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.