Slow-Roasted & Freeze-Dried Beef Liver
ZORA’S BEST FRIENDZ

Single-ingredient human-grade dog treat made with 100% beef liver. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, beef liver improves digestive function, boosts the immune system, and promotes strong bones, muscles and teeth. Slow-roasted and freeze-dried. Clean processing to preserve nutritional integrity. No gluten, grain fillers, additives, preservatives or dyes. Sourced in the U.S. Woman-owned and -operated company. 3 ounces.

zorasbest.com, ruff@zorasbest.com

$12.99

Hip & Joint Jerky Dog Treats
DOGSWELL

Chewy functional jerky containing high protein along with glucosamine, chondroitin and nutrients to promote hip and joint health. Real beef, chicken or duck is the first ingredient, helping to maintain muscle mass and delivering a meaty flavor. Supplemented with antioxidant vitamin E for healthy canine organs and body. No added sugar or artificial ingredients. Made in the U.S. For all dog sizes. 10 ounces.

dogswell.com, tom.keywork@whitebridgepet.com

$22.99

Sustain-A-Bars
TUESDAY’S NATURAL DOG COMPANY

Treats created from black soldier fly larvae grubs. Unique and sustainable source of easily digestible protein, fiber, vitamins (B1, B2, C), minerals (calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron) and healthy fats. Similar texture to crunchy protein bars, easily broken into smaller pieces for training. Low fat, with all-natural ingredients. In Sweet Potato and Chicken. Free samples by request. 3.5 ounces. A Pet Sustainability Accredited business.

tuesdaysnaturaldogcompany.com, info@tuesdaysnaturaldogcompany.com

$9.99

Churu Meal Topper
INABA FOODS (USA) INC.

Easy-to-digest creamy purée. Contains vitamins A and E, folic acid and zinc, plus green-tea extract. No grains, preservatives or artificial colors. Use as topper, hide medications, add to feeders or toys, or freeze into a cool, hydrating treat. Packaged in convenient tubes to promote bonding. In Chicken, Tuna, Chicken With Beef, Chicken With Cheese, Chicken With Pumpkin, Chicken With Salmon, and Tuna With Beef. 3 or 4 tubes. 2-5.07 ounces.

inabafoods.com, (310) 818-2270

$3.99/$6.99

Brutus Bone Broth Biscuits
BRUTUS BONE BROTH

Oven-baked and crafted with real meat and functional bone broth for flavor, crunch and nutrition. Includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. High in protein. 100% all-natural, no preservatives or artificial colors. New flavor Pork & Apple joins new formulas of Chicken and Beef. For dogs of all sizes. Made in the U.S. 8 ounces. Women-owned company.

brutusbroth.com, brutusbonebroth@brutusbroth.com

$9.98

Plant Snacks
HONEST TO GOODNESS

Fruits and vegetables harnessed into functional treats. Includes probiotics and marine microalgae oil for health support. Veterinarian developed. Five condition-specific recipes: Happy Feet for healthy mobility, Mellow Belly for delightful digestion, Way to Glow for shiny and luscious hair, Golden Years for senior support, Good Vibes for comforting support, Buddy Boost for superhero immunity. Natural ingredients. Made in the U.S. 8 ounces.

honest2goodness.com, sales@honest2goodness.com, (800) 628-9653

$11.99

Freeze-Dried Cheese Dog Treats
WAGWELL

Simple snacks from a single ingredient: pasteurized, human-grade cheese. Freeze-dried to preserve natural flavor. Use as a training treat, topper or snack. Free from grain, fillers and preservatives. All natural, with no wheat, corn or soy. Microbe- and taste-tested. Formulated with vets. Also in Freeze-Dried Fully Cooked Beef Dog Treats. Made in the U.S. 5 ounces.

wagwellpet.com, wholesale@wagwellpet.com, (877) 751-4534

$17

Sam’s Yams Sweet Potato Dog Chewz
FRONT PORCH PETS

All-natural rawhide alternative for all-sized dogs. Made from 100%-U.S. sweet potatoes with patented ridges for dental health. Slow-dried in Wisconsin. High in fiber and beta-carotene. Grain-free, gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO. Sales teams available for questions 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST weekdays. Sales materials, shelf-talkers. 14 ounces.

frontporchpets.com, info@frontporchpets.com, (800) 922-2968

$16.69

Noochies! Freeze-Dried Dog Snacks
NOOCHIES!

High-protein, single-ingredient, freeze-dried treats loaded with essential B vitamins and high in fiber. Made with patented sustainable Bmmune nutritional yeast blend with fermented proteins. Super-savory taste, no meat. Low calorie. Great for immune, digestive and heart health. No pathogens, hormones, antibiotics, by-products or GMOs. Perfect for training. 3 ounces. Also in Freeze-Dried Cat Snacks.

noochies.co, kevin@noochies.co, (650) 678-2116

$13.98

Fishy Bites
ICELANDIC+

Perch-and-herring recipe, small fish crackers full of flavor and omega-3. High protein from wild-caught fish. Slow-baked for crunch with limited ingredients. No grains or artificial colors, fillers or preservatives. Great as training rewards. 2 ounces. Retailer training and product information cards.

icelandicplus.com, sales@icelandicplus.com, (857) 246-9559

$7.99

Beef Training Bites
MOMENTUM CARNIVORE NUTRITION

High-protein, low-calorie, two-ingredient dog treats to support healthy training and bonding. Crafted from premium beef kidney and beef heart, freeze-dried to retain maximum flavor and nutrition. Grain- and gluten-free. Sized for easy carrying and quick reward. 2 calories per bite. For all life stages. Also in Pork, Chicken and Turkey. Made in the U.S. 2.5 ounces.

momentumcn.com, (920) 374-4423

$11.99

Moodog Beef Protein Puffs With Bacon
PALZ&CO

Crunchy dog treats made with beef, powdered bacon and bacon oil. Packed with essential nutrients and collagen to support joint health, make skin glow and coat shine. Easy to digest. Promotes dental health. 100% natural, no additives, artificial colors or grains. Also in Bone Broth, Yak Cheese, Goat Milk, Pumpkin and Oats. 1 ounce.

palzandco.com, info@palzandco.com, (323) 268-1888

$5.99

Nuggets
CHARLEE BEAR

Crunchy outside, soft inside nuggets crafted with wholesome ingredients for health support. Protein-rich chickpeas are the first ingredient. In Bearcuterie Bites, P.B. & Beary Parfait, Shepherd’s Pie, Sunny Side Up and Straw-Beary Swirl. Grain-free. Less than 4 calories per treat. Made in the U.S. 6 ounces. Line new in 2025. Family-owned company.

charleebear.com, info@charleebear.com, (800) 880-2327

$9.99

Chicken Breast Tenders
LOVING PETS

Real meat jerky treats made from U.S.-sourced chickens. No grain, gluten, wheat or corn, or artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. For small through large breeds. Made in the U.S. 6 and 24 ounces. Family-owned and -operated company.

lovingpetsproducts.com, (609) 655-3700

$9.99/$29.99

The post Bone Broth Biscuits, Protein Puffs, Plus 12 More Dog Treats for Your Pet Store appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Forager Mat
PET PARENTS

These slow-feeder snuffle mats support gradual feeding and mental stimulation. Made of soft and non-irritating material to keep pet noses, gums and tongues safe while foraging for food, and with an anti-sliding back that hugs the floor. Meadow Ponds engages scent and sight (with alternating blue and gray), while the more challenging Forest (above, gray only) engages just scent. Durable and machine washable. 12 by 18 inches and 19 by 21 inches.

petparentswholesale.com, sales@petparentsbrand.com

$24.99/$32.99

Bullysafe
WOOF

Durable chew holder grasps bully sticks for a safer, longer-lasting chewing experience. Securely holds small to large chews, including BullySafe Collagen Chews, plus yak milk chews and tendons. Prevents dogs from swallowing ends, which can be a choking hazard. Made of durable, non-toxic nylon. Lifetime warranty. Line also includes the sustainably sourced, single-ingredient Woof BullySafe Collagen Chews that fit into the holder.

mywoof.com, wholesale@mywoof.com

$19.99

Pearl Toys
CATENARY HOME

Three-pack of pearl enrichment toys for cats with refillable holes for treats or catnip. Handcrafted in Nepal from machine-washable, 100% all-natural, pet-safe wool. White, Cream and Chocolate color combo. Designed in the U.S. 1.5 inches each. One packet of catnip included. High-resolution imagery and descriptive copy available for retail marketing efforts.

catenaryhome.com, wicksie@catenaryhome.com

$25

Magic Carpet
DEZI & ROO

This versatile plastic sheet crinkles, rustles and moves as cats scratch, paw and jump on it. Also good for feline napping, burrowing and foraging. Soft and easy for cats to tear and shred. No assembly required, it’s affordable, simple to store and dispose of. In Green, Blue, Purple and Red. 50 by 54 inches. Company created by feline-only veterinarian, focusing on innovative and interactive toys just for cats.

deziroo.com, info@deziroo.com

$6.99

Honeycomb Balance Toy
MAXBONE

A stress releaser and boredom buster, the honeycomb-shaped treat dispenser creates a fun and interactive experience for dogs. The strong, bite-resistant rubber toy can be stuffed with food or wet treats and/or put in the freezer for a longer-to-eat frozen treat. Made from non-toxic, BPA-free, food-grade silicone. Designed for dogs of all ages. Dishwasher safe. 4.5 by 4 inches.

maxbone.com, em@maxbone.com

$20

The Hunting Snacker
ETHICAL PRODUCTS, INC.

The toy mouse allows cats to instinctively hunt, catch and play with their food. Its dispensing hole fills with food or treats and adjusts size to decrease or increase the hunting challenge. Load the snacker with food and hide to engage cats in their natural behaviors. Helps with feline boredom, lethargy and weight problems. Created by award-winning inventor and veterinarian Liz Bales. 3.5 by 1.5 inches.

ethicalpet.com, (800) 223-7768

$8.99

Waudog Silicone Slow Feeding Bowl
COLLAR COMPANY

Stop pets from eating too quickly, bloating and choking on their food with the specially shaped silicone feeding bowl that helps food consumption take up to six times longer. Made of high-quality, pet-safe, food-grade silicone, it’s easy to clean and dishwasher safe. Powerful suction cups securely fix the bowl to any surface. In Pink, Gray, Blue and Yellow. 15 and 25 ounces. Family-owned, Ukrainian-based business.

collar.com, vp_us@collar.com

$21.19/$24.69

Foraging Mat For Dogs
TALL TAILS

Silicone slow-feeder mat for dogs comes in three connecting styles: Grass, Clover and Rock. Can use with kibble, wet food, spreadables or treats to slow down dog feeding for better digestion. Overlapping edges allow each piece to join together to create larger feeding surface. Skid-resistant bottom. Made of 100% food-grade silicone, no BPA or phthalates. Dishwasher top-rack safe. 8.5 by 8.5 inches each. Family-owned business.

talltailsdog.com, talltailsdog.com/wholesale

$19.99

Purrfect Playtime Mat
P.L.A.Y.

Interactive cat mat with crinkles, dangly fabrics and hidden catnip pocket promotes all-day play. Refillable pouch comes with certified-organic catnip grown in Washington by Mountain Rose Herbs. Non-slip bottom ensures stability. Double-layer exterior with double-stitched edges for durability. Made from upcycled fabrics. Machine washable and dryer friendly with catnip removed. AZO-free dyes. Meets same strict quality standards for infant and children’s products. 18 by 18 inches.

shop.playb2bwholesale.com, sales@petplay.com, (855) 300-7529

$17

The post Grow Your Pet Enrichment Selection So Customers Do, Too!  appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Birthday Collection
THOOZYPET

Birthday/Gotcha Day collection for in-store celebration stations, with a mix of crinkle, squeak and rope toys that match all dog sizes and play styles. Retailers can curate from 15 SKUs, including three-scoop ice cream cone, five-layer cake, balloon with rope, bones, candles with rope, cupcake, donut with rope, birthday gift, hats, multi-squeaker caterpillar and sprinkle tennis balls three-pack. 5.5 to 21 inches. 55% margins. Line new for 2025.

petpalette.com, (410) 795-4444

$7.99-$13.99

Li’l Pals 3-Pack Dog Toy Combos
COASTAL PET PRODUCTS, INC.

Mini plush-toy combos feature different shapes and textures in nature or food whimsical styles. Trio themes include Under the Sea, Secret Garden, Fiesta (above), Outer Space and Honey Bee. Each toy contains an interactive squeaker. Durably constructed. Specially crafted for puppies and small dogs.

coastalpet.com, customerservice@coastalpet.com, (330) 821-7363

$10.99

Active Handler Regular Tug Toy
N-GAGE BRAND

Features leash-type handle with high-quality ballistic nylon, triple-stitched with reflective piping and a soft, comfortable inside. Handle attaches to a thermoplstic rubber ball with holes for breathability and rigorous water and land play. Bright ball color makes it easy to spot. Also new to the ACTIVE line, the Active Bungee Handler. 12.2 by 3.5 by 3.5 inches and .4 pounds.

ngagebrand.com, paul@ngagebrand.com

$15.99

Kaleidoscope Rope Dude
PETSPORT USA, INC.

Colorful, non-abrasive and durable braided jersey rope toy with Tuff Ball as head to engage dogs while keeping teeth and gums clean. Tuff Ball has thick, natural rubber walls to enhance durability and bounce. For medium-sized dogs who like fetching, tossing and tugging. Rope made from excess garment industry material. Certified nontoxic, meets U.S. child toy-safety standards. Ball 2.5 inches. Rope 16 inches.

petsport.com, mail@petsport.com

$11.29

Boundr
WEST PAW

Hollow core and lightweight design, with a squishy feel that encourages dogs to chew, chase and fetch. Easy hand-throwing texture, but fits into standard ball throwers. Floats in water. Non-toxic and dishwasher safe. In Aqua Blue, Dandelion Yellow, Hot Pink, and Glow (in-the-dark). Made with zero waste and infinitely recyclable Zogoflex material, recyclable through Join the Loop program. Backed by West Paw’s Love it Guarantee. 2.5 inches each in two-pack. Certified B Corp, Pet Sustainability Coalition founding member.

westpaw.com, westpaw.com/pages/retailers

$17.95

Zippy Burrow Pan Dulce Box
ZIPPYPAWS

Interactive plush pan dulce box from the ZippyPaws Panadería contains a trio of sweet-bread mini treats with squeakers. Stuff the mini treat toys into a hole inside the box for a dog to pull out in an engaging game of hide-and-seek. Helps prevent boredom, promotes mental stimulation. One round squeaker in each plush treat. Burrow 6.5 by 6 by 4 inches.

zippypaws.com, sales@zippypaws.com, (909) 606-6094

$14.99

Tuffer Chewer Mini Refillable Juananip Toys
DOGGIJUANA

Refillable line of mini tough toys encourages chew play and relaxation with built-in Velcro pouches to place Juananip — pet-safe, organic catnip — for dogs to scent. Rope interiors and tough fabric exteriors with reinforced edges. 5-gram tube of Juananip included with each toy. Full line of toys includes Watermelon, Pizza, Pumpkin Spice Latte and Pupcorn. Catnip grown in the U.S. and Canada.

doggijuana.com, wholesale@doggijuana.com, (888) 289-6369

$12.99

Tik Tak Tugzz
JOLLY PETS

For teething puppies up to strong chewers, the X- and O-shaped braided rope toys feature tightly woven fibers that floss teeth as dogs chew and play. Unique designs crafted from durable, knotted, polyblend rope to withstand hours of tugging. Interactive or solo play: X allows multiple dogs to engage at once, and O is easy to grab and carry. S, L.

jollypets.com, cservice@jollypets.com, (800) 232-7950

$7.99–$17.99

Power Chew Donut Dog Toy
NYLABONE

Savory-flavored donut toy satisfies dogs’ chewing instinct, promoting non-destructive chewing habits while relieving boredom, stress and anxiety. Made from the toughest nylon material for powerful chewers, its sprinkle-like texture also helps clean teeth. Features bacon-glazed flavor throughout. Center indentation allows for spreadable treats to be added for more engagement. M for dogs up to 35 pounds. 4 by 4 by 1 inch. Family-founded brand.

nylabone.com, junger@tfh.com, (855) 273-7527

$13.99

The post Stock a Toy for Every Dog Who Visits Your Store appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Complete Balanced Dinner For Ferrets & Exotic Pets
EVANGER’S

Single source-protein diet in Beef, Chicken and Turkey. Maximum meat and high-moisture content. High-quality, locally sourced ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals. No grain, gluten, fillers, preservatives or carbs. U.S. made. BPA-free 100% infinitely recyclable cans. In 12 6-ounce cans.

evangerspetfood.com, (847) 537-0102

$28

Fluval AC Performance Power Filters
ROLF C. HAGEN USA CORP

Proven multi-stage cleaning for water quality and clarity with CycleGuard beneficial bacteria support to preserve nitrogen cycle. Redesigned easy-access media basket and all-new intake sponge for quick maintenance. Five models cover 5- to 110-gallon aquariums.

fluvalaquatics.com, newcustomers@rchagen.com, (800) 353-3444

$43.99-$129.99

Minivore Delite
HIKARI

Small, sponge-like sinking pellets with scientifically balanced, color-enhancing ingredients to help baby or smaller carnivorous fish and axolotl maintain good form. Offers higher caloric content without unwanted side effects of live food. Daily diet, full of flavor and texture. Sales assistance and sampling options are available. 1.41 ounces.

hikariusa.com, fish@hikariusa.com, (800) 621-5619

$9.99

Critter Connection Small Animal Cage
WARE PET PRODUCTS

Offers 8 square feet of livable space for rabbits and guinea pigs with easy-to-assemble connection-pan system, dual-entry hideout, ramp shelf, 16-ounce water bottle and hay rack. Two large side-entry points with double slide latches, two large cage-top entries, and eight casters for easy mobility. Ships in retail shelf-friendly box. 35 by 35 by 19.5 inches.

warepet.com, (602) 257-8803

$229.99

Optibright Smart LED Light
AQUEON

Slim, low-profile aquarium light customizable with free Aqueon BlueIQ app. App controls white, blue and color LEDs, and adjusts light intensity in 1% increments with a slider bar. Customizable 24-hour default schedule of sunrise, day, sunset and night, plus weather effects. Blue illumination on fixture top for elevated ambiance. Full-spectrum lighting for fresh and saltwater medium- to high-light plants. 18 by 24 inches, 30 by 36 inches and 48 by 54 inches.

aqueon.com, (888) 255-4527

$124.99-$179.99

The post Focus on These Products for Smaller Furry and Finned Pets appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Grain-Free Recipe With Turkey, Salmon and Duck
NOW FRESH

Senior-cat formula carefully balances protein and fat levels for healthy weight. With fresh turkey, salmon and duck for easily digested protein, plus L-carnitine for fat burning. Probiotic and fiber-rich pumpkin aid with digestion. Antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, such as cranberries and carrots, support a healthy weight and immune system. Taste satisfies the pickiest of palates. Minimally processed and no grain, by-products, meat meals or artificial preservatives. 3, 8 and 16
pounds.

nowfresh.com, info@petcurean.com

$23.99-$83.99

Raw-Coated Kibble Cage-Free Chicken Recipe
STELLA & CHEWY’S

Protein-focused, freeze dried-coated kibble with cage-free chicken as first ingredient, for pet parents interested in freeze-dried raw and grain-free options. Includes probiotics for optimal digestion and omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. No by-product meal. All life stages. 2.5, 5 and 10 pounds. Raw-coated kibble recipes also in Kitten Cage-Free Chicken, Cage-Free Duck, Wild-Caught Salmon.

stellaandchewys.com, reddoor@stellaandchewys.com

$14.99-$37.99

Limited Ingredient Chicken & Green Pea Recipe
NATURAL BALANCE

Crafted for adult cats with ingredient sensitivities, chicken is the first ingredient and the single-animal protein. Complete-and-balanced nutrition supports full-body health. No grains, wheat or soy. Green peas, chickpeas and lentils provide fiber for digestive health. Omega-3 and omega-6 support healthy skin and coat. 4, 10 and 15 pounds.

naturalbalanceinc.com, info@naturalbalanceinc.com

$27.98-$49.98

Premium Market Fresh
FUSSIE CAT

Fresh recipe and packaging on nutritionally complete kibble known for satisfying picky felines. Grain free, with meat or fish as first ingredient, plus antioxidant-rich blueberries, chickpeas for fiber, and added vitamins and minerals. In Salmon, Salmon & Chicken, Chicken & Turkey, Turkey, Duck. Made in FDA-registered U.S. kitchen with globally sourced ingredients. POP materials, incentives and in-store training. 3.5 and 10 pounds.

fussiecat.com, retailer.inquiries@pets-global.com

$12.99-$43.99

Duck Meal Recipe For Cats & Kittens
GRANDMA MAE’S COUNTRY NATURALS

Protein-rich, urinary-support formula with high-quality duck meal and brown rice. High levels of methionine raise urine acidity to break down crystals and reduce inflammation and infections. No GMOs, white potatoes, fish, dairy, corn, soy, wheat, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors. Gap ISO discounts, Astro Loyalty and high IMAPs. Training, shelf-talkers, POP. 3, 6 and 12 pounds. Indie founded and operated.

grandmamaes.com, info@grandmamaes.com

$15.99-$46.99

Limited Rabbit Recipe For Cats
RAWZ NATURAL PET FOOD

Grain-free, single-protein recipe from real rabbit, along with easily digestible ingredients and marine microalgae oil. Features freeze-dried raw rabbit coating on every kibble bite. No eggs, potatoes, corn, rendered fat, dairy, wheat, soy or canola oil. For adult cats. 100% of profits donated to cat and dog rescues, providing for service dogs, spinal cord and traumatic-brain injury causes. Family-owned business. 1.75, 3.5 and 7.8 pounds.

rawznaturalpetfood.com, (844) 480-8672

$17.99-$66.99

Born Carnivore High Protein Deboned Chicken & Egg Dry Food
TIKI CAT

With 43% protein and first-ingredient chicken, the high-protein, grain-free and low-carb diet includes nutrient-rich superfoods such as ground whole flaxseed, pumpkin and salmon oil. Contains gentle fibers, omega-3 and omega-6. Baked to preserve nutrients and flavor. No GMO or processed-plant proteins for optimal digestibility. 2.8, 5.6 and 11.1 pounds. Also in High Protein Chicken, Herring & Salmon Meal.

tikicat.com, (866) 821-8562

$23.99-$52.99

Nulo Freestyle
NULO

Grain-free, turkey-and-duck recipe with 84% animal-based proteins, low-carbohydrate levels, and advanced probiotics for digestive and immune health. Maintains lean muscles without excess calories to benefit overall health, digestion and kidney function. Contains omega-3 and omega-6 for healthy skin and coat, plus vitamin A and taurine to support vision and heart function. Easy-to-eat small, disk-shaped kibble. For growing kittens to adults. 2, 4 and 14 pounds.

nulo.com, customercare@nulo.com, (512) 476-6856

$12.99-$51.99

Simply Naked Cat Food
SIMPLY NAKED PET FOOD

Lean-protein fish is the first and main ingredient. Rich in omega-3 and omega-6, supporting healthy skin and coat, immune system, heart, brain development, and digestion. With wholesome ingredients, plus essential vitamins and minerals, micronutrients, antioxidants and prebiotics. Fish from Marine Stewardship Council Certified Sustainable fisheries. In Wild Haddock & Cod, Wild Acadian Redfish and Wild Alaskan Salmon. 4 and 11 pounds.

simplynakedpetfood.com, sales@simplynakedpetfood.com

$33.95-$57.95

The post 9 Cat Kibbles for Kitties Who Like a Little Crunch at Mealtime appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

February 2025

February 1-2
The Aquatic Expo
Charlotte, NC
Two-day expo with exhibitors, vendors and expert speakers.
theaquaticexpo.com
Produced by Carolina Reefing Community and Carolina Aquatic Expo

February 20-22
Best Friends National Conference
Palm Springs, CA
Conference presenting the latest tools and data-driven techniques to save homeless dogs and cats. Connects animal welfare supporters, volunteers, staff and leaders across the country with networking events and educational sessions from leaders in advocacy, community engagement, field and animal services, shelter medicine and animal care, and fundraising and development.
bestfriends.org/events/best-friends-national-conference
Produced by Best Friends Animal Society

February 24
Pet Industry Network Growth Summit 2025
Virtual event designed to empower pet-business owners with cutting-edge strategies and industry insights. The summit features specialized tracks tailored to meet the distinct needs of brick-and-mortar retailers, local pet-care service providers and e-commerce businesses. Attendees will experience expert-led sessions on innovation and growth strategies, participate in the exciting Live Pet Business Shark Tank competition, engage in industry-specific breakout panels, and connect with fellow pet industry professionals in dedicated networking sessions.
petindustrynetwork.com/pin-summit
Produced by Pet Industry Network

February 26-28
Pet Business Growth Workshop
Fort Worth, TX
Three-day conference bringing together industry experts and pet-business owners to address launching, growing and building profitable enterprises. Includes expert-led sessions, small group collaborations, workshops, exhibitors and networking opportunities.
thedoggurus.com
Produced by The Dog Gurus

February 28-March 2
NAPPS 2025 Conference
Tempe, AZ
Conference for professional pet sitters including educational seminars by top industry experts, panel discussions, networking and exhibitor trade show. This year’s theme: Enrich & Elevate — Mind, Body, Business.
petsitters.org
Produced by the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS)

March 2025

March 4
Pet Sitters International Focus Online Summit
Virtual
One-day summit for pet sitters and dog walkers. Offers pet professionals ability to learn from industry experts and network with petcare professionals by phone, iPad or computer.
petsit.com
Produced by Pet Sitters International (PSI)

March 4-7
Natural Products Expo West
Anaheim, CA
Leading trade show in the natural, organic and healthy lifestyle industry. Gain insights from top experts in education sessions and check out the latest in natural and specialty food products and trends.
expowest.com
Produced by New Hope Network

March 7-9
GROOM’D
Atlanta, GA
One-stop-shop for grooming and pet-care professionals to discover new trends, techniques and tools to grow business. Offers dozens of educational seminars, hands-on workshops and grooming contests. PETS+ is the official media partner of GROOM’D.
groomd.org
Produced by World Pet Association (WPA)

March 14-16
Clicker Expo Chicago
Chicago, IL
In-person event for animal-training enthusiasts and professionals to receive coaching, keep up with the latest techniques and learn from positive-reinforcement experts.
clickerexpo.clickertraining.com
Produced by Karen Pryor Clicker Training

March 15-16
North American Reptile Breeder’s Conference & Trade Show
Tinley Park, IL
One of six shows in four cities where the general public, reptile enthusiasts, retailers and reptile breeders meet face-to-face and network as breeders exhibit their latest captive-born reptiles.
narbc.com
Produced by ECO Publishing and Chicago Reptile House

Reefapalooza Texas
March 15-16
Frisco, TX
One of four two-day saltwater aquarium expos throughout the country with vendors, expert educational talks and local fish store retailers.
reefapaloozashow.net
Founded by the Southern California Marine Aquarium Society (SCMAS)

March 20-23
Intergroom
Seacaucus, NJ
International grooming conference featuring grooming competitions, continuing education seminars, and a three-day trade show with more than 100 booths of grooming-related products and equipment.
intergroom.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

March 24-26
The Pet Summit
Orlando, FL
An experiential education event for pet industry leaders and strategists. Offers expert speakers, educational tracks, keynotes, panel discussions and networking.
thepetsummit.com
Produced by the American Pet Products Association (APPA)

March 26-28
Global Pet Expo
Orlando, FL
Connect, network and explore at the international pet product gathering for pet industry professionals, from manufacturers, importers and retailers to pet media, influencers and leaders. Expo includes the Global Learning Series, free for all registered attendees.
globalpetexpo.org
Produced by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA)

March 29-30
North American Reptile Breeder’s Conference & Trade Show
Dallas, TX
One of six shows in four cities where the general public, reptile enthusiasts, retailers and reptile breeders meet face-to-face and network as breeders exhibit their latest captive-born reptiles.
narbc.com
Produced by ECO Publishing and Chicago Reptile House

April 2025

April 13-14
Pets Canada Pet Industry Show Calgary
Calgary, AB, Canada
One of several Pets Canada industry events where attendees discover the newest pet products and the latest technology. Pet clients and suppliers connect, network and participate in special events and seminars.
pets-canada.odoo.com
Produced by Pets Canada

April 15-18
Animal Care Expo
Las Vegas, NV
Educational conference and trade show for animal welfare professionals and volunteers. Includes exhibit hall, educational presentations, networking opportunities, and best practice tips from animal welfare experts.
expo@humanesociety.org
Produced by The Humane Society of the United States

April 22-24
NASC Annual Conference
Columbus, OH
National Animal Supplement Council’s annual event, bringing together industry professionals to focus on the latest trends, innovations and regulatory updates in the animal supplement sector.
conference.nasc.cc
Produced by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC)

April 24-27
Northwest Grooming Show
Tacoma, WA
Seattle-area grooming education and competition. Includes networking, trade show, seminars by industry pros and grooming competitions.
nwgroom.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

April 26-27
Reefapalooza Orlando
Orlando, FL
One of four two-day saltwater aquarium expos throughout the country with vendors, expert educational talks and local fish store retailers.
reefapaloozashow.net
Founded by the Southern California Marine Aquarium Society (SCMAS)

April 28
Petfood Essentials 2025
Kansas City, MO
Interactive, informal education seminar held prior to the Petfood Forum. This year’s focus is pet food sustainability.
petfoodforumevents.com/petfood-essentials
Produced by Petfood Forum

April 28-30
Pet Food Forum 2025
Kansas City, MO
Serving the global pet food manufacturing industry, the forum presents the latest research and innovations on pet nutrition, the global pet food market, pet food safety, processing and packaging. Provides opportunities for pet food professionals from around the world to network. Includes workshops and speakers.
petfoodforumevents.com
Produced by Petfood Forum

May 2025
May 5-8
Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo West
Las Vegas, NV
National conference for professionals in the pet boarding and day-care industry. Features a two-day trade show with top pet products and companies, industry speakers and educational seminars.
petboardingexpowest.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

May 13-14
The International Naturally Healthy Pets Experience by AllProvide
Orlando, FL
Pet parents, pet professionals and veterinarians participate in a full weekend of expert speakers and exhibitors sharing the latest information, products and science behind holistic pet care.
eventcreate.com/e/intlexperience
Produced by Judy Morgan, DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT

May 20-22
WhizBang! Retail Success Summit
Virtual
World-class retail education for independent retailers includes breakout sessions, networking, event sponsor conversations and action planning for retailers. Annual event goes virtual for the first time in 2025.
retailsuccesssummit.com
Produced by WhizBang! Retail Training

May 14-15
Animal Health, Nutrition & Technology Innovation USA
Boston, MA
Animal health networking event provides animal health industry knowledge and sharing opportunities between start-ups, financial investors and strategic corporate partners within U.S. animal health. Includes top expert speakers, workshops and networking.
animalhealtheventusa.com
Produced by Kisaco Research

May 22-23
Connect: Canada’s Pet Trade Expo
Niagara Falls, ON, Canada
Celebrates and promotes the growth of the Canadian pet industry, including pet manufacturers, distributors, retailers and more. Includes educational sessions, product showcases and networking opportunities.
connectpetexpo.com
Produced by Connect Pet Trade Expo

May 29-June 1
Heart of America Grooming Show
Kansas City, MO
New show for Midwest groomers, offering education, shopping and networking with fellow pet care professionals.
heartgrooming.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

June 2025
June 3-4
PFEXPO West
Anaheim, CA
The Pet Food Experts’ western annual customer appreciation event and buying show allows retailers to learn about new products, get great deals and connect with the vendor community and the Pet Food Experts team.
petfoodexperts.com/pfexpo-2025
Produced by Pet Food Experts

June 19-22
PetQuest
Wilmington, OH
Trade show and grooming competition for groomers in the Midwest. Includes programs for anyone interested in honing their skills and improving their knowledge, handling and care of pets.
pqgroom.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

June 21-22
Reefapalooza New York
Secaucus, NJ
One of four two-day saltwater aquarium expos throughout the country with vendors, expert educational talks and local fish store retailers.
reefapaloozashow.net
Founded by the Southern California Marine Aquarium Society (SCMAS)

June 24-26
Working Dog Training Conference and Trade Show
Nashville, TN
Premier gathering of working dog professionals for training, education and networking. Classroom training from top handlers and instructors from around the world. Conference geared for all handlers and trainers, including law enforcement, military, search and rescue, detection, service and sport.
workingdogmagazine.com
Produced by Working Dog Magazine

June 25-27
Pet Food Pet Forum
Guadalajara, Mexico
Main update and networking event for the pet food industry in Mexico and Latin America. Includes seminars on global nutrition trends, health regulation, processes, ingredients and more. For pet professionals in retail, production, purchasing, research and development, health regulation, process, quality and sales, suppliers of ingredients, equipment, packaging, veterinarians and pet service professionals.
foromascotas.mx
Produced by Pet Food Pet Forum

July 2025

July 10-13
Groom Expo West
Pasadena, CA
West Coast grooming trade show and educational conference. Find grooming tools, supplies and software, plus seminars from everything from grooming techniques to handling everyday issues in a pet-care business.
groomexpowest.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

July 18-20
Groom Texas
Houston, TX
Grooming show with the Houston World Series of Dog Shows, featuring seminars, breed standard competitions and a creative styling contest.
txgroom.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

July 29-31
International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) Annual Educational Conference
Savannah, GA
The annual IACP conference allows canine professionals to broaden their knowledge of health and wellness, training, sports and canine business growth with workshops and expert speakers while networking with other canine professionals. Includes continuing education opportunities.
iacpdogs.org
Produced by the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP)

August 2025
August 2-3
10th Annual CatCon
Pasadena, CA
The event celebrates cats and pop culture, building a community for all cat lovers. Cat enthusiasts and professionals enjoy photo opps, workshops, exhibitors, an adoption village, educational workshops, panels, celebricats and influencers.
catconworldwide.com
Produced by Ticket Out, Inc.

August 4-6
AAFCO Annual Meeting
Omaha, NE
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) holds several meetings, training sessions and seminars each year for its membership. The organization establishes nutritional standards for complete and balanced pet food.
aafco.org
Produced by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)

August 13-15 (Education begins August 12)
SUPERZOO
Las Vegas, NV
Held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, the pet pro event offers rich educational sessions targeting pet retailers and groomers, a show floor of the latest pet products, and a place for the pet industry professionals to connect, learn and do business. Includes three days of grooming contests. PETS+ is the official media partner for SUPERZOO.
superzoo.org
Produced by the World Pet Association (WPA)

August 21-24
All American Grooming Show
Schaumburg, IL
Hone grooming skills and knowledge at the world’s longest-running grooming show, filled with vendors, seminars and competitions.
aagroom.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

August 24-25
Pets Canada Pet Industry Show Drummondville (formally PIJAC Canada)
Drummondville, QC, Canada
One of several Pets Canada industry events where attendees discover the newest pet products and the latest technology. Pet clients and suppliers connect, network and participate in special events and seminars.
pets-canada.odoo.com
Produced by Pets Canada

August 30-31
Reefapalooza California
Anaheim, CA
One of four two-day saltwater aquarium expos throughout the country with vendors, expert educational talks and local fish store retailers.
reefapaloozashow.net
Founded by the Southern California Marine Aquarium Society (SCMAS)

September 2025

September 4-7
Groom Expo
Hershey, PA
The world’s largest grooming show. Includes educational seminars, grooming competitions and networking events for pet-grooming professionals.
groomexpo.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

September 6-7
North American Reptile Breeder’s Conference & Trade Show
Dallas, TX
One of six shows in four cities where the general public, reptile enthusiasts, retailers and reptile breeders meet face-to-face and network as breeders exhibit their latest captive-born reptiles.
narbc.com
Produced by ECO Publishing and Chicago Reptile House

September 9-11
Pet Sitter World Educational Conference
San Antonio, TX
Annual conference for professional pet sitters to network in person and learn from industry experts.
petsit.com/psw25
Produced by Pet Sitters International (PSI)

September 11-12
PFEXPO East
Uncasville, CT
The Pet Food Experts’ eastern annual customer appreciation event and buying show allows retailers to learn about new products, get great deals and connect with the vendor community and the Pet Food Experts team.
petfoodexperts.com/pfexpo-2025
Produced by Pet Food Experts

September 17-18
Pets Canada Pet Industry Show Toronto (formally PIJAC Canada)
Toronto, ON, Canada
One of several Pets Canada industry events where attendees discover the newest pet products and the latest technology. Pet clients and suppliers connect, network and participate in special events and seminars.
pets-canada.odoo.com
Produced by Pets Canada

September 25-28
New England Grooming Show
Springfield, MA
Four-day event for pet professionals with grooming competitions, educational seminars and networking events. Meet other pet professionals, improve knowledge and hone grooming skills.
newenglandgrooms.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions and sponsored by NEPGP

October 2025

October 11-12
North American Reptile Breeder’s Conference & Trade Show
Tinley Park, IL
One of six shows in four cities where the general public, reptile enthusiasts, retailers and reptile breeders meet face-to-face and network as breeders exhibit their latest captive-born reptiles.
narbc.com
Produced by ECO Publishing and Chicago Reptile House

November 2025

November 5-7
APDT International Conference
Richmond, VA
Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDT)’s premier event for the dog-training community, both enthusiasts and professionals, offering cutting-edge sessions, workshops and CEU opportunities. Leading experts share their knowledge of the latest trends, techniques and best practices. Get inspired and connect with other training professionals.
apdtconference.com
Produced by the Association for Professional Dog Training International

November 10-13
Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo
Hershey, PA
For pet boarding and day-care professionals, this national conference and trade show showcases top industry products and companies. Stay up-to-date with pet boarding and day-care expert speakers through an extensive lineup of educational seminars.
petboardingexpo.com
Produced by Barkleigh Productions

2026

May 11, 2026
Pet Food Forum Europe
Nuremberg, Germany
Co-located with Interzoo, the global pet food industry conference and exhibition focuses on research and technologies utilized in the development, formulation and processing of pet food and treats. Includes educational sessions led by globally recognized experts on the latest pet food trends, processes and innovations.
petfoodforumevents.com
Produced by WATT Global Media and PetFoodIndustry.com

May 12-15, 2026
Interzoo 2026
Nuremberg, Germany
The world’s biggest trade fair for the international pet industry. Brings together pet manufacturers, wholesalers and service providers from more than 60 countries to present the latest pet products and innovative pet supplies.
interzoo.com
Produced by WZF

Past 2025 Events

January 2025

January 13-15
Pet Industry Leadership Summit ’25
Bonita Springs, FL
High-level networking event bringing together top leaders from the pet-care community to network, collaborate and educate. This year’s five-star keynote speakers cover economic forecasting, leadership and teamwork, adapting and thriving, technology (including leveraging AI), along with other motivational presentations.
pida.org/events/summit2025
Produced by the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), American Pet Products Association (APPA), Pet Advocacy Network (PAN) and World Pet Association (WPA)

January 21-23
AAFCO Midyear Meeting
Little Rock, AR
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) holds meetings, training and seminars throughout the year for its membership and industry partners. The organization establishes nutritional standards for complete and balanced pet food.
aafco.org, aafco@aafco.org
Produced by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)
aafco.org/events/meetings/mid-year/2025-midyear-meeting

January 24-25
Clicker Expo Live
Virtual
Combines interactive training with real-time coaching for animal-training enthusiasts and professionals with a shared passion for positive reinforcement. Keep up with the latest techniques, perspectives and insights in training, teaching and behavioral science from 32 of the top industry talents. Pre-event Tuesday, January 21.
clickerexpo.clickertraining.com/clicker-expo-virtual/
Produced by Karen Pryor Clicker Training

January 25-26
8th Annual Online Cat Conference
Virtual event filled with cat-centric content and speakers from a variety of animal welfare roles. Topics include Feline Leukemia, Sustainable and Effective Cat Population Management, Community Kittens, Compassion Fatigue, Working Cat Programs and more.
communitycatspodcast.com
Produced by The Community Cats Podcast and sponsored by Maddie’s Fund

January 28
American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) Pet Food Conference
Atlanta, GA
Designed for pet food and treat manufacturers and those that support them (such as ingredient suppliers), the conference covers topics from regulatory issues and pet food production to product claims, marketing and nutrition.
afia.org
Planned by American Feed Industry Association’s Pet Food Committee

The post 2025 Pet Industry Events, Trade Shows & Conferences appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNER: Amanda Ballweg | FOUNDED: 2017 | LOCATIONS: 1 | AREA: 780 square feet | WEBSITE: thecrazydogmom.com | SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook, Tiktok, Pinterest, Instagram & Youtube: @thecrazydogmomshop | Opened featured location: 2021 | TOP BRANDS: The Crazy Dog Mom/Excite Bites, The Natural Dog Company, Vital Essentials, BARK, ZippyPaws, SnugArooz, Big Moods, Injoya, Mighty Paw, Woof Pupsicle, SodaPup, WestPaw, TacoCat, foufouBrands, Woof & Wonder

Amanda Ballweg and Koa

“I DO ALL the things,” says Amanda Ballweg, owner of The Crazy Dog Mom in Stoughton, WI. “Customer service, marketing, social media, event planning, outreach, cleaning, graphic design, inventory … everything.” And when she says everything, Ballweg means it. She’s a staff of one with a strong driving force to give her customers only the best.

The boutique’s high-end design, products, events, and even her passionate clientele, all reflect Ballweg. She and Quality Control Manager Koa, her Siberian Husky who wears a tie to work, make customer connections and experiences for both dogs and humans a high priority.

The shop stocks fun and innovative treats, toys, clothing and gift products, and hosts events to increase brand awareness. She says, “I like to say that we aren’t a pet store, we’re a dog boutique.”

One to Grow On

Although the storefront opened in 2022, Ballweg’s one-businesswoman show started in her early 20s when the budding entrepreneur designed a dog-leash holder and posted it in a local Facebook buy-and-sell group. She then expanded to a product line, added an Etsy shop, and sold through pop-ups at local events and craft fairs.

Enjoying the in-person connection with customers, Ballweg began planning to open a brick-and-mortar store. But when her Siberian Husky, Kiara — who inspired her business — suddenly passed at 9 years old due to bleeding masses on her spleen and liver, she put the brick-and-mortar dream on hold.

Enter 2020. Again inspired by Kiara, the entrepreneur started making dog treats at home during the pandemic for her next dogs, Koa and Husky-mix Ryuk.

Changing her business’s focus to single-ingredient dog treats, Ballweg bought a van, converted it with the help of her brother-in-law, and started Wisconsin’s first dog-treat truck, out of which she sold treats, shirts, can coolers and dog bandanas. A year later, she sold the treat truck and opened The Crazy Dog Mom’s first storefront, moving a year later to the store’s current downtown location.

That move made a big difference to her business. People are already out and about downtown — shopping, going out to eat and/or getting drinks — so it’s not an extra stop for them to come into the shop. Ballweg adds, “Stoughton hosts events that take place right downtown, and now I get to be a part of them.”

The boutique’s name directly states whom it’s for. To her, “crazy dog mom” means a pet parent who’ll do anything to give their pup the best life they possibly can. “Of course, dog dads, dog grandparents and dog lovers are all very much welcome, too.”

CLEAR & UNCLUTTERED. Ballweg takes a minimalist approach to store design. The center remains clear for ease of movement and for events.

One of a Kind

Ballweg didn’t plan on such a small store, 780 square feet, but when the downtown rental space became available, she jumped at it. The retail section takes up 500 square feet, with the backroom used for office space, storage and making products.

The size allows Ballweg to interact more with shoppers. “If I see them looking at something with a confused expression, I can give them details without them needing to ask,” she explains, adding that people won’t buy something they don’t understand.

The all-white, minimalist interior resembles a high-end human boutique, with cube, floating and metal shelves displaying merchandise. Her goal was for a clean and simple look, without slat walls, gondolas or clutter.

“I hate going into pet stores with my dog that are cluttered,” Ballweg says, “because I feel like my dog is going to knock everything over just from walking by or I feel like I can’t move without running into something.”

One For the Money

The small space limits inventory, so Ballweg doesn’t carry pet food, which she never really wanted to sell anyway. Treats, toys and pet-themed T-shirts rank one, two and three in top-selling categories, with The Crazy Dog Mom only offering the treats Ballweg makes. With just one or two ingredients, human-grade, they remain her top sellers because, she says, her customers are really cautious about what they feed their pets.

Although dog products make up most of the inventory, Ballweg sells some cat items. The shop is particularly known for the selection of T-shirts for pet parents she designs and prints herself. “People can see the shirts from outside,” she says, “and that’s what draws a lot of people into the store, because of the funny sayings.” T-shirts and sweatshirts rotate seasonally, with around eight or nine different sayings, including “Being a Dog Mom Is My Happily Ever After” and “My Cat and I Talk Shit About You.”

The boutique also carries gifts and products for the home, everything from earrings with different breeds to pet bandanas with matching scrunchies for the humans. Revenue has grown for the past three years — from its start as a treat truck, to the storefront, to moving the storefront location to downtown — and the business is on track to increase sales for a fourth.

STRIKE A POSE. The store has holiday and seasonal photo sets, plus the permanent chair (bottom right) pups can jump up on for a pic.

The One For Fun

Ballweg hosts a variety of in-store events, which play an important role in creating her customer experience. Activities take place at least once a month, with more during the fourth quarter. Typical human-focused holidays and gatherings turn into events such as Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs, Puparitaville Party, Barktoberfest, and Dog Photos With Santa.

DIY workshops play a big part, too. Recent ones include making your own snuffle mat — with tips on providing mental stimulation — and decorating a dog bandana. For Dog Mom Day, the boutique hosted a brunch with light snacks and a non-alcoholic mimosa bar, and attendees made gemstone bracelets with paw prints. The Crazy Dog Mom also holds classes for CPR and First Aid certification every April for Pet First Aid Awareness Month.

The boutique’s size allows for workshop attendance of up to 10 people. Prices vary per workshop, from $25 for the Dog Mom brunch to $30 for the snuffle mat workshop. During the brunch, Ballweg offered a small discount on purchases. For the other workshops, she connects the products that she sells to the workshop and people tend to buy them.

Ballweg says, “While my workshops do help bring in money, it’s my monthly events and parties that contribute the most and that people love the most.” She explains, “The events are to gain attention from new customers, give customers a reason to come in, and they do increase our sales. But mostly I do them because I want my store to be a place people can bring their dog to, to celebrate things that are normally for people.”

Store brand Excite Bites are The Crazy Dog Mom’s top seller.

One to Count On

Help has come in the form of Ballweg’s significant other, Sam Griese, who joined her in the store this year, making products and helping shoppers at the cash register. It allows her to concentrate on the back-end part of the business and her next goal: growing her online presence. She has a solid start with nearly 5,000 followers across her socials.

Ballweg continues to hone in on treating customers like people, though, not just sales, and making a difference in their lives. For example, during Barktoberfest a customer came in with an elderly rescued dog who had a host of health problems. The customer spent the visit spoiling her dog with a dog beer flight, watching her pup paint a canvas, and shopping. Soon after, the dog passed. The pet parent contacted Ballweg, thanking her for helping to create a cherished memory for their last adventure together.

Another customer almost cried because her reactive dog was acting like the playful, cheery dog they see at home, but no one else gets to see. Her dog felt comfortable and safe enough to play with toys in the boutique during a private shopping session, which the store offers free by appointment.

The Crazy Dog Mom has unquestionably built a loyal community of crazy dog moms and dads. Ballweg knows all the regular clientele and their pets by name and really connects with them. “I’m giving people a place to bring their dog that their dog loves to come to,” she says. “I’m giving them an experience they get to share with their dog.”

Customers will return on Feb. 29, 2028, to open The Crazy Dog Mom time capsule.

Five Cool Things About The Crazy Dog Mom

1. SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: With Excite Bites Dog Treats, Ballweg has full control over ingredients, such as using human-grade meat and organs from a local meat market. The name of the treat identifies the ingredients, with nothing else added. Customers love to hear that she makes them herself. The line consists of Turkey Turmeric, Beef Spleen, Beef Liver, Lamb Liver, Turkey Pumpkin, Salmon, and the newest, Turkey Hearts.

2. IN-STORE SMOOTHIES: Ballweg makes and sells fresh Doggie Smoothies. The flavor changes monthly and reflects the season. (Two end-of-year flavors: Pumpkin Pie and Fruit Cake.) The smoothie comes in to-go containers so pet parents can pour the smoothie into molds and freeze for treats, spread on a lick mat or stuff in a treat toy — if their pup will wait. They retail for $4.99, with an additional $1 charge for Excite Bite toppings.

3. SAY CHEESE: The back of the retail space features a photo opp area that changes its displays and props monthly to reflect a current holiday or season. Shoppers snap photos of their dogs to share on social media, even sometimes bringing in their human kids for a session.

4. TIME TRAVEL: To celebrate the extra day in 2024, The Crazy Dog Mom hosted a Leap Year Time Capsule for Dogs event. Ballweg explains, “We had people bring in a special item of their dog’s to be put into a time capsule and had them fill out a questionnaire on their dog’s behalf to share all of their current favorite things. If anyone couldn’t decide what to bring, we offered peanut butter paintings so the dog could make a piece of art to be put into it. The time capsule has been sealed, and we plan to invite everyone back in 2028 to open it. Four years is a long time for dogs, so sadly some might not be with us when the next Leap Year comes around. I know it will be hard for those people when it comes time to open the time capsule and see what they put in, but I think it will also be a really special moment for them, to be able to look back on 2024 with their dog.”

5. WAG THE TAGLINE: “Your Dog’s Favorite Store” runs across the boutique’s door in all caps, but on the lower half at the dog’s level. Ballweg strategically placed it there so people could easily take a picture of their pup with it.

PHOTO GALLERY (8 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post The Crazy Dog Mom Grows From Etsy Shop to Brick-and-Mortar Community Favorite appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNER: Heather Denton | FOUNDED: 2019 | LOCATIONS: 1 | AREA: 1,368 square feet | EMPLOYEES: 1 full-time, 3 part-time | URL: barknfetchfrisco.com | FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM: barknfetchfrisco | TIKTOK: barknfetchfrisco1 | TOP BRANDS: Bark’n Big, My Perfect Pet, Tuesday’s Natural Dog Company, The Bones & Co., Farmina Pet Foods, Earth Animal, Instinct Raw Pet Food, Smallbatch, Green JuJu, Bocce’s Bakery, OC Raw Dog, Super Snouts Hemp Company, Front Porch Pets

Heather Denton opened Bark N Fetch in 2022.

TWO DECADES AFTER writing her first pet-business plan, Heather Denton realized her dream by opening Bark N Fetch in Frisco, TX. The journey included years of corporate life in advertising and media sales, along with volunteering for various animal rescues.

The longtime pet parent — her family currently includes four rescued Golden Retrievers — found her passion for nutrition in 2016, upon learning that the food one of her dog’s was eating contributed to his severe itchiness. After going down what Denton calls the “pet industry rabbit hole” in research, she overhauled his diet to help him live itch and medication free. To get the premium food, Denton had to drive 24 miles to Lucky Dog Barkery in Dallas, where she fell in love with the products, the employees and the shop itself.

Congratulations From One of Your Top-Selling Brands

Owner Marsha Lindsey began to mentor Denton in 2018, sharing details about many facets of her business. This allowed Denton to gauge if she could open her own store. Once Denton decided she could, Lindsey recommended books to read and people to talk to. Then, it was time.

Denton says, “With my family and friends’ support, my love and devotion to the health and happiness of animals, and a great name idea from my oldest son, Bark N Fetch became a reality” in 2022.

CURB APPEAL: Bark N Fetch draws in passersby with colorful window displays and creative signage.

Big-Time Ingenuity

While Denton initially looked for retail space at around 1,800 to 2,000 square feet, her current 1,368-square-foot location popped up right where she wanted to be geographically, within 10 miles of home, and in a high-traffic, well-established shopping area surrounded by affluent neighborhoods. Denton embraced the smaller footprint.

The compact space makes managing inventory easier along with needing fewer team members to run it. (She “runs the store,” while her one full-timer and three part-timers “keep the store running.”) But a small shop also means less space for new products. If Denton wants to bring in something new, something existing needs to go. Fixtures move and displays change to make seasonal and new products fit.

Creative design, shelving and storage helps, such as overflow dog beds placed near ceiling level, tiered displays and benches. “Galvanized rods allow us to custom fit for the space,” she explains. “I also have round metal nail bins like you used to find in hardware stores for treats and toys.”

Although packed with most everything a pet parent may need or want, the design ensures customers don’t feel overwhelmed. Touches of wood warm the simple industrial look of Bark N Fetch. The patterns and colors of leashes and collars draped on metal bars pop against a black wall. A welcoming steel blue on the opposite side of the retail space elicits calm and openness to the food areas. Hand-painted signs identify each category, such as Bites & Bones and Tough Toys. A smooth, concrete floor finishes the design.

Denton says she didn’t want a generic look. “My brand and my products are unique, so the store vibe has to be as well.”

LOOK UP: Denton makes the most of ceiling height, with extra beds on platforms accessible by employees via ladders.

Major Focus on Nutrition

Bark N Fetch focuses on premium treats, supplements and foods, along with cool products not found in big-box and chain stores. Shoppers can lay hands on everything from hard-to-find frozen, freeze-dried and gently cooked foods, to toys such as petrol chemical-free tennis balls, beds with sustainable fill, and products that showcase local sports teams.

Nutrition fuels the business’s growth, with food contributing approximately 50% to revenue (with raw and gently cooked on top), 18% for treats and 6% for supplements.

The store leans heavily on feeding from the freezer with 11 glass-front doors allowing full visibility into its selection. Prioritizing feeding “out of the freezers” was always a part of Denton’s business plan.

“I started out with just two three-door freezers and very quickly outgrew those within our first year,” she says, then adding more to keep up with the amount of frozen they sell each week.

However, the team doesn’t have an all-or-nothing mentality when it comes to feeding raw or gently cooked. If customers feed kibble, they’re shown how to easily “up the bowl” by adding broth, goat milk and/or freeze-dried toppers. “It’s all about conversations with them,” Denton says. “You have to ask questions and listen, and then do your best to educate with what is applicable to their pet and lifestyle.”

Going Big on Local

Denton prefers to use a grassroots marketing and advertising strategy to reach customers, liking that it’s organic. “It also shows the community — the very same community that I want to shop in my store — that I support them and that I support causes important to them.”

The store donates gift baskets filled with $25 to $200 worth of pet products to support fundraisers for local pet rescues, homeowners associations or schools within a 5-mile radius. “Whatever we can do to support, promote or educate, we do,” she says.

Besides having a robust website filled with products, pictures and shopper must-know information, Bark N Fetch targets locals using Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. The weekly mix includes educational and/or entertaining posts and stories, along with new product alerts.

A part-time, college-student team member creates the fun-and-informative Instagram reels and TikTok videos, which often hit thousands of views. For example, one simple yet entertaining TikTok highlights the store’s new pool toys by showing two of Denton’s dogs fighting over a toy while swimming to the song, Kokomo. A professional digital creator also puts together five annual, effort-intensive compilation videos, such as an end-of-year recap.

The key ingredient to successful posts for Bark N Fetch: using the staff and customer’ dogs. Denton shares, “I want our customers to know that what we sell and what we talk about, we use and that we have customers who love it, too.”

Making a Huge Impact

Denton opened Bark N Fetch because she cared about her dogs and knew there was a need for it. “I am all about our community and how my lifelong dream and passion can have an impact on others, whether you’re a pet parent, a pet grandparent or just a lover of animals,” she says.

Just as Denton was mentored, she happily passes on proven tips to help other retailers. Not surprisingly, the first: Utilize every bit of space and don’t be afraid to go up.

Second, add “lights, lights and more lights” to brighten the space and call attention to areas. The store started with some dropped lights and pendant lights, but when the season changed and it got darker, Denton added more. Certain areas were still too dark — and customers won’t go to where it’s dark — so her electrician ran strips of DOT LED lights underneath fixtures. She says they not only fixed the problem, but look really cool.

Her final thought: The most important lesson Denton learned is to never stop. “You might hit some speed bumps,” she says, “but just roll on over them.”

SWEET GIRL. Bailey, one of Denton’s four Golden Retriever rescues, serves as store dog for Bark N Fetch.

Five Cool Things About Bark N Fetch

1. HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Last year, the shop gathered requests from a local animal shelter, stuffed stockings around those needs, and sold them at varying price points. Denton discounted items in the stockings to make back only what she paid in order to sell more. It inspired several of the business’s food and toy brands to donate additional products, which also increased their efforts. Social media posts featured several pups who had been with a rescue or in the shelter for a long time. The drive was so well received by customers, who bought 61 stockings total, that it will repeat this year with a goal of selling 150.

2. CEILING STORAGE: Taking advantage of 20-plus-foot-high ceilings, huge cedar platforms built to Denton’s specifications store pet beds. The platforms allow Denton to utilize space upward that would have otherwise been unused. Customers love the large pet bed selection, which can’t be found elsewhere in the area.

3. VERTICAL DISPLAYS: Denton uses hard-to-find antique French bottle-drying racks of different sizes to display toys and bows, particularly to show off holiday themes. She’s meticulously ferreted out five and is in the process of getting a sixth. She says they let her add “so much height,” with the tallest at 5 feet, displaying 50 to 60 stuffed toys.

4. ATTENTION GETTER: A creative sidewalk sign attracts people walking or driving by. Two of Denton’s artistic part-timers come up with cute sayings and drawings for everyday, holidays and events.

5. CUSTOMIZED BATH: A contractor built the store’s self-serve dog wash steps to Denton’s specifications: 6 inches high, 11 to 13 inches deep. “The added depth, more toward the top, gives dogs more room to get their feet on the step before moving to the next one. I knew my old girl, Bailey, could navigate that,” Denton says. The large tub can fit even a Great Dane.

STEP ON UP: Dogs of all sizes and mobility can navigate the self-wash thanks to custom steps.

PHOTO GALLERY (12 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post Small Is the New Big at Bark N Fetch appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNERS: Jessica and Kyle Schlosser | FOUNDED: 2009 | LOCATIONS: 3 | AREA: 7,100 square feet south side; 4,500 square feet north side; 2,100 square feet Bertha’s Beans Cat Cafe | EMPLOYEES: 26 full-time, 13 part-time | WEBSITE: lizziandroccos.com | FACEBOOK, TIKTOK & INSTAGRAM: @lizziandroccos | TOP BRANDS: Fromm, Nutrisource, Northwest Naturals, Stella & Chewy’s, Honey I’m Home, Diggin’ Your Dog, Tall Tails, OC Raw, Farmina, Weruva, Green JuJu, Tucker’s, Petcurean

RUNNING ON A “little crazy and a whole lot of love,” Jessica and Kyle Schlosser built Lizzi & Rocco’s Natural Pet Market with their own creative style and pet-driven values, along with a sense of community. The couple opened their first location in 2009 on the south side of Columbia, MO, upgrading its square footage and services in 2020. In 2014, they purchased the store where Jessica worked while attending University of Missouri Trulaske College of Business, giving the north side location a full renovation in 2023.

“Our business has expanded beyond our wildest dreams,” Jessica says. “We’ve introduced grooming services, including a self-wash station and six full-time groomers, added a bakery, and launched training programs.”

And the Schlossers haven’t stopped there. In late 2023, they bought local cat cafe Bertha’s Beans, which allows them to “drink more coffee” while helping more cats.

ARTISTIC TOUCHES. From murals to bakery items to Valentine’s Day gifts to displays, creativity abounds at the stores.

A Creative Core

Creativity remains a central value of Lizzi & Rocco’s, influencing store design, branding and merchandising. Both locations are inviting spaces for both humans and pets, with a bright and colorful aesthetic that’s visually appealing, functional and engaging. “We try to do a good job at storytelling, scene-setting and making sure our customers know we’re deeply entrenched in our community,” Jessica says.

A signature lime green runs throughout, and graphics illustrate store pets: late namesakes Lizzi and Rocco, training assistants Margot and Mac, and store cats Wanda, Dumpling and Morrison. Walls feature portraits of rescue dogs at well-known area spots to contribute to the unique, localized shopping environment. Bertha’s Beans features whimsical murals by Columbia artists. There’s also custom packaging for bakery items, branded cups — featuring fun wording such as “I licked it, so it’s mine” — and coasters, along with stickers and pins for selling and promotions.

Jessica says they aim to make the customer experience fun and interactive without being hectic and chaotic. “We want our merchandising to reflect that as much as possible.”

Netting and an appropriately shaped fixture anchor the Fish Market chew bar. Pet travel items sit on a vintage pickup truck bed. For Valentine’s Day, the team creates heart-shaped boxes filled with treats and artistic bouquets crafted from chews. And a goat milk display features a working fountain. Of the latter, Jessica says, “It was something I was inspired to make after seeing a DIY video for a garden fountain! I took a super-cute dog bowl, an empty goat milk bottle, a fountain pump and some kibble-inspired decorative glass stones. It does not pump actual goat milk because that could get gross fast, but gives the illusion of it, and it’s a fun visual to start the conversation about adding hydration to your pet’s meals!”

An arcadia-style claw machine — named Clawdia, of course — also encourages customers to engage. “It’s filled with toys we get on sale or donated from our vendors, along with treats and gift cards — it’s a great way to entertain kids and adults because who doesn’t LOVE a claw machine?”

FUNCTIONAL FUN. Decals on the training room windows add another creative element while serving a purpose: to keep dogs focused.

COOL COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The Schlossers ensure their business makes an impact in Columbia by sponsoring local events for pets and their people. Says Jessica, “Participating in these events not only strengthens our commitment to the community, but also boosts our business’s visibility to hundreds of thousands of people nationwide.”

In particular, Lizzi & Rocco’s has become known for its Columbia’s Gayest Pet Contest & Pride Photos, which raises funds for the Mid-Mo PrideFest, and Pawject Runway, a doggie fashion show benefiting local rescues. The business also sponsors Art in The Park, The Pedaler’s Jamboree, True/False Film Festival and CoMo Roller Derby. It’s important to sponsor events that help make Columbia cool and unique, Jessica says.

STORE COLOR. Lime green runs throughout Lizzi & Rocco’s locations, adding a pop of color to consistent branding.

Inspired Business Evolution

Helping to fuel the brand’s growth has been input from more-than-invested employees and customers. Several years ago when employee Jennen Herbst wanted to launch a force-free training program, the Schlossers empowered her to take the ball and run with it. “She’s now our head dog trainer and is regarded as one of the most successful dog trainers in Missouri,” Jessica says. Another employee had a passion for baking. “Now we have a bustling bakery that churns out delicacies for pets around our community.”

Denise Wallace, a customer and volunteer for a local rescue group, asked the Schlossers to take a chance on her after she quit a 15-year-long career in distribution management to put herself through grooming school. Eight years later, she has grown into the role as Lizzi & Rocco’s award-winning grooming manager.

Today, the grooming, training and bakery services contribute well over $500,000 in sales annually. Jessica says, “Our team’s sense of ownership and leadership is why we have developed and grown the way we have, because we certainly couldn’t have done it all on our own.” Jessica also points to the complementary business relationship between herself and Kyle. She serves as creative lead with a focus on business development, while “Kyle is the pragmatic behind-the-scenes guy who handles the financial, legal and logistical side of the business.”

CREATIVE DESIGN. Customers and their pets have room to move around in the stores, with displays such as a truck bed holding pet travel products offering touches of whimsy throughout.

Imagining the Future

Today, products continue to play the most dominant role, making up more than 80% of overall sales. Lizzi & Rocco’s stays on the initial mission to provide its community with the healthiest pet foods and the most innovative pet products around. Jessica says that 10% of overall sales specifically comes from raw pet food. “I think that points to our entire staff’s dedication to educating customers on the healthiest way to feed their pets.”

Next up: looking to grow services — definitely more in the grooming sector and potentially into pet sitting, as well. With the early success of the cat cafe, they plan to expand into a larger space with even greater food offerings. “But, as with everything, we’ll just go wherever the wind blows us,” Jessica says. “Five years ago, I had no clue we’d have a bakery, training program or cat cafe, but here we are!”

Five Cool Things About Lizzi & Rocco’s Natural Pet Market

1. CATS & COFFEE: When the cat cafe came up for sale, the Schlossers saw an opportunity to help cats find loving homes and to educate cat owners on nutrition, health, behavior and enrichment. After months of renovations, menu curation and learning how to run a coffee shop, Bertha’s Beans — A Cat Cafe by Lizzi & Rocco’s opened in November 2023. The cafe, named after Lizzi & Rocco’s first store cat, has quickly become a popular hang-out spot for the community, with a whopping 160 cats having been adopted so far.

2. INVENTIVE POTLUCK: At the annual potluck, staff members bring a dish with at least one ingredient that comes from a pet product the store sells. Jessica says, “You’ve never lived until you’ve had Buffalo Chicken Dip with Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken or arepas made out of corn cat litter and Lotus Just Juicy Pork!” The team-bonding activity also gets customer attention, like when staff members tell them how Green Juju bone broth makes great soup.

3. TALENT POOL: The Schlossers embrace being business owners in a college town. Jessica explains, “The bittersweet reality is that our staff often leave post-graduation to make their mark on the world. While we get to work with them, our goal is not only to teach them about pets, but to foster self-awareness, uniqueness and self-advocacy, especially when they have something they know can really make the whole team shine. We get to utilize a lot of really cool skills from budding journalists, photographers, graphic designers, artists and more. We give these staff members a safe environment where they can practice their skills and learn from their mistakes before they head into their next chapter.”

4. HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Recently, a customer hosted her 100th birthday party at the store so she could have a hundred animals come to wish her a happy centennial. “I think we cultivate those kinds of relationships by truly, deeply caring about our customers,” Jessica says. “Going into some retail stores feels completely void of emotion and joy, and we strive to actually create meaningful connections with our people.”

5. ENRICHMENT BOXES: The Lime Dog Box ($49.99) and the Cobalt Cat Box ($39.99) come loaded with enrichment toys, snacks and surprises. Information on what’s in the latest boxes lives on the website in both slideshow and video format. Boxes come out every other month.

PHOTO GALLERY (22 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post Jessica and Kyle Schlosser Put Their Imaginations to Work at Lizzi & Rocco’s appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

WOOF — maker of the popular Pupsicle enrichment toy — expands its offerings with the Bite n’ Brush. Its unique V shape holds treat inserts that entice dogs to chew, with the bristles brushing their teeth as they do. In small and large, with the all-natural Bite n’ Brush Dental Refill made from scientifically backed ingredients for oral health: parsley to freshen breath, green tea extract with antioxidant properties, and peppermint oil’s antimicrobial qualities to help combat bacteria.

mywoof.com, wholesale@mywoof.com

$14.99-$19.99

Scent of Fall

Pears, golden honey and apricot blossoms combine with greens and earthy woods in the new Pear Orchard scent from PET HOUSE BY ONE FUR ALL. Also joining the company’s autumn line of plant-based, pet-odor eliminating candles are Pumpkin Spice, Apple Cider and Falling Leaves.

onefurallpets.com, (954) 361-5255, info@onefurallpets.com

$23.99

Glow, Cat Go

BOXIE’s Glo Natural Attractions Cat Litter contains Glo Light Attractant UV crystals with sparkles only cats can see, so they know where to go — perfect for your customers with cats who have behavioral issues or difficulty using the litter box. In Clumping Clay, Crystal and Clumping Corn.

boxiecat.com, sales@boxiecat.com

$22.99-$41.99

Peel and Serve

TUCKER’S Boost Cubes make raw feeding easier for the everyday pet parent, delivering functional ingredients in peel-and-serve portions. They come in 12 blends across five categories: Organ Blends, Whole Grinds, Chewsumables, No Fuss Necks and Hydrations. Among those options are Organ Blend Lamb Heart and Liver, Whole Grinds Salmon, and Hydrations Goat Milk and Coconut. Available starting in October through distribution channels.

mytuckers.com

$15.99

Ho-Ho-Slow

Because seasonal fun extends to meal time, SODA PUP introduces the eBowl Enrichment Slow Feeder Bowl in Santa and Pine Tree. Suggest to customers as a holiday gift for their dog, one that will help slow their feeding and improve digestion. The company also has a limited-edition Red Honey Pot eCup treat dispenser for pups on the nice list. Or the naughty list. They deserve — and likely really need — enrichment, too! Made in the U.S.

sodapup.com, (720) 272-9664

$16.99/$21.99

Now With Goat Milk

Succulent goat milk promotes daily hydration in FUSSIE CAT’s enhanced foods and toppers lines. Super Premium Chicken Formula in Goat Milk Gravy comes in Chicken, Chicken With Beef, and Chicken With Duck — fortified with vitamins and minerals, and rich in DHA to support vital brain development and healthy vision. 2.47 ounces. Super Premium Purée in Goat Milk, enriched with sunflower oil and vitamin E, comes in Chicken, Chicken With Beef, Chicken With Duck, Tuna With Chicken, Tuna With Salmon, and Tuna With Small Anchovies. In four 0.5-ounce tubes. In-store training, POP materials, and coupons available this fall.

fussiecat.com, (888) 897-7207

$1.89/$3.49

Single-Ingredient Goodness

Dogs will follow their noses to the barbequed beef jerky smell of Ostrich Flattie Sticks from TUESDAY’S NATURAL DOG COMPANY. Customers will appreciate that the 7-inch-long treats, made from 100% ostrich meat, break easily and allow them to stretch the stick into multiple rewards.

tuesdaysnaturaldogcompany.com, (888) 424-4602, info@tuesdaysnaturaldogcompany.com

$2.99

For All the Pet Hair

What better product to position at your checkout than the travel-size Uproot Cleaner Mini? You could even keep a demo tool available, allowing customers to quickly swipe away pet hair from their clothes while you ring up their purchases. UPROOT CLEAN offers this point-of-sale display, which holds 20 Minis and measures 9.9 by 6.9 by 9.4 inches.

uprootclean.com, wholesale@uprootclean.com

$10.99

What Pill?

The new USDA-organic Pill Hider for Dogs by LORD JAMESON masks medication with robust flavors and texture-confusing bits of whole oats, green apples, blueberries and peanuts. In PB+J, Apple Pie and Cookie Dough, with no animal proteins, preservatives, artificial coloring and flavors, or inflammation-inducing fillers such as corn, wheat, soy, and dairy. Each bag includes a 30-day supply, plus six bonus treats.

lordjameson.com, sales@lordjameson.com

$13.99

Mani-Pedi Time

Because some pets run from clippers as well as noisy grinders, STASHIOS launches the Bitty Gritty portable pet nail file. The Ruff Side features 80 grit, allowing for shaping and removing nail length, while the Buff Side’s 120 grit smooths for a snag-free look and feel.

stashiospet.com, service@stashiospet.com

$7.99

High-Value Meatballs

Human grade, human inspired and high value, GRANDMA LUCY’S Freeze-Dried Meatball Treats for Dogs come in Cheeseburger, Chicken Parmesan and Pork Roast. These treats are wheat free and made in the U.S. 3 ounces.

grandmalucys.com, customerservice@grandmalucys.com

$14.99

Plain For the Planet

In addition to its colorfully desgined poop bags, METRO PAWS now offers a more visually minimal product in bulk options. Metro Paws Degradable Poop Bags feature a gray base with dog-themed words and come in 120 and 240 counts. The bags use an EPI additive to help them break down after use, minimizing their impact on the environment. At 8 by 11 inches, the leak-proof bags can handle large messes, with each roll featuring 15 bags and fitting in standard waste bag cases.

metropaws.com, (347) 948-7297

$6.99/$12.99

Fish For Treats

In addition to packing delicious freezedried, nutrient-rich raw protein into a 1-calorie treat, Meowfulls Whitefish & Salmon Treats from STELLA & CHEWY’S are responsibly sourced, crafted in the U.S., and contain no added grains, wheat, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Probiotics included also support digestive health.

stellaandchewys.com, reddoor@stellaandchewys.com

$8.99

Chew Good

CRUMPS’ NATURALS launches its new line of functional jerkies with Venison Chia and Chicken Collagen. The limited-ingredient, high-protein treats are crafted in small batches in the company’s family-owned facility. They use meats sourced in North America and do not contain artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

crumpsnaturals.com, brondelet@crumps.ca

$8.99-$15.99

Now in Bison

WEST PAW extends its treat offerings with Air-Dried Bison Tripe, made from bison humanely and pasture-raised on sustainable ranches in the U.S. and Canada with no antibiotics or added hormones. Air-drying also gently and safely preserves vitamins, minerals and proteins. The tripe breaks into smaller pieces, making it a perfect training tool, and pairs with any of the company’s popular enrichment toys. In 2.5- ounce bags and packs of six bags.

westpaw.com, orders@westpaw.com

$11.95/$42

Now in Pork & Turkey

ROGUE PET SCIENCE adds to its top-selling Origins 5-in-1 Food Topper line with two new protein options: Pork and Turkey. Made and sourced in the U.S., each uses fermented microalgae containing omegas 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9, as well as prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics. For both cats and dogs. In .5, 2 and 5 pounds.

roguepetscience.com, info@roguepetscience.com

$15.95/$54.99

The post Glowing Cat Litter, Dog-Powered Toothbrush, Plus More New and Notable Products for Your Pet Store appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

“The overall majority of them experienced moderate to very severe damage to their production ponds, greenhouses and hatchery buildings,” Boozer says. “On farms where there was flooding, the loss of livestock was huge. In some cases, the entire farm of dozens to hundreds of individual production ponds became one large lake and overflowed into nearby creeks and rivers. Needless to say, these fish are no longer available for the trade.”

Milton’s high winds and power outages also wreaked serious havoc on many of the farms. High winds hit hatchling buildings, blowing off roofs and side panels, while destroying greenhouse film and shade cloths on the outside ponds. These coverings keep too much heat or cold from affecting the health of the fish.

Loss of power stopped blowers from keeping ponds aerated and ponds, with a high density of fish need to be oxygenated. Even though most tropical fish farmers have standby generators, outages that last more than a few days — like what’s happened there — run into fuel issues as gasoline stations also need power to run pumps. The stress from both hurricanes on fish and farmers’ health add to the collateral damage.

Florida’s tropical fish farmers contribute around 50% of the tropical fish sold in North America. Boozer says when looking at the United States alone, that figure shoots up to 95%-plus. These include popular species like African and South American cichlids, guppies, tetras, neons and mollies. The full damage from both hurricanes on retail stores’ tropical fish inventory will unfold in the months ahead.

For the tropical fish retailers in the southeastern U.S. and Florida that were flooded or lost power due to Helene and Milton, Boozer says, “Their aquarium livestock had to suffer with no operating filtration system and lack of routine maintenance, feeding and care. In the neartime, the public may see a limited availability of many aquarium species.” ???

For tropical fish retailers concerned about how the storms will affect future inventory, Boozer says to be patient. “Florida fish farmers are a hard-working resilient community. We have faced disasters before and have come back to be stronger. This storm has been a hard blow, but we are not knocked out! We will learn, adapt and come back stronger than ever.”

• Hurricane Milton made landfall on Oct, 05, 2024 as a Category 3 Hurricane. It hit Siesta Key, FL, and moved through the central and western part of the state. The hurricane spawned flooding and tornadoes, causing mass power outages.
• 2024 Hurricane Helene made landfall on Sept, 24, 2024 as a Category 4 Hurricane. It struck the Big Bend region of Florida and devastated parts of the Southeastern United States, including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee, with flooding and power outages.

The post Florida Tropical Fish Farms See Moderate to Severe Damage From Hurricanes Helene and Milton appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

1. DRIVE SALES

If you sell them, customers will come. Live Animal Specialist Eric Moore of the World Pet Association (WPA) says having prospective pets in store drives foot traffic and generates repeat business. Those who buy live animals such as reptiles, which require live food such as crickets, have to purchase their food weekly. He says, “This creates an opportunity to upsell — maybe purchase food or treats for other pets while they are there that they may have otherwise purchased online.”

The panel discussion honed in on how live animals drive sales by:

• Diversifying revenue streams: In addition to the initial pet purchase, there will be ongoing sales of accessories, food and health-care products.
• Increasing foot traffic: Live animals attract curious shoppers.
• Hosting educational workshops and events: They bring potential buyers into the store and set you up as their trusted resource.

Paul Lewis, owner of the bird-only shop Birds Unlimited in Webster, NY, says, “If I didn’t sell birds, I’d sell a lot fewer cages, toys and feed. They go hand in hand.”

2. INCREASE BRAND LOYALTY

Expert staff, examples of best setups and species-specific foods, treats and services attract a broader clientele that keeps coming back. For example, Rachael Creech, owner of Adventure Pets in Mandeville, LA, first started carrying live pets as part of her mission to be a full-line pet store. However, she says, “We have come to realize that having healthy and happy live pets is not only a draw for our community to visit, but also a way to bring in repeat customers.”

The session covered how adding live animals supports:

• Customer loyalty and repeat business: Excellent knowledge and service for these animals encourage purchases and referrals.
• Expertise and education: Allows knowledgeable staff to advise on care and feeding, building trust and promoting responsible pet ownership overall.
• Positive public perception: A deep knowledge and commitment to keeping these animals thriving equals good reviews and community goodwill.
• Unique brand identity: Having live animals and their corresponding services differentiates your store from those that just sell products.

Providing extra services for exotic animal enthusiasts proves key to repeat business. Lewis gives customers who buy birds from Birds Unlimited free bird grooming — wing feather and nail trims, plus beak shaping. He explains, “This gets them back in the store several extra times a year, and generally they’ll do a bit of shopping while they wait.”

3. STAY COMPETITIVE

With increased competition in the online-only sector, today’s pet retailer needs to stand out from the crowd and drive customers to the store. The panel keyed in on how live animals allow you to:

• Stay competitive: Carrying exotics differentiates your store and provides shoppers a reason to buy in store and not online.
• Get likes on your social media: Posts with adorable pet photos and great tips boost online followings, enticing potential customers to visit the store.
• Cater to bird, fish, reptile and small-animal enthusiasts: Be the go-to place for these unique pets, their care info, and specialized products and services.

Creech steps up her Adventure Pets social media with live animal pics, although she doesn’t advertise them with prices or specials. “I post a lot of the pictures we take of them, whether fish, bunnies, etc. The pictures are always very popular.”

Lewis differentiates his store from e-commerce and big-box retailers by exclusively selling to pet bird enthusiasts. People travel hours to shop there, knowing the high-quality birds and bird products he carries. “Some order over the phone, and we ship daily. Other people have family who live in the area and stop by every time they are in town.”

4. ELEVATE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Live animals provide an in-store experience that not only leaves an impression but induces shoppers to stay and keep returning. Creech says it’s not the sale of the animals that’s significant, but the repeat business of the customers returning for food, treats, enrichment toys and more. She says, “We are looking to extend the time our customers spend with us.”

The session further expanded upon the live-animal advantage, giving valuable tips on how exotics:

• Differentiate your store from an online-shopping site: Having live pets gives brick-and-mortar stores the upper hand over online pet retailers, as shopping becomes a fun activity not a chore.
• Build emotional connections with shoppers: Seeing exotics in their best setups with the right products positively influences purchasing decisions.
• Enhance your clientele’s shopping experience: Interacting with animals boosts endorphins, making shopping a longer and more enjoyable experience.

Lewis says having live animals in your store will always draw people — like it’s a free zoo.

Moore sums it up. “Many consumers enjoy going to a store that has more than just products. Live animals make your store a destination. It’s so easy to buy products online nowadays that retailers need a way to differentiate themselves and stand out.”

The post 4 Reasons to Add Live Animals to Your Pet Store Offerings appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

CURRENT WPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman: Michael Lou
CFO/Vice Chair: Heather Coots
2nd Vice Chairman: David Dieter
Secretary: Micah Kohles
Member: Lorin Grow
Member: Mark Dunn
Member: Jennifer Larsen
Member: Keryn Rod
Member: Sandy Moore
Member: Sarah Goldberger
Immediate Past Chair: Jeff San Souci
Past Chair: Chris Clevers

Board position changes

Here’s a breakdown of board members who’ve taken on new duties:

• Michael Lou, owner of Patchwork Pet, previously served as CFO and now transitions to chairman.
• Heather Coots, president of King Wholesale, moves from 1st vice chair to CFO/vice chair.
• David Dieter, senior director of Zoo Med, shifts from secretary to 2nd vice chairman.
• Micah Kohles, DVM, MPA, owner of Woodland Animal Hospital/Odyssey Consulting, transitions from 2nd vice chair to secretary.

New to the board

The 2024-25 WPA Board welcomes two new members: Natural Pawz COO Lorin Grow and American Kennel Club Executive Vice-President of Registration Mark Dunn. WPA CFO/Vice Chairman and President of King Wholesale Heather Coots says the board is incredibly fortunate to welcome these two exceptional individuals to the WPA and finds their presence this year truly exciting.

She explains, “Lorin’s years of expertise in retail and the pet industry make her a valuable addition, bringing immense knowledge and passion to our board. Meeting

Mark through the nomination process, it was evident that his prior experience seamlessly aligned with our organization’s programs and initiatives — he felt like a seasoned veteran from the start.”

Coots extends heartfelt congratulations to both Grow and Dunn on this well-deserved opportunity. Here’s a more in-depth look at the two new board members:

Grow’s distinguished career blends military, entrepreneurial and corporate achievements. She served in the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Intelligence before going on to earn dual bachelor’s degrees in business/marketing and psychology/science. Grow’s entrepreneur experience is extensive: She owned and sold three retail businesses, managed half of Europe and earned multiple awards for a German wine company, and later oversaw Southeast Asia for Bose. She spent five years with the Nevada Gaming Commission before entering the pet industry to run an award-winning pet supply store in California for 20 years. Grow joined Texas-based pet store Natural Pawz, now with two locations, as director of training, education and customer engagement in April 2023 and became COO in July 2023.

Jeff San Souci, WPA immediate past chair and director of marketing at Rolf C. Hagen, says, “Retail stores are the heart of our industry! We are an emotional industry that relies on personal connection between the pet parent and front-line retailers like Lorin. Lorin is a pet community veteran, who made it clear to us that she wants to continue to serve and give back to our industry. We are so pleased that Lorin can join our Board and help us better understand and serve the pet retailers.”

David Dieter, WPA 2nd vice chairman and senior director of Zoo Med Laboratories, agrees that Grow’s life as a pet store professional is undeniable. “She brings a level of passion and expertise that will help WPA provide solutions for the stores that fuel our wonderful industry,” he says. “With Lorin’s drive, organizational abilities and vision for the future, WPA is very fortunate to have her join the board.”

Dunn is the executive vice president of registration for the American Kennel Club (AKC), the oldest all-breed dog registry in the U.S. and the largest in the world. He also serves as managing director of AKC Reunite — the AKC’s lost pet recovery service — and was formerly on the board of the Pet Leadership Council, a community of national companies and organizations committed to assuring the care of companion animals.

Dunn has lots of experience working with pet industry leaders and international registry organizations. He passionately believes that sustainable and responsible growth in pet ownership is vital to our society and that the pet industry can do more to help. Before joining the AKC in 2009, he was director of engineering and quality at Qualex, a subsidiary of Eastman Kodak. Dunn has more than 20 years of experience leading operations, engineering and business development teams, plus an MBA from Michigan State University.

WPA Board Member and Segrest Farms President Sandy Moore knows Dunn will be a great addition due to her interactions with him in industry advocacy organization the National Animal Interest Alliance. She says, “He is tremendously respected in the dog-breeding community and is plugged into the larger pet-breeding community through this organization. He brings passion, professionalism and a lifelong dedication to the animals and the people who care for them to our board.”

Dieter looks forward to learning with and from Dunn, who he says has an unbelievable knowledge of the pet community and an understanding of how we all can make this industry better for the pets and the people who live in it. “Mark’s level of expertise within the boardroom will help WPA grow into the even more collaborative force that we are focused on being,” he says. “The future for WPA is even brighter as we have Mark join the WPA board.”

The post A New WPA Board Begins Their Work appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNER: Alison Schwartz | FOUNDED: 1992 | LOCATIONS: 2 | AREA: : 11,700 square feet Battleground, 7,500 square feet Sedgefield | EMPLOYEES: 27 full-time, 8 part-time | FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM: allpetsconsidered | WEBSITE: allpetsconsidered.com | TOP BRANDS: Fromm, Steve’s Real Food, Farmina, Open Farm, Stella & Chewy’s, Nature’s Logic, Primal, SmallBatch, Dr. Marty’s, Petcurean, NutriSource, PureVita, Zignature, Lotus, A Pup Above, Green Juju

Alison Schwartz, Merida and Aurora

A PART-TIME POSITION LED to a full-time passion for Alison Schwartz of All Pets Considered. She joined the staff in 2008, became general manager in 2012, and took over full ownership in July of this year from Kristine Godfrey, who founded the Greensboro, NC, store in 1992.

Schwartz’ focus on pets, rebranding and expansion has fueled continued growth. The Battleground Avenue location’s 3,000 square feet of floor space now spans just under 12,000 square feet with six groomers and four bathers. A second store opened in the Sedgefield neighborhood with 7,500 square feet and a self-serve dog wash in 2018.

Passing the baton from Godfrey to Schwartz allows All Pets Considered to remain locally and woman-owned, plus continue its mission: Provide premium pet food and help local pets in need. “In this day and age of stores getting corporately purchased,” Schwartz says, “it was important to both of us to continue to do all the good in our community that All Pets Considered has done for 32 years, while allowing Kristine to retire.”

Going Big on Branding

When the Battleground store rebranded, remodeled and expanded in 2014, local caricature artist Erik Huffine nailed the desired theme of “sophisticated whimsy” with a new logo, then expanded it into artwork for the grooming department and front window wraps. “The window artwork has been so recognized as part of our brand that it also became part of our Sedgefield location and is featured on the back windows of our delivery van,” Schwartz says. To help pay for the window wraps, she smartly sold brand placement to companies such as Acana, Primal and Zignature.

All Pets Considered’s whimsical logo also features on its social media pages and store stickers handed out at events. It inspires seasonal decor and displays in the two locations, which have an open industrial feel warmed by homey fixtures and design touches.

Schwartz further expands brand reach on social media with Friday Facebook Lives each week on topics ranging from the best chew toys to DCM grain-free discussion updates. In addition, she interviews pet food and treat brands and even hosts game shows with fun giveaways.

Customers make the store’s selfie station a must-visit when it changes to a new theme.

Connecting With the Community

Prioritizing community outreach, All Pets Considered has its own event coordinator who hosts a variety of pet-centric happenings two to three times a week, in store and out at breweries, coffeehouses and even baseball games.
Events double as community goodwill and advertising. “My people are what’s so great about the store, and you can’t get that from a piece of paper or from a billboard,” Schwartz says. “When you have somebody there in front of an individual and having a conversation about their pets, it’s the best form of advertising.”

In the store, All Pets Considered’s largest annual event is Small Business Saturday, which generates 150% over an average Saturday in sales. Three other big events — Adopt-a-Palooza, Birthday Bash and fall Boo Bash — average about a 20% to 30% increase in sales on their respective Saturdays.

The All Pets Considered crew attending community events serves as the best form of advertising, Schwartz says.

Birthdays are a big deal at All Pets Considered, with plenty of cookies and celebratory accessories.

Offering Exceptional Online Service & Delivery

All Pets Considered’s online ordering went live in March 2020. “Just in time for the world to shut down!” Schwartz says. “It quickly became our lifeline and has continued to be a valuable way for us to retain customers.” Today, online orders for delivery contribute 5% and growing to the overall bottom line.
Delivery radius extends 11 miles around each location, which covers most of the county. Orders over $25 are delivered for free. An average of 15 orders go out seven days a week in the bright pink delivery van. Drivers make up a big part of the delivery program’s success. They learn about the products All Pets

Considered sells to offer advice if needed. “They are our customer service delivered right to our customer’s doorstep,” Schwartz says.

Most recently, the store added heyhuman to its online customer experience. The messaging platform allows staff to interact with customers via video or chat calls, and serves up a growing library of video content featuring Schwartz sharing information about products and services. “This small feature has proven useful with customers who engage with the videos. They stay twice as long on our site as those who visited prior to having the platform. We frequently change up the videos to keep repeat visitors engaged.”

The colorful murals at the Battleground store now also adorn the Sedgefield location.

What’s Next?

Today, pet supplies remain All Pets Considered’s bread and butter. Professional grooming and the self-service dog wash contribute a quarter of overall business annually. Schwartz has set her focus on growing delivery for the original Battleground location and continuing to develop the newer Sedgefield store, which has seen its revenue grow by 15% this year compared to same period in 2023.
She dreams of adding a third store in the next five years as well as services such as mobile grooming, where All Pets Considered can serve individuals at retirement or age-55-and-up communities, who own pets and need services that come to them. After all, Schwartz says, “The base of who we are is part of the community.”

Customers appreciate having access to Sedgefield’s four self-wash stations.

Five More Cool Things About All Pets Considered

1. Themed Selfie Stations: With benches built from delivery pallets, the team decorates the popular selfie stations seasonally. Themes started with Sofa King Cool, then on to Kissing Booth (February), Kiss Me I’m Irish (March) and the spring-themed If You Were A Flower, I’d Pick You. Schwartz says the station engages with customers in a fun way in store and on social media.

2. Secret Shopper: A service secretly shops each location monthly to ascertain the store’s customer service skills and to ensure there are enough staff at each location to meet customer needs. The shopper grades staff on phone-call etiquette, store presentation, greeting/staff interaction, checkout experience and overall experience, and then gives an overall grade up to 100%.

3. Dog House Gingerbread Contest: Eight treat vendors sent full-size bags of treats for decorating gingerbread “dog houses.” Held at a local cidery, participants paid $30, which included their first drink, a gift bag full of treats valued at more than $100 and a gingerbread house set. The houses were built during a two-hour timeframe, with photos of each posted to social media for voting. The winner received a $100 gift card to All Pets Considered.

4. Radio and TV Commercials: “We write and perform in all our commercials,” Schwartz says, “some of which have been entered into contests with the stations that hosted the ads.” She’s found them to be extremely successful marketing tools. The latest TV commercial, filmed at Schwartz’s house, focuses on the brand’s delivery service and stars her own scene-stealing Dachshunds.

5. Subscription Boxes: Designed around a philanthropic vibe, Bonefactor (dog) and Generoskitty (cat) boxes give back to a monthly local charity partner with themes and brand sponsors changing each time. The $19.99 per month subscription price guarantees a value of at least $40. The program encourages customers to try new products. Says Schwartz, “In May, we had a box sponsored by NutriSource and one of our subscribers returned to purchase a big bag of the NutriSource Chicken and Rice because she said she had never seen her dog so excited to eat before!”

PHOTO GALLERY (26 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post All Pets Considered Serves Its Community for 30-Plus Years appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

AFTER 22 YEARS, Mike Lasky takes his leave from the World Pet Association (WPA) board, with his time officially ending after SUPERZOO 2024. Lasky, with more than 29 years of experience in the pet industry, including as COO and partner of SLA Brands, Inc., explains, “I have loved every minute of serving on the board, but I felt the time was right to step down. WPA and SUPERZOO are in great places, and this is due to the contributions of so many caring past and present board members.”

While industry leader WPA is known for SUPERZOO, Lasky says that’s really just the tip of the iceberg for what they do. “We are a nonprofit investing in the future of the pet industry, supporting the Pet Advocacy Network and the Pet Care Trust.”

TIME FOR CHANGE

Lasky’s tenure included many changes in the WPA and in the pet industry at large. Two big ones: SUPERZOO’s move from Anaheim, CA, to Las Vegas, NV, in 2004 to draw more national and international attendees, and the rebranding from World Wide Pet Industry Association to World Pet Association.

“We had a regional trade show located in Anaheim that was treading water,” Lasky recalls. “It was a crowded field with five industry trade shows around the country competing for exhibitors and attendees.”

Today, industry leader SUPERZOO ranks as one of the 100 largest U.S.-based trade shows, making Trade Show Executive magazine’s “Gold 100 List” every year since 2013.

As for the name change, which officially went into effect in September 2009 at WPA’s 59th annual board meeting, Lasky shares how that came about.
“We were the WWPIA, and I became chairman shortly after the move. At that time, we decided if we were going to become a national show, we needed to rebrand the organization.”

Lasky and board member Michael Twain recruited Twain’s uncle Art Twain — an award-winning marketing and branding legend — to help the organization rebrand. “Mike and I met him for lunch at a dim sum restaurant in San Francisco. We handed him our letterhead, which read ‘World Wide Pet Industry Association.’ He took out his pen, crossed out two words and handed it back to us and said, ‘This is your new name: World Pet Association.’ My reply was, ‘Lunch is on us.’”

GETTING INVOLVED

Past WPA board members and chairpersons Andy Schmidt (former president of San Francisco Bay Brands) and Lew Sutton (executive vice president at Pet Ag) had asked Lasky to serve.

He remembers that at his first board meeting in spring 2002, another board member recommended he just observe for the first few meetings and say little or nothing. Says Lasky, “I told him ‘Sorry, that’s not me,’ and if there is something every board member I have served with will agree on, it will be the fact I voiced my opinions at all meetings.”

He shares that being a WPA board member taught him respect, compassion and understanding. “When I joined the board, the hardest thing for me to do was listen, understand and respect others’ opinions and feelings and to take them into consideration before commenting. I feel this has taught me how to better communicate and build consensus.”

Lasky also served as a board member for the nonprofit Pet Care Trust — which promotes the joys and benefits of pets to the public through education, support and interaction — for eight years. He served as chairman in 2018, stepping off the board in 2020. “We put all our efforts into building Pets in the Classroom, which I am very proud to have been a part of,” he says. “It provides grants for teachers to have pets in their classrooms. Having a pet in the classroom for teaching tears down social, racial and economic barriers and teaches compassion. We have provided over 200,000 grants to teachers, positively impacting over 8 million students.”

HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

Lasky says that the current amazing WPA staff and board of directors are ready to take the organization to the next level. He’s watched the pet industry go from a family and hobbyist industry to so much more, attracting very bright people who are raising the bars at every level. But, he believes there is still much to do and asks other pet industry professionals to get involved. “It not only makes the industry better, it makes you a better person.”

As for the future of the pet industry, Lasky would love to see it find a way to properly fund and support the advocacy groups, which are on the front lines preventing harmful legislation from being implemented. Lasky says that the groups are severely underfunded, and he’s concerned about what will happen if they cannot get full industry support. “We are all at risk as this affects the entire industry. We need to be able to change from reactive to proactive, and this will only happen if we properly support our advocacy groups.”

NEXT UP

Now that Lasky has left his role with the WPA, he gets to spend more time in his full-time position as COO and partner at national sales management specialist organization SLA Brands, Inc. And that’s perfect for him as he explains that it’s not just a company, it’s a family. His business partner, Bill Schiaffino, and the entire team have been 100% supportive of his serving on the WPA board. “It’s time for me to pay it back to them as well as our amazing partner brands. I also look forward to playing more tennis, traveling and taking more scuba-diving trips.”

And when Lasky says “family,” he means it for both his company and the WPA. His daughter, Madison Lasky, began attending WPA consumer events with him at age 5 and volunteering in the show office from when she was 8. “While she was in college, she worked for WPA at SUPERZOO in the New Product Showcase,” he says, “and when she graduated from Berkeley, she joined SLA Brands and is the western zone manager. She is as much part of the WPA family as I am, and I hope one day will serve on the board.”

The post Longtime Board Member Mike Lasky Retires from WPA appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNER: Danielle Wilson | FOUNDED: 2009 | LOCATIONS: 1 | AREA: 5,505 square feet indoors, 45,000 square feet outdoors | EMPLOYEES: 14 full-time, 1 part-time | WEBSITE: mybathandbiscuits.com | FACEBOOK: | bathandbiscuits | INSTAGRAM: bathnbiscuits | TOP BRANDS: Lucky Dog Biscuits, Mad About Organics, Bailey’s CBD, Puddle Jumper Pups, Blueberry Pet and Fluff & Tuff

Danielle Wilson

“NO ONE IN our village knew what a DIY dog wash was, but boy did it take off,” groomer Danielle Wilson says about opening Bath & Biscuits in 2009. The business started in a small century-old building in Granville, OH, offering full-service grooming and two self-wash tubs that her husband, Sheriff Deputy K9 Handler Shawn Wilson, constructed from horse troughs. A boutique area sold private-label pet food, bakery items, chews and supplements.

Bath & Biscuits moved to a much bigger space — 5,505 square feet indoors and 45,000 square feet outdoors — down the road in 2020. Wilson also now offers day care, boarding and training, in addition to a wider range of premium pet products. Strong branding along with the distinctive look and feel of the business, born from her love of vintage and steampunk aesthetics, have led to continued growth year over year.

Investing in the Brand

“Our brand reflects our commitment to providing unique and high-quality services to our customers,” Wilson says. She purposefully chose every element, from the color scheme to the main logo and sub-logos, to convey style and sophistication in a welcoming way. “We want our customers to feel at home when they visit us, and I believe that our brand helps to achieve that.”

The Bath & Biscuits logo itself (seen above on Wilson’s T-shirt) has significantly transformed over the years. Once a cartoon dog sitting in a bubble bath, Dox Design created a refined text-based logo to connect with the upscale community of Granville. Wilson hired a professional photographer to highlight the retail offerings and services, capturing them with beautiful images now found throughout her feature-rich website and social media.

The boutique’s bold interior reflects Wilson’s vision best. “My love for vintage and steampunk, as well as rich, deep colors of creams, browns, sepia, dark green and antique gold inspired the new look,” she says.

Gold-framed pet portraits and handmade wooden cabinets showcasing products greet customers upon entering. A white-brick fireplace stands out against a black wall, its mantel holding vintage decor interspersed among products such as private-label candles. Artificial plants and flowers in her favorite colors sit throughout the space. A glass door and hallway lead to the full-service grooming area, while the day care has its own entrance. “It’s not your typical pet salon,” Wilson says.

Unexpected pieces are found throughout the exterior and interior of Bath & Biscuits.

Creating Outstanding Services

Grooming and self-wash reign as the top-selling services offered at Bath & Biscuits (45% of revenue), followed by dog day care (20%), retail (20%) and dog boarding/training (15%). About her grooming philosophy, Wilson says, “I typically don’t follow breed-specific grooming styles. While I can, my passion lies in crafting unique and creative styles that highlight the genuine character of the dogs.”

The DIY option remains unique. “We have the only self-serve dog wash that includes a free nail trim, along with a blueberry facial and ear cleaning,” she says. “Dog owners love that we take the time to include these services with the self-serve. Even though other area places have opened DIY dog washes, ours contributes a solid 5 to 8% toward our bottom line each year.”

When it comes to day care and boarding, Bath & Biscuits offers its own spin, too. Enrichment Day Care includes off-leash play sessions with other dogs and fun activities selected for each pup, including visits to the Sensory Garden (see 5 Cool Things below). Dogs who spend the night stay in one of five deluxe kennels and get meals, enrichment activities and play sessions, along with a story and snack at bedtime. Puppy Play Date sessions, for pups 8 to 24 weeks of age, happen on Saturdays and set them up for a successful transition into day care.

Wilson says these special touches and treating each pet like an individual create customer loyalty. “A long-time customer once told me that the reason she brings her dogs to Bath & Biscuits is because we ‘take the time to care.’ It’s a statement that has stuck with me over the years, and I truly believe it’s what sets us apart. We take the time to get to know each and every animal in our care, to understand their unique personalities and needs. We strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where pets feel safe, happy and loved.”

Grooming makes up 45% of Bath & Biscuit’s overall revenue.

Empowering Employees

Bath & Biscuits has 15 staff members: multiple bathers, groomers and day-care attendants, plus a trainer and a manager. Wilson says that like the brand, they have evolved over the years. “We encourage our employees to grow with us and have sent two bathers to grooming school. One has been grooming professionally with us for over six months now and is doing fantastic!” Another bather currently enrolled will be grooming dogs by next summer.

Training programs such as Groom Haus, Paragon and Dog Handlers Academy contribute to employee success. Wilson says she has confidence in her staff’s capabilities, and they know it. “Empowering leadership in a business is crucial. By empowering them, they are given the opportunity to take ownership of their role and feel a sense of pride in their work.”

Brand colors and signage appear throughout the business.

Pursuing Her Dream

Wilson shares that it’s hard to believe Bath & Biscuits has grown from the small grooming salon with two horse-trough DIY dog baths to the amazing pet care destination it is today.

“Running a small business has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life,” she says. “It’s not just about selling pet products or providing services, but about creating a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable and happy to bring their beloved pets. Every day I walk into my shop, and I feel an immense sense of pride. It’s amazing to think that I created this beautiful place!”

In the future, she hopes to construct and own her next building to make more room for day care, offering even more enrichment activities and exclusive services.

Wilson’s love of steampunk greets clients via this adorned dog statue.

Five More Cool Things About Bath & Biscuits

1. Educating Customers: Wilson worked as a Registered Veterinary Technician before becoming a groomer. This has informed the way she interacts with clients. “I know that some people may see me as ‘just a groomer.’ That’s why I make an effort to educate our clients on the importance of grooming and the impact it can have on their pet’s health and well-being. I also strive to go above and beyond in my interactions with clients. I make sure to listen to their concerns and offer advice on any issues we may notice. By building a strong rapport with our clients, we hope to be seen as a valued member of their pet’s healthcare team, rather than just a service provider.”

2. Educating Pets: Head trainer Kristen VanNess, KPA-CTP, holds group classes in the indoor day-care area on Saturday afternoons. Dogs can take part in training during day care as well as overnight boarding, the latter with a two-week board-and-train package. New this year, the Puppy Raising Program: Puppies attend day care twice a week and get 30-minute incremental training. VanNess holds a parent-teacher conference weekly to discuss the puppy’s progress. All program graduates have become day-care clients. “It’s kind of neat,” Wilson says, “we grow our own day-care dogs.”

3. Stop & Smell: A sensory garden enclosed by a wooden privacy fence sits between the outdoor turf yards. Different types of fragrant plants, including herbs and flowers, and different textures, such as soft grass, rough rocks and smooth stones, fill the garden, which also has a wind chime. Dogs can smell, feel and dig — there’s a sand pit with hidden toys. Wilson says, “It’s not just a fun space for dogs to explore and play in, but it can also have therapeutic benefits for them and our staff.

4. Nail Trim Club: Members can bring in dogs (or cats, bunnies, Guinea pigs, parrots, etc.) for a walk-in nail trim for $20. They get a free nail trim if they bring the pet back within 30 days, or if someone has two dogs, it’s basically buy-one get-one free the same day. Wilson is a big advocate for keeping a dog’s nails trimmed to prevent health issues caused by overgrowth.

5. Creating Community: In the private Facebook group “Parents of B&B’s Dog Day Care,” staff post action shots and videos so pup parents also can experience the fun. Offline, the team takes part in a variety of Granville events, including the July 4th celebration. Wilson donates gift cards for the “Most Patriotic Pet Contest,” and they ride in the parade. “We throw poop bags filled with Tootsie Rolls to the kids along the route. It’s hilarious to see their faces when they catch the bags, and the parents and villagers love it. We like to foster a strong bond between our business and the pet-loving community we serve.”

PHOTO GALLERY (27 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post Danielle Wilson Does It Her Way With Bath & Biscuits appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Treat Play Love
GRAND FORKS, ND

If keeping a groomer on staff proves more work than it’s worth for your business, follow the lead of Kelly Hilzendager and convert the space to a self-wash room. The tub, towels, grooming table and various tools, and high-velocity dryer in the Laundromutt now work for DIY pet parents.

TOTAL COST: $6,000-$7,000 | TIP: Only provide enough product for each paid pet. Hilzendager explains, “I always thought it was foolish of places to monitor shampoo usage, but now I absolutely do. If you put a big bottle of shampoo in there, customers will use it all.” She also has installed a camera in the room to keep an eye on customers, as damage and theft have been issues in the past.

Bark & Luv
CHANDLER, AZ

Megan Ames built out three self-wash rooms for her new store, each one with an iClean Dog Wash Spa that features 30 celebrity voices to guide pet parents through the process. The striking black-and-white rooms are a hit! Individual washes are available for $20 each, but financially savvy customers invest in an unlimited monthly ($54.99), six-month ($450) or 12-month ($675) membership to keep their pups clean. The Bark & Luv team has sold nearly 50 memberships, most for six and 12 months, in the store’s first three months of business. Ames says, “Our self-washes grow daily,” adding that Bark & Luv’s current “Beat the Heat” campaign, which opens the store at 7 a.m. on Saturdays, helps drive those sales as it allows customers to get their dogs in for a bath before temps rise to triple digits.

TOTAL COST: $240,000 | TUB SOURCE: iClean | TIP: Ames highly recommends introducing a membership model: “From a revenue standpoint, the memberships are quick dollars into the store at signup.”

Wet Nose
GENEVA, IL

The Fear Free mission of this store extends to its self-wash suites, of which there are three. Among the features that help to alleviate stress for dogs being bathed are non-slip surfaces and custom sturdy steps for easy entering and exiting of the tub. Each room also uses plug-in pheromone diffusers and plays calming music, while lick mats as well as Happy Hoodie ear covers are also available. Customers who book online can use the Fear Free entrance to access the self-wash suites without going through the store.

TOTAL COST: Around $18,000 | TIP: “Spend the extra money and tile the entire space, up to at least 6 feet,” Sheila Spitza says. “We had originally planned to tile just the bath surround, but decided it would look prettier if we did the entire room. Thank goodness we did because we realized after the fact that it would have been a nightmare to clean the walls if they were just painted.”

Health Mutt
TAMPA, FL

This store’s popular DIY dog wash opened in 2011, but Kendra Conze revamped it in 2022 to create a separate blow-dry room to reduce the amount of hair flying through the air in the main area. She prefers having an open space for the tubs, with her colorful and welcoming dog wash featuring three. “We have our tubs set up without fencing or barriers,” Conze says. “We love this because it provides more interaction between the customer and our team, and also between the people bathing.”

TOTAL COST: Around $15,000 | TUB SOURCE: New Breed Tubs | TIP: “We got large and very wide tubs, which helps a lot with preventing overspray and keeping the area cleaner,” Conze shares.

Whisker & Bone
ST. GEORGE, UT

Samm Albright offers her customers a private self-wash experience, complete with doors that close. “That level of privacy is what customers love most,” she says. For their design, Albright themed one Sun and the other Moon, with tub colors that complement the rest of the rooms. She hired a local painter to freehand the walls and ceiling to make the clients feel like they’re standing in the sky.

TOTAL COST: $16,570 | TUB SOURCE: New Breed Tubs | TIP: These artistic rooms double as selfie stations. Encourage customers to take tons of pics and post to their socials!

The Hipster Hound
SAVANNAH, GA

When the store’s grooming department gets busy, staff are quick to recommend the self-wash room to pet parents who simply can’t wait. “Having the option to give their dog a bath provides a solution to keep the customer happy,” store manager Kristen Watson says. Located directly across from the grooming room, use of the secure and neatly organized dog wash costs $14 for small, $17 for medium and $20 for large dogs.

TOTAL COST: $1,300 | TUB SOURCE: Flying Pig | TIP: Ask customers to call ahead if their dog has fleas — this ensures a swift and direct walk to the self-wash room — and have a clear bathing protocol for them to follow.

The post How to Do a DIY Dog Wash Your Way appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Mike Bober

IMAGINE IF A breed ban targeted brachycephalic dogs and cats in the U.S. Or if pet products were included in sales tax holidays. This year’s Pet Advocacy Network (PAN) Town Hall, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Show Floor Talks Stage, builds off the success of 2023’s inaugural session. It will again feature a panel of pet-care professionals from product manufacturing, retail and live animal supply, who will discuss how recent and upcoming legislation could affect the pet business community if or when enacted.

Says PAN President and CEO Mike Bober, “Legislation has profoundly positive and negative impacts on the responsible pet-care community, and staying informed is essential for navigating these changes and protecting animal well-being and the health of your business.”

The panel will discuss many of the big issues seen this year.

NEW USDA REQUIREMENTS FOR BIRD BREEDERS

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) established new licensing requirements and welfare standards for birds in February 2023, to “ensure the humane handling, care, treatment and transportation of birds regulated under the Animal Welfare Act.” Previously licensed or registered facilities had to be compliant by Aug. 21, 2023, and new licensees or registrants by Feb. 21 of this year.

Bober says, “August marks six months since licensure requirements took full effect. This is a good time to take stock of the effect they’ve had on availability of birds and impact on avian products and supplies.”

How it may affect pet retailers: The new ruling applies to live animal distributors and bird breeders. Brick-and-mortar retail stores are exempt from AWA regulations, as long as they don’t sell “exotic” birds (most don’t) and the birds they do sell are in face-to-face transactions. If a store sells birds via online/shipping, it’ll be subject to APHIS licensing and inspection.

Also, if one sells 200 or fewer birds weighing less than 250 grams (such as popular pet birds like budgies, cockatiels, conures and finches) or eight or fewer pet birds weighing more than 250 grams (such as African greys, Amazons, cockatoos and macaws), the seller falls under de minimis exceptions (so minor as to be disregarded).

Complying with the licensing requirements will make things run less smoothly until everything is figured out. The impact on aviculturists could cause fewer birds to be bred, which affects retailers who sell them and diminishes the number of new pet bird owners. Fewer pet bird owners means fewer pet bird supplies being sold.

INCLUSION OF PET PRODUCTS IN SALES TAX HOLIDAYS

Becoming more popular with local and state governments, sales tax holidays are when selected goods are exempted from state/local taxes for a period (days, weeks or months) to encourage consumer spending.

Bober points out, “Sales tax holidays present a great opportunity for both retailers and consumers by making essential pet products more affordable, especially in times of crisis.”

How it may affect pet retailers: It gives them another tool to reach customers, particularly to purchase items that are musts for pets, such as first-aid supplies. For example, Florida’s governor signed off on adding pet supplies to the state’s disaster-preparedness tax holidays, which include everything from pet food (of a certain weight limit) to carriers to over-the-counter pet medications. The holidays run from June 1 to 14 and Aug. 24 to Sept. 6. The goal would be to have every state adopt a version of this.

BREED-SPECIFIC LEGISLATION BASED ON TRAITS

Bill HB 1102-FN was introduced in New Hampshire in February 2024 by Rep. Ellen Read. It aims to ban the breeding and sale of brachycephalic dogs and cats, the first of its kind in the U. S. Some European countries have already created laws to restrict or ban breeding for traits such as large skin folds, hairlessness or snub noses, arguing that these cosmetic traits are inherently associated with health issues.

“Legislation that targets entire breeds is a misguided way to address issues of animal health and well-being — science and data should drive decisions like these. To make matters worse, the language in these bills is vague and could be used to ban dozens of the country’s favorite breeds, severely limiting prospective pet owners’ choice,” Bober says.

How it may affect pet retailers: Those who sell dogs and cats and those who sell products for and about those breeds, particularly boutique products, would be affected. There are more than 20 dog breeds that fall under the brachycephalic classification, including two of the American Kennel Club’s 10 most popular dog breeds of 2023: French Bulldog and Bulldog. More than 10 cat breeds fall under the brachycephalic classification, including the popular Persian and Exotic Shorthair.

FEDERAL FARM BILL AND PET-RELATED PROVISIONS STATUS

The large, comprehensive Farm Bill outlines U.S. agricultural and food policies. Developed and passed every five years for the past 100, the 2018 Farm Bill was extended to 2024 and will soon be expiring. Signed into law by President Trump in December 2018, it included three new provisions regarding companion animals: the Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act, PAWS Act (Pet and Women Safety) and PACE Act (Parity in Animal Cruelty Enforcement).

At press time, the House and Senate Agriculture Committees have been working on their prospective frameworks and may be voting soon. New changes could impact companion animals, and more details should be available at the session.

Bober says, “Big pieces of legislation like the Farm Bill often contain both positive and negative provisions that can have far-reaching effects on animal welfare and the pet-care community.” He adds, “We’re working to ensure the best outcomes for all as negotiations play out this summer.”

How it may affect pet retailers: This will be an important part of the PAN Town Hall discussion — what those changes may be and how they will affect retailers. Topics of interest to the pet care community include:

• Funding to keep pets and their people together in domestic abuse and homeless sheltering situations
• Increased oversight and protections regulating the importation of dogs from overseas
• Concerns about changes to the way inspections are carried out and violations are cited

UNIFORM NATIONAL LABELING REQUIREMENTS FOR PET FOOD

In February 2024, Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas, Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas and Rep. Steve Womack of Arizona introduced the Pet Food Uniform Regulatory Reform Act of 2024 (PURR Act) in the House. It would create uniform standards for cat and dog food labels across the country.

Bober says, “Uniform labeling standards would provide clarity and peace of mind to consumers across the country while allowing pet food manufacturers to streamline their packaging, avoiding a patchwork of disparate regulations.”

How it may affect pet retailers: The hope is that the PURR Act would allow pet food manufacturers to spend less time and resources on regulatory red tape and more on research and innovation in their products. With consumers used to a large degree of innovation in their own human food, they expect the same for their family pets. If pet food manufacturers dealt with just one regulatory system, they could hopefully provide retailers new products with innovative ingredients faster.

GET INFORMED

Legislation affects all in the pet industry, from our personal lives to our livelihoods. These are just a few current or pending legislation that may affect retailers and the rest of the pet product and services community.

Bober advises, “Being informed about legislative changes and engaged with lawmakers is key to maintaining a successful business in the responsible pet-care community.”

The post Breed-Specific Bans, Tax Holidays and Other Pet-Related Legislation You Should Know About appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

THE IDEA

When Cassagne learned that one of her favorite customers wouldn’t be bringing in her Labradane, Raven, for her 11th birthday because of dog reactivity, the store owner decided to do something about it. Cassagne hung a birthday banner, put on soothing music and opened before regular hours so Raven could shop in private.

“I just filmed her a little bit, here and there, showing her experience,” says Cassagne, who then posted the video on TikTok. “And that’s when it completely took off, which is completely amazing because it’s bringing a lot of awareness to reactive dogs.” The sessions also can help to lessen such behavior as the dogs get to experience more of the world and have the opportunity to increase their tolerance while out and about.

THE EXECUTION

When customers email the store to request a private shopping experience, Cassagne sends them a list of questions about their pet, including what they are reactive to. She typically gets responses that are pages and pages long.

At first, she booked appointments on Saturdays and Sundays only, but has since expanded to availability during the week before opening and after closing due to demand. Each furry shopper gets 20 minutes in the store, and Cassagne blocks off 10 minutes before and after if needed so dogs don’t overlap.

She creates TikTok videos of some but not all of the reactive shoppers. “Some of them I film from a distance, and some of them I don’t film at all or post them because they are people-reactive,” too, Cassagne says, explaining that in those cases she stays in her office, where the dogs can’t see her, until customers are ready to check out.

Showing the moving movements of these dogs going from nervous to coming out of their shells helps the TikTok videos go viral. One of a sweet pup named Lucy, dressed in a red hoodie with “LOVE” on the back, wagging her tail and running around the store with different toys in her mouth before stopping for a pup cup, has 1.5 million views.

THE RESULTS

Cassagne has seen increased customer satisfaction, positive Google reviews and a boost in sales thanks to the store’s private shopping appointments. Also, big brands are now reaching out, wanting to get into her store and on her TikTok account, which has more than 3.2 million Likes. “We’re just getting a lot more recognition than I ever thought we would,” she says.

Thanks to the videos going viral, Cassagne has even heard from other pet retailers who want to start their own program. As great as all that is, she stresses that social media fame isn’t really what it’s about for her. “I’m just happy seeing the owners watch their dogs shop.” She says they literally have tears in their eyes as their dog sniffs around and enjoys the experience because they’ve never been able to do that before.

The post Reactive Dogs Get the Space They Need at Spoiled Bitch Dog Boutique appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

OWNER: Alli McDonough; WEBSITE: fidoandstitch.com; LOCATIONS: 3;  FACEBOOK: fidoandstitchgr; INSTAGRAM: fidostitch; FOUNDED: 2015; AREA: 1,400 square feet Grand Rapids, 800 square feet Rockford, 6,000 square feet Jenison; TOP BRANDS: Fluff & Tuff, Northwest Naturals, Bosco & Roxy, Charlotte’s Web, Earth Animal, West Paw, Fromm, Zignature, Acana, Kurgo, P.L.A.Y., Fringe Toy Shop, Polkadog; EMPLOYEES: 3 full time, 14 part time

Alli McDonough credits her team, in costume and not, with much of the success of Fido & Stitch.

ALLI MCDONOUGH WANTED to own a business that she loved going to every day and that made people happy. So she combined her passion for dogs, community and market research (backed by an MBA), and got to work. When she discovered that Grand Rapids, MI, didn’t have a boutique pet store, she opened Fido & Stitch there in 2015.

“We offer all kinds of supplies, but more on a specialty and holistic level,” McDonough says of the store’s inventory now and then. “We have things that are sustainable, made in the U.S., made locally, etc. We also have pet foods that we handpick ourselves, based on value and specific needs.”

Besides the best products for all dog breeds and needs, Fido & Stitch carries gift and specialty items not found at big-box competitors, along with some cat offerings, while also offering high-end grooming services. All of this contributed to the store becoming quite successful after six years. That was when McDonough decided it was time to expand.

Planning to Expand

McDonough never wanted to own just one store; her goal was always to operate multiple locations. “It spreads costs across more than one location while increasing revenue, so it’s a great way to become more profitable,” she says. “Plus, it allows my brand to be recognized in more areas and become more widely known without spending more advertising dollars.”

In 2021, McDonough expanded the Grand Rapids store to create a larger grooming department, satisfying a big need in the area at the time. That same year, she opened a second location with grooming in Rockford, MI. In 2023, she acquired a boarding and day-care facility. It became Fido & Stitch Pet Resort & Salon in Jenison, MI.

McDonough had always had an interest in adding a day-care and boarding facility. “It would be another service to give my customers as a part of their one-stop shop with Fido & Stitch,” she says, and, “It definitely adds to the overall bottom line.” Since acquiring the facility, she and her team have focused on rebranding and improving its reputation.

Of course, running three locations has its challenges. McDonough says it’s harder to get to know all of her employees (something she loves to do), and there are three times the issues that need to be addressed. But thanks to the more than 25 full-time and part-time employees, Fido & Stitch as a whole continues to move forward and grow. McDonough credits her team with much of the success and says that they are “what make the business go round.”

Even with different aesthetics across three locations, the Fido & Stich brand carries through both inside and out.

Creating the Dream Team

The No. 1 requirement to work at Fido & Stitch: Be passionate about dogs and people. “These are two skills that you can’t teach,” McDonough explains.
She leads strategy, finances and operational tasks, plus partners with department managers to run daily operations. McDonough strongly believes in utilizing the strengths of employees to give them roles and responsibilities they are good at, so everyone sees the contribution they make and takes ownership. Also, she’s found that this approach keeps them engaged and happy — a big factor in growing the business.

All retail employees go through WhizBang! Retail Training’s Retail Sales Academy. It teaches operational processes, procedures, product knowledge, customer service and retail sales, including through a custom course for Fido & Stitch. Not only do all of the employees get a certification in retail sales, they also learn common procedures. The program includes videos and quizzes specific to the brand. “It is a great way to get employees on-boarded without wasting manpower to do so,” McDonough says. “There is obviously hands-on training that is very important, but this allows us to touch on a lot of topics they wouldn’t otherwise be introduced to until a few months into the training.”

In a creative pivot to hire and retain quality groomers, McDonough has also fully supported three grooming apprenticeships through Paragon Grooming School. The apprentices, including Shannon O’Hara (at left), also receive training and hands-on experience from Fido & Stich groomers, particularly the grooming manager. “She’s been pivotal,” McDonough says of Bobbi Bloom, who has more than 12 years of experience and is particularly skilled with helping dogs who’ve had bad experiences with grooming in the past.

Also on her rockstar top team are Sofia Seath, the retail manager who manages both stores, and Alexandria Bowers, the day-care and boarding manager at the resort. McDonough says, “Putting these people in place has been a game changer to my success in the last couple of years, and I attribute a lot of it to them and the employees they helped to hire.”

Alli McDonough added a day care and boarding facility to the Fido & Stitch family in 2023. She looks forward to its role in growing the bottom line of the business in 2024.

Leaning on Those in the Know

One of the biggest lessons McDonough has learned is to lean on other people’s strengths when needed. She isn’t afraid to ask for help, but in the beginning was reluctant because of cost. McDonough ultimately figured out, though, that “You can’t do it alone if you want to grow. I think that is an important thing for all business owners to know.”

She’s received help in areas that have had a huge impact on Fido & Stitch’s bottom line. One was the total rebrand by Dox Design. McDonough wanted to move beyond the original colors, simple logo and inconsistent branding to something that better represented the current business. Dox Design created a consistent and custom voice for the brand, including sub-logos, graphics, icons and background wallpaper. “It allowed me to grow simply by maturing my brand and reaching customers in a consistent and professional way,” she says. That consistency is seen across all three locations, despite their varying clientele and different exterior and interior aesthetics. “Our Grand Rapids store has an urban-industrial vibe, where our Rockford store has a Main Street and bright atmosphere. Our resort location is an open-concept boarding and day-care facility, a more ‘boutique’ facility where you can see everything that goes on within.”

McDonough also got professional help with bookkeeping, which she did for the first four to five years and hated. She hired Symmetrical Solutions to take about 20 hours of bookkeeping off her plate each month, which she now invests in other parts of the business. Plus, “I now trust that my books are correct and done on time,” she says.

All of the team members and outside help have allowed McDonough to focus on what she loves doing and what helps her grow the business, such as strategic aspects of the company including forecasting, growth and marketing strategy, leadership, and community building.

Looking Toward the Future

McDonough remains focused on growing the bottom line. Currently, boarding brings in 11% of total revenue and day care 12%, from Fido & Stitch Resort & Salon. Grooming, from all three locations, contributes 53%. And retail — from the two stores — contributes 24%. Instead of adding more locations in 2024, she’s looking to increase Fido & Stitch’s total revenue by 29% to hit more than $1.4 million.

How to hit this goal? She says, “The biggest thing is growing our customer base.” It’s all about retaining and attracting new customers at the three locations — to become the brand that the locals shop as their one-stop destination for food, treats, chews, grooming and even training.

McDonough also points to continuing Fido & Stitch’s important mission. “The big picture is educating as many people on how to give their dog a long, healthy and happy life through nutrition, proper grooming and socialization.”

Five Cool Things About Fido & Stitch

1. PRIVATE SHOPPING: To give all dogs the opportunity to enjoy Fido & Stitch, the store will open early for private shopping. This welcomes in people and their reactive pups who wouldn’t feel comfortable coming in during regular business hours.

2. MARKETING INTERNS: Each store has its own social media specialist, who regularly posts and engages with customers. McDonough makes it part of a marketing internship she offers through local colleges. “It helps us staff the store,” she says, “while hiring someone who can help with all marketing aspects, like social media, communications, event planning, etc.” McDonough believes that adding this role has been a game changer for Fido & Stitch’s online presence.

3. BONE BOX: Each box includes healthy and digestible bones and chews, with a unique product the dog probably has not had. Customers can purchase a monthly subscription for $29.99 or $49.99, with size and number of chews varying, or save with a three- or six-month subscription.

4. LOOK IT UP: Employee “manuals are built by those in the roles on a day-to-day basis,” McDonough explains, “so they are accurate and thorough, and pertain directly to situations encountered on a day-to-day basis.” There’s a manual for every aspect of the business — grooming, retail, and boarding and day care — plus a general employee handbook that covers values, dress code and policies. Managers regularly update them.

5. PAWTY TIME: McDonough says, “We always try to come up with new ways customers can involve their dogs in the fun!” The three locations host a variety of events throughout the year, engaging shoppers and helping to keep Fido & Stitch top of mind. Among them: tailgating parties for football games, community Woof Walks to neighborhood breweries and restaurants, pictures with Santa and an annual customer appreciation event. Giving back is important, too: Annual events benefit local animal shelters.

PHOTO GALLERY (11 IMAGES)

{{gallery_holder}}

The post Fido & Stitch — the Business and Brand — Continues to Grow appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.