Meet Ashley Carter | Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I started my business, I had reached a turning point in my career and asked myself, “Is this really it? Is this my legacy?” While I was proud of the impact I was making in higher education, I didn’t want that to define my entire life. Someone once told me that in the first half of life, we often do what we think we should do—pleasing parents, going to college, building a stable career. But the second half of life offers us the chance to follow our true passions—if we’re bold enough to take it.

I knew that if I wanted a more meaningful life, this was my time. So, I reflected on what truly brought me joy, and I realized it was a combination of my love for dogs, community building, and health and wellness. That’s how Pure Pawsh was born. I trusted that if I built a business centered on my passions, it would bring not only success but a sense of fulfillment that would make my life—and legacy—more meaningful.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Pure Pawsh is truly one of a kind. We’re more than just a pet store; we’re a one-stop shop and community hub for dogs and dog lovers alike. We offer everything from full retail with high-quality dog food, treats, and accessories, to grooming, self-service wash stations, and personalized daycare. But what really sets us apart is the community we’ve built here—a place where people can come not just to shop, but to socialize, unwind, and connect.

With beers on tap, kombucha, seltzers, ciders, and even doggy wine, you can relax with a drink while your dog enjoys a “barkuterie” board. Or, you can just come in to hang out with fellow dog lovers! We host a range of fun, unique events—from sound baths for dogs and dog yoga to trivia nights, paint-and-sip parties, and even speed dating for dog owners! Every month, we get creative with our events, making Pure Pawsh a place where you’ll always find something new and exciting. Where else can you shop for your dog, share a snack and a beer with them, and meet like-minded dog lovers all in one spot? We’re all about building connections and creating memories that bring dogs and their people closer together.

Starting this business has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done—even harder than completing my thesis and dissertation for my master’s and doctoral degrees! It’s been full of long hours and the challenge of learning a whole new industry. When we first opened and things were slow, it was daunting. But I’ve learned to stay positive, knowing that one day doesn’t define the next, and to keep going. My passion for what we do is what keeps me going, and I believe that when I share that passion, people feel it.

I want everyone who walks through our door, whether to grab a beer or use one of our services, to feel like they’re a part of something special. We want people to feel at home here, knowing their dogs will be treated with as much love and care as if they were our own. I hope Pure Pawsh becomes a place that people look forward to visiting, checking our calendar each month to see what fun event is next. We’re here for the dog lovers, the dogs, and everyone who wants to connect, relax, and have an amazing time with their furry friends.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This one is tough! I love too many places and I always love exploring new spots. I’d say…

Ferry ride over to Coronado, where we’d spend the day at Dog Beach, then we’d head to Hotel Del Coronado for a drink followed by fish tacos at The Brigantine.

We’d do a food and bar crawl through the North Park/Normal Heights area. We’d start with a casual lunch and margaritas at Ponce’s in Kensington, followed by a local beer at The Ould Sod. Dinner would be at Alexander’s then cocktails at Polite Provisions or Seven Grand. To finish off, we’d grab a slice from The Friendly.

If there’s a concert or event, we’d definitely spend an evening at the Rady Shell for a night of live music or, if it’s baseball season, we’d hit Petco Park for a Padres game.

We’d get outdoorsy with a hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve and enjoy some fresh seafood at Pacific Coat Grill afterwards with a stop for a drink at Poseidon.

We’d stroll around Seaport Village, visit Balboa Park, and head to Pomegranate for dinner. I love their perogies!
For some relaxed fun, we’d spend time at South Park Dog Park and check out some local breweries, hitting places like Modern Times or Fall.

I could go on and on with a list of my favorite eateries and bars but these are staples I’ve always loved!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shoutout to the San Diego Small Business Development Center and especially my mentor, Joel Sedano. Joining their mentorship program was a turning point for me—Joel guided me through each step of building this business and was truly instrumental in making Pure Pawsh a reality. I also owe endless thanks to my amazing friends, who have been my biggest cheerleaders every step of the way, and to my mom, who’s always encouraged me to “kick it up.” She told me that if I didn’t take this leap, I’d always wonder, and she’s pushed me to become the best version of myself. I am who I am today, and where I am today, because of her. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has played a party of this journey.

Website: https://www.purepawshsd.com

Instagram: purepawsh

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-carter-22b46938/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557559653202

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pure-pawsh-san-diego

Image Credits
morevaphotography