KENL INN offers the finest in temporary pet quarters for daycare, boarding, grooming and training. They are devoted to providing the best care for pets with trained staff, personal attention and special activities in a state-of-the-art, comfortable and secure facility. K.Q. Allen, the company owner and president is a true visionary in the pet care industry and has created a paradise for pets at KENL INN! Sheri Mills Rupert is the Manager of Pet Care Services for KENL INN.
How did you get started in the business? – I had worked in the broadcast/marketing industry for nearly 30 years. During that time I took a 4-year sabbatical and worked as a Vet Tech/Assistant. My dream was to get back into the pet care industry someday. I joined KENL INN in 2006 working weekends and in 2010 made the decision to apply for the full-time position as Manager of Pet Care Services. It was a major career change but I’m thankful for it every day and never looked back.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The work is physically and mentally challenging. Every pet is so different you have to learn to recognize and respect their personalities.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Becoming the Manager of Pet Care Services at the finest pet care facility in the Midwest.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have three brothers, and dogs and cats have always been a part of our family. When I married my husband, James, I was blessed with four adult step-children.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – The opportunity to return to the pet care industry was a dream come true. It is what I was born to do.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Bargain shopping at thrift stores, lunch with family, walking the dogs, and sewing.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – My work history. I’ve worked as a camera operator, a television news reporter, and a piano tuner.
What are you the most proud of? – I would say I’m very happy with my life in general.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Go with your gut instinct.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Sincere.
Which talent would you most like to have? – A vocalist. My dad was bandleader Bobby Mills and my husband and brothers are also musicians. I always wished that I could sing but I assure you I cannot!
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – A Veterinarian of course!
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Annals of Unsolved Crime by Edward Epstein
What is your favorite movie? – The Way We Were
What is your favorite TV show? – I’m a CNN junkie.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Runza
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – They’re not famous but I’d love to have dinner with my parents who have both passed away.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me by email at sheri@kenl-inn.com.