Name of Business: Whoof on the Wharf

Point of Contact: Bonnie McLeod

Length of time business has been operating: Since May 2021

Description of Business: Provides recreational paddling opportunities for people and their dogs, including kayak rentals and group events.

Your Business Mission Statement: Our mission is to help build acceptance for pups as an integral member of the family by creating fun endeavors where dogs are welcome to join their families.

What’s Your Why? This country has reached a crisis with the number of homeless dogs in shelters, and it is only going to get worse once we get past Covid and people are not working out of their homes anymore. There are too many dogs who are given up every year, in some cases because they just don’t fit into their families’ lives anymore. We want to change that perspective and help people to realize that they can participate in fun activities and also bring their dog. Some people have even said, “This looks like so much fun – I should get a dog!” That is exactly why we do what we do.

What sets your business apart from others? We are not like any other business! We rent out kayaks to anyone, but we specialize in serving people who bring their dogs. All of our kayaks were chosen with dog riders in mind, and we have dog life jackets of every size. We also partner with other local dog oriented businesses and artisans to provide a fun gift shop where people can buy dog treats, dog-related gifts, dog-related art and other items when they come for their paddling rental.

What are some of the personal rewards that come from your business? Smiling faces, wagging tails, and meeting other like-minded business owners who share a passion for dogs.

How long have you been a chamber member? Several years! I started by promoting a private dog park that I am spearheading, which will bring together people who love their pups and want access to a catered, more controlled dog park, with pups from local rescues who are in need of homes.

What benefits have you experienced with your chamber membership? Unbeatable networking. Today most of my contacts in my day to day business, from my dog trainer friend, my dog photographer friend, and my vendors, I have met through my contacts at the chamber.

Do you offer any discounts? Please specify: We offer several events where people can join and obtain rentals at a discounted rate, including our paddle photo shoot and our charity rescue events. We also advertise coupons for free kayak rentals at various chamber events, and we have a membership program for folks who like to come frequently, in which we offer student and military discounts.

The Fall Festival on the Green was a success! The weather was beautiful and the community came out to enjoy the day, visit the vendor booths, and have fun. Thank you to all of our vendors, sponsors, and volunteers for participating.

Please submit a nomination for the Greater Crofton Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year award for 2021. The deadline is September 28th. Let us know who you think it should be! (nomination form).

There will be a cornhole tournament at the Multi-Chamber Fall Bash on October 7th at Walden Country Club. Come network with members of 7 local Chambers and have fun competing in cornhole for your favorite nonprofit. Teams must register in advance (See details below).

BIG Meeting: Winter Weather Preparedness in a Global Pandemic Virtual ~ via Zoom

Value Dry Basement Waterproofing ~ Grand Opening of their New Location & Ribbon Cutting 

Friday, October 22, 2021 | 11:00a-3:00p

For more information on the program, eligibility, and how to apply, visit the Digital Services Relief Grant Program page:  https://www.aaedc.org/business/financing-and-tax-credits/digital-services-grant/

FREE 5-Day Hands-On Virtual Challenge

Registration link: HERE

Registration/more details: HERE

One-Day Tournament to benefit The Tyanna Foundation

Sunday, October 3, 2021 | 12pm

Registration link: HERE

Higgins Pet Fair/Crofton Dog Show

Saturday, October 9, 2021 | 11:00am - 5:00pm

Village Green Crofton

Registration for Vendor and/or Dog Show: HERE

Registration/more details: HERE

Learn How to Maximize the Value of Your Business - virtual seminar

Tuesday, October 19, 2021 | 8:30am

See below for details - Register HERE

Wednesday, October 20, 2021 | 4:00pm - 7:00pm

Crofton Farmer's Market at Seton Church

Registration to enter: HERE

*** If you are a current Chamber Member and have an event coming up that you would like included in the Chamber Chronicles,

please email info@croftonchamber.com ***