Banking to Barking: a Journey of Resilience, Perseverance and Purpose
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
By Tori Levitt
I was a successful mortgage banker until the major real estate crash of 2008. I had logged decades of helping homeowners finance their dreams until the music stopped. So, what’s a girl to do? While reviewing my options, I found myself serendipitously boarding other people’s dogs in my home. The early lessons I learned were not only about animal behavior, but also resilience and resourcefulness – skills that would serve me well as my side hustle blossomed beyond imagination.
As word spread, demand grew and what started as a whimsical way to fill a gap during an uncertain time, became a legitimate business opportunity. I drew upon my banking skills: the importance of building relationships, paying attention to detail, proactive client communication and the sheer will to weather storms.
As with most things in life, change doesn’t happen without skillful adaptation, an open mind and true grit and determination.
I resolved to expand my unique, boutique boarding service. I began recruiting other must-love-dogs’ people to join me in sharing our homes with other people’s pets. I developed a playbook of protocols and procedures to expand my brand with consistency. I put a leash on my “control freak” ways to develop a supportive partnership with each hire.
I also had to choose between hanging on as a mortgage loan officer and running a growing, thriving small business. I took a leap of faith that I could do this as a solopreneur, with no investors, partners or backing of any kind. Dogs taught me the art of living in the moment with unconditional love.
That was 17 years ago. Today, I am still the CKO (Chief Kindness Officer) of Doolittle’s Doghouse, a pampered pet care service in the greater Phoenix area. I employ 40+ pet sitters to provide pampered pet and house care for 100’s of clients – on both 2 & 4 legs!
I am currently writing a new chapter in my book of unstoppable activity and desire to bring value to the lives of others. I have launched a new association for pet professionals.
The Association of Pet Professionals is on a mission to assist members to turn their passion for animals into profit through vital education and dynamic training. Membership is only $10/month for a vessel of vendor discounts, deep-dive content and on-line courses to enhance professional growth.
It's been said that life is a journey, not a destination. I believe that all of us have a divine destination and with faith in ourselves and God, we will arrive in fashion with purpose, passion and fulfillment.
About the Author
Tori Levitt is the owner of Doolittle’s Doghouse, a pampered pet care service in the Phoenix metro area. Since 2008, Doolittle’s Doghouse has continued to serve thousands of pet owners with a rock-star team of 40+ pet sitters.
She is also the founder of The Association of Pet Professionals, a new trade association geared to assist pet sitters in building a profitable and professional pet business. Having walked in the shoes of the solopreneur pet sitter, she brings experience, thoughtfulness and relevant resources to her members.
Tori’s passion for pets and people is captured in her book “The World According to Dog; Amusing Life Lessons Taught to us by Dogs”. (Available on Amazon).
Tori’s favorite motto in life: “life is like a camera: focus on the big picture; develop from the negative and if it doesn’t work out, take another shot!”
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