From passionate animal lover to successful entrepreneur, spotlight on Four Paws Salon and Retreat
January 13, 2025
At First National Bank and Trust Company, we believe that a community is only as strong as its local businesses. This is why we have highlighted exceptional local businesses as part of our Eat, Shop, Bank Local blog series. Recently, we have featured DeeAnne Cooley owner of Four Paws Salon and Retreat in Clinton, IL.
Story behind the owner of the business?
Dee Anne Cooley's entrepreneurial journey began in the year 2000 when she and her husband, Jeff, secured a building on the town square to start her business. Driven by her lifelong love for animals, she and with the encouragement from her husband, established a pet grooming and pet supplies store. For 17 years, Dee Anne nurtured and grew her business on the square in Clinton, providing essential services to pet owners and their beloved companions.
In 2018, the couple decided to expand horizons. She and Jeff purchased a new building, (for locals it was the old Revere rec hall and formerly the skating rink before that). This new establishment was redesigned to create a spacious lobby area, a small retail section, a grooming area, a doggy day camp and a boarding facility. Remarkably, the renovation and transition were completed within a few months. By February 2019, the grooming room was operational, followed by the doggy day camp in May and the boarding facility in September.
A passion for working with animals has always been the cornerstone of their endeavors. Growing up in Decatur and moving to Clinton in 1993, when their daughter was born, the family has fostered numerous dogs throughout life. Their children will recall fostering animals as core memories of their childhood.
Dee Anne and Jeff's entrepreneurial spirit were evident long before venturing into pet grooming. Together, they aspired to be entrepreneurs, dabbling in various fields such as construction, tire hauling, feed, and seed distribution. However, Dee Anne's true calling emerged when she opened Four Paws Salon and Retreat, offering daycare services where pet owners could drop off their pets for socialization and care.
In 1997, she along with several others helped form the organization, Second Chance for Pets, which provides care and opportunities for animals in need. This initiative was formed to give a fighting chance to animals that required rehabilitation, a loving home, and in collaboration with the local animal shelter to help promote fostering and animal rescue.
Tell us a little bit about your business.
Four Paws Salon and Retreat is the area's premier dog grooming, boarding and daycare. Our business model emphasized transparency and individualized attention for each animal. The success of grooming services extended to boarding, which is busy during the spring and holiday seasons. Currently, the boarding facility accommodates up to 30 dogs to ensure that each animal receives personalized care and attention.
What advice would you give to other people interested in starting their own business?
When reflecting on the journey, Dee Anne emphasizes the importance of research and understanding one's market. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to consult with their bankers, friends and family and to be prepared to return to traditional employment if necessary. Her mantra is simple yet profound: always try, and if your heart is truly in it, pursue your dreams without fear of failure.
Where do you want to be in five years?
In the next five years, we want to continue to be the premier pet grooming and care facility in the region as well as foster collaboration as a tight-knit team who is like family. With an additional five acres of land behind our current establishment, there is ample room for expansion should the opportunity arise.
What factors influenced your decision to choose our bank?
Lance's personal approach and dedication have made managing our finances seamless and efficient. He really earned my business and have been really happy. Whether it was offering competitive interest rates or providing quick responses, Lance, Glenna and the entire team have always gone above and beyond to support our business. They always answer the phone and am never on hold – I really appreciate that! Additionally, the payroll and cash management solutions at the bank have been really beneficial, allowing us to focus on what we do best - caring for animals.
Can you share any experiences or benefits you've observed from our bank's community involvement?
The overall community involvement displayed by First National Bank is evident. The REV program supporting small business is really inspiring, plus the bank’s giving to local nonprofits as well. It has great people and a dedicated community bank.
Location and hours
1305 South Madison St., Clinton, IL 61727 and call 217-935-2972
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Learn more or schedule an appointment today at https://fourpawssalonandretreat.com.
Dee Anne and Jeff’s story is one of resilience, passion and unwavering dedication to animal health. With a journey from a small pet grooming shop on the square to a comprehensive pet care facility, it serves as an inspiration to all who dream of turning their passion into a successful business.
At First National Bank and Trust, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. Call and schedule an appointment today, one of our team members would love to help you do more with your money at FNBT. For more information visit firstnbtc.com or call 217-935-2148 in Illinois or 608-323-3331 in Wisconsin. #igniteprosperity