This is the latest in a regular series of Business Q&A features published weekly. This week, we spoke to Anne White, owner of The Pet Shop on Old Market Place in Ripon.  

Tell us in fewer than 30 words what your firm does.

We're a little shop in Ripon supplying for small animals, including dogs, cats, birds and small mammals.

What does it require to be successful in business?

Determination, resilience, and the willingness to change and adapt.

You've also got to care for your customers, and in my case, their animals too.

What drives you to do what you do every day?

I love just being here. My dog Molly is always here, and my colleague, Paula, often brings in her dog, Cooper.

I also love interacting with the customers – that's why I took this shop on – and, of course, getting to meet all the puppies that come in!

What has been the toughest issue your company has had to deal with over the last 12 months?

The same as it for everyone: the cost-of-living crisis. People just aren't buying as much as they used to.

A lot of people are going online, thinking it will be cheaper, but it's very often not – we're usually cheaper than the big stores and often undercut the online competition.

You also get things here that you can't get online. We're a bit like a "sweetie shop for dogs", and they all get a piece of sausage when they come in. I've got pictures of customers' dogs sitting outside the shop, waiting for it to open!

Which other local firms do you most admire and why?

I admire all the independents. They're all giving it a good go, and we all support each other.

It's not easy for small businesses on the high street, so I think Emma [Crossley] at Bud Floral Designs has been particularly brave opening her shop earlier this year.

Who are the most inspiring local leaders?

I'd have to say Lilla Bathurst, manager of Ripon BID [business improvement district]. The BID are always doing something to get things going, push our independent businesses and promote Ripon.

What could be done locally to boost business?

Ripon BID are already all over it. So long as they keep pushing to bring in more visitors to the city, we'll be able to carry on doing business.

Best and worst things about running a business from Ripon?

The best thing is being able to bring Molly in to work!

The worst thing is when it goes quiet – that can be scary.

What are your business plans for the future?

I just want to continue improving the shop and staying competitive. I'll keep on advertising, getting in fresh stock and changing the window display – there's always something to change for the better.

I haven't got any plans to open other shops, though – I want to keep it independent and personal.

What do you like to do in your time off?

Molly's a spaniel, so she need long walks, and she loves going to the pub!

Best place to eat and drink locally?

So! Bar and Eats in Ripon [soon to revert to its old name, The Black Bull] is our main go-to. We love the The Water Rat too. In fact, we love all the pubs, and we do change around a bit, but we always end up coming back to So! Bar. It's got good food and a great atmosphere.