AUNTIE RUTH'S ANIMAL CARE AND WELLNESS CENTER
Business: Boarding for dogs, cats and exotic pets, including geriatric, postsurgical, special-needs and rescued pets. Pet day care available on weekdays and weekends.
Founded: 2001
Headquarters: Minnetonka
Website: www.auntieruth.com
Employees: 12 full time; 18 part time
Executives: Ruth Murman, chairman and chief executive officer
2008 revenue: $1.3 million
Strategy: Try to boost demand with advertising and promotions, avoid layoffs, and reconsider expansion plans when the economy recovers.