In the latest installment of “Sub Spouse Small Business,” meet Rebecca, who began experimenting with flour alternatives after her two pugs developed allergies and special dietary needs. With a passion for baking and sewing, Grumble Goods Dog Bakery was born. What’s more, this Groton based mama managed to launch her business in the midst of COVID-19. Read more below!
Name: Rebecca McIntyre, Owner of Grumble Goods
Hometown: Seattle, WA
Current Duty Station: Groton, CT
Q: Tell us about your business.
At Grumble Goods I make wheat or grain free dog treats that are decorated with a yogurt based icing. Gourmet treats with ingredients you can pronounce; because our best friends deserve the best. I also created one of a kind custom quilted denim jackets and bandanas for dogs.
Q: What made you choose this type of business?
I have two pugs that have different dietary issues. My one dog, Spuddy, kept itching and scratching like crazy. We switched him over to a wheat and chicken free diet which helped, but it made me realize that a lot of the treats I gave him contained either or both. I decided that I needed to do a little more research on what I give my pets and that lead me to make my own treats for them.
Q: What motivated you to start your business?
Moving from station to station it is hard to keep a job. Add a baby on top, and Covid, and it became apparent that this would be the perfect time for me to dip into my creativity and try to make it work. I love to craft and decorate cookies; but with no self control and pug hair EVERYWHERE, I knew human baked goods were out. Once I learned more about different flour alternatives and some of the health benefits of various fruits and veggies I knew that baking and decorating dog cookies would combine both my love for dogs and my creativity. I also really enjoy sewing and lately quilting and wanted to incorporate those skills into bandanas and custom quilted jean jackets.
Q: How do you manage the work/life balance as a submarine spouse?
So far in Groton I have been lucky as my husband hasn’t deployed yet (though I know it’s coming)! I think the best thing about having my own business is the option to pause and just say no if I reach a point where I need a break. I also really try to schedule things during naps and at night so that I am not ignoring my obligations as mama to my pugs and son. So far I am moving at good pace and would love for the business to flourish.
Q: Any advice for fellow submarine spouses who want to start their own business?
Before I started my dog shop I felt extremely overwhelmed with everything that needed to be done. Give yourself a vague timeframe for when you want to open for sales, but don’t put a lot of pressure on yourself to finish as quickly as you can. My other advice is to make sure it’s something you love doing. I haven’t been open long, but I have had a passion for sewing and baking since middle school. I knew that it could be a business I would stick with and that would bring me joy.
Q: Favorite thing(s) to do in your current duty station?
We haven’t had too many chances to explore since we moved here right before Covid closed everything down, but we do enjoy going to the parks near us. Harkness in Waterford is beautiful, allows dogs, and has everything from beach, grass and paved walkways. We also cannot live without Stroller Strides for a fun workout outside of the house and to meet new mommies and babies.
Q: Where can we support and learn more about your business?
My shop can be found on: Instagram (@GrumbleGoodsDogBakery), Faceboook (@GrumbleGoodsDogBakery), Etsy, and my website will launch soon.