EACH week the Evening Times puts the spotlight on one of the dozens of new businesses determined to succeed.

They are the future for Glasgow and the west of Scotland's economy and are working hard to achieve success despite the UK's continuing economic hardship.

Many new businesses are struggling to take off because of the economic downturn, and this column offers advice for potential start-ups.

Each company answers the same questions and their answers appear each Wednesday.

This week we talk to Lisa McCabe, of Stardust Dog Walking …

What does your business do?

We provide dog walking, doggy day care and home boarding services in north Glasgow.

Where are you based?

In Robroyston. We also offer our services to the surrounding areas, such as Bishopbriggs, Stepps, Springburn, Kirkintilloch. This is to keep running costs down, so we can keep our prices low but also to reduce the amount of time dogs spend travelling in the doggy van.

How did you get started?

I bought a van, got a sign put on it and used this and flyers to raise my profile. I also use Facebook and Twitter to raise awareness.

What is your background?

I have a BA Social Sciences degree and a post-graduate diploma in Housing Studies. Although I worked in property for a number of years, I had a dog walking company in 2009. But I had to take a break for a while in 2011 when my little girl was born. I tried a couple of other things but missed working with dogs - it is the best job in the world. I love it.

What is your top tip?

Treat every customer as if they are your only customer because they make your business.

How long has your business been running?

It was formed in September 2012, but we have been trading since January this year.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

I have just started the ESpark Acceler-8 programme. I am so excited and privileged to be part of this, I just know it will lead to great things for my company.

What was your biggest mistake/or what would you do differently?

In my experience, working with family is not a good thing.

Who was/is your mentor/or inspiration?

My gran, 77, who looks after our little one to allow me to work. She is an amazing woman and without her we would be totally lost.

Where do you plan your business to be in five years?

We hope to have a doggy day care centre opened and a few franchises of our dog walking network.

Useful contacts

www.stardustdogs.co.uk, stardustdogs@hotmail.com, www.facebook.com/stardustdogwalking, @stardustdogwalk (on Twitter), 07841616863.

Gayle Heggie at E-Spark is my Enabler.