Another week, another inspiring Hoboken Girl of the Week! Our first November gal, Heather Gaida, is a 15 year resident of Hoboken and small business owner. She started her own pet sitting business, Trusty Tails, which is now one of the largest dog walking and pet care companies in town.
^Heather and her dog, Blue!
Having moved to Hoboken in 2000 with her husband, Heather now has two sons and a Kerry Blue Terrier named Blue {whom she often refers to as her first born}. Heather earned a Bachelors of Business Administration from James Madison University and a Masters in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix, and she started walking dogs while working on her education degree. The “plan” was to be an elementary school teacher, but she found herself caring for neighbors’ pets while they were away…and soon it became evident that she was destined to start her own business caring for neighbors’ pets on a full time basis. You can tell Heather is passionate about caring for animals — and she has even taken care of/boarded our editor’s frenchie, Pierre over the summer!
^ Pierre and his friend Chip on a walk with one of Heather’s walkers {and HG contributor}, Will!
What started as a solely owned business in 2006 quickly turned into a dog-walking business with over 10 walkers! Trusty Tails also has a boarding/daycare service as well as cat sitting, puppy care, pet taxi, and dog walking services.
What is your favorite restaurant in Hoboken?
This is a tough one as it really depends on what I am in the mood for at the time. La Isla is great for my Cuban cravings. I love going to Otto Strada for a delicious Italian meal where I can bring my own vino. I am also a regular at Sushi House — I love their Mama Mia roll.
What is your favorite boutique in Hoboken?
In terms of pet supplies, Cornerstone and Beowoof are my personal faves! My dog Blue drags me right in every time we are within a block of each store. Big Fun is a cute toy store I enjoy bringing my kids to; they always have unique and interesting toys. Sobsey’s is a fantastic little produce store and market. Best produce in town!
What do you love most about Hoboken?
Having been here for over 15 years, I have really enjoyed watching the town grow into a wonderful community of people. There are lots of families and local businesses giving it the big city amenities with a small town feel.
What is your favorite thing to do in Hoboken?
I absolutely love taking my children to the parks here in town. My kids love Church Square Park and I always run into my friends and their children while we’re there. There’s always someone to catch up with or shoot the breeze with.
How long have you lived and/or worked in Hoboken?
My husband and I moved to Hoboken in 2000 and I started my business in 2006 while I was in graduate school. We’ve loved it here ever since. Our plan was to move to the ‘burbs after a couple of years, but 15 years, one dog, one business, and two kids later, we have no intention of leaving any time soon.
What is your favorite outdoor place to spend time in Hoboken?
Pier C is a personal favorite, but all of the piers are wonderful. I love walking around them and smelling the fresh air. It’s such a luxury to have access to a beautiful walkway and view of the city, just feet from my front door.
What is your favorite place to workout in Hoboken?
I really enjoy Local Barre’s core fitness classes or hot yoga at Surya Yoga.
Where do you go out with friends in Hoboken?
Cork City is a great pub, and I enjoy tasting the new beers they have on tap. I also really enjoy Bin 14’s wine list and food pairings.
What is something you think needs to come to Hoboken?
Truthfully, I can’t think of anything that we’re lacking that would fill a necessary small business niche. {We guess that is a good thing!}.
^Heather with some of her Trusty Tails clients, including Pierre {all the way to the right!}
Make sure to follow the adorableness that is on Trusty Tails’ social media {@TrustyTails} here:
