By Jacob Mathias

Diana Buss, owner of Bow Wow Meow, always dreamed of owning her own business, a dream which came true last year.

Buss took over Bow Wow Meow in August of 2014 buying it from the previous owner who opened the pet supply boutique in 2012. The switch was a big change from her more than 20 year gig working for multiple firms in educational software product development.

“I loved that industry but I really have just had this desire to own a small business,” said Buss.

Bow Wow Meow retails dog and cat pet supplies except food due to spaces issues. The store has a wide assortment of all pet treats, care products and grooming supplies, a bulk dog treat bakery and dog clothing. Decor and apparel for pet lovers is also available. Pets are welcome in the store with their owner.

Buss said she carries high quality products that you can’t find in the large, national chain pet stores. She will special order products for her customers as well. She takes pride in knowing exactly where her pet supplies come from and of what organic or pet-safe materials they are constructed.

She has lived in the Wisconsin Rapids are her whole life and is happy the new business allows her to be more active in the community as her previous career required extensive travel throughout the country. She is active in the South Wood County Humane Society serving on the board of directors.

Buss was a big fan of Bow Wow Meow before she bought it from its former owner.

“I would leave there and literally sit in my car and think ‘why didn’t I think of that,'” she said.

The existing business was a perfect opportunity for Buss because she said her previous career didn’t allow for the required start up work needed to start a business from scratch.

“It’s one of those things that all came together at the right time,” she said.

Buss’s small business dreams weren’t always pet related. She has a passion for wine and once thought of opening a wine store and making her own wines to sell. Her travels had always drawn her to boutique style shops though.

Growing up, Buss always had at least one dog and one cat in her families home. She now lives in the Town of Saratoga with her husband and 16-year-old son where she has two dogs, a springer spaniel named Buster and her mixed breed rescue dog, Lexi. In her free time she enjoys bowling, travelling, reading and volunteering at the South Wood County Humane Society.

Bow Wow Meow is located at 221 Lincoln St. in Wisconsin Rapids and is open Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM.