Meet Giselle Baba | Companion Animal Nutritionist

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

Hi Giselle, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work-life balance is a choice and it’s fundamental to find time to disconnect without feeling guilty. When I was an employee I thought that having my own business was going to give me more free time. I was wrong. Having a business is a 24/7 responsibility. It has worked for me to organize my day and squeeze in the things that are important to me: workout, cook my meals, expend time with loved ones or simply do nothing. I now find this time as productive as “working” because it helps me to reset.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started my dog food company 3 years ago. My fresh and natural dog food is different from what you will find out there. It is still handmade in small batches with fresh ingredients we buy right before we cook. I don’t use any preservatives or supplements and everything the dog needs is provided with fresh foods. Also, since we cook in small batches, I am able to truly customized a dog’s diet if needed.  I’m very proud of how healthy and happy my dogs are and the peace of mind feeding my food gives to their owners. I just opened my first kitchen abroad, in the Dominican Republic, which is a big milestone in my life purpose: to be able to bring my experience and knowledge to my country to contribute to our economy and create jobs, encourage consumption of local goods and educate in animal wellbeing. It has not been an easy road. Many days I wonder where would I be if I didn’t quit my corporate job and I question myself if all the sacrifice and financial restrictions are going to be worth it… as an entrepreneur, I can tell you that there will be many days like this. But I believe that with resilience, persistence, passion and discipline, the effort will pay off. My advice would be to just hold on a little bit longer… and if you are tired (like you will be) don’t quit, just take a break.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you visit us include in your agenda these ideas: Get brunch at Bread Winners in Uptown and then take the Trolly towards Klyde Warren Park. If you like arts, choose a DMA exhibit and then get a quick refreshing drink at the park across the street. Afterwards, walk, uber or use the scooters and go to the JFK Memorial area to explore a little bit of Dallas history. End the day watching the sunset from the Reunion tower. If you like animals or visit us with kids a good spot is the Dallas Zoo, and if you have more time, a day at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is always fun. Visiting with friends? Explore neighborhoods like The Bishop Arts, where you can walk in & out of coffee shops, stores, libraries and antiques and enjoy their huge food options. Want to get wild? Head to  Adair’s Saloon in Deep Ellum to listen to live country music and show off your dance skills. Feeling fancy? Watch a play at the Majestic or a performance at The Opera House in downtown and get a nice dinner at Town Heart. In between, ride a bike in White Rock lake, walk on the Katy Trail, get Sunday’s brunch at Zizikis, make a quick taco stop at Come Taco or get a casual Tex Mex dinner and Mambo Taxis Margaritas at Mi Cocina . Dallas has a lot to offer!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be here without my customers. They have been supportive, kind and flexible as I grow and organize my business, and specially during these difficult times. Their encouragement and recognition to my work fills my heart with joy and pride. Seeing each one of my dogs thriving is my inspiration to keep going.

Website: www.sunlifedogs.com
Instagram: @sunlifedogs