Name, age & current position: Sarah Hampshire, 37, founder and owner of The Exeter Pet Company.

First job (& pay-packet): I graduated from Bangor University in 1994 with a BSc (hons) degree in zoology and a postgraduate diploma in animal parasitology. I have always loved biology and have a keen interest in business. My first job was as a medical sales representative, responsible for pharmaceutical sales in the South West and my starting salary was £15,000.

What I've done in my career and how I got where I am today: I spent 13 years as a medical representative and this enabled me to develop sales, marketing and overall business skills. I have, however, always dreamt about owning and running my own business.

I have been passionate about animals since an early age and knew that the business I started would definitely have to involve them. I decided to set up a pet care service for the Exeter area. I wanted to create and develop a professional company and felt it would be essential to gain an animal care qualification. So I did a two-year degree in veterinary nursing science, which I completed in May this year, and I also spent six months in veterinary practice as a veterinary nurse last year.

Career high point: My career high point has definitely been the decision to start my own business. I have really enjoyed all aspects of developing the business, from designing a logo and website to ensuring I have a watertight business plan. Prior to launch, I visited all local vets and pet shops to tell them about The Exeter Pet Company and distributed posters and leaflets. I even held a launch event at Pets at Home.

When I got home from my first day of delivering leaflets, I received a phone call from a lady inquiring about dog care. I was so excited to have my first customer within two hours of advertising and made a booking to care for Poppy, a gorgeous black Labrador. That feeling was absolutely brilliant, the dream was now a reality and The Exeter Pet Company was actually trading!

Career low point: During my career as a medical sales representative I was made redundant twice, which was quite devastating with a mortgage to pay. The second time I was made redundant, I decided enough was enough and that I would start my own business and create my own destiny.

When I'm not working I like to: I have two dogs of my own, so leisure time includes long hikes in the countryside. A few of my favourite places to take my dogs are Fingle Bridge and Exmouth beach.

I love photography, designing logos and websites, gardening and wildlife.

Things I've learned that I wish I'd known when I started: To set aside enough time to keep on top of business administration such as a customer database and accounting.

My advice to someone starting out in business now: I would say that if you are passionate about starting out in business, then go for it! I'm a firm believer in enjoying life to the full and making the most of every opportunity. It is essential to fully research the market you wish to enter, whether it be a service or commodity, and to either have a niche market or to be able to offer something more than your rival companies can.

I would also say that having a strong brand, including an eye- catching logo and professional website are essential. Client and customer care are paramount. Lastly, seek all the help you can such as contacting Business Link South West, which offers free information and advice.

My ambitions for the future: I am about to expand the services we offer by including a pet taxi service. I am also in the process of purchasing a new company vehicle, which will have custom dog crates and a ventilation system fitted.

Over the next few years, I hope to launch a nationwide pet care franchise based on the blueprint and success of The Exeter Pet Company.