Mount Pleasant Pets 2021-22

BBB MP PETS www.MtPl easant . Pet | www.MPVet s . Pet | www. f acebook . com/MPpet s F E A T U R E and her teammates also enjoy creating custom bulk orders for pet friendly hotels, apartment complexes and real estate offices – they’ve even had a request to augment catering at a wedding reception. Perhaps the most interesting part of the story is the original inspiration behind the business. In 2017, Michael Patrohay, a high school senior at the time, was required to complete a project relative to his career aspirations. For Michael and his beloved dog, Sunshine, the answer was simple — bake and sell wholesome dog treats. The idea was greeted with tremendous success, and, two years later, Michael’s family was able to transform a senior project into the sustainable business we now know as Michael’s Barkery. That’s enough of a tale in itself, but add to the story Mi- chael’s intellectual disability, and it becomes a heartwarm- ing testament to following one’s passion and overcoming obstacles. The store’s owners, Karen and Scott Patrohay — Michael’s parents — wholeheartedly believe in giving op- portunities to people with cognitive limitations, choosing to maximize their skills rather than focus on disabilities. They employ specially-abled staff members in all areas of produc- tion, for the bakery as well as the retail space. “At Michael's Barkery, we want to give everyone the opportunity to have a purpose and allow everyone's gifts and talents to shine,” remarked Karen Patrohay. Currently, Michael’s Barkery consists of 16 employees across grooming, retail and management, including six specially-abled teammates. They recently added obedience training to the menu of services, offered through an associ- ate who is also a dog trainer, with a Bachelor of Science in animal behavior, ecology and conservation. The entire staff has taken great care to build a business with enthusiastic people who love your pets as much as you do. When asked what Michael thinks of his success, the Patrohays said: “Michael is very proud of his store and can't wait to go to work every day. What brings the biggest smile to his face is when we bring up the store’s YouTube channel. He thinks that is pretty cool.” U To learn more, visit MichaelsBarkery.com, or head over to their storefront, at 864 Island Park Drive, Ste. 103, on Daniel Island. MOUNT PLEASANT PETS P ETS MOUNT PLEASANT COVER PLAYMATES Hannah and Finley Published by Mount Pleasant Magazine PUPPY MOMS Boomers and Pets 2018-2019 THE PERFECT SOCIAL OUTLET East Cooper Dog Parks WE OUR P ETS www.MountPleasantMagaz ine.com | MtPleasant. Pet Resources: Veterinarians, Groomers, Pet Stores, Dog Walkers & Trainers www.MountPleasant.Pet Read online at www.ReadPETmag.com To be included in Mount Pleasant Pets 843-345-7012 or Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com