What does it take to build a thriving solo pet care business rooted in community? Olivia Hanson of Waggin Tails Winona shares her journey from a banking job to becoming a full-time pet sitter and dog walker. She discusses the power of word-of-mouth, the value of community collaborations, and the joy she finds in organizing monthly pack walks. Olivia also shares how boundaries and relationships with other sitters help protect her
Who actually wins when the pet care industry gets bigger, noisier, and more competitive? We break down how the market has matured, why growth feels harder, and why the old “post on Facebook and wait” playbook no longer works. We introduce three market layers—generic/basic, niche/specialized, and high-end/boutique—and explain how our choices determine the effort and spend it takes to get clients. We share practical tactics like building referral engines, forging one-to-one partnerships with vets, trainers, and boutiques, and crafting high-touch client experiences. Most importantly, we show how clarity about who we serve beats trying to be everywhere at once.
How do you professionalize an unregulated industry across a vast country? Erika Godwin and Morag Wilcox share why they launched Canadian Pet Care Professionals, a membership built by and for Canada’s pet care providers. They explain the “Verified Pro” approach, Canada-specific education (HR, legal, CRA), and a public directory designed to build trust with pet parents. We discuss shifting the mindset from “pet care is a luxury” to “professional care is a necessity,” and why turning competitors into colleagues helps everyone win. The conversation closes with how in-person events and a shared code of ethics can elevate standards from coast to coast.
What if your blank notebook became the engine of your business growth? Collin shares the two phrases he writes in every notebook—“Nothing doesn’t go in here” and “The first page is profound”—to defeat perfectionism and capture ideas without judgment. He explains why our brains are processors, not hard drives, and how offloading thoughts reduces mental fatigue. Drawing on James Dyson’s 5,000+ prototypes, he shows how creativity thrives through small, physical iterations. Finally, he gives a simple cadence: capture daily, review weekly, and treat the page as a workspace—not a performance.
What does it really mean to grieve a pet—and how can we do it well? In this deeply moving episode, we talk with Koryn Greenspan, founder of The Parted Paw, about the often overlooked reality of pet loss and the profound emotional toll it takes. Koryn breaks down the distinctions between grief, mourning, and bereavement, and shares how anticipatory grief can offer a healthier path through the end-of-life process. We explore how disenfranchised grief silences many pet parents and why pet professionals need to show up better for their grieving clients. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever loved—and lost—a pet.
What do you do when unexpected free time makes you anxious instead of relieved? We break down the difference between constant motion and true movement, introducing three kinds of time: Action, Admin, and CEO. WE explain why we often tie success to tangible, immediate tasks—and how that mindset keeps us stuck on the hamster wheel. Practical tactics follow: name the time, block the calendar, keep a CEO list, measure progress differently, and build in rest. The result is a framework to move from fear to focus and intentionally steer your business.
What does it take to transition your team from independent contractors to employees? Abby Strong, owner of Auntie Abby’s Professional Pet Sitting, returns to share how she nurtured a strong, supportive company culture while navigating major changes. She discusses the motivation behind dropping overnight services, onboarding employees with intention, and creating space for growth within her team. Abby also talks about the importance of feedback, both from clients and staff, and how being vulnerable as a leader builds trust. This episode is filled with practical advice for pet business owners ready to scale with purpose.
What do we do when our business feels broken? In this episode, we share practical ways we as pet sitters and dog walkers can turn setbacks—client complaints, burnout, or sudden revenue dips—into lessons that build resilience. We outline three pillars: extract one lesson from each setback, lean on a support network, and redefine success on our own terms. By scheduling true rest, strengthening policies, and setting aside emergency funds, we can recover with intention. Ultimately, healing is a process, and where we’re “broken” can become the strongest part of our business.
What does it look like to run a pet care business with heart? Sam Erbaugh, owner of Paw Beach Pet Care, shares her journey from interior designer to pet care entrepreneur. Sam shares how she rebuilt her life in Florida around joy, service, and sunshine—and how her business is a direct reflection of her personal values. Together, they discuss how to create a culture of genuine customer care, why team communication is critical, and how to grow a business without losing your soul. Sam’s story is a reminder that growth isn’t always about numbers—it’s about purpose, balance, and people.
What do new laws mean for your pet care business? Across the U.S., states are passing legislation that raises the standards for how pets are cared for—and the consequences for falling short. From licensing and inspections to criminal negligence and felony charges, the bar is getting higher for sitters, walkers, and boarders alike. These changes can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to catch you off guard. In this episode, we talk through the most recent laws, what they mean for you, and how you can prepare your business to thrive in this new legal landscape.
What does it really mean to be a professional in the pet care industry? In this episode, Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC, joins to explore the importance of third-party certification in setting industry standards. She shares how PACCC was founded to support experienced pet care providers with recognition, ethics, and continuing education. The conversation dives into the rising pressure from legislation, public expectations, and why certification helps build trust with clients and lawmakers alike. Jenn also offers practical steps for those ready to elevate their professionalism.
What happens when the excitement of growing your team turns into the disappointment of a bad hire? In this episode, we explore why failed hires sting so deeply, from the personal investment of time and trust to the disruption it causes clients, pets, and team morale. We share how rushing to replace too quickly can compound mistakes, while ignoring red flags or skipping feedback loops leaves you vulnerable to repeat issues. While every bad hire feels discouraging, it doesn’t have to define your business or your leadership. By giving yourself space to grieve, reviewing the clues left behind, strengthening your hiring funnel, and communicating transparently with your team, you can recover with resilience and make smarter, more confident hires in the future.
What does it really mean to grow your business? In this episode, Morgan Weber of Lucky Pup shares why growth isn’t always the answer and how defining success on your own terms is crucial for long-term sustainability. She unpacks the danger of chasing vanity metrics, the importance of budgeting your time like your finances, and why business owners must avoid resentment and burnout. Morgan also explains how to build a “filter system” based on values and goals to guide decision-making. Whether you’re solo or scaling, this is an honest look at staying aligned in a world pushing constant expansion.
What happens when the joy of pet sitting starts to fade into monotony? In this episode, we explore why the “ho-hum” feeling creeps in, from repetitive routines and emotional fatigue to physical exhaustion, isolation, and the comparison game on social media. We share how staying stuck in this flat season can impact client experience, dull attention to detail, and accelerate burnout. While monotony is a natural byproduct of sustained work, it doesn’t have to define your business. By shifting perspective, setting micro-goals, refreshing routines, learning something new, and prioritizing real rest, you can reignite your motivation and keep showing up with purpose for pets and their people.
What should you do when a pet emergency happens on your watch? In this episode, Arden Moore returns to share practical, life-saving advice for pet sitters and dog walkers. From subtle signs of stress to new research on treating heatstroke, Arden emphasizes the importance of preparedness, adaptability, and calm communication. She also discusses the mental mindset needed to respond effectively and the benefits of her new self-paced CPR and first aid courses. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode will help you handle emergencies with confidence.
What happens when your business no longer fits the market—or the law? In this episode, we explore the challenges of pivoting, from labor law changes to zoning regulations to personal burnout. We share stories of sitters who had to shift away from overnights, navigate the shift from independent contractors to W2 employees, or give up in-home boarding due to city requirements. While pivots can feel like rejection of our original vision, they also open doors to resilience, creativity, and new opportunities. Ultimately, give yourself grace, communicate with clients, and stay grounded in your mission of serving people and pets.
How can we make sure we’re providing the best care possible for pet birds? Dr. Jennifer Graham, President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, joins the show to discuss the crucial partnership between avian vets and pet sitters. From common health issues and behavioral cues to transport tips and nutrition red flags, Jennifer shares decades of wisdom to help pet sitters level up their bird care. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, observation, and cleaning routines, especially when dealing with exotic species. With practical resources and a collaborative mindset, pet sitters can confidently expand their services to feathered clients.
What defines you—your own values or the labels others place on you? In 622: Who Are You Beyond the Leash?, Collin explores how identity shapes the way pet sitters run their businesses, set prices, and build relationships. He shares personal stories of being labeled “the dog people” and how that narrowed perspective almost overshadowed other parts of life. By reflecting on both external and internal labels, pet sitters can reframe limiting beliefs and reclaim their full identity. Collin offers practical exercises to help listeners move beyond labels, strengthen client trust, and protect themselves from burnout.
Kaitlin Wood of Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting in Chattanooga, TN shares her journey from teenage sitter to full-time business owner. She discusses the evolution of her services, including her growing wedding assistance offering, and the importance of clear client communication. Kaitlin opens up about lessons in time management, setting boundaries, and the struggle of finding trustworthy team members. Her passion for pets and people shines through as she talks about building trust and delivering peace of mind.
Non-negotiables aren’t just nice-to-have—they’re the backbone of running our pet care business. In this episode, we share the 10 essential policies and procedures we believe every sitter and walker should put in place. From cancellation and payment terms to health requirements and emergency plans, we explain why each matters and how we enforce them. We also talk about the dangers of bending rules too often and how exceptions can quietly become the norm. Through practical examples, we show how we protect our business, clients, and pets by keeping our boundaries clear and consistent.
