Editor's note:
The road to being a successful female entrepreneur – be it a restaurant owner, a designer, a gallery owner, or a retailer – can be bumpy. In this series, "She Power," we talk to women from different countries and different backgrounds about their experiences and stories of setting up businesses in Shanghai. One thing these amazing women all have in common – they all yearn to build a brand that does good, that gives purpose and fulfillment, and even a palpable sense of joy.
Melissa Cook's life took a delightful turn when she found her dog, Hugo, abandoned in a box. His arrival opened the door to a wonderful common community in Shanghai and motivated her to launch Rascals on the Road, a pet-friendly adventure service.
Melissa Cook dived headfirst into the animal rescue scene and launched her own business Rascals on the Road.
Before we talk about Rascals on the Road, would you please introduce yourself?
I'm Melissa Cook. Hailing from Canada, I've been living in Shanghai for the past 12 years. I had just graduated and was looking for a place where I could take a break and relax for a bit. China seemed like a great option, offering a rich culture and history, along with plentiful employment opportunities. Originally, I focused on my teaching career in a bilingual primary school, but five years ago, my life took a delightful turn when I found my dog, Hugo, abandoned in a box. His arrival opened the door to a wonderful community in Shanghai, and I dived headfirst into the animal rescue scene, eager to give back.
Why, after living in Shanghai for a few years, did you decide to strike out on your own to build up your own business?
I consider myself quite lucky! Rascals on the Road came about quite organically. I loved going on hiking trips with various organizations, but they didn't allow dogs. So, I decided to get my driver's license in China, allowing me to take my dogs along for the adventure. From there, everything just snowballed, and I couldn't be happier about it!
Rascals on the Road is a pet-friendly adventure service that organizes trips and outings for dog owners, allowing them to explore the beautiful outdoors with their furry companions. It aims to create a community of like-minded animal lovers who can enjoy nature together while strengthening the bond with their pets.
Melissa enjoys nature in Ningguo, Anhui Province, with her dogs Hugo and Juno.
What makes Shanghai's business environment so remarkable?
The animal community here is truly incredible. It's supportive, vibrant, and a joy to be part of. The trips organized by Rascals on the Road provide a fantastic opportunity for pet owners to connect with like-minded animal lovers.
A group of pet owners explores the bamboo forest in Moganshan, Zhejiang Province, on a group trip organized by Melissa.
What were you trying to bring to the local community?
I aimed to make it easier for people to travel with their dogs, thereby strengthening the pet-owner community in Shanghai. Supporting local rescue organizations is also very close to my heart; we collaborate with various shelters to provide donations and help find foster or adoptive homes.
What are the biggest challenges for setting up a business here?
The biggest challenge for me has been breaking into the Chinese market. I would love to see more locals join our trips and become part of the amazing Rascals on the Road community.
A sunset cruise was organized for pet owners in Ningguo, Anhui Province, with their furry friends.
How do you stay motivated?
Staying motivated comes from seeing the joy our trips bring to pet owners and their furry companions!
What are you working on now?
Right now, I'm focused on discovering new and exciting trip destinations – hopefully with some snow for our winter adventures – and planning more meetups!
Who is a female role model who inspires you?
Erin Leigh is a fantastic inspiration. She's the founder of Spare Leash and has been innovative in building a strong animal rescue community. Her commitment to helping animals is something I strive to emulate in my own work.
Do you have any advice for women entrepreneurs?
Don't give up! It can be tough, but there are so many people cheering for you to succeed. Building a supportive community can make all the difference on your journey.