How do you build trust with clients while offering specialized pet care services? Niki Lepine and Steph Law of Dog Jogs share how they carved out a niche in pet care by focusing on reactive dogs, shift workers, and personalized dog jogging services. They discuss how they built a loyal client base by addressing unique pet care needs, the importance of clear communication, and why community engagement matters. From offering pet first aid courses to hosting monthly dog walk meetups, Niki and Steph break down the strategies that have helped them stand out in a crowded market. If you’re looking for ways to specialize your services and build stronger client relationships, this episode is packed with inspiration!
584: Show Up and Stand Out: Visibility and Value for Pet Businesses
Can showing up at local events truly set our pet businesses apart? We discuss our experiences speaking at a Home and Garden show, highlighting how community visibility builds trust and credibility among pet parents. We also reflect on powerful lessons learned from our son’s entrepreneurship bake sale, emphasizing the importance of confidently pricing premium services. Practical insights are shared about identifying speaking opportunities to boost our brand’s visibility. Ultimately, this episode explores why delivering value first can transform our pet businesses into trusted community leaders.
583: Creating a Trusted Name in Pet Sitting with Justina Allen-Yancey
How do you build a pet sitting business that becomes a household name? Justina Allen-Yancey, owner of Justina’s Pet Sitting, shares how she turned her business into an award-winning, community-trusted brand. She dives into the power of team management, setting clear client expectations, and why networking is key to sustainable growth. Justina also discusses how proactive planning, volunteer work, and local recognition have helped her business stand out in a competitive market. Whether you’re looking to refine your policies, grow your team, or strengthen your community presence, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you build a thriving pet care business.
582: Dealing with Setbacks and Frustrations—Without Losing Your Passion
Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you try, your business just isn’t moving forward? We breakdown the setbacks that can derail even the most passionate pet business owners—from hiring struggles and burnout to personal life chaos and economic uncertainty. We share about our tough 2024, missing goals despite best efforts, and how we reframed the season as one of survival and growth. We emphasize the importance of redefining success, reconnecting with your “why,” and setting micro-goals to regain confidence. It’s a powerful reminder that progress isn’t always linear—and you’re not alone.
581: Driving Success Through Core Values with Amy Munns
How do you build a pet care business that stands the test of time while staying rooted in your core values? Amy Munns, owner of Leash 4 Lease, shares how she has successfully grown her company over 24 years by focusing on honesty, reliability, and professionalism. Through the challenges of balancing a team, client relationships, and evolving industry standards, Amy stayed true to her mission: providing high-quality pet care with a personal touch. She leveraged her values to guide decisions during difficult times, like the COVID-19 pandemic, and even turned those moments into opportunities to serve her community through initiatives like a pet food drive. By embracing open-mindedness, trusting her instincts, and empowering her team to shine, Amy has built a business defined by passion and purpose. Her story reminds us that staying authentic, even in the face of challenges, is the key to building a business you truly love.
580: Why Consistency Beats Intensity
How does consistency impact the long-term success of your pet care business? We explore why steady, reliable actions build stronger client trust and sustainable growth compared to short bursts of intense effort. Common pitfalls such as burnout and inconsistency are discussed, along with practical strategies to avoid them, including clear SOPs and effective habit stacking. From maintaining internal motivation to knowing when to delegate, we cover the essential components to ensure your consistency remains manageable and impactful. Plus, we share personal insights on how focusing on daily, repeatable tasks has significantly improved our business.
579: From Legacy to Leadership with Lauren Dunkle
How do you build a thriving business while staying true to its legacy? Lauren Dunkle, owner of The Pet Lady, shares how she transformed her aunt’s long-standing pet care business into her own while honoring its foundation. She opens up about the struggles of hiring and staff turnover, the transition from independent contractors to employees, and the power of clearly defined roles and SOPs. Lauren also discusses the emotional challenges of business ownership, from self-doubt to burnout, and how she reignited her passion by embracing new learning opportunities. Her story is a powerful example of how growth, structure, and personal fulfillment can coexist in a pet care business.
578: New Client Experience: Why Your Onboarding Process Matters
How does your onboarding process impact your client relationships? We discuss why a smooth, clear onboarding experience is crucial for building trust and client retention. We break down common pitfalls, such as unnecessary complexity and redundant steps, and share strategies for making the process simple yet effective. From setting clear expectations to using digital forms efficiently, we cover everything you need to create an onboarding experience that sets the tone for long-term client satisfaction. Plus, we share personal insights from a frustrating onboarding experience they had, highlighting why clarity and efficiency matter.
577: Burnout, Automation, and Private Equity—A Pet Industry Roundtable
What does the future of pet sitting and dog walking look like in a rapidly evolving industry? Collin sits down with four industry leaders—Morgan Weber, Doug Keeling, Michelle Kline, and Daniel Reitman—to talk about the changing landscape of pet care. They explore the challenges of economic uncertainty, competition with tech-driven platforms, and the impact of private equity entering the industry. The conversation highlights the importance of balancing automation with personal relationships, professionalizing businesses, and maintaining strong core values. Ultimately, they all agree that the next 30 years of the industry will be shaped by how pet sitters and dog walkers step up today.
576: From Survival Mode to Sustainability
Do you ever feel like your pet sitting business runs your life? In this episode, we discuss the mental burden that comes with owning a pet care business and how to create healthier boundaries. We break down the impact of decision fatigue, the challenge of always being on call, and how to shift from survival mode to proactive management. Practical solutions like setting clear business hours, enforcing client boundaries, and using automation are explored. If you're struggling with burnout, this episode provides actionable steps to regain control of your time and mental energy.
575: Avoiding Google Suspensions: What Every Pet Sitter Must Know with Amy Toman
How do you keep a Google Business Profile working for your business? Amy Toman, owner of Pet Sitter SEO, explains why “almost anyone can get a Google Listing, but few can keep one.” She dives into the essential steps for setting up a listing correctly from the start, why compliance with Google’s rules matters, and how regular updates like adding photos, responding to reviews, and optimizing services can keep your listing thriving. Amy also shares tips on avoiding suspensions, the importance of having proper business documentation, and how interacting with your listing helps Google see you as relevant and trustworthy. Her insights are a must-hear for any pet care business owner looking to stay visible and competitive in a digital world.
574: Why the Industry Needs Professionals More Than Ever
Do clients really understand what it means to hire a professional pet sitter, or do they think you’re just another neighbor kid with a key? In this episode, we dive into the ongoing need to educate the public about the professionalism, training, and dedication that sets true pet sitters apart. We discuss how to use every interaction — from inquiry calls to social media posts — to highlight your certifications, insurance, and high standards of care. By clearly communicating your value, you not only set yourself apart, but also raise the bar for the entire industry. Whether you’re celebrating Professional Pet Sitters Week or just looking for ways to stand out, this episode gives you practical strategies to help your community understand and appreciate the work you do.
573: Building a Team That Empowers Your Business with Angela Watts
How do you go from burnout to building a thriving pet care business? In this episode, Angela Watts of Pawsitive Dawg Walking shares her journey of navigating personal and professional challenges while scaling her business. She discusses the importance of building a strong management team, creating effective SOPs, and empowering employees to take ownership. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, Angela’s insights will inspire you to streamline operations, support your team, and grow with purpose.
572: Do People Really Know Your Story?
Do potential clients really know your story, or are you just another pet business in their eyes? In this episode, we explore the power of storytelling in personal branding and marketing. We discuss why pet sitters should go beyond listing their services and instead focus on crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with their ideal clients. From sharing your mission to leveraging client success stories, they break down how to create an emotional connection that builds trust and credibility. Whether through social media, email marketing, podcasting, or community events, learn how to share your story in ways that make a lasting impact.
571: Expanding Horizons with Josie Noriega
Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a thriving pet sitting business into a full-fledged dog daycare and boarding facility? Josie Noriega, owner of Super Paws Pet Care, shares her journey of navigating zoning regulations, building a superhero-themed dog resort, and balancing her original pet sitting business. From battling unexpected obstacles like dryer vent cleanouts to finding the right team members, Josie reveals the immense effort and creativity required to make her vision a reality. She highlights the power of networking and mentorship, crediting her business coach, real estate agent, and community for her success. Josie’s energy and passion for pets and her community shine through as she discusses creating services like “Bark After Dark” and low-cost events to serve both clients and their furry companions.
570: Choosing the Right Employee Scheduling Model
How do you ensure the right employees are available at the right times while keeping your business running smoothly? In this episode, we break down three popular scheduling models: Shift Scheduling, Employee Availability-Based Scheduling, and Route-Based Scheduling with Core & Flex Employees. We explore the pros and cons of each, from predictability and efficiency to flexibility and legal considerations. Choosing the right model can impact employee satisfaction, client experience, and overall business success. Tune in to learn how to find the best fit for your pet care business!
569: Making Business a Win-Win with Jo Moorcroft and Vicky Davies
Is your pet business running you instead of the other way around? Jo Moorecroft and Vicky Davies from Canine Business Academy join us to share their expertise on building intentional, sustainable, and fulfilling pet care businesses. We discuss the power of defining your business purpose, creating win-win client relationships, and avoiding common pitfalls like burnout and disorganization. Learn actionable steps to shift from survival mode to thriving mode while maintaining exceptional care standards.
568: The Rising Costs of Business
Running a pet care business is getting more expensive, and simply raising prices isn’t always an easy option. In this episode, we break down the factors driving up costs—rising labor wages, increased overhead, and shrinking profit margins—and explore what pet sitters can do to maintain profitability. From improving operational efficiency to refining service offerings, we discuss strategies to stay ahead without sacrificing quality or burning out. If you’ve been feeling the financial squeeze, this episode will give you actionable steps to take control of your costs and future-proof your business.
567: Fostering Premium Experiences with Candace D’Agnolo
How do you create raving fans and deliver premium client experiences? In this episode of Pet Sitter Confessional, Candace D’Agnolo of Pet Boss Nation dives into the art of fostering genuine connections that go beyond surface-level interactions. She explores how personalized touches—like understanding client preferences and small acts of care—create lasting loyalty. Candace also discusses the benefits of using AI to enhance efficiency, the value of local collaborations, and actionable ways to surprise and delight clients without breaking the bank. If you're looking to elevate your business and stand out in a competitive market, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!
566: The Cost of Not Trying
What’s holding you back from making the changes your business needs? Fear of the unknown can keep us stuck in outdated pricing, ineffective policies, and stale marketing strategies. In this episode we tackle the fears that prevent pet sitters from evolving, from raising rates to implementing new policies. We discuss how to test small changes, embrace iterative improvements, and reframe failure as a learning opportunity. If you’ve been hesitant to make a big decision in your business, this episode will help you push past the fear and take action.