Exploring Life & Business with Carley Freeman of Crackerz Corner

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carley Freeman.

Hi Carley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It all started with a prairie dog named Soup. One quickly turned into four when Beans, Ritz, and Crackers joined the family—and just like that, I was officially outnumbered. I needed something durable, entertaining, and enriching for them—something that would tap into their natural instincts without getting destroyed. That’s when I discovered snuffle balls, and I started making enrichment toys just for my own pets.

Unfortunately a freak accident left Crackers with a broken leg, and the vet bills began piling up. That’s when Crackerz Corner officially became my side hustle. I opened my Etsy shop in August of 2023 and attended my first pet expo that same year. Since then, we’ve grown from just snuffle balls and mats to a full line of enrichment toys made for pets of all kinds. It all began with a need to help my own animals thrive—and now it’s become a way to help other pet owners do the same.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Knock on wood, mostly smooth!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Crackerz Corner?
Crackerz Corner is a small, heart-driven business that specializes in handmade enrichment toys for pets—everything from snuffle balls and mats to custom-designed items for animals of all shapes and sizes. While we started with prairie dogs, our products are now enjoyed by dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, pot-bellied pigs—you name it. We’ve even had an equine customer! If it’s got a curious nose and loves to forage, we’ve probably made something for it.

What sets us apart is that every product is handmade, which means each item is unique. Nothing is mass-produced or rushed—every piece is crafted with care, using real pet behavior and enrichment needs as the guide. All products are put to the test by either our own pets or those belonging to family and friends. Their feedback is crucial, and we’re constantly refining for durability, function, and fun.

I’m most proud of the genuine connection we’ve built with our customers. We’re not just selling toys—we’re creating products that help pets live happier, more enriched lives. Whether it’s a shy guinea pig coming out of their shell or a dog obsessed with their new snuffle ball, hearing those stories is the best part of what we do. We love getting pictures and videos of happy pets.

Crackerz Corner is about creativity, connection, and giving pets—especially the lesser-known ones—products made just for them. Every pet has a story, and ours started with four prairie dogs: Soup, Beans, Ritz, and Crackers. Every order supports a mission rooted in love, enrichment, and the well-being of our pets.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success is not dreading going to work every day. It’s loving what you do, feeling fulfilled by it, and knowing you’re making a difference—even in small ways. But let’s be real—being able to pay the bills helps too! It’s about finding that balance between passion and practicality, and building something that matters to you and works for your life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crackerzcorner.etsy.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15riL5LUAb/?mibextid=wwXIfr