PAWS-ITIVELY PERFECT PETS
A FAMILY AFFAIR
The Baldwins take a family approach to dog treat business Written by John Kirkpatrick // Photos by Jamie Alexander
T
he Baldwin family created Luv My Pup Bakery last summer, a homebased business specializing in gourmet dog treats made of natural ingredients. The treats are available at The Owensboro Regional Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings or their Facebook page, @Luvmypupbakery. Heather is an occupational therapist for Daviess County Schools, while her husband, Bruce, is a visual art teacher at Meadow Lands Elementary. Heather said she is always searching for opportunities to convert hobbies into extra money and thought the dog treat business would create the perfect family venture for her, Bruce, and their second-grade son
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Maddox. “I was looking up recipes online for dog treats for our pup and saw an advertisement for a dog treat business,” Heather said. “I have worked side jobs within my profession for our family, but this was something that would provide our family extra money and be a family activity without me working outside the home.” Heather began researching the industry, crafted a business plan, and started discussions with Maddox and Bruce about having a business that involved the entire family. Heather and Bruce also viewed it as the perfect opportunity to show the value of hard
work and entrepreneurial and financial skills. “We all love dogs, and Bruce and Maddox were excited to be involved, so it was an easy decision,” she said. “We thought this was a great way to show Maddox what hard work looks like, how to start something on your own, and how to be an entrepreneur.” Heather said Maddox has a firm grasp on how to spend money, but he’s still acquiring a taste for saving and giving. Maddox said he finds the most joy in preparing bags for people at the market and packing the treats for delivery. “Mom had the idea, and it was something fun for all of us. Dad
