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PUPS Pet Club Profile of Success TO SHOW UP (& BE ON TIME!) VOL 12 • ED 5 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 and daycare EXPO
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• Offer luxurious boarding spaces for maximum comfort • Reduce pet anxiety with private, insulated suites • Minimize noise with a solid-enclosure design Create a home away from home. © 2022 Midmark Corporation, Miamisburg Ohio USA • Spacious kennel runs • Sound-dampening construction • Dual transfer door options • Efficient swivel feeders now a part of midmark Design Your Own Bed + 1.800.444.1579Breakfastshor-line.com now a part of midmark 1.800.MIDMARK
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Copyright August 2022. Pet Boarding & Daycare is published bimonthly by Barkleigh Productions, Inc, 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Postmaster: Send change of address to Pet Boarding & Daycare c/o Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Editorial offices: 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. (717) 691–3388 FAX (717) 691–3381 Email: info@barkleigh.com
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE4 TECHNOLOGY YOUR PE T CARE LEVEL UP FA CILITY W ITH TRENDING
Adam Lohr
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
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Animal Behavior 6 Beyond the Tail Wag: Reading Dog Body Language Business 10 5 Ways to Keep Staff Motivated to Show Up (And, Be On Time!) 16 It’s Time for a Change! The Great Resignation Cats 28 Improving Kitty’s Quality of Life with The Right Referrals Animal Health 46 Common Pet Behavioral Management Medications Industry News 52 Pet Boarding & Daycare Expo 2022 Preview 54 New Products CONTENTSSEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 PUPS Pet Club “No Issue is Too Small, No Idea is Too Big.” 34 22 IS YOUR WEBSITE YOUR BUSINESS? OR HUR HELPINGTING 42
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MORE SERVICES MEAN MORE BUSINESS Pet Butler is offering industry business owners an affordable way to add on profitable services that can be scaled for growth , without losing focus on their current business. Diversify with our Pet Industry Associates Program and allow your business to grow! NO INITIAL FEES TO JOIN $15K MARKETING LOAN1 WITH 50% LOAN FORGIVENESS www.petbutler.com/franchise-opportunity/contact-us/ CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE! Contact Pet Butler Today! | 1-844-777-8608 | www.petbutlerfranchise.com *See 2022 FDD for details © Pet Butler LLC. All rights reserved. | This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for informational purposes only. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: CA, HI, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, VA, WA and WI. If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements in your jurisdiction.
I
The external environments ac companied with the external, physical signs have to be examined together. You can't just consider the single
LANGUAGE
By Eve Molzhon
different signs. Some people rock back and forth, some play with change in their pockets and some even say inap propriate things. All of these are signs of nervousness, and depending on the external situation, we can figure out what the internal situation really is.
So many times we hear pet parents say, “I took my dog on a walk, and we greeted another dog on a walk also on a leash. Both dogs’ tails were wagging and then all heck broke loose and they got into a scuffle.”
When humans are nervous, it's not always obvious because everybody has
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
When we laugh, it doesn't nec essarily mean that we’re happy or in a good mood, it just means we’re laughing. How many of us have done something really stupid and then laughed at ourselves? We're probably not happy that we did something stupid, but we laughed at the ridicu lousness of the situation or as a way to calm our anxiety or fears.
t’s a common misconception that a dog’s tail (alone) can tell you its mood. A simple wag of the tail doesn't always mean “I'm happy.” This scenario goes for humans as well...
that's in a boarding facility in their suite and the dog's tail is wagging. He's prob ably happy to see somebody, but he may not be happy about the situation that he's in. Look at all the other attributes of the dog as previously mentioned. As you’re approaching the dog’s suite, you also need to assess your physical body lan guage. If the dog is initially telling you, “Hey, I'm kinda happy to see you,” you need to reciprocate that by giving them appropriate body language in return.
Let’s say you’re walking up to a dog
You should always proceed with caution and look at the physical aspects. How's the dog’s body language? Is the
How’s the dog’s body language? Is the dog’s whole body wiggling back and forth? If that’s the case, the dog may jump on you and slobber you with kisses, because the whole body is loose and relaxed and he’s telling you it’s okay and he’s happy (even in what might be a stressful environment).
If the tail is wagging but the spine is stiff, the rest of the body isn’t moving and he’s just giving you the stare, it may mean, “I’m happy to see you, but I really am uncomfortable.” You should utilize all of your training and past experience to ensure that you’re going to handle this dog safely.
factor of a tail wag. Plus, for those breeds who don't have tails such as my French Bulldog, how am I supposed to determine if my dog is happy? I'm looking at all the other things about the posture. Are the elbows bent or straight? Does the spine look relaxed or stiff? How are the ears sitting? How’s the fur—anything standing up? You have to take into account all the other attributes of the physical state along with the external situation to determine if the dog is in a happy, relaxed mood and positive state of mind.
dog’s whole body wiggling back and forth? If that’s the case, the dog may jump on you and slobber you with kisses, because the whole body is loose and relaxed and he’s telling you it’s okay and he’s happy (even in what might be a stressful environment).
Highly recommend Phil worth the investment.
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Phillip is a pleasure to work with. He has a deep and expert knowledge of the industry while still being kind and approachable. Phillip was instrumental in helping me implement new processes into my business and offer additional services.
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Eve Molzhon is the creator and owner of Dog Handler Academy. Dog Handler Academy is a 100% online, automated employee training program designed specifically for dog daycares and boarding facilities. Our real-life daycare videos and online quizzes fast-track your team members into understanding dog handling and care, saving you time and money. Courses cover basic and advanced dog handler skills, social cues and safety, client relations, and more. The mission of Dog Handler Academy is to provide employers with comprehensive training material in a cost-efficient, consistent, and effective program. Our end goal is to create better handlers within our industry to ensure the proper care of animals.
• very down to earth and felt comfortable asking the “silliest questions”
As a result of the changes he suggested, and new services he helped us launch, we have seen 50% revenue growth year/year.
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I took the plunge and hired Phil to come out and see my place.
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A lot of times when you walk into a room, the dog’s initial reaction is to wag its tail because the dog is happy to see somebody . But when the dog realizes you may not be the “some body” they want to see, their body language could change quickly—and so could the situation. Understanding all the other attributes that go into the dog's state of mind and looking at all the signs within the dog's physical frame, as well as the external environment, will tell you how to approach the dog and the situation. Just a wagging tail is not indica tive of the entire physical or emotion al state of the dog. Subtle tactics like approaching the dog with your body sideways (not approaching directly in front of the dog) and making yourself small so the dog understands that you're not a threat to them can come in handy. Knowing that you're just one piece of the puzzle in that environment with the dog will also help you handle the dog safely and communicate most effectively in a relaxed state of mind.
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long way. Including a letter from the pets’ perspective in the beginning of your employee handbook explaining this is a good reminder.
Running a pet care facility is totally dependent on having reliable, caring and conscious employees. And the more pets we care for, the more employees we need.
W
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE10 BUSINESS
employees to your pet care facility, but thankfully it’s more than possible. However, once you’ve found and onboarded high-quality staff members, it’s another battle to keep them. Here are five ways to ensure your staff remains reliable and punctual.
By Laura Laaman
Chances are your employees joined your company out of a love for pets, and making it clear that the pets rely on them to show up can go a
WAYS TO KEEP STAFF
AND, BE ON TIME!
e all know ischallenginghowit currentlytoattractgood
If you feel it’s harder to find employees with a strong work ethic, you’re not alone. However, there are signs of a lackluster work ethic you can spot during the hiring process. Pay attention to the candidate’s job history. Have they jumped
2. Look for a good work ethic. I was raised by a World War II veteran, so having a strong work ethic is second nature to me. Boy, are we living in a different era!
5
TOMOTIVATEDSHOWUP
1. Create the right culture, starting with the hiring process. Pet care is not like many entry-level positions. When an
employee doesn't show up for their shift at a fast-food restaurant, customer service certainly suffers and undue stress is put on other team members. But, in pet care, the consequences are even worse. As we know, pets wouldn’t get the same care as they would if you are fully staffed. Explaining this to potential employees is an important first step in creating a committed employee culture.
3. Pay above average.
4. Discipline fairly and clearly.
Even with the most promising new hires and healthiest workplace culture, you’ll occasionally need to discipline employees for being late and missing shifts. For example, if you or your managers allow an employee to be late without any consequences, you are essentially guaranteeing the same behavior will occur again. The other employees will notice your lackluster approach to timeliness and will likely do the same; or, worse yet, other standards you uphold may suffer.
On the job, signs of a good work ethic include respect for others, treating their mistakes like learning experiences,
Employee discipline can take many forms, including but not limited to:
Verbal TerminationSuspensionWrittenwarningwarning Employee discipline can take many forms, including but not limited to: • andCounselingtraining • Verbal warning • Written warning • Suspension • Termination
Counseling and training
The work force attracted to pet care is often entry-level; however, wage expectations among entry-level workers
12 between numerous jobs in short periods of time? This can be a sign of someone noncommittal. Have they earned any special recognitions or accomplishments in their professional or personal life? That’s a good indicator of a stronger work ethic.
increased sharply during the pandemic. The high stimulus payouts inflated the perceived value of many people's time, and the unprecedented competition in the hiring market boosted starting wages across all industries. While it is understandable that you may feel you should pay less for a pet care tech without much experience, times have changed. The new reality is, when you pay above average, employees think twice about sleeping through the alarm. They’ll also be less likely to be lured to another job if you’re paying more.
and the ability to focus without getting too distracted by things like their cellphone or chatting with coworkers. Praise and foster a good work ethic where possible.
Most infractions will benefit from counseling and training delivered in a helpful, understanding way. If the behavior continues, progress to the verbal or written warnings. Some offenses are serious enough to warrant suspension or termination. Consulting with a labor attorney in your state is a wise investment to help navigate the ever-changing labor laws.
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13PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
5. Issue timely bonuses for a job well done. This part is going to be rough on those of us with a strong work ethic. When you do have an employee arrive on time and not miss a shift for a while, I suggest you consider providing a meaningful bonus. You’re probably thinking, “So paying the employee an hourly wage isn’t enough? You want
With these small steps, you can make a big impact on improving staff attendance, punctuality and workplace culture.
Laura Laaman is president of Outstanding Pet Care and we now offer guaranteed and discounted recruiting services for the pet care industry. If you’re interested in our pricing assistance, labor ratio guidance and hiring help, or any of our other proven services, scheduled a consultation by calling 1-888-735-5667 or vising OutstandingPetCare.com/contact.www.
me to give them a participation trophy?” Well, kind of… What’s valuable to employees right now? With gas being as expensive as it is, gas bonuses are a relatively inexpensive and meaningful motivator. Consider offering gas cards to employees who arrive punctually to all of their shifts for a period of time. This is especially beneficial during holiday periods. It’s a simple and effective practice that shapes better behavior since you’re only giving gas cards to those who are on time and don't miss a shift.
punch someone else in. This way you can most accurately monitor punctuality and only reward those who earned it.
What’s valuable to employees right now? With gas being as expensive as it is, gas bonuses are a relatively inexpensive and meaningful motivator. Hands on Management for Start Training on site at ABC Pet Resort & Spa, the facility owned and operated by the couching team! Over 30 years experience as industry leaders All curriculum is personalized for your facility jennifer@abcpetresort.com (281) 444 9414 PET CARE FACILITY MANAGEMENT BOOT CAMP Hands on Management Training & Consulting for Start-Ups and Existing Facilities Training on-site at ABC Pet Resort & Spa, the facility owned and operated by the coaching team! Over 30 years experience as industry leaders. All curriculum is personalized for your facility. Now o ering consulting remote or at your location. jennifer@abcpetresort.com (281) 444-9414 Hands on Management for Sta rtTraining on site at ABC Pet Resort & Spa, the facility owned and operated b y the couching tea m! Over 30 years experience as industry leaders All curriculum is personalized for your facility jennifer@abcpetresort.com (281) 444 9414
It's important to have a system that tracks exactly what time employees show up. I recommend a facial recognition system so an employee can't
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE14
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE16
ewsflash…the employment game has changed! So much so that many have coined this new era as “The Great Resignation.” Employees have left their jobs in numbers that we have never seen before. From profession als to hourly team members, the pandemic has shifted how we value our time and measure satisfaction. Gone are the days of doing a job just because it is a job. While pay rates will always rise, the weight that employees are placing on job satisfaction has been (and still is) rising to a level of paramount importance.
By Jennifer Wolf-Pierson, CPACO, CPDT-KA
Resignati on
CHANGE!OVERCOMINGTHEFORA
N
As employers, we can stay the same and gripe about how hard it is to find and retain staff—or we can make some changes, too! Employees are inter viewing us…not the other way around. So, how can you still recruit the same quality of candidates you need to provide the consistency and quality of care your clients expect? I propose that you shift your thinking, shift how you select those to interview and how you interview, and shift your mindset on the positions that you offer. It may feel like you just made it through the summer, but now it’s time to set your sights on the holiday season.
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Whether you prefer Indeed, Facebook, Zip Recruiter or another platform, candidate rates are plummet ing. And with the limited number of candidates, it is tempting to call every single person that applies out of sheer desperation. This takes up time—valu able time. As an owner/operator, you must prioritize your time and invest in activities that will produce results.
At the 2019 Pet Boarding & Daycare Expo in Hershey, PA, Joe Zuccarello with Paragon School of Grooming gave a tip during his seminar that has completely streamlined our recruiting process. He recommended adding a short line at the end of the employment ad that would require action by the applicant above and beyond just submitting a resume. He suggested creating short, fun job posts that have a two- or three-sentence summation of responsibilities followed by, “to be considered for the position, submit your resume here, and text your name and why you want to work at a pet resort to (a monitored # that receives texts).”
Since implementing this recom mendation, we have improved our in terview-show rates from the low teens to an average of 72% so far in 2022! We simply only review and call those applicants that have followed the directions outlined. This tells us so many things; that they can take direc tion, they know where we are located, they know what the position requires and, most importantly, it gives us insight into how they communicate.
really Our Experience Sets Us Apart! • Designed over 80 facilities, including veterinary hospitals DESIGN • Architectural–Engineering ElectricalMechanicalPlumbing • Site Selection • Demographics • Feasibility Study • Built 18 pet care facilities •30-year owner/operator of ABC Pet Resort! DESIGN • BUILD • CONSULTING CONSULTING • Business Plan • Operations Pet Care Facility www.Turn-KeyInc.com 713-695-6846 ALSO OFFERING Pet Care ManagementFacilityBootCampHands-ontrainingforstart-ups! As you conduct the interview, shift from a structured list of questions to a real conversation. There are tons of “professional interviewees” out there who have researched the most common interview questions asked and are ready with scripted responses.
As you conduct the interview, shift from a structured list of questions to a real conversation. There are tons of “professional interviewees” out there who have researched the most common interview questions asked and are ready with scripted responses. We want to get to know the candidate—who they
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE18
19PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
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In general, we are looking for two different personality types: the These two groups feed into all positions that we have and, if placed correctly, will truly enjoy the position. AND THE
add to our lodging department, individual play department and at reception. These people are open to change, they love interaction and it actually energizes them.
We truly know your business: the flow, the vulnerable spots, and the success.
For spa services and our group play department, we are looking for the opposite; the quiet intro vert, because they tend to want calm consistency and structure that doesn’t change. This is the person many of us skip over. Maybe they talk about not liking a past position because their man ager never gave them feedback or they didn’t feel properly trained. They also might barely get a sentence out for each interview question you ask. However, the introvert may really enjoy being the lifeguard in group play, and
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are. Since you will be teaching them the position-specific skills they will need for the job, during the inter view, look for personality traits and soft skills instead of specific skills. Focus on finding the right people who will fit your culture and enjoy what they do. Remember, it’s about job Insatisfaction!general,we are looking for two different personality types: the introverts and the extroverts. These two groups feed into all po sitions that we have and, if placed correctly, will truly enjoy the position. The extrovert, who I like to call the “bubbly cheerleader,” is the applicant that delivers an in credible interview and makes you feel all happy, fuzzy and warm. That person is the type we look to
their calm demeanor will keep arousal levels low and help provide a safe, engaging environment. An extra bonus for hiring introverts is that they rarely get burned out or get bored. They can
As employers, if we think of these
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The Pet Shield is also a wonderful family friendly tool to have in the household. This training tool helps control pets while teaching corrective behaviors, such as no jumping.
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As employers, if we think of these positions as “labor” positions, there will be turnovers as most entry-level, labor positions will have. The shift in perception of what it means to be a part of the pet care industry starts with us, the owner/operator.
Created by the owner of Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts, Dick Palazzo, the Pet Shield is a gentle training tool that can be used in pet resorts to control daycare and group play. The soft design of the lightweight shield helps you safely PROTECT, SEPARATE, AND DIRECT PETS. The Pet Shield is used professionally in dog parks, shelters, veterinarian hospitals, grooming salons and pet resorts all over the country. It will decrease your medical injuries for staff and pets.
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE20
positions as “labor” positions, there will be turnovers as most entry-level, labor positions will have. The shift in per ception of what it means to be a part of the pet care industry starts with us, the owner/operator. It has taken time, but we now see and value both groomers and dog trainers as skilled positions. What is holding us back from thinking the same way for our group play leaders and lodging technicians?
Jennifer has served since 2016 as General Manager for ABC Pet Resort & Spa, a multi-service pet care center located in North Houston. She also is a consultant and instructor for Pet Care Management Boot Camp, in partnership with Turnkey, Inc., an architectural design/build/ operations firm specializing in pet care and veterinary facilities. Jennifer helps both existing and start-up facilities streamline their operations, improve their team management, and understand revenue-generating strategies. Jennifer earned her BS in Agricultural Science at Colorado State University, is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator (CPACO), a PetTech CPR and First Aid Instructor, and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA).
Take the leap, talk to your team and tell them they can make this a career! Support them in continued education and provide unique paths to advance ment, such as adding sponsorships to grooming schools and taking them to the industry expos. Invest in them! If you do, they will invest back. Make a mindset change so that you can capital ize on The Great Resignation…not be a victim of it.
TECHNOLOGY
By Fernando Acosta-Rua
YOUR PE T CARE LEVEL UP
ince I joined the pet care industry in 2007, monumental technological advances have improved the way the industry provides care and how customers’ evolving needs are met.
FA CILITY W ITH TRENDING
To help support the new rapid growth and demand for pet care, many pet care facilities may choose to introduce new digital enhancements. Digital enhancements can elevate a customer’s experience, leading to an all-around improved experience to keep pets happy and customers returning.
In our increasingly digital world, pet parents are tech-savvy and expect the convenience of technology in pet care.
Technology is key to streamlining communication across a team of pet boarding and daycare professionals. By integrating electronic records on cloud-based systems, caregivers, veterinarians, groomers and other personnel can stay informed about
Communication
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE22 FACILITY
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, more than 23 million households have adopted pets into their families. This rapid growth and the demand for convenient and affordable pet care have made it imperative that the pet care industry adjust and adapt to the new expectations of pet parents.
S
Pet boarding businesses can also provide daily image uploads and end-ofstay report cards that describe the pet’s routine while staying overnight. Another opportunity to provide more convenient services is through mobile apps such as curbside pet pick-up and drop-off.
After connecting with pet parents throughout the years, I’ve come to understand the challenges pet parents can face when leaving their pet somewhere new for the first time. To alleviate some of the concern and worries, pet boarding facility owners can create an efficient channel of communication between veterinarians, caregivers and pet parents.
One opportunity for boarding facilities to use technology to accomplish this link is incorporating live webcam feeds in play areas and boarding suites so pet parents feel a constant connection with their furry family members. Webcam technology can help pet boarding businesses develop a trusting relationship with the customer, leading to a reliable stream of revenue and regular boarding visitors.
Ef f ici ency
the pets in their care. Allergies, medical history and visit history should always be easily accessible by staff. Integrated communications across teams can lead to an improved customer experience, a safer environment for the pets and an improved work experience. Internal communication is an important part of a team’s ability to thrive and innovate across different roles and responsibilities.
Webcam technology can help pet boarding businesses develop a trusting relationship with the customer, leading to a reliable stream of revenue and regular boarding visitors.
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE24
PUBLISHED STUDIES:
• Grooming
RESEARCHED, TESTED, AND STUDY- BACKED
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
•
• Veterinary Clinics and Hospitals Boarding and Daycare Facilities Mobile Units Animal Shelters Salons
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If recent technological innovations in the pet care industry have taught us anything, it is that people love their pets and are willing to utilize a variety of new technology to ensure the very best for them.
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Loans for buying, building and improving your facility. FINANCING FOR YOUR PET BOARDING & DAYCARE BUSINESS To learn more, contact Claire Cronin at 404.513.2347 or claire.cronin@liveoak.bank
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By being proactive in easing the client’s worries, pet boarding caregivers can save time by establishing expectations for updates and significantlyTechnologycommunications.hasadvancedinthepastdecade and
of pet care will remain a driving force behind technological advancements in boarding businesses. Implementing programs designed to maximize pet health, safety, and comfort while simultaneously improv ing staff and client communications provides pet parents the high-quality pet care they expect and deserve.
continues to improve internal and external efficiencies. One of the biggest advantages of incorporating technology is the ease of scheduling. Some pet boarding businesses allow bookings through branded mobile applications or
websites. Using any preferred method, pet parents can book appointments and schedule drop-offs, which saves both the pet owners and the caregivers time and
Fernando Acosta-Rua is the president and Chief Executive Officer of Pet Paradise. Since joining the team in 2007, Fernando has played a key role in accelerating the growth of Pet Paradise from three pet resorts with 45 employees in northeast Florida to more than 50 resorts in operation or under development in 11 states and with 1,700 employees. Pet Paradise is a comprehensive pet care, health and wellness provider offering overnight boarding, day camp, grooming and veterinary care. NewDay Veterinary Care, owned and operated by Pet Paradise, is a network of veterinary hospitals and clinics conveniently located inside Pet Paradise locations throughout the U.S. Visit petparadise. com for more information.
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Veterinarian Referrals
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE28
a cat in your care will come in with obvious medical concerns. Other times medical concerns (that were probably present before boarding) become observable over the course of a cat’s stay with you. When the family comes in for pick-up and you suggest a trip to the vet, the family may ask for a referral. Other times, you may want to gently suggest that you have heard that a certain doctor has been very successful in treating the symptoms
ome experiences in our own lives have taught us that not all professionals in one trade are equal. Knowing when to refer out and who to refer to when it comes to other pet-related businesses can be a huge asset to your boarding clientele while also building trust and respect for your business. Usually a client will ask for a referral, but sometimes it’s apparent that they try a different professional or product to help improve the quality of life for their feline. Knowing how to approach unsolicited referrals can be just as important as knowing who to refer to. It is key that your business has a set referral list in place and procedures on how referrals are handled.
Most boarding facilities have state regulations they must follow such as proof of rabies and possibly other vaccines. In addition, some businesses also require a wellness check. While many people assume this means the cats you board are receiving regular medical care and are healthy, this may not necessarily be theSometimescase.
S
CATS
I have always tried to match the family’s beliefs about medical care and personality with the doctor I recommend.
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you observed during boarding. Keep in mind, a veterinarian that is great with dogs may not be the best choice for a cat.
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I find the best place to start is to find out who the local veterinarian
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My area has many good and qualified veterinarian offices for cats, but I have never made a onesize-fits-all referral for medical care. I have always tried to match the family’s beliefs about medical
Or call Jon direct at 218 290 1761 or email jon.benz@bioox.us
It is a good idea to pay attention to what clients say about their veterinarian. After watching my cat clients and listening to their owners over the years, I know which veterinarian offices lean more toward testing to rule everything out, the ones who use alternative medicine, those that have a wait-and-see approach and those that seem to see as many pets as quickly as possible. These observations let me know what to expect when it comes to the health of the cats in my care.
Another referral you may be asked to make is for a groomer. When a cat in your care has obvious mats, problems with fecal matter getting stuck in their coat, furballs or excessive shedding, you may feel it is important to initiate a recommendation for a groomer at pick-up time. While we all hope a referral to a groomer would have been made at the cat’s wellness check, this simply isn’t the case in many veterinarian practices.
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE30
care and personality with the doctor I recommend. For example, the family who will go to extreme measures for their cat no matter the cost may not be best fitted to the veterinarian who takes the wait-and-see approach on medical care.
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Home Service Referrals
offices are referring to. When a cat is injured during a groom, either the groomer or owner will obviously take the cat in for medical care, making the veterinarian offices aware of the safer groomers in your area. I use these referrals as a guideline to the safer local groomers.Ithencall the recommended groomers and ask questions. The most important question, in my opinion, is to find out about the bathing process for cats as most accidents happen during the bath. The key here is to make sure the cats are getting a water bath without a grooming loop around their neck and are not being dipped into the water. A second area where accidents happen during grooming is related to the use of scissors. You may want to ask questions
about scissor use. In my business, I never use scissors as I find the feline’s unpredictable, random movements make using scissors too dangerous.
Product Referrals
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE32
Sometimes clients will see things used during boarding and ask for more information. This can include drinking fountains, cat furniture, cat beds or cat litter used in your facility. In my business, I have a webpage with the products I use to help clients find them easily. If a client is interested, it is easy for them to find the information, and it is even easier for me to refer them to the webpage.
The last area I like to have referrals available for is household service
The last area I like to have referrals available for is household service professionals. I have found over the years that people will randomly ask about who I use for miscellaneous repairs. On the top of my list is screen replacement.
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professionals. I have found over the years that people will randomly ask about who I use for miscellaneous repairs. On the top of my list is screen replacement. Cats love to climb screens. Another service professional that is important to have on your reference list is a good carpet cleaning company. Knowing who you like and why helps build client rapport and trust, especially when you can recommend a locally owned small business.
When you are directly asked for a referral, it can be easy to offer one. However, approaching a referral when you know it is something the cat needs and is not getting can be a little trickier. I like to start the conversation by stating my observations and asking if they have spoken to their professional about what was noticed during boarding. I give the clients time to express any opinions they may have regarding their current care team. If they seem unsatisfied, I let them know I may know someone who is a better fit for their family, then ask if they would be interested in a referral. I do include why I think the professional I am recommending is a good match for their family. Offering a referral when it is not asked for can be a delicate balancing act that takes practice.
33PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
When you run a business catering to cats, people who have questions about cat products and services are going to ask your opinion. It is always a good idea to have referrals in mind for your clients when they ask. It is also important to realize not all professionals are equal and that there may be a better fit for your client. Knowing how and when to approach the subject can improve the quality of life for the felines you board.
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PET BOARDING & DAYCARE34 PROFILE OF SUCCESS
“NO ISSUE IS NO IDEA IS TOO BIG!” TOO SMALL,
Rubenstein, as he is lovingly referred to, has been involved in pet care and training for twenty two years. His most recent endeavor is PUPS Pet Club, which he first opened in Chicago in December of 2015. In the last seven years, five more locations have been added in the Chicago area. And, in November 2022, they will open their first Club in New York.
Photos provided by Pups Pet Club
35PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
N
ot one day goes by where I don't think about the immense responsibility we have to our members," says Dan Rubenstein, founder and CEO of PUPS Pet Club. “After a tragic event at another pet care provider that took the life of my beloved St. Bernard, Sydney, I was inspired to start a dog daycare business. Right then and there, I made a promise that no pet parent would ever have to experience what I went through while their dog is in our “Doggiecare.”Dan”
“My vision was, and is, to create a national brand in the dog daycare space,” says Dan. “But, not just daycare, PUPS Pet Club is a total pet wellness center. For me, it's more than just building stores, or how many dogs you can care for, it's about helping people, helping dogs, and doing good for our community. And in order to do that,” Dan continues, “you need to understand this busi ness from the ground up. There's not a job in the business that I haven't done myself. It's a joy and a passion. I
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When you step into a PUPS Pet Club location, it is immediately evident that it's all about dogs and people. The Clubs are designed to provide safety, comfort and fun for the pups. Convenience and peace of mind for the pet parents are demonstrated by their open-door poli cy, lots of viewing windows in each club and webcams so pet parents can check in on their pets at any time.
love what we do every single day.”
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE36
Every customer becomes a member of the Club and can choose either a Basic, Plus or Premium membership level. There are complimentary mem berships that offer full access to Club services as well as paid memberships that offer additional benefits such as discounts, priority reservation booking, and perks like free holiday photo sessions and loyalty points (aka PUPS Bucks).
The fact that they offer the convenience
Convenience and peace of mind for the pet parents are demonstrated by their opendoor policy, lots of viewing windows in each club and webcams so pet parents can check in on their pets at any time.
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of many services under one roof is a real plus for the busy pet parents. All the Clubs have the standard services such as daycare, overnight care, dog walking, retail, grooming and training, but they also have specialized services like their Puppy Playcare, pet sitting (but not at the pet parent's home), daycare and walking combos, and some locations even have veterinary care available.
There are membershipscomplimentarythatofferfull access to Club services as well as paid memberships that offer additional benefits such as discounts, priority reservation booking, and perks like free holiday photo sessions and loyalty points (aka PUPS Bucks).
Whenbreaks.itcomes to pet sitting, PUPS takes a unique slant on it. The pet parents drop their dog off at one of the Clubs,
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Puppy Playcare is designed for pups up to twenty weeks of age. Puppies need socialization, so their area is located in the front of the Clubs right next to the Member Service Representatives. It's been a real lifesaver for working couples who, instead of leaving their puppies home alone all day while they are at work, can drop them off at a Club to play and socialize with people and other puppies. Their potty training is also reinforced by having them on a schedule of frequent potty
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“A lot of our members have rescue dogs,” Dan says. “Their hearts are in the right place when they adopt these dogs, but when they discover that their dog
Dan's own dog, JJ, is a rescue dog who was in the shelter system for two years. JJ is an accurate representation of the type of dog that many of the Club members have today.
then, instead of their dog staying over night in a Club suite, they go home with one of the Club's team members and stay overnight with them. This is espe cially popular for senior pets, puppies and dogs with separation anxiety who sometimes don't do well in a typical boarding situation, no matter how nice it is.Training
–Dan Rubenstein, founder and CEO of PUPS Pet Club.
“A lot of our members have rescue dogs. Their hearts are in the right place when they adopt these dogs, but when they discover that their dog has some unexpected challenges or undesirable behaviors, we are able to help them.”
services for all life stages of dogs are a big part of the Club's business. They have group classes, boot camps and also offer private training. The one-onone programs that are customized for the needs of each individual dog are some of their most sought-after services at the Clubs. Doggie Dan is a multi-certified Master Trainer and Behavior Consultant, and, likely the only CEO in the pet industry with a behavioral certification.
Their website, www.pupspetclub.com, contains everything that is in the mission statement. Website visitors can get their questions answered, see the different Clubs and make reservations. In addition, their blogs are filled with articles on pet care and packed with information about upcoming events and projects.
“When it comes to responding to our Club members’ needs,” Dan says. “No is sue is too small. Any question or concern a member has is addressed immediately by our highly trained staff. Our leadership
For those that want to learn advanced skills, PUPS provides a pathway through their onsite pet grooming academy or their behavioral training academy. These individualized apprenticeship programs provide training to any of the team mem bers who want to elevate their position into a trade profession.
41PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
members, as well as products and services that promote pet wellness, and Clubs that are fun, entertaining, clean and safe.
When Dan Rubenstein says, “No issue is too small, and no idea is too big,” he means it. That actually sums up his philosophy when he created PUPS Pet Clubs as total wellness centers. PUPS’ unparalleled customer service reinforces client satisfaction and creates member retention. The explosive growth and expansion of PUPS Pet Club into other market areas is only the beginning for Doggie Dan and his team. Let the tail-wagging begin!
Even accomplished trainers must go through the PUPS Training Academy. This ensures that everyone is onboard with PUPS Pet Club dog training phi losophy and methodology, and that the members get consistency from any trainer in the organization. It has always been PUPS Pet Club's mission to provide in formation, education and support to their
The team approach doesn’t stop with their trainers. All of the different depart ments communicate and work together to provide each pet with the services that will benefit it the most.
has some unexpected challenges or undesirable behaviors, we are able to help them. Daycare sometimes reveals those problems and behavior issues,” Dan continues. “Because we are a total wellness center with multiple services under one roof, we can step in and help with training where other facilities with limited services cannot. In addition, there is continuity in the services we offer, meaning from one trainer to the next, pet parents will have a very similar experience, making it easier for them to more quickly advance the training.”
knows that the team members who are taking care of the pups at the Clubs each and every day are the ones who have the biggest impact on our business,” Dan continues. “That's why we go above and beyond to promote the retention and advancement of our team members.”
2. Do not use a dark background.
A darker background with light type makes the eyes work harder and the viewer will fatigue quicker than if they are looking at a light background with dark type. Unless you're just using it for small blocks of copy here or there, keep the background light and your type dark.
1. Use contrast.
3. Avoid clutter.
By Fernando Camacho
THINK TANK Do you
YOUR BUSINESS? OR HUR HELPINGTING realize how important your website is? website is one the key factors in either moving people closer to a buying decision or repelling them from doing business with you.
Dark and light help the eyes lock onto things. White space draws the viewer into the key things you want them to see. Just make sure that there’s enough contrast between the background (I prefer white always) and the images on your site.
of
Try to keep it as minimalistic as you can. Don’t think about all the things you can add to your site; think about what you can take away.
My favorite example of this is Apple. Go to www.apple.com and think about what you see. Here is one of the biggest companies in the world, and look at how simple their site is. Look at all that con trast. Look at how clean it is. That’s a very
S
Here are some basic website tips that can make a huge difference:
Think of your website as your digital storefront, where people are going to pop in, have a look around and get introduced to your brand. If the experience isn't good (if your site isn't projecting the kind of image they like) you’ll lose them before they ever have a chance to see all the great ways you can be of service to them.
IS YOUR WEBSITE
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE42
I don't think you do… Your
imply put, it’s either helping you or hurting your business— nothing in between.
user-friendly website.
It's been scientifically proven that if people are given too many choices, they choose nothing rather than just making any choice. So, you can't give them too many options—specifically on your menu. You want to limit your menu to no more than five or six tabs, maximum. You can
different on every device. Fully responsive is not the same as mobile friendly. A lot of these templated site builders say that the site is mobile friendly, but if you look at it on a mobile device, it doesn't look quite right. It's not giving a good experience. Also, Google decided a couple of years ago that if your site is not fully responsive, they won't even show it in their search results. So, if someone searches dog daycare in your town and your site's not fully responsive, Google’s not
43PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
going to show it to them because Google wants to give the best experience possible.
That means the content will adapt to whatever device the viewer is looking at it on. If it's a phone, it's going to rearrange everything to optimize it to a phone. If it's a laptop, it's going to optimize it for a laptop. If it's a tablet, it'll move things around to look good on that size screen. It should look
5. Limit the number of choices.
4. It must, must (I cannot stress this enough), MUST be fully responsive.
It must, must (I cannot stress this enough), MUST be fully responsive. That means the content will adapt to whatever device the viewer is looking at it on.
have sub tabs under those main-menu options, but you want to keep it clean and easy for people to decide what to do.
typing out an email. Trusted by hundreds of pet businesses to SUPERCHARGE their www.ParagonPetSchool.comGROOMERS!YOURGROOMINGCONTROLgrooming!TAKEOFYOURBUSINESSGROWOWN • Personal Coaching • Employer Resources • Proven curriculum • Dedicated Support “Five star training has provided our grooming department a solution to staffing challenges, which paved the way for our most successful year yet.” - Katie Metzler, Holiday House Pet Resort
The obvious thing to do is to have your contact information plainly visible and easily accessible from every page of your website. You want to make it easy for peo ple to get the information they need and get all their questions answered as quickly as possible. The best way to do that is to install a chat widget on your site. These, hands-down, will get you the most conver sations and inquiries for your business.
One of the first things I do with a new client is install a chat widget on their existing website, and immediately people start reaching out. The reason chat widgets are so good is because we live in a text society. People are much more likely to text or to chat than they are to go to the trouble of calling or
Another place this often comes into play is with your pricing. I was looking at a client’s website a few years back and when I got to their pricing, I saw they had like 20 different options to choose from. I was dizzy just trying to sort it all out. We immediately cut it down to the bare minimum—just a handful of options— and it made it much easier for people to understand their choices and decide what the best option was for them. Overwhelm is never good for people making buying decisions. You want to make it very easy for them to make a choice.
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE44
6. Make it easy to communicate with your business.
It’s been scientifically proven that if people are given too many choices, they choose nothing rather than just making any choice. So, you can’t give them too many options—specifically on your menu.
Fernando Camacho (Fern) runs Overdog Digital, a digital marketing agency specializing in working with dog daycare and boarding facilities. He does private business consulting, staff training and helps
Take a good, hard, honest look at your website and see if it needs some improvement or maybe a complete rede sign. It’s a critical asset to your business that, if done poorly, can greatly affect your long-term success.
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conferences and private events. To join The Dog Daycare Business Think Tank or ask a question, go to: dogdaycarethinktankwww.facebook.com/groups/
pet businesses utilize modern resources to expand their customer base and grow their businesses. Fern is also the author of six books and is a speaker at national
Just putting a chat widget on your website will increase the number of inquiries you get from the organic traffic you're already getting on your website.
For most of the population, texting is their preferred mode of communication. You want to make it as easy for people as possible to communicate with your business, and you want to do it in the way that they prefer—not what you find easier.
Signs of Fear, Anxiety & Stress
MEDICATIONS
S
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE46
Pets may display a wide range of behaviors that demonstrate fear, anxiety and stress (FAS). Learning
ANIMAL HEALTH
By Kate Boatright, VMD
to read the body language of the pets in your care is an essential part of training for all staff. This will ensure both their safety and the safety of the pets they care for. This is especially important in pets who may be so fearful or anxious that they become aggressive.
ome pets coming to your boarding facility may happily arrive for their stay, but others may be more apprehensive and display signs of fear, anxiety or stress. For some pets, their level of anxiety necessitates medication. Recognizing signs of fear, anxiety and stress, and having a basic understanding of common medications pets may be coming to your facility on, can be helpful to keep both your staff and boarding pets safe and maximize client satisfaction.
the back of the enclosure, avoiding interaction, barking or panting excessively, drooling, jumping or lunging at the door, pacing or circling in the enclosure, or growl ing. Some dogs may chew on the enclosure door or destroy bedding material. Dogs who are known to be destructive should not have bedding material in their enclosure to avoid inadvertent ingestion and potential for gastrointestinal obstruction. Some dogs may also develop what is called stress colitis, or in flammation of the colon, secondary to fear, anxiety and stress. These pets will often present with diarrhea and may also vomit. If a pet in your facility has large amounts of
COMMON PET
Canine body language that may indicate FAS in dogs can include tucked tails, showing the whites of the eyes and/or having dilated pupils, flattened ears, crouching toward the ground, lifting the lip and showing teeth, or repetitively licking their lips. In addition, the range of behaviors that dogs may show when stressed in a boarding facility can include cowering in
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chronic behavioral situations, enrich ment and training are recommended, but medical interventions are needed in some cases. If the level of anxiety places the pet at risk of harm, causes destruc tion of property or creates an unsafe
situational medications may be chosen. For pets with anxiety due to multiple or
There is a range of medical options for the management of anxiety, including
medications and daily maintenance med ications. When the trigger of the anxiety
vomiting and diarrhea, they should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out other causes, but stress should be a con sideration. Current recommendations for stress colitis management include bland diets and probiotics.
as happy so it’s important to interpret body language along with the cat’s behavior. Fearful cats may cower in the back of the cage, try to hide under blankets or behind objects, or they may become aggressive and growl, hiss or
enough of a calming effect to create a pleasant boarding experience. There are numerous products available both over the counter and from veterinary clinics. If a pet is on a supplement for anxiety regularly, they should continue it duringPro,
Feline body language that indicates fear, anxiety & stress includes ears that are out to the side or pinned, dilated pupils, legs pulled tight under the body, arched back, and tail tucked tightly against body or flicking.
pets receive both types of medications. There are also numerous supplements available that pet owners may choose to
plements generally have a wide range of safety and some can be increased in higher stress situations, such as during a
49PET BOARDING & DAYCARE
Other pet parents may use CBD or hemp products. These products vary state to state in availability, and while there are anecdotal reports of positive impacts on reducing anxiety, there is minimal research to back this up. Regardless, these products are widespread and may be brought with some of your boarders, so it is good to be aware they exist.
Situational Behavioral Medications
• Trazodone has both sedative and anxiolytic effects. It is most com monly used in dogs, though cats can receive it at well. Typically, it needs to be dosed every 8-12 hours during the boarding stay.
• Gabapentin is a pain medication that can have sedative effects at high er doses. It is most commonly used as a sedative in cats or combined with other medications in dogs.
It is important to note that situation al medications can have anxiolytic ef fects, sedative effects or both. Sedatives are most commonly prescribed for pets who are aggressive and pose a risk to those handling them, such as
• Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication that is used as an anx iolytic and can be sedating. In rare
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Common situational medications include:
Another product that can work well to calm cats is Feliway®, a feline pheromone derivative available in many forms including diffusers and sprays. Spraying cages and blankets or having a diffuser in your cat room can help to calm your feline boarders. A similar product is available for dogs called Adaptil® and is available in collar, spray and diffuser forms.
Ideally, these medications are ad ministered prior to the anxiety trigger and should be started at home before arrival at the boarding facility. Many of these medications have a wide dosage range and each pet can react differently. Some veterinarians will recommend a test dose of the medication at home prior to using it in an anxiety-triggering situation so that the pet’s individual reaction can be monitored and dosing adjustments can be made if needed.
at a veterinarian office or for pets who need to remain calm after a veterinary procedure like a surgery. Ideally, if the pet has anxiety contributing to their behavior, the sedative used should also have anxiolytic effects.
For pets whose anxiety has a specific, predictable trigger, such as boarding, vet erinary visits or fireworks and other loud noises, situational medications can be a great option. These medications tend to be effective within an hour or two of admin istration and have a rather short duration, usually between six and 12 hours.
Errors in medication can happen— even to the most careful, well-trained staff. If a dose of a behavioral medica tion is missed, give the next scheduled dose as planned. In cases of an acciden tal overdose, monitor the pet closely. The good news is that most behavioral medications are fairly safe, and a double dose is unlikely to cause major harm.
Repeated double dosing or a larger overdose are more concerning. Potential side effects from overdoses can include excess sedation, vomiting and diarrhea, hypersalivation, or agi tation and restlessness. In more severe overdoses, tremors, muscle rigidity and seizures can happen. If an overdose has occurred, consult your preferred veterinarian or call a pet-specific poison control hotline for advice.
blood levels. Because of their long onset of action, they would not be prescribed because of an upcoming boarding stay, but pets on daily doses of these medications will need to continue them during their stay. Common mainte nance medications include fluoxetine, clomipramine, paroxetine, sertraline, buspirone and amitriptyline.
Maintenance Behavioral Medications
PET BOARDING & DAYCARE50
cases, pets can become more aggres sive or hyperactive on it, so test doses at home are strongly recommended. This medication may only last for 4-6 hours after administration.
• Acepromazine is an older sedative that has fallen out of favor for many veterinarians due to its lack of anxiolytic properties. Pets receiving this medication have a potential for low blood pressure, so accidental
Managing a Dosing Error
Client Communication
If a pet in your facility is experienc ing significant anxiety that is impairing their wellbeing or putting your staff at risk, it is important to discuss with the owner what should be done during the remainder of the stay or for future stays. Be honest with the owner about the pet’s behavior and suggest they consult with their veterinarian to discus medication options for the future. Ultimately, the pet owner, pet and staff will be happier when highly anxious pets have medication to help keep them calm during their boarding stay.
For pets whose anxiety has multiple, frequent or unpredictable triggers, daily maintenance medications are recom mended. These medications generally are given once or twice a day and take several weeks to reach full therapeutic
overdoses can be more serious than with other drugs.
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For veterinarians and staff alike, PetVet Magazine is sure to inspire and educate, as well as highlight the incredible industry of veterinary medicine and the wonderful people that make up the veterinary community. PETVET MAGAZINE IS THE ONLY ANDFOCUSPUBLICATIONVET-CENTEREDWHOSEISLESSCLINICALMOREPERSONAL! A ProfessionalsPetPracticalGuideforHealth WWW. PETVETMAGAZINE .COM PETVET MAGAZINE I love my Spectra S2 pump for work! Nursing pads- I would constantly leak through my clothes without them! There is something so special about knowing that your whole body is pouring out the love for your baby that you have in your heart. D r S a r a s Must-Have B r e a s t fe e d n g P r o d u c t s antibiotics. It has been tough journey, but the nourishment Leah receives and the bond we share is so worth it. There is something so special about knowing that your whole body is pouring out the love for your baby that you have in your heart. Have you experienced any bias because of breastfeeding? think the public is gradually becoming more accepting of breastfeeding, but there is still work that needs to be done. Breasts are so over-sexualized in our culture that many people still think of breastfeeding as something that needs to be hidden away, either under a nursing cover or in a special nursing room, like the one at church I am expected to go to every time my baby gets hungry during a church service. In many other cultures, no one looks at you twice when you use your breasts for the very purpose they were designed for—feeding babies! How great would it be if our culture could get to this point, too? Do you have advice for those considering breastfeeding? Read as much as you can about breastfeeding before you have the baby! spent a lot of time learning about giving birth, but naively thought that breastfeeding would "just come naturally," and was not very well informed about the problems we ended up having. Also, find good lactation consultant! was lucky enough to give birth at a hospital where – Dr. Sara Pilgrim continued on page 24 PETVET MAGAZINE Asahyper–efficientveterinarian, babytohighBriggsForcouldIwastryingtoprepareasmuchasIpriortomyone–and–onlychild.thoseofyouguyswhoknowMyers–personalityscoring,I’mapretty“J”(e.g.,analretentive),soIwantedbeasorganizedaspossibleforthisthing.Boy,wasIinforasurprise. What didn’t find? Life hacks for the work-ing veterinary mom. So here are my top5 life hacks for the working veterinaryparent (and yes, this applies to you dads, too.) VWORKINGETERINARYPARENT5 Ah, the pacifier. All the books say that babies getnipple confusion and not to give them a pacifierfor one month. I learned all my mom friendshad introduced pacifierafter day two…while in thehospital. I’m so rule–abiding,I waited for one month—but regret not start-ing sooner! All thoselong nights…why didn’tsomeone tell me it was ok to start earlier?! IT'S OK TO INTRODUCE THE PACIFIER I prepared as much as could by reading all theparenting and baby books early. But there are somelies in the books that no one fills you in on—andI’ll share the two biggest right now. First, “skin toskin.” Really? You don’t think your baby is going tonaturally bond to you? You don’t need to strip thebaby out of his PJ’s and unswaddle at night whilebreastfeeding. That’s what was doing; maximizingthe skin to skin by unswaddling, breastfeeding,changing the diaper, and re–swaddling…and nowI had a totally awake baby. After my sixth week ofdoing this, the teacher of my mom’s group yelled atour whole group of new moms. “NO,” she replied.“Slather ton of baby diaper rash cream on, feedwith the lights off, and let him sleep off the milkcoma.” You don’t read that in any baby books! DON’T UNSWADDLE AT NIGHT BEFORE 30 DAYS PHOTOBYLesliePlesser LIFE HACKS FOR THE By Justine Lee, DACVECC, DABT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Two million people are infected with resistant strainsof bacteria and 23,000 deaths result from anti-biotic resistance in the U.S. each year, accordingto Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)estimates.Whatmakes this troubling statistic important to theveterinary community, other pet care professionals andpet owners is that two relatively common bacteria speciesthat have resistant strains, Campylobacter and Salmonella,are also common in many pets. While these are not clas-sified by the CDC as urgent threats of greatest concern tohuman health, they are considered serious threat.One example is 2016 outbreak of antibiotic-resistantcampylobacteriosis that involved 113 patients in 17 states,and was determined to be linked to puppies.Instances like this, along with the fact that resistantstrains of bacteria are developing at increasingly rapidrates and outpacing the introduction of new antibiotics,has caused public health officials and the pet care com-munity to actively address the issue of responsible use ofantibiotics in companion animals.“Recognizing that antibiotic resistant germs are agrowing and serious health risk to both humans andanimals, last year PIJAC committed to work with thepet care community to create best management practicesto combat AMR as part of our participation in the RAntimicrobialesistance NEW PET HEALTHADDRESSWORKSRESOURCECOMMUNITYCARETORISKS
By Gwyn Donohue
The expo will kick off Monday afternoon with the four-hour certificate program “Professional Pet Boarding Infectious Disease Management Certification,” which is packed with the most up-to-date information on infectious canine and feline diseases.
So, if you’re ready to watch your business thrive, everything that this year’s Pet Boarding & Daycare Expo has to offer is sure to get you on your way!
Seminars will continue all day Tuesday through Thursday covering a variety of topics, all specific to the boarding and daycare industry. Packages are available for the full schedule of education, or you can pick and choose which classes interest you.
For more information or to register, visit www.PetBoardingExpo.com
All aspects of boarding and daycare will be covered by top industry experts, which include animal behaviorists, trainers, marketing gurus, builders and designers, veterinarians, and business consultants. And, there is education geared to all levels, from multi-facility owners to entry-level staff.
boarding pioneer or new business owner—will greatly benefit from attending.
Thrive! Business
he number one industry event for boarding and daycare professionals returns this November to Hershey, PA!
and daycare EXPO November 7-10, 2022 Absorb, Apply & Watch Your PET BOARDING & DAYCARE52
Monday evening we welcome everyone to attend the Keynote Address, “We’ve Come a Long Way: The Evolution, Expansion and Resilience of the Pet Care Industry,” presented by Teija Heikkilä, a well-known innovator of the pet care industry. Following the Keynote Address, will be a meet & greet hosted by PET|VET Sales & Services where you can enjoy a drink and socialize with other attendees.
There will be additional opportunities to socialize and share stories with others in the business, including the Live Oak Cocktail Party on Tuesday evening, Happy Hour with First Financial Bank on Wednesday evening, and the Kennel Connection Round Table Luncheons on Wednesday and Thursday.
Despite rising gas prices and inflation across all industries, pet owners continue to travel, leaving the pet care industry booming. For most, we are past simply try ing to get clients through our doors and make ends meet, and are now struggling with retaining quality staff and coming up with new ways to accommodate and entertain our influx of guests.
INDUSTRY NEWS
T
The education that this year’s expo has to offer is invaluable to running your business to its full potential. With an overall focus on innovation and working smarter, not harder, everyone in the industry—whether a pet
And, don’t forget about the trade show! Wednesday and Thursday will feature an industry trade show with lots of vendors offering everything you may need for your business, including products, consulting services, builders, software, and so much more.
THE HERSHEY LODGE & CONVENTION CENTER - HERSHEY, PA W W W . P E T B O A R D I N G E X P O . C O M
STUFF-ABLE PET BEDS
BARKERFUN TREAT CLINCHER The Treat Clincher was developed for functionality and sustainability, and is a safe and effective way to allow dogs to chew on bully sticks, bones, or other treats. No more holding a bully stick with your hands or pliers. No more slobber on your carpets or buried treasures in your backyard. No more worry about pets swallowing unchewed chunks or choking. Constructed from solid aluminum and stainless steel, the Treat Clincher holds treats up off the ground in its patented “clincher.” Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it is safe to use on fine furniture and strong enough for outdoor picnic tables. One size for all dogs. Made in America. www.barkerfun.com
Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up. Proverbs 12:25 • NIV BIBLE
54 NEW
MOLLYPRODUCTSMUTTSUSTAINABLE,
Molly Mutt’s eco-conscious, easy-to-clean and durable beds have 100% cotton canvas covers and can be paired with “stuff sacks” or wool inserts, and protective liners. Stuff sacks can be filled with socks, shirts and pillows—making anxious pets feel at home by having their owner’s scent nearby. Stuffed beds result in 85% less CO2 emissions than traditional beds, and wool bed inserts result in 63% less emissions. Beds are available for crates and open spaces, and come in a variety of sizes and original designs. For more information or to order, visit www.mollymutt.com
