Star City Six – Emily Ruwe
Kenl Inn is a full-service pet care facility on 40 acres that offers boarding, training, daycare and grooming. Emily Ruwe is the Manager, Customer Service and Grooming Salon at Kenl Inn (kenl-inn.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
At Kenl Inn, we have a great staff of highly competent people who are dedicated to making the stay with us an experience that’s as amazing as possible for your pet. We have many options for activities and seven play yards to group the dogs by size and temperament. We also offer individual activities for pets that are shy or prefer more one-on-one attention like cats. Our staff is trained to cater to and assess the needs of each pet and keep everyone safe. We are proud to be coming up on our 30th anniversary this year in April!
How did you get started in the business?
I started as a customer service rep. making appointments, helping and educating clients, and selling food, shampoos, and toys. It was a big change from the vet clinic I worked at in college, but I really enjoy the fast pace and fun culture.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Being promoted to my current position.
Tell us a little about your family.
My husband of nine years, Nathan, and I live with our two Shetland Sheepdogs, Brie and Colby.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
I had to re-evaluate my path after not getting into veterinary school. It was disappointing, but I had a degree and a desire to work with animals. I’d been working in a lab with one of my professors, but it was not fulfilling. When I interviewed with Kenl Inn, I knew I’d found my place. The people were passionate and caring. I was amazed by the size and cleanliness of the facility. I could see myself there long-term, and it’s been almost 11 years now.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
One of my hobbies is brewing beer. I love all styles especially Double IPAs and sours. I help my husband design recipes and we brew in our garage. Joining the Lincoln Lagers has introduced me to some amazing people in the community and helped us become better brewers.
What are you the most proud of?
Swimming is what brought me to Nebraska. It was my goal to swim at the college level, but injuries in high school affected my recruiting process. UNL gave me a chance and I was able to persevere with those injuries and compete for three years with the Huskers.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Be true. I have it tattooed as a reminder to always follow my instincts and go my own way.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
My favorite author is David Sedaris. I own all his books and I just finished Theft by Finding: Diaries (1977-2002). He has such a unique way of looking at the world. He takes the most mundane things and makes them hilarious.
What is your favorite movie?kenl
It’s a toss-up between Garden State and Good Will Hunting. I was also really moved by Lady Bird.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Phat Jack’s for BBQ, Honest Abe’s for a burger and fries, Yia Yia’s for pizza and a beer.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 488-8190; Email: emily@kenl-inn.com; Website: kenl-inn.com.