Prime Poway Woman No. 1: Meagan Karnes

Her love and devotion for animals and their well-being makes Meagan Karnes a Prime Poway Woman.

Karnes is the founder of the Animal Rescue Outreach Center, a nonprofit devoted to offering training options while promoting animal rescue and outreach services. She's also the president of The Collared Scholar, a dog-training center.

The three-year Poway resident, who has been involved in the pet industry for nine years, said she's "eternally grateful" to be able to connect with other animal lovers through her day job.

But, along the way, she has faced challenges with overcoming stereotypes as a woman in the business.

"If I had to give advice to other women, I would tell them to face their fears, don't judge, and don't think of your sex as a handicap—think of it as an advantage," she said. "If you want to be successful, you have to trust yourself. There is nothing more detrimental to a businesswoman (or man for that matter) than a lack of confidence and a lack of trust in oneself.

"I feel so fortunate to be able to work in a field that allows me to live my dream on a daily basis."

What does Women's History Month mean to you?

"Women's History Month is a time for us to reflect on some of the amazing women in our past and present that have truly changed our lives. It’s not a time to focus on inequalities but a time to give thanks and be grateful for the amazing women who have changed the way we live today. It’s a reminder to take some time out of our busy schedules and simply say thank you."