Business Spotlight: Bandit's Place, Inc., Animal Rescue in Granby

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this new, exciting series we’re kicking off at Patch — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Our first business shares their story below.

Business: Bandit’s Place, Inc., Animal Rescue

Owner: Liz Bennett

Website: www.BanditsPlace.org

Address: We’re in Granby but I keep our location under wraps as appointments are needed to visit after a completed and approved application.

How did you come up with the name?

The rescue was named after my German Shepherd, Bandit, who came from the New Britain dog pound many years ago. She was found as a stray, 3 months old, eating food from broken glass containers on the street. She was cross eyed and scared but blossomed into an incredibly sweet, smart and wonderful girl. When I lost her, I told her I’d do everything I could to help others, just like her, find loving and permanent homes.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

I came to Granby in 1987 to work for the Granby Police Department and fell in love with the town. My husband was a life long resident of East Hartland but was also on the police department in Granby for 34 years.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Animal Rescue.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

We are a non-profit organization, so making sure we’re adequately funded is always a challenge but I’ve found the hardest thing about my job is saying goodbye when an animal has found it’s forever home.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

Never. When you have a passion, follow it. No matter what obstacles are thrown in your way, follow it. If you give up, it was not a true passion to begin with.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

My favorite moment is when (and this really does happen) an animal has found their new family. Just before they jump into their new car (and I’m talking about the dogs here!), I get a spontaneous kiss from them! It’s the strangest thing! I sit them down, say goodbye and it almost always ends with a big, sloppy kiss... from the dog!

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

My volunteers come up with things all the time! If it would work, we try it. If not, we have a good laugh over it!

How do you deal with difficult customers?

All visitors here have gone through an application process. I have visitors by appointment only, so I already know them in a way. Some times I get difficult people on the phone but after talking with them for a bit, it usually irons out.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I have a food bank here. I take donated cat / dog / bird food and keep it in storage. When the Animal Control Officer contacts me I get her what ever supplies she’ll need for a family in need. With the economy the way it is, some families really WANT to keep a pet but can not afford the food, etc. So rather than see them give up a pet, I donate food or supplies when needed. All done through the Animal Control Officer, who is fantastic!

Are you a local small business with a story to tell? Send it to us by clicking here.