Conversations with Mackenzie Vasil

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mackenzie Vasil

Hi MacKenzie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
MacKenzie Walks began from my love for animals and the special bond I formed with my own dog, Charlie, who became a huge source of comfort shortly before my mom passed away. Walking him daily grounded me during this time, and as I began my journey in medical school, it became a form of self-care and connection with others who share a deep love for their pets. I realized that many pet owners wanted the same level of care and attention for their pets that I gave to mine, and that’s when MacKenzie Walks was born.

Balancing my studies in medical school with running MacKenzie Walks has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. Caring for animals provides a refreshing break from my studies, reminding me of the importance of empathy and connection – values at the heart of both pet care and medicine. I’m proud to offer a service where each pet feels at home, and every pet parent knows they can trust me to treat their furry family members with the same dedication I bring to my studies.

Today, MacKenzie Walks has grown into a small, trusted community. My focus remains on building strong relationships with pets and their owners, making each pet feel secure and cared for as if they were my own. This work continues to inspire me, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to combine my passion for animals with my path in medicine.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any small business, building MacKenzie Walks has had its share of ups and downs. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing my time between medical school and running a business. Medical studies are intense, and there are days when it feels nearly impossible to juggle exams, clinical work, and making sure each pet gets the attention and care they deserve. I’m constantly working on time management and learning when to ask for help.

Another challenge has been establishing trust and growing my client base. People want to know that their pets are in good hands, and building that trust takes time. Thankfully, word-of-mouth referrals and positive feedback from happy clients have helped a lot. I’ve also faced logistical challenges, from managing scheduling conflicts to handling unexpected situations with pets. But each hurdle has taught me resilience and reminded me why I started MacKenzie Walks in the first place – to create a safe, loving experience for every pet in my care.

Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for the journey. These experiences have made me more adaptable and resourceful, skills that I know will be invaluable in both my business and my future career in medicine.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At MacKenzie Walks, I provide a personalized dog walking and pet-sitting service, tailored to the unique needs of each pet and their family. My focus is on creating a safe, caring, and enriching experience for each dog, whether it’s a daily walk or an overnight stay. My clients know me for my attention to detail, my deep understanding of animal behavior, and my dedication to ensuring their pets are comfortable and happy in their absence.

One thing I’m especially proud of is the trust I’ve built with pet parents. They know that when they leave their furry family members in my care, they’re not only getting exercise but also kindness and attentive care.

What truly sets MacKenzie Walks apart is my commitment to fostering genuine relationships with both the pets and their owners. I make a point to understand each pet’s quirks, needs, and routine so they feel secure and loved, even when their owners are away. This focus on creating a home-away-from-home experience for each pet is at the heart of what I do. I believe it’s these personal touches that make the difference, and it’s why I’m so passionate about my work.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve had along the way. My boyfriend, Mohsin, has truly been my rock through it all. Balancing medical school with MacKenzie Walks has had its challenging moments, and Mohsin has been there every step of the way – encouraging me when things get overwhelming, helping me stay grounded, and always reminding me of the bigger picture. His belief in me and in what I’m building with MacKenzie Walks has given me the strength to push through on even the hardest days.

Beyond Mohsin, I owe a lot to my clients, who have put their trust in me and allowed me to grow MacKenzie Walks into what it is today. Their loyalty and referrals have been invaluable, and I’m grateful every day for the relationships I’ve built with them and their pets. Together, Mohsin and my clients have been my biggest cheerleaders and motivators, and I feel so lucky to have such a strong support system.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mackenziewalks/
• Other: mackenziewalkscle@gmail.com