Local Entrepreneurs Combine Small Business and Big Business

James Calihan, of Marlborough, and Cara Armour, of Bolton, built Pet Health Academy, a comprehensive pet first aid and CPR course that can be taken anytime and anywhere. “When I was starting my pet care company, I searched for an online pet CPR and first aid class, but none existed.” says Calihan, CEO of Pet Health Academy. “You can get a college education online, why not learn to better care for your dog or cat?”

Combining local, individual instruction with international aspirations is that little bit of magic that James and Cara are hoping to capture. 

“We’ve taken a personal, intimate classroom experience and made it accessible to anywhere in the world.  I’ll never forget our first client from Australia...It feels great that we can have such far-reaching positive impact.” says Cara Armour,  of Pet Health Academy.

The company plans to stay local as it grows, too.  The technology allows them to meet with individuals all over the country and world, update their course content on the fly as new veterinary techniques are discovered and implemented, and maintain a base of operations wherever they choose.  Cara commented, “We have a passion for helping animals in our neighborhood first.  James and I both volunteer for local rescues and contribute regularly to some of the areas best rescues.  Not to mention, we owe a great deal of our success to the excellent animal owners and industry professionals who are committed to doing right by their pets.”

Pet Health Academy is an online pet first aid and CPR course built by Calihan and Armour. It is constructed from 23 years of pet first aid and CPR certification as well as three years as a hands-on instructor. Pet Health Academy provides skills and knowledge on how to prevent, recognize and treat issues with companion animals online. This is accomplished using multi-media learning management software.

For more information, visit www.pethealthacademy.com.