Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Ely.
Hi Kate, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Little Donkey Supply Co. was born out of a love for animals and the desire to create human grade pet products with sustainable materials. I had a hard time finding such quality when shopping for my dogs. I was working a corporate job at the time and dreamed of making something beautiful with my hands while spending more time at home with my two rescue dogs. I also aspired to spend more time volunteering at my local rescue and being able to make a difference to the hundreds of homeless pets in Atlanta. In 2018, my husband and I took the giant, scary leap and started Little Donkey Supply Co. with some savings, a few sewing machines and a dream. Today, I run the business from home with our pups and offer handmade, earth friendly pet accessories including a few collaborations with other small Atlanta businesses. We donate 10% of all proceeds to animal rescue organizations and animal rights groups. I am also able to volunteer regularly at LifeLine Animal project and work on an Instagram blog with my sister-in-law called Faces of Rescue where we celebrate and advocate for animal rescue.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There is nothing smooth, comfortable, or easy about starting a business from scratch. Dreaming up the products and vision is the easy part. However, while the learning curve was steep, I enjoyed the challenges. I had to learn how about sourcing, manufacturing, website building, marketing, sales, operations and finance. All while making most of the products personally by hand. There were, and still are many late nights.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Little Donkey Supply Co. is an environmentally conscious maker of natural, handmade pet products. We believe that the bond between a human and their pet is one of life’s greatest treasures. The products we create are our way of expressing our appreciation for this gift.
Our simple, minimalist designs are inspired by nature’s finest materials. We carefully choose materials for their natural beauty, earth-friendly footprint and durability.
Most of our products are made with love here in the USA. We are passionate about animal rescue and pledge to dedicate our time and 10% of proceeds toward helping animals in need.
We offer handmade dog collars, leashes and bandanas made from natural materials like hemp, loom woven cotton, linen, waxed canvas and cork. Our all-natural dog shampoos and bug repellent are made from plant-based ingredients including organic essential oils.
We love to collaborate and lift up other small, women-owned businesses and seek to foster current relationships and form new partnerships.
What matters most to you? Why?
Sustainability, conservation and the use of natural, earth-friendly materials: Because this planet is our home and we must care for her in every decision we make, even the pet accessories we choose.
Animal rescue over breeding/purchase, volunteerism and the love of all animals: Because these animals have no voice to advocate for themselves. There is far too much inhumane treatment happening in the dog breeding industry and far too many homeless animals in shelters that are deserving of loving homes.
Contact Info:
- Email: kate@littledonkeysupply.com
- Website: https://www.littledonkeysupply.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littledonkeysupply/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littledonkeysupply
