Staying Motivated with Millie

By Bob Cox

Of all the people I’ve worked with over the last 25 years, no one has been more genuinely upbeat, cheerful and optimistic than Millie Finch, the owner of Trends-n-Treats, now located in Folsom, CA. That’s probably why I have thoroughly enjoyed working with her. I met Millie eight years ago during one of the worst recessions in our country’s history and despite all those tough times, Millie always found a way to stay strong and positive. I got a chance to visit with Millie the other day to learn more about how she manages to stay so bright and bubbly, even in the worst of times.

Q: What's your secret to staying so positive and upbeat?

A: There are so many reasons to be cheerful and remain optimistic! The years during the Great Recession were some of the toughest times for many of us, especially financially. I like to fill my heart and mind with positive things like encouraging quotes. A good one by Ralph Waldo Emerson is: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.”

Q: Why do you think it is important for business owners to stay strong mentally and have a good attitude?

A: People are depending on us! Keeping a positive attitude and outlook is critical. We must stay mentally strong to battle our greatest enemies: fear and doubt. Suffering is no walk in the park and often the outcome isn’t what we hoped for. However, think about all there is to gain when we’re challenged, especially all the positive attributes and character traits we acquire from our struggles! We can reflect on the kind souls who supported us and helped us get back on track again.

Q: What are your personal goals for this year?

A: I plan to get stronger and win my personal battle against fear and doubt, to forgive completely and focus on the good in the world and the good that can be found in the hearts of others. Bob, I am so grateful for all the encouragement I receive from my daughters, my staff, our customers and our wonderful community. I also appreciate all my friends, like you, Diana and all our customers, furry and non.

Q: Why did you decide to open a pet store?

A: I love animals and love working with the public. It’s a tremendous blessing to have the privilege to work with my two daughters Brianna & Rachelle. Our locally owned and operated business is the perfect fit for us!

Q: What do your customers love most about Trends-n-Treats?

A: Trends-n-Treats is a locally owned and operated business with a team of staff who truly care about our customers, furry and non! We listen to our customers and assess their needs. We do our best to meet our customer’s needs according to their budget; what’s practical and convenient for them. We offer free samples to help assure that their dogs and cats actually like the products.

Q: You moved your store recently. Can you tell us about the new location?

A: We’re now located in the Folsom Pavilions Center at the corner of Folsom-Auburn Road & Greenback Lane (Next to European Sleep Design.) I honestly feel my store is located in the most beautiful and convenient location in the greater Sacramento area! We’re surrounded by mature neighborhoods and the American River Canyon. We’re near local dog parks and across the street from the American River Parkway. It’s a great privilege to have access to these great natural resources! We’ve received lots of compliments on our beautiful new location and our customers should enjoy the wide variety of shopping experiences, including great restaurants and interesting shops. We could not be more excited to be here!

Q: With more retail space, are you offering more products and services?

A: Yes. We’re streamlining our products to speak more to our beliefs of quality sourcing, manufacturing and pure intent. We’re invested in helping our customers find that individual golden path to wellness for their pet(s); any age and breed. We’re also excited to announce a home delivery service and will continue to offer low-cost immunization clinics on the first Saturday of every month from 1-2pm.

Q: I have a senior pet and am concerned that I’m not addressing her changing needs as well as I could be. Do you carry specific products for the needs of aging pets?

A: The aging process is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, it is a beautiful gift and an honor of sorts. Here at T-N-T, we want to help you help your senior pets age with grace and dignity and have stocked our shelves with the necessary products to do so…everything from moisture rich foods with highly digestible proteins, to the cleanest and purest sources of supplements to aid in digestive support, urinary tract health, joint support, oral health, overall immune health and much more. I highly recommend to anyone interested in learning about optimal pet health to come to Trends-n-Treats free seminar on Thursday June 2, 2016 at 7pm and hear Dr. Angie Stamm, D.V.M. share important information on this subject.  

 Editors notes: Trends-n-Treats is located at 6606 Folsom-Auburn Road, Suite 2 in the Folsom Pavilions Center in Folsom, CA (Next to European Sleep Design). Their phone number is (916) 536-0000 and their website is www.trendsntreats.com.