Jack Murray takes the leap

When it comes to endeavors, Jack Murray has two: entrepreneurship and emergency medicine. It may sound like an unconventional combination.

But for Jack, this makes total sense! 

Currently a third-year veterinary student at the University of Missouri, Jack Murray has his hands full. In addition to being an animal dad to an amazing blue heeler named Heidi and a thoroughbred horse named Chance, he’s also a successful business owner. As the founder of Murray Kennel Company, Jack’s award-winning design has helped dog owners everywhere.

Vet Candy is excited to introduce this pet-savvy inventor to our readers. Recently, we spoke with Jack about how he went from working in a horse stable to becoming a vet med student, learn about his business idea, and get a behind the scenes peek at how he got to where he is today.

Introducing, the paw-some Jack Murray! 

Launching a Business While Still in School

Saying “yes” to veterinary school was the easiest decision he ever made.

From making his first dollar in a horse stable, his love of animals has brought him far. 

However, starting Murray Kennel Company is the adventure that Jack says most changed his life. 

“This idea started during my first year of veterinary school while I was living in a small apartment with my dog,” he explains. With limited floor space, he quickly got frustrated by how much room traditional crates take up. So, he got creative.

Jack says, “Our mission is to provide an effortless portable dog crate as well as helping pet parents save space in their home. Making this the ideal dog crate for on-the-go and at home. In 2022, Murray Kennel Company won The University of Missouri’s Entrepreneur Quest Competition, an 8-week workshop for new ventures that concluded with a business pitch competition. Out of 50 participants, we were awarded first place and provided with startup funding for our business.”

“I was incredibly nervous,” he remembers. “But having Heidi by my side the entire time definitely helped give me the confidence I needed.”

Wow! 

Sleek, adjustable, and made by a dog dad himself, it’s no surprise that these kennels are a tail-wagging hit. Now, Jack’s mission is to continue being an entrepreneur and make a positive impact on individuals who need it most. 

The 3 Qualities of a Leader

Of course, it took a lot of dedication to see the fruits of his labor. 

When asked what three qualities most contributed to his achievements, Jack said, “Say yes!” Whether it’s new opportunities, travelling, starting a business, or even skydiving, he knows that no mountain is too big to climb…but you do need to take that first initial step by saying yes when there is a knock at the door. 

Secondly, he encourages people to, “Aim to be the hardest worker in the room.”

Third, “Don’t stop until you reach your goal.” 

Together, these qualities are all the telltale signs of a strong leader. 

Vet Candy looks forward to seeing what Jack Murray does next. In five years, he hopes to be a thriving business owner working in and out of the veterinary industry. With so many creative ideas and a passion for seamlessly integrating both pet and human lives, we are sure we haven’t seen the last of Jack Murray!