The Springfield Chamber of Commerce was thrilled to perform a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate Carolyn and Tom Tourville’s ownership of Willow Farm Pet Services. From left to Right: Chamber Past President Jeff Perkins, Chamber Board Member Jerry Farnum, Chamber Director Caitlin Christiana, Willow Farm employees Kristen Olney, Courtney Compos, Jenn Stearns, Kennel Manager Jasmine Currier, Owners Carolyn & Tom Tourville, and Chamber President Dan Harrington.
Business Spotlight Article #10: Willow Farm Pet Services
For Immediate Release
Contact: Caitlin Christiana - Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce
Email: caitlin@springfieldvt.com
802-885-2779
Business Spotlight: Willow Farm Pet Services
by Caitlin Christiana, Springfield Regional Chamber
Carolyn Tourville was originally from Anchorage, Alaska but grew up in Maine. She has been living in Baltimore, Vermont for the past thirty-one years. “My kids grew up here, got a great education, and went to college. I love the small town, family atmosphere of Springfield.” She has always owned every kind of animal from cats and dogs to a horse and a baby raccoon, so it’s only logical that she and her husband Tom are now the owners of Willow Farm Pet Services in North Springfield. The business itself is approximately ten years old and moved into its current location eight years ago in July; it was then that Carolyn started there as an employee, and eventually, when the opportunity to take over the business emerged, she jumped at the chance. They now have nine employees including Carolyn. Most are part-time, but two of the kennel staff regularly work close to 40 hours.
Willow Farm Pet Services provides grooming, daycare and boarding of dogs only. Their retail shop sells products for dogs and cats and some small animal supplies. They mostly cover South Central Vermont, but they also have customers that are seasonal from other states. “We are the only one of our kind around here! We are blessed to be a service that meets the needs of so many great customers.”
They’ve been doing updates and renovations, and Carolyn loves the enthusiasm and excitement from the customers when they come in and see improvements for the first time. In talking about the most enjoyable aspects of the business, she is enthusiastic, saying “I love seeing the different kinds of dogs every day (especially puppies!) but I really enjoy helping people find the right food or products that they need for their animals.” Most folks who work for a living can name aspects of their jobs that they dread, but Carolyn declares, “None – I can honestly say I love my job!!” Willow Farm is also committed to giving back to the community. They try to donate to as many fundraisers as possible. They also do a food drive for the Family Center at Thanksgiving and collect a large donation for the Humane Society at Christmas.
When asked what it means to be a Chamber member, Carolyn sums it up as being involved with a lot of other really great business owners to make Springfield the best it can be. “We love to have people stop by that have never been in. People are usually shocked by the variety of products and services we offer.”
Snow Day with Willoughby at Willow Farm Pet.