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.

Barknfetch
FRISCO, TX

Ginger the Elf made her way around the store, with help from Heather Denton, to promote different holiday products on social media. Among them were Bocce’s Bakery treats, Fabdog plush toys and Scripted breed candles, plus decorated cookies. Cute idea!

Nautical Dog
WILLIAMSBURG, VA

The plush Yeti from Tall Tails inspired this fun and funny holiday display. A large cardboard cutout of the creature atop a mountain anchored the Yeti Crossing, which also featured the company’s Big Foot plush. “Wanted” posters add to the silliness as does the puntastic “Are You Yeti for Presents?” sign. The display helped Amanda Wilbourne and her team sell 150 of the Yeti and Big Foot toys! And prompted shoppers to check out other gift options in the display and store.

Bark on Mulford
ROCKFORD, IL

Kaye Busse-Kleber decorated and parked a classic pickup truck outside for customers to use for holiday pics. The charming set, complete with festive greenery and wrapped presents, attracted customers to the store, where they then shopped for gifts on the porch and inside. Her porch display featured products for pets and humans from Chilly Dog, Primitives by Kathy, Fabdog, Fluff & Tuff, Hugglehounds, SodaPup, Pearhead, ZippyPaws and Up Country.

Lucky Dogs
SKANEATELES, NY

This adorable window display featuring wrapped mailboxes rotated holiday product offerings from Haute Diggity Dog, Fabdog, Tall Tails, Bocce’s Bakery, LuluBelles and Petrageous. Amy Schiek says she got many compliments from customers, who took photos of the display, then came inside to shop. She repurposed the display for Valentine’s Day, too!

A Place for Fido
DULUTH, MN

Jamie Parent and her team drew whimsical inspiration from Whoville for the store’s holiday toy display. The recognizable bent tree sat atop a table filled with toys from P.L.A.Y., Tall Tails and SodaPup. Parent says the display helped boost sales of the toys, leaving her with little to clearance after Dec. 25.

House of Paws
REGINA, SK

Carly Patryluk picked out a few of her favorite things for the store’s Pawliday Wish List, a print and digital guide filled with products from the likes of West Paw, Fuzzyard and Cloudstar. Fun games and puzzles, a DogNog recipe featuring Primal goat milk, and an announcement of her photos with Santa event also were included. Patryluk says the guide drew customers, who shared that they came in specifically for a gift they saw in it.

The post A Yeti, an Elf and the Grinch Walk Into a Pet Store to Boost Holiday Sales appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Wagging Tails Pet Resort & Spaw
WEST HARTFORD, CT

Clients can host a party for pups and people at this boarding and day-care facility’s indoor park. The $150 package includes up to 10 dogs and their people for 1.5 hours of play and socializing, puppy cake and ice cream, games with prizes, and party favor bags. Wagging Tails staff also takes care of sending custom evites, verifying vaccination status and posting photos to social media.

TIP: Make a birthday theme part of the package, owner Krista Lofquist says, but offer as an upcharge special themes such as this Mickey Mouse one for 10-year-old Chihuahua Deylen.

The Green K9
MOUNT DORA, FL

Day-care dogs at The Green K9 also can celebrate special occasions, here with their pals in the program. For $75 that includes their day care, they get a one-hour themed party with guests of their choosing, complete with decorations, party hats and bandanas, a cake and treats, plus photos of the fun on a thumb drive.

TIP: When pups on the guest list check in for day care, give their people a link so they can watch the celebration online, owner Paul Lewis says. He also invites pet parents to look on via a viewing window in the lobby. “We usually have several customers watching when a party is happening.”

Four Muddy Paws
ST. LOUIS, MO

Across its two locations, this store has more than 5,000 members in its Birthday Club, with pet parents getting a Happy Birthday email offering a free treat for a dog or free toy for a cat, plus a $5 off coupon for party supplies. Among those available are birthday toys, hats, bandanas, freshly baked treats and custom birthday cakes.

Owner Jeff Jensen says of the club, “It’s been a fun way to connect with our customers on a more personal level and give them a little something special, and they’re reminded they can order their own custom fresh-baked cake.”

TIP: To promote custom cakes, follow Jensen’s lead and keep a decorated styrofoam version in your birthday display. He says doing so helps his store sell more than 50 custom cakes a month.

Fetch RI
RICHMOND, RI

For some pet parents, a celebration may center around a trip to your store. Owner Johnna Devereaux welcomes this and keeps stocked The Part-y Bar, a 12-foot display that offers just about any body part safe for dogs to devour. There are also supplies for celebrations, from birthday bandanas and hats to cake mixes and bakery items. She also has two branded frames pups can pose in for photos that she shares on Fetch RI’s social media.

TIP: Devereaux recommends practicing inclusivity by having both a Happy Birthday and Happy Gotcha Day frame, so that all pets are covered by the good wishes.

Animal Connection
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Customers shopping for their pet’s birthday or gotcha day at Animal Connection can select items a la carte, pick up a pre-wrapped bundle or create their own celebration box. Among the many products available are toys, crowns and party hats, custom bandanas, and freshly baked treats and cakes made on-site.

TIP: If you have an outdoor space, owner Pattie Zeller recommends hosting parties there and inviting neighboring businesses to take part. “Because we have a patio in front of the store, we book parties and let our neighboring restaurants and brewery plan treats for the humans to enjoy, as well. It really gets our retail community involved in the fun!”

The post Celebrate Good Times: 5 Ways to Help Customers Throw a Party for Their Pets appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Paddywack
MILL CREEK, WA

This doghouse scene by Tina LoFranco adorns a wall in the store’s dog food area. Pups can pose in front for pics.

COST: $300 | TIPS: If you do opt for an interior mural, Shane Somerville says, “Try not to bash it with your rolling cart.” And, “Know your artist’s style to ensure it’s compatible with your shop aesthetics, be clear about what you want, don’t be afraid to ask for it and have fun!”

Dog Krazy
FREDERICKSBURG, VA

To add curb appeal and celebrate their family dogs, Nancy and Chris Guinn hired Brian McGuire of Illusion Wraps to create the series of vinyl decals that decorate their 136-foot storefront. Piglet and Nova, the late heart dogs of Nancy and Chris, respectively, join current pets Pork Wonton, Sushi, Stirfry Fatguy and Tala. A dog house frames the entry, while a retro TV set lines up perfectly with a kitty perch inside the cat boarding room.

COST: $3,000 | TIP: Nancy says, “Make sure you love it!”

Adventure Pets
MANDEVILLE, LA

A vinyl graphic by James Wicks of DWC Signs and Graphics borders its entire back wall and features the many pets this store serves. The one-third shown here features a bearded dragon, chameleon and sulcata tortoise, with a fiberglass sculpture of a leopard gecko joining in on the fun.

COST: $1,950 | TIPS: Rachael Creech says, “Be patient and find the graphics you like. I was picky because I knew I would have to look at it every day.”

The Public Pet
HONOLULU, HI

This bold, beautiful streetside mural by Matthew Tapia represents the store and its surroundings. Lola and Phiefer, the dogs who inspired Jordan Lee and Matthew Guevara to open The Public Pet, make a cameo inside the yellow circle, and Lee says the mural “acts as a design element for the Kaimuki neighborhood.”

COST: $2,500 | TIPS: Consider updating an exterior mural on a regular basis. Lee says, “We’ve rotated it twice since opening [in 2016] and look forward to more designs going forward.” Tapia offers this advice: “Always try to set up that ‘Instagram Moment’ for your customers, and have the artist’s handle or hashtag visible for people to use.” Tagging the artist allows you to reach art lovers who also have pets!

Muttigans
EMERALD ISLE, NC

This store inherited an interior mural from the previous tenant, a yoga studio. The artwork covers two walls and depicts an underwater seascape. Wendy Megyese says, “We don’t sell any aquatics, but we are on the coast and decided to leave it. The mural gives the space such character and keeps a piece of the building history.”

COST: Free | TIPS: Invite your customers to join in on the creativity. Megyese says, “The shark is the highlight of the mural, so we created a poll on our Facebook page to name it. The result? Sharkira.”

All Pets Considered
GREENSBORO, NC

A dog park scene by local caricaturist Erik Huffine wraps the front windows of each of this store’s two locations. It spans 100 feet and features logos from Zignature, Lotus, Bark Worthies, Primal and other brands. “We covertly designed areas that could be branded,” Alison Schwartz says. “Manufacturers helped us tremendously with the cost of the windows. Placement cost was measured by proximity to the doors — the closer to the customer entrance, the more expensive the placement cost and the higher the value to the manufacturer.”

COST: $5,000 | TIPS: Research local restrictions on window graphics. Schwartz says, “We found out ours was technically against a building code. Thankfully, we were grandfathered in. Also, plan for replacement every five years because the vinyl does weather.”

Birds Unlimited
WEBSTER, NY

In-store works of art need not be permanently placed. Paul Lewis put this carnival cutout in storage because of the pandemic, but plans to bring it back outside once safe. He sketched the design, then employee Corrine Playfair brought it to life in latex paint.

COST: $175 for paint and labor | TIP: If you make one, Lewis says, “Don’t put the holes too low as it makes it difficult for people to stick their face in ’em.”

The post Sharkira, Cat TV and 4 More Works of Art That Set Indie Pet Stores Apart appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Groovy Groomers
ADA, OK

This Mercedes Sprinter converted by Wag’n Tails and wrapped by Hunter Graphix draws inspiration from Scooby Doo’s iconic Mystery Machine.
“I wanted to be seen, and I wanted the name to be easy to remember, so Groovy Groomers was born,” Stacey Morris, who owns the business with husband Jeff, says. “Everyone recognizes the vans, and even if they don’t use our service, or even have a dog, they make people smile.”

TIPS: When setting prices, Morris shares that even though mobile grooming typically costs more, “we try to keep our prices close to the shops around here to not make it too difficult on a lot of our older clients. We recognize how important dogs can be, especially the elderly, who may not see a lot of people.”

Katie’s Divine K9S
LEESBURG, VA

Katherine Krumme also opted for a Mercedes Sprinter, converted by Hanvey Engineering & Design. She gave simple directions to Allegra Dallas on designing the wrap: “I told them I have an Airedale and I like the color teal.” Inside, “I added flower stickers to give the white walls a bit more of a shop or home feel.”

TIP: Thinking about going mobile? Krumme highly recommends it. “I worked in a shop for three years and will never go back. Mobile is very peaceful and can be relaxing if you plan your routes correctly and have the right clients.”

Spa Meeow & Spa Bark Mobile Grooming
CHICAGO, IL

Jennifer Schilling designed the exteriors of her Spa Meeow and Spa Bark mobile grooming vans with watercolor and digital artist Christy Freeman Stark. The wraps featuring wet kitties and spa pups cover Dodge Ram Promasters converted by Wag’n Tails. Each van also features the Thera-Clean Microbubble System.

TIPS: Keep size in mind when choosing a vehicle, Schilling says. “We like the smaller conversions for city life … easier to move around, park, etc.” She also advises, “Stick to areas each day and don’t go out of your way. People will change to make it happen and get your service 99 percent of the time.”

Fluff My Life
SPRING, TX

Personal pets Veruca, Pandora and Juno adorn the side of Sara Mock-Mason’s mobile grooming van, another Mercedes Sprinter, converted and wrapped by Hanvey. Giant scissors help convey to passersby its purpose.

TIPS: When deciding on a mobile grooming setup, Mock-Mason points out that industry events offer the opportunity to learn about the leading conversion companies. “You can tour a unit, stand in it, push buttons and envision if this particular conversion is right for you.” She adds, “Network with other groomers around you and tag along for a day in their unit to see what preferences you have. We love showing off our vans.”

Ooh La La Mobile Pet Spa
SOUTHERN RI

When designing the exterior of their mobile pet spa, Christopher Swanson and Heather DiFusco opted for a full wrap with a pink, eye-catching Parisian theme befitting its name.
“We decided it was best for vehicle protection, and we wanted to get our brand out there,” Swanson says. “Within months, the wrap paid for itself with all of the driving around we were doing. Our clientele grew!”
For the vehicle itself, they chose a Mercedes Sprinter converted by Hanvey. Its setup makes safety and ease of use a priority for both groomer DiFusco and her clients. The grooming table lowers to the ground and raises to an ergonomic height. A plexiglass barrier that separates the table from the tub slides out so dogs can walk easily between the two. She appreciates the minimal lifting it allows.

TIP: Swanson recommends going with a conversion company because while the DIY route can cost less initially, “if anything fails on a personal conversion, you’re dealing with multiple companies where you purchased the equipment.”

Hounds Around Town
BIRMINGHAM, AL

Melissa Norman opted for a wrapped truck and trailer for two reasons: affordability and adaptability. She loved the idea of a converted van, “but I hated the idea of spending more on it than I did my first house and having a large van payment.” And “when my truck breaks down, I can borrow one and keep working.”

The post 6 Mobile Dog (and Cat) Groomers Who Inspire and Advise appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

My Natural Pet
BROOKLYN, NY

This store and grooming shop has a permanent photo wall, where customers can take pics of their pets. Owner Margo Tortorelis adds sets for various holidays. For each, she hosts a one-day event and promotes it on social media to build interest and anticipation.

Photos are free with purchase, and sets pay for themselves thanks to the boost in sales and the marketing from shared and tagged photos. About 30 dogs posed on this adorable St. Patrick’s Day set. “They love it, we love it — fun for all,” she says. “And it gives them a reason to come back next holiday.”

TIPS: Create a pup-friendly set. Tortorelis zip-tied together the wooden crates for stability. She adds, “Dogs sit or stand in a wagon behind the crates, so they can be seen clearly.”

Fairytails Pet Spaw
WINCHESTER, KY

At this salon, customers can add the Facebook Photo Package to their dog’s groom. It costs $10 and comes with a digital image, teeth brushing, designer neckwear and a gourmet treat. Pups pose on an amazing set created by owner Heather Carter, who also sells them to fellow business owners through her Tickled Pink Pet Designs. A recent set drew inspiration from Netflix series “Bridgerton,” imagining a tea hosted by character Lady Whistledown. Carter takes the photos herself and introduces new themes regularly, with the package bringing in an additional $200 to $400 per week.

“Our salon gets a lot of compliments on our photos, and the quality of our grooms is displayed,” she says. “Our facility does pet adoptions, too, and I have no doubt that our adoption program’s success is because of our photos.”

TIPS: Carter recommends investing in pieces that can be used in multiple sets and store displays. She adds, “Make sure backdrops are wrinkle free.”

Brown Dog Bakery
ANKENY, IA

Sets need not be elaborate to bring in customers. Owner Anna Woodcock simply lays out a football field — made by adding white duct tape to “grass” carpet — and invites customers to pose their pups for the store’s annual Puppy Bowl Photo Contest.

TIPS: Let your customers pick winners via social media. Woodcock took that approach, and her contest post reached 8,000 people thanks to shares and likes. She says, “It helps to engage customers and get new people to see our page, and it’s just fun!”

Lucky Dog Pet Grocery & Bakery
LAWRENCE, KS

Co-owners Jennifer Thomas and Sarah Kathryn invite pet parents to take part in their store’s photo sessions. Among the themes are major holidays, plus pop culture like ’80s and “Game of Thrones.” More than 60 people and their pets posed on this Mother’s Day set. The price: $4.99 per digital pic, which featured text added using Pixlr. They have since upgraded to Canva Pro.

TIPS: “Lighting is key,” Thomas says. “We place two photography lights in front of the clients and one behind the backdrop. Placing a light behind the backdrop will make it more vibrant in the photo. Additionally, iPhones have a lighting option before you take the photo. Simply tap the screen and move your finger upward to brighten.”

Four Muddy Paws
ST. LOUIS, MO

Staff built this kissing booth for selfie days at both of the store’s locations, spending just $35 on hardware and craft supplies.

Owner Jeffrey Jensen says, “Customers love having something to do with their pets that’s quick, easy and just fun. Helping them make memories is also important. We had people come in specifically for the kissing booth, and they would then pick up a few things, so keeping the photos free was definitely a benefit for us. It cost us virtually nothing but floor space, and we created both goodwill and some extra sales from the events.”

TIPS: Jensen recommends building sets that can be transported, set up and broken down, and stored easily — for multiple locations and events.

Fetch RI
RICHMOND, RI

Owner Johnna Devereaux and a group of handy volunteers helped build this Santa’s Workshop photo set. Hundreds of customers used it and tagged the store on social media. Set elements live on as a year-round display that changes with the holidays — red-and-white garland and heart-shaped decor transformed it into a Valentine’s Day backdrop.

TIPS: Devereaux says, “I’m not making money directly from the set, but it gets our name out — and more importantly, we are helping people make great memories with their pups. Do things out of the goodness of your heart and because you enjoy it. Customers and business will follow.”

The post How Lady Whistledown and Mother’s Day Help Pet Businesses Boost Revenue appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Lucky Dog Outfitters & Pet Supply
LAWRENCE, KS

Co-owners Jennifer Thomas and Sarah Kathryn introduced Pet Parcel in August, and now have customers locally and as far away as Arizona. They use Packlane for design and boxes, and regularly reshop shipping for the lowest rates. The January box followed a New Year’s Eve theme, complete with a “Bye Felicia” cookie.

PRICE: $34.99 (pickup; free delivery, shipping)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 50
TIP: “We understand that every dog is unique,” Thomas says. Customers can share pet weight and allergy info, ask for treats or toys only, and even choose accessory colors. Also, those with deaf or blind dogs can get boxes customized for their different needs.

Sweet Paws Bakery
GAINESVILLE, FL

Not only do buyers of Abby & Parker’s Treat Box get tasty items made by owner Colleen O’Fallon Toledo, they also get an activity card with suggestions on how to use the treats for enrichment, plus a coupon for a popular product. And for every photo tagged and shared on social media of the box, she includes a special prize with the next month’s goodies.

PRICE: $29.99 monthly, $149.94 six-month subscription (pickup; free shipping)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 40-55
TIP: It’s OK to start with a DIY box, Toledo says. “Start with plain boxes. Once you have enough subscribers, you can upgrade to those pretty printed boxes with your brand.”

Barkers Anonymous
HENDERSON, NC

When the pandemic hit, owner and trainer Comora Tolliver created enrichment kits that proved so popular she made them a monthly offering. “I like to put items together that stimulate the dog’s brain. Different textures, different sounds, different chews.” She offers three price points for pups, plus one for cats.

PRICE: $25.99-$69.99 (pickup; free delivery, $10 shipping)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 40, plus special puppy and birthday boxes
TIP: Consider partnering with breeders you respect. “We get a lot of support from breeders who want to send puppies home with products to help pet parents be successful from the beginning,” Tolliver says.

Dog Krazy
FREDERICKSBURG, VA

The popular Krazy Krates overflow with items while also turning owner Nancy Guinn a pretty profit. She gets great deals by buying in bulk and often gets products for free from manufacturers and distributors thanks to the buying power of her six stores.

PRICE: $50 (free delivery, shipping fee applies)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 50 to 125, depending on how many she makes available
TIP: Look at what isn’t selling in your store. “I often put in items that we have a lot of that aren’t moving as quickly as I’d like,” Guinn says. “It’s a great way to get rid of non-sellers.”

Bark on Mulford
ROCKFORD, IL

The BOMBOX (Bark On Mulford Box) has become quite popular since its introduction in October. Owner Kaye Busse-Kleber says, “I’ve even had a few customers tell me they’ve quit their BarkBox subscriptions to buy local from us!” Small Dog and Big Dog boxes introduce new products. “One of my selling points is that they do not include items I already carry in my shop, giving buyers a first look at new merchandise.”

PRICE: $29 Small Dog, $39 Big Dog (pickup; shipping fee applies)
BOXES SOLD EVERY OTHER MONTH: 50
TIP: Promote your raves! Busse-Kleber created a social media graphic that combines photos of the boxes with quotes from happy customers.

All Pets Considered
GREENSBORO, NC

Each month, owner Alison Schwartz donates a portion of the purchase price from her Bonefactor Box and Generoskitty Box to a charity partner. She doesn’t always use boxes, though — the holiday Santa’s Treatings Bag for dogs contained a Honey I’m Home Advent Calendar plus a variety of treats and a toy.

PRICE: $29.99 monthly, $34.99 a la carte (free delivery)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 45
TIP: Offer sponsorship, Schwartz recommends. Natural Balance has been one such sponsor for her. “This helps tremendously with planning and gives me a break. Manufacturer reps are responsible for planning and sending all of the product for the box for free.”

Animal Connection
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Owner Pattie Zeller says she sniffs out the coolest products for her Dog Scout Goody Box, which launched in October and have followed a holiday theme each month: Boo Box, Goblin’ Goodies, Seasons Treatings, Football Game Snak Pak and Smooch Your Pooch.

PRICE: $29.99 (shipping fee applies)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 25-75
TIP: Zeller says, “Sometimes your creativity can be inspired by supplier or manufacturer specials, even as far as three to four months ahead of the box launch.” And adds, “Send pictures of the boxes to your reps so they know how their products are being presented. They love seeing how creative their product looks in the boxes!”

Barkville Bakery
PECULIAR, MO

This dog bakery has been shipping treat boxes to out-of-town customers monthly since 2018. Owner Kayla Swatzell also offers add-ons for special occasions. For example, last year’s Easter box included “a bag of our Tail Mix, a Mixed Gourmet Box, two bags of special flavors I made that month, a bully stick, and two Iced cookies that were Easter themed. The addon had a basket of 12 eggs that were filled with treats, a dog beer from Beer Paws, three more iced cookies, and a bow from local Cheeky Chic Bows.

PRICE: $40 one-time, $36 six-month subscription, $30 12-month subscription (add-ons extra, free shipping)
BOXES SOLD EACH MONTH: 12
TIP: Swatzell says, “Sit down and figure out your pricing first and make sure they are getting a “deal,” but not so much of one that you are losing money. Unfortunately, my first year, I lost a lot of money. I was trying to compete with the prices of the “big guys,” and it wasn’t a good idea. Sell your box on your value add. Just like we do every day in our store. For example, my promise to my customers is that you get a month’s worth of treats for 1 dog for $30 delivered to your door if you sign up for a year. I also offer other “packages” throughout the year — in September/October, I’ll run a three-month special price where they get the “three best boxes” (Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Then I usually have those same people sign up for a whole year in January.”

The post Create Your Own Pet Box with Inspiration from These 8 Stores appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Three Happy Hounds
FERNLEY, NV

Elaina Stanley wins the Most Cubbies in a Treat & Chew Bar prize. There are 96 total! Plus storage drawers underneath with charming dog-head pulls. She hired a local craftsman to create this wooden fixture, which separates into four pieces on wheels for easy moving and cleaning.

TIP: Stanley advises, “Think about how you want to label your products. My craftsman made me removeable wooden ‘chalkboards’ for each cubby. I actually make and print my labels, laminate them and use double-sided tape. This makes it super easy to switch out product and relabel if needed.”

Belmont Pet Shop
BELMONT, MA

Kaitlin McGrath combined wood, galvanized pails and chalkboard paint to create her chew bar. She strategically places wrapped chews on the bottom to thwart dogs who like to take sample licks.

TIP: McGrath says, “Have a clear idea of what you want, and then visualize your customer’s experience using it to work out any glitches before you build.”

Petagogy
PITTSBURGH, PA

Co-owner Ben Huber built chew bars for both Petagogy locations. He used birch plywood and pine lattice strips to create this double-sided fixture, which features 48 covered bins with slatwall above.

TIP: Include wheels! “I like to change the layout of my store occasionally. We also have to move displays for in-store events,” Huber says.

Youngblood’s Natural Animal Care Center & Massage
WILKINSON, IN

In addition to their pet business, the Youngblood family owns a hardwood farm. It supplied the materials for this raw bar built by customer Wesley Hale. He also made the crates, which hold plastic bins from IKEA.

TIP: Looking for a carpenter? Ask your customers! Samantha Youngblood says, “During our recent move, we found out that many have hidden talents and were eager to help.” They paid Hale $600 for this project.

Flying M Pet Grocery
HOUSTON, TX

The Morgue department at this store features a custom-made chew bar, complete with an awning and eight bins of body parts identified by chalkboard signs. Additional parts sit in restaurant-style trays and on delicate dessert stands. The tongue-in-cheek display also encourages customers to build a body to get a head for free and to ring the bell to clear any negative energy left over from the butchering process.

TIP: Have fun! Trace Menchaca says, “The morgue theme sells more and attracts customers, rather than grossing anyone out, and it’s added a fun twist to the store.”

A Place For Paws
COLUMBIANA, OH

Every day, 20 to 35 percent of store sales come from this wooden bar, which Dani Edgerton designed and her husband, Jim, then built. It offers bulk treats on one side and “Chews to Entertain” and “Kick Back & Crunch” sections on the other. The metal buckets and wooden crates came from hardware and hobby stores.

TIP: Value the visual. “Create straight orderly lines. Your chews will have enough variety, and people’s eyes will need the rest,” Edgerton says, adding to “Place your chew bar in the front. It will be the most impressive thing many of your customers have seen in a pet store. Have a three-minute tour of the bar ready for new customers.”

The post Custom Chew Bars Move Body Parts and More at These Pet Stores appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Bark on Mulford
ROCKFORD, IL

The bandanas at this store drape over wooden ladder rungs, tuck into a chicken feeder and lie flat on a stool, with all fixtures found at a vintage resale shop. Kaye Busse-Kleber says, “I design most of our bandanas, and my mom sews them. I made a book of dogs wearing our bandanas, gave a copy to her for Christmas and have one on display.”

Firehouse Pet Shop & Grooming
WENATCHEE, WA

Jennifer Larsen prefers bandana lines with display cards. Otherwise, they’re “too messy and inconsistent.” She carries Canada Pooch, Tail Trends and Mirage, and uses magnetic hooks to display them on a metal column wrap.

Fetch RI
RICHMOND, RI

The bandanas at this store are custom-made, by a local seamstress, as is the fixture from which they hang. Johnna Devereaux says, “I purchased thin bamboo sticks from the garden section of my local hardware store and hot-glued bamboo clothespins directly onto the sticks. I then mounted the sticks with a u-bracket — found in the plumbing department — to the wall! It was super easy and inexpensive, maybe $10!”

Pupcakes
HYANNIS, MA

Holly Lemieux decorates a lighted faux-birch tree from Amazon with her bandana offerings, which include patterns from The Worthy Dog. She recommends this display only for light fabrics: “The bendies bend way too easily for heavier items.”

Southern Barker
LEXINGTON, KY

A wooden ladder from Target helps keep tidy bandanas from Coco + Pistachio, The Rover Boutique and Tail Trends, among others. Leslie Stewart says, “I hang them with black single clips because it reminds me of going to a furniture store and getting to pick out a custom fabric. There is just something about seeing the fabric nicely folded and lined up that makes it so attractive!”

Lucky Dogs
SKANEATELES, NY

Amy Schiek strung a nylon clothesline within a shelving unit, securing it with hooks on interior walls. Perfectly placed wooden clothespins hang bandanas above, while additional patterns store in plastic bins below. She hit up Home Depot for supplies when it came time to update this display. “When we had them only folded in a basket, they did not sell as well because they were easy to overlook. I decided to hang a selection so customers could see more of the patterns. I expanded from seasonal into everyday patterns, and they have sold very well. We carry Woof & Wild, Dapper Chic Dogs, Charlie & the Hound, The Worthy Dog and American School of Charm.”

Four Muddy Paws
EDWARDSVILLE, IL

This store’s two locations sell bandanas, bow-ties and collar flowers made by a local seamstress. A “photo tree” displays the latter two items perfectly.

The post Leave the Mess Behind with These Creative Pet Bandana Displays appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

The Pet Beastro
MADISON HEIGHTS, MI

Pet parents love seeing this colorfully wrapped Nissan NV Cargo 2500 High Top on the road. “We have had fun with our customers taking pictures of the van out and about, either in their neighborhood or sitting in traffic,” Jill Tack says.

COST: $4,300 | TIP:“Get the design right the first time, as it isn’t an easy fix if it doesn’t turn out the way you had envisioned. And, of course, the best design statement of all time: ‘Less is more.’”

Jungle Bob’s Reptile World
SELDEN, NY

This jungle-wrapped Dodge Ram 1500 Promaster does deliveries, store-to-store transfers, and goes with Robert H. Smith and his team to special events. “Wherever that van goes, people know Jungle Bob is there,” Smith, AKA Jungle Bob, says.

COST: $2,000 | TIP:Be sure to write off the expense come tax time. “I put the entire vehicle lease and the wrap under ‘advertising’ on our financials.”

Petnmind Coconut
CREEK, FL

This wrapped Dodge Ram Promaster City advertises a variety of products and services even when not making deliveries for the store. “I pay employees to drive through certain targeted neighborhoods and park in high-traffic areas. It’s like a moving billboard,” Adrian Archie says.

COST: $1,400 | TIP:“Used is fine if you are wrapping because it covers any flaws.”

Adventure Pets
MANDEVILLE, LA

A larger-than-life turtle peeks out the back of this Ford Transit Connect, sure to make fellow drivers curious about the vehicle and store. Rachael Creech also uses it “to haul our five dogs, two of which are Greyhounds.”

COST: $2,500 | TIP:“If you’re thinking about it, do it! We now have a truck and a van wrapped, and are sorry we waited so long. They get a lot of attention.”

Nature’s Pet Market
SHERWOOD, OR

Jennifer Flanagan turned a Nissan Juke into Delivery Dog, complete with spots and a bright red tongue “hanging” out the side. The delivery operation exists as a separate business that her store hires. A magnetic sign provides branding and can swap out for one from another business, such as a store she has in the works not under the Nature’s Pet Market umbrella.

COST: $1,000 | TIP:Consider partnering up if you have room on your delivery schedule. “I might let other businesses hire my service, as long as they don’t conflict. Daycare drop-off and pickup? Grooming drop-off and pickup? Ideas are endless!”

Moore Equine Feed & Pet Supply
SOUTHERN PINES, NC

In addition to doing deliveries, this Ram Promaster City Tradesman Cargo Van in the store’s signature bright green regularly appears in newspaper and social media ads. Not to worry, store pup Jackson only poses behind the wheel.

COST: $3,200 | TIP:“While we haven’t had any issues (knock on wood), from a safety perspective, if I were to purchase again, I would buy a vehicle with windows, at least in the back, and utilize window perforation in the wrap,” Kimberly Aspenleiter says.

Unleashed
NEW LONDON, NH

Penny Murano covered a Chevy Equinox with store colors orange and green, plus its cartoon logo, to grab attention during deliveries. She found the process quite easy. “I took pictures of my car, printed them out and then designed what I wanted on it with colored pencils and copies of my logo. I sent those to the designer at Lifesized Wraps, and he made my ideas even better. It took about four weeks from start to wrap.”

COST: $3,470 | TIP:Complete the look with a custom license plate. Murano chose “GO-FTCH.”

The post 7 Wrapped Pet Store Delivery Vehicles appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Bow Wow Beauty Shoppe
SAN DIEGO, CA

Leel Michelle has been so successful with her dog bakery items that she now offers them wholesale as well as through her shop. She worked with a veterinarian to create the entire collection, which includes ready-to-go round and bone-shaped cakes that contain only human-grade ingredients and are fresh-frozen.

PRICE: $30-$50, plus add-ons. | TIPS: Let pet parents know cakes are not meant for human consumption. Michelle added a disclaimer to her order form after complaints from humans who did not like the way the cakes tasted.

The Seattle Barkery
SEATTLE, WA

This treat truck and shop estimates it will sell more than 2,500 custom dog cakes in 2020. Among the offerings are the adorable Unicorn Cake and the fetching Ball Cake. All cakes start with the same recipe — grain-free flour, banana, peanut butter, coconut oil, baking soda, plus a choice of peanut butter glaze or cream cheese frosting — and are served on a flying disc platter.

PRICE: $38-$45, plus add-ons. | TIPS: Dawn Ford says, “Freshness and customization options go a long way. We make all of our cakes day of order, which can be overwhelming, but is always appreciated. Allowing custom options also gives the customer the freedom to make the cake special for their dog.”

Dog Krazy
5 STORES IN VIRGINIA

Pet parents can specify which protein they want for their cat cake, with this one for Leo featuring a tuna interior as well as Vital Essentials freeze-dried minnows as edible decoration. Other custom creations have included a cake topped with “fettuccine” for birthday boy Alfredo. Ready-to-go cakes also are available, with two of the stores currently baking for all five.

PRICE: $19.99-$39.99. | TIPS: Nancy Guinn says, “Know how to prevent mold and make sure custom orders are pre-paid before taking the time to personalize.”

Southern Barker
LEXINGTON & LOUISVILLE, KY

All cakes at these stores are custom-made using Puppy Cake mixes, allowing for a variety of flavors: peanut butter, carob, pumpkin, banana and red velvet. From there, pet parents can choose from five popular designs or request a special theme. Finney’s humans threw him a University of Kentucky party complete with this UK cake, toys and a collar.

PRICE: $34.99, plus add-ons. | TIPS: Sarah Stewart says, “Be creative and listen to your customers. Most of our designs are ideas our customers asked us to do.”

Paws on Main
COLUMBIANA, OH

In addition to birthday, gotcha day and new puppy cakes, this store offers a gender reveal dog option, an increasingly popular choice at pet bakeries. The pup bit into this cake — or the pet parent cut into it — to find blue bottles with yogurt chips inside, signaling that a human baby brother was on the way. Puppy Cake mix and Pastries 4 Pets icing make up the ready-to-go and custom cakes.

PRICE: $5.99-$32.99 | TIPS: Dani Edgerton says, “Every time someone sends you a photo with their dog and your cake, share it on social media, put it in an album or on a rotating board. People still feel a little funny buying their dog a birthday cake in our smaller Midwest town, so any social proof helps them to make the decision.”

Happy Dog Barkery
DOWNERS GROVE, IL

Beth Staley has been making pet celebration cakes — for dogs, cats, horses, Guinea pigs and many other species — for her store and others since 2004. She offers grain-free pumpkin, liver and peanut butter flavors. Oliver got this special cake for Easter.

PRICE: $15-$28 | TIPS: Staley says, “There are a lot of ‘stock’ cakes out there, but try to find a niche in customizing. Focus on the quality of recipe and decorating style.”

Sweet Paws Bakery
GAINESVILLE, FL

Dog parents can choose from 16 designs — from the classic bone to squirrels with acorns to an alligator — or request a custom cake to match a party theme. Percy Bear and Bailey had a crawfish boil, while Zoey enjoyed a sea turtle-themed luau. Cakes are made with unsweetened carob, banana and honey.

PRICE: $19.99-$29.99 | TIP: Colleen O’Fallon Toledo says, “Have fun with it,” and adds that “it will take practice to get used to working with different icings and ingredients.”

The post 7 Amazing Celebration Cakes for Dogs and Cats appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Pupology
GEORGETOWN, TX

Customers see this direction at the entrance to Janet Cesarini’s store.

“We chose this sign to bring a smile to our customers’ faces and to kindly remind them that we’re all here together, so let’s use good manners and all get along, like well-behaved dogs do at the play park.

“We also want to encourage them to bring their pets in to shop! We’ve welcomed cats as well as dogs, but the funniest pet we have welcomed was a pot-bellied pig.”

Dog Krazy
5 STORES IN VIRGINIA

To remind customers of the strength of their dog’s teeth, Nancy Guinn created a “wanted” poster featuring her Bulldog, Porkie. His crime: destroying toys. “It does make people laugh, and it does help us sell a lot of natural chews.”

Your Dog’s Best Friends
ALEXANDRIA, VA

To keep dogs from doing their business in this playcare and boarding facility’s beautiful garden, Paul Haire and manager Annabel Givens created this special spot, complete with polite signage. She says, “It works!”

Bath & Biscuits
GRANVILLE, OH

Give a kid a spray nozzle … Danielle Wilson attempts to keep her self-wash station under control with this humorous threat.

Loyl’s Natural Pet Grocery & Groomery
HOUSTON, TX

Anyone with a business in a busy shopping center can relate to Cynthia McKinney’s parking woes, which persist even with reserved spots. Customers of the paint shop next door are the biggest offenders. She threatens them, tongue in cheek, with this sign.

Birds Unlimited
WEBSTER, NY

In the area of this store where large birds live, Paul Lewis posted this sign that reads “These birds may bite. Offer flesh at your own risk.” It wasn’t 100 percent effective, he admits. “People who should have known better still tried to pet the birds and got bit. So now a yellow plastic chain also hangs in front of the cages to keep people back.”

Cats N Dogs
PORT CHARLOTTE, FL

Nancy Okun modified a premade sign with a label that says “sniff” instead of “search.” “The sign is really meant to get a laugh, but in case we ever felt the need to check a bag, it covers us.”

Powder Hounds Pet Supply
BIGFORK, MT

A simple request, simply put. And effective, Julie Johannes says. “It does make all the difference! I could do without the snarky customer comments, though, like ‘My dog can’t read’ and ‘Do I have to pee before I enter too?’”

Captivating Canines
WESTERVILLE, OH

Ron Keller inherited this sign when he bought the business and decided to keep it up. “The previous owners did not like kids and had a bad reputation among the adults. I’m still working to change that, but I will say, there have been many more damages caused by kids than by dogs!”

Animal Connection
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

True story: This sign exists because a hiker actually came into this store to bathe both himself and his dog after a muddy hike.

The post Sign Language: 10 Businesses That Have Fun With Signs, Even When Serious appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Firehouse Pet Shop
Wenatchee, WA

Thirty-four wooden crates make up this collar-centric display, shown here with manager Traci Simon. They clip around on rods within, grouped by color, and mix with housewares. At the center sits an antique metal file box owners Jennifer and Allen Larsen found at an antique store.

COST & SOURCE: $15 each for crates at Walmart, $40 for file box

Wishbone Pet Care
Missouri City, TX

Tammi Bui used copper pipes and fittings to create a perfectly petite collar display, which fits into a wooden stool and spins for easy access.

COST & SOURCE: $30 for each 10 feet of copper piping, $19 for cutter, $3 each for fitting at Home Depot

TIP: Don’t be intimidated by the idea of cutting pipe. Bui says, “I used copper pipe because it’s the easiest type to DIY. The cutter is very easy to use.” Also, don’t make the arms too long, so customers can easily reach collars farther in.

Harbor Pet
Greenport, NY

More than 400 collars hang on the wall at this store! Kim Loper kept it simple when creating this fixture, purchasing pre-cut steel plumbing pipes around which to attach the collars.

COST & SOURCE: $350 at Home Depot

TIP: When using pipes for a neat and attractive display, Loper says to “Clean them really well and spray paint them black. They are black, but the original black will rub off on the collars and stain them.”

Animal Connection
Charlottesville, VA

Pattie Boden Zeller turned a section of deck railing on its side to create this rustic display. Collars attach around one or two posts, depending on size, to keep the selection tidy while allowing easy access for shoppers. Leashes drape over Western-style star hooks.

COST & SOURCE: $10 for fencing at yard sale, $5 each for hooks at Atlanta Gift Market

TIP: Zeller recommends straightening these products several times a day. “I think everyone should have to work retail apparel and neaten clothing displays at least once in their life. Then they would be respectful and put things back where they found them! Maybe.”

Belly Rubs N Suds
Ashburn, VA

Teresa Hogge hired a local carpenter to build this spacious hutch. Collars and leashes hang on built-in dowels, with harnesses clipped to shower rings.

COST & SOURCE: $1,550 for hutch by Virginia Wallen, $1 each for curtain rings at Bed, Bath & Beyond

Flying M Pet Grocery
Houston, TX

Trace Menchaca brainstormed this eye-catching tree fixture with the woodworker who created other displays in her store. Leashes and collars hang from hooks amid leaves and a wise old owl, with additional collars shown on an adjacent wooden ladder.

COST & SOURCE: $0 for the fixture, as it was a thank-you gift; $0 for the ladder, as it was a dumpster find

Bark on Mulford
Rockford, IL

Plumbing pipe for the win again! Kaye Busse-Kleber found a similar fixture on Pinterest, and her husband, Gordon Kleber, made it for her as an anniversary gift. It’s super sturdy and allows the colorful products to draw the eye. “It’s attached to the floor and wall and is definitely not going anywhere! It’s the first thing you see when you walk into my shop.”

COST & SOURCE: $250 at Home Depot | Practice patience when building such a fixture, Busse-Kleber says. “It did take a while to assemble to make sure all of the fittings went together. Lots of swearing and multiple trips to Home Depot occurred!”

Southern Barker
Lexington, KY

Harnesses show perfectly on wooden children’s hangers, Leslie Stewart says, and hang neatly on a rack.

COST & SOURCE: $1 for hangers at online supply store, $15 for rack at Hobby Lobby

Cool Dog Gear
Warrington, PA

Sue Hepner and Paula Jaffe cut a section out of a wooden-slat bed frame and turned it into their collar display. Hepner says she likes that they can “clip all the collars on it so that the customer can just stand back and look and not have to rummage through the pegs looking for their favorite pattern/color … great way to display, and the peg holes on the tags are no longer ripped.”

COST & SOURCE: $20 for the frame at a second-hand shop

Bath & Biscuits
Granville, OH

Danielle Wilson refurbished this classic cabinet, then added shower rods around which to hang the collars. Leashes simply drape over the open door.

COST & SOURCE: $45 for cabinet at local antique market, $10 each for shower rods

TIP: Move away from slatwall and pegboard, Wilson recommends. “After I brought in pieces like this cabinet to showcase my products, my sales went up.”

House Of Paws Pet Boutique
Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada

Carly Patryluk hired SaskAbilities, which employs area individuals with different physical or mental abilities, to build several fixtures in her store, including this collar and leash rack, that she then finished with stain and paint. Collars attach around the rods, with leashes clipped to a wire up top.

COST: $200

Sweet Paws Bakery
Gainesville, FL

Curtains rods do the trick at this store, keeping collars neat and tidy. Colleen O’Fallon says, “I organize each pattern together, and then by size. So I have all the houndstooth together and then go extra-small, small, medium, large and extra-large.”

COST: $20-25 per rod and accessories

Natural Pet Essentials
Charlottesville, VA

Tried and true slatwall and hang rails in chrome keep up to 270 collars in order.

COST & SOURCE: $100

TIP: Kimberly Matsko advises, “In order for this to stand out, it has to be kept fully stocked. Empty bars are not as eye-catching or appealing to the consumer. They enjoy having a lot of options.”

Harmony Animal Hospital
Jupiter, FL

Monique Pierpont uses a wall adjacent to her front desk to display collars, leashes and harnesses. She likes the slatwall because it’s “slick looking.”

The post 14 Inspirations for Your Collar and Leash Displays appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Fur Baby Pet ResortMILFORD, DE

This display — and star of a Facebook post — encourages customers to supplement kibble with fresh foods or switch to a biologically appropriate diet. Staff rotate the raw and other products regularly, with Primal, Green Juju, Enhance and Vital Essentials making an appearance along with their brochures. Toy fruits, veggies and eggs add to the educational fun. “Most people come to us for our customer services and knowledge, but even we have those who walk in and believe they know better. (People who read headlines and marketing, but not labels.) These displays are perfect for customers like that, as it’s important for us to educate our customers as much as possible, however we can,” Sherry Shupe says. “These types of offerings create loyal customers who trust us to help make the best decisions for their pets.”

Theo Pet GroceryMONTCLAIR, NJ

Owner Gregori Lukas regularly interviews integrative and holistic veterinarians for his YouTube channel and Facebook pages. In this video with veterinarian Melissa Walker, they talk about how her recommendation to feed a fresh food diet improved and extended the life of a senior dog she didn’t think would live more than a few more months. These interviews drive business to Theo Pet Grocery.
“Educational videos on social media allow consumers to become educated even before they step foot in your store. When they hear fresh food is healthy from a veterinarian, they are more likely to be receptive,” Lukas says. “When a customer is receptive, they are willing to shop and support your business.”

Flying M Pet Grocery HOUSTON, TX

Trace Menchaca launched club:RAW in the fall, announcing it on social media and in her newsletter, a charmingly old-fashioned publication written and drawn by hand and printed on paper. Members get personalized feeding plans, 10 percent off all raw purchases, and can attend a monthly in-store club meeting, during which they will meet other raw feeders and get free samples and sneak peeks.

Wags to Whiskers PLAINFIELD, IL

Inspired by Primal Pet Foods’ Build a Better Bowl campaign, this display illustrates how to supplement a kibble-based diet with fresh and raw foods. Each tier represents a different element of the optimized meal: a high-quality dry food, add-ins from the store such as goat milk and bone broth, and add-ins from home such as eggs and fresh fruit and veggies.“Customers like the visual and think it’s an attractive, colorful display,” Janelle Pitula says, adding that “My staff refer to it when trying to assist customers in adding fresh or high-quality ingredients to bowls. This little display has helped a lot … to have one place to go to quickly to allow people to visualize adding in product to make kibble better!”

Youngblood’s Natural Animal Care Center & Massage GREENFIELD, IN

One of Samantha Youngblood’s favorite resources to share with customers is the Be Your Best Dog: A Guide to Health & Wellness booklet, written by Dr. Chris Bessent, a veterinarian and founder of Herbsmith and The Simple Food Project. “My customers are thinkers and love to research on their own before they buy. I support this and respect them. This book helps with that decision. It is a resource for supplements because of how incredible the book is written, and for nutrition because she touches on the importance of food in regards to many ailments such as allergies and bladder health. I try not to use this book to promote other products, just because it’s not fair to the company, but I guide them into a talk of food — whether that be The Simple Food Project, raw, toppers, etc. This book has been a game-changer with our sales, and I wish more companies would invest the time, effort and money to make similar handouts. Absolutely invaluable.”

Tail Blazers Copperfield & Legacy CALGARY, AB, CANADA

In addition to owning two Tail Blazers, Holly Montgomery works as a photographer. It allows her to create Insta-worthy images like this one, which she uses to educate followers about raw and fresh foods, and to attract customers to her stores. “We very often have people coming in, asking for specific products they’ve seen in our posts,” Montgomery says.
#petfoodpornwithapurpose

The post Pet Pros Give Their Customers the Raw Facts appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Southern Barker
LEXINGTON & LOUISVILLE, KY

On any given day, Southern Barker looks pulled from the pages of a decorating magazine. The holidays are no different. Special touches like the countdown calendar pickup truck and faux snowballs add festive charm to displays, those of holiday and non-holiday products alike.

Paddywack
MILL CREEK, WA

How sweet is this giving tree? Customers are able to purchase an item off the tree for a specific forever foster or adoptable pet, with the lineup changing each year with the organization. White tinsel and snowflakes also decorate this store, with Christmas and Hanukkah items adding pops of color throughout.

The Dog Store
ALEXANDRIA, VA

Forget the Grinch! The Dog Store favors another green creature, Yoda, in one of its holiday displays. Making an appearance in the front window are Santa Snoopy and seemingly every single holiday dog toy on the market. Passersby can’t help but stop to take it all in, and then head inside for more.

Wagging Tails
WEST HARTFORD & WOLCOTT, CT

Pet-centric holiday paintings are a running theme in the lobbies of these boarding facilities. Santa holds a puppy, giving him a candy cane to lick. A kitten plays with ribbon on a wrapped gift. And a Westie looks out a snow-dusted window, with a Christmas tree in the background. All creating a merry mood for clients dropping off their pets.

Bark On Mulford
ROCKFORD, IL

Festive items mix with year-round gifts to give both categories a boost during the holidays. Dog breed ornaments decorate Bark on Mulford’s Christmas tree, along with those representing other pets.

Paws on Main
COLUMBIANA, OH

This store took full advantage of last year’s town Christmas parade theme: ugly sweaters. It devoted the front window to holiday sweaters for pets, and threw a Snuggly Paws and Ugly Sweater Party. Not only did Paws on Main sell a slew of sweaters, it won the Best Dressed Animals Award at the parade!

Woof! Woof! Pet Boutique & Biscuit Bar
BRISTOL, RI

Treats remain a priority during the holidays at this store, with the famous biscuit bar and bakery cases getting a festive makeover. And look at the bone-shaped tree lights and garland with moose ears. Adorable.

Captivating Canines
WESTERVILLE, OH

This store takes part in its neighborhood’s annual storefront holiday decorating contest. White twinkle lights hang from the awning, helping to light the window displays that feature festive holiday decor. Good luck this year!

The post Haul Out the Holly — and Maybe Even Yoda — for Snappy, Happy Holiday Decor appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Wagging Tails
WOLCOTT & WEST HARTFORD, CT

Wagging Tails Pet Resort & Spaw has staffed cage-free boarding with toddler furniture as lounging and bedding options. Among the playful offerings are a pirate’s ship, racecar and train.
Krista Lofquist buys Little Tikes and Step2 beds new, but also finds them gently used on Facebook Marketplace.

NIGHTLY RATES: $50 (includes daycare)

Yuppy Puppy
O’FALLON, MO

Each of the Plaza Suites at Yuppy Puppy pet spa and resort features a tempered-glass door, garden-view window and outdoor fenced-in area for suite guests only, plus raised bed, couch and included amenities such as bacon-and-egg brekkies in bed.

Jessica Cooke expanded boarding options to include suites when moving to her current location. “I was quite nervous that I would end up upgrading dogs for free to utilize the space. But the suites are full every day, and I have clients booked in them into 2020. We are opening a second location, and the rooms will primarily be these.”

NIGHTLY RATES: $55

Barker’s Lane
DAVIE, FL

Grooming clients can also board at this salon, in one of four stylishly appointed rooms worthy of an Instagram-famous pup.
Julianna Reese offers this advice for those inspired to use similar decor. “You have to know the dogs to determine what can be left in the room. We do put down pee pee pads at night, but the rugs and bedding are washable and bought at places like Ross, Home Goods, Tuesday Morning.”

NIGHTLY RATES: $45 and higher

Bark Life Market
SEMINOLE, FL

The all-inclusive Penthouse at Bark Life Market’s newest resort measures 10 by 13 feet and includes sliding patio door, resort decor and music, a queen-size bed and flat screen with DogTV, as well as private web cameras and a Petchatz video chat and treat dispenser. Also included, egg and cheese omelet for breakfast, salmon or beef fillet for dinner, and tuck-in treat at bedtime.

NIGHTLY RATES: $99

Chateau Poochie
POMPANO BEACH, FL

This doggie day care, spa and pet hotel has multiple levels of accommodations, including its most luxurious: The Tea Suite. Measuring 14 by 14 feet, it has seating and sleeping options throughout, a crystal chandelier, flat-screen TV and webcam, plus additional included amenities.

NIGHTLY RATES: $250, and pet parents can pay an additional fee to have a staff member spend the night in the suite.

Wag Central
STRATFORD, CT

At Wag Central, staffed slumber parties are one of the higher-end boarding options. Pre-screened day-care regulars can stay together in a room that has four custom-made bunkhouses. Angela Pantalone says they cost about $800 each, including beds.

“It’s a great upsell for pups who are anxious or first-time boarders. The human-interaction aspect is a big draw for owners who are concerned about their pup as they travel, too.” She adds, “We are able to multitask the use of this room for dog families who insist on keeping their pups together when we are not opening it to sleepovers. It’s a nice puppy nursery, too, for daycare. Overall, it’s been a hit!”

NIGHTLY RATES: $68 (includes daycare)

The post 6 Pet Hotels That Will Make You Kind of Wish You Were a Dog appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Fetch RI
RICHMOND, RI

Humans and dogs alike can show their love for this store — in a variety of T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and bandanas. Johnna Devereaux offers this advice, “People love buying our shirts and sweatshirts because they are super-comfortable. Work with your local embroidery shop and have them order samples so you can decide which materials feel the best, and carry only those!” As to pricing, she says, “Because we are getting free advertising when people wear our branded items, we only charge a 25 percent markup.”

T-SHIRT COST: $13, SWEATSHIRT COST: $35, HAT COST: $12, BANDANA COST: $4.50, DOG T-SHIRT COST: $8 | SOURCE: Local embroidery and screen-printing shop

Crossbones Dog Academy
PROVIDENCE, RI

New training clients get their very own clicker to use, not only during class but when out and about practicing new skills. When hung from a wrist coil, they serve as walking advertisement for the business. Katherine Ostiguy says, “Branded clickers are worth the investment if your store offers positive dog training services.” She also sells them for $3.29.

COST: $1.15 | SOURCE: The Doggone Good Clicker Company

Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center
SHORELINE, WA

In their welcome packet, new patients get a three-step can lid with the clinic logo on it, and they also are available for $1.39 at the on-site store. Manager Amanda Bass says, “Carrying can lids when you sell dog and cat food is a must! Merchandise them near the canned foods as well as by the checkout stand.”

COST: $.049 | SOURCE: Pawprint Promotions

Animal Connection
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Branded merchandise at this store features its tag line, “Bark Local.” Patricia Boden sells T-shirts, toys and magnets, but also gives them away — along with “Bark Local” and “Purr Local” buttons — at certain events and to valued customers. She even rewards those who wear the gear: “If I see someone wearing a pin or shirt, or a car with a magnet, they get a prize on the spot!”

SHIRT COST: $14 SALES PRICE: $20 SOURCE: VistaPrint | TOY COST: $9.50 SALES PRICE: $16.99 SOURCE: Hugglehounds | MAGNET COST: $1.50 SALES PRICE: $3 BUTTON COST: $0.44 SALES PRICE: $0 SOURCE: Sticker Mule

Wishbone Pet Care
MISSOURI CITY, TX

Tammi Bui worked with an Etsy artist to create a custom, hand-painted dog collar with brand colors and logo. She sells them for $22.99, but also gives them as gifts to her most loyal customers.

COST: $11 | SOURCE: etsy.com/shop/merryjaneandthor

Yuppy Puppy
O’FALLON, MO

Jessica Cooke says, “I smack my logo on anything I can!” Some items she gives away, such as bandanas to new grooming clients, but uses others as incentives. Customers who book a 30-day play-camp package for $515 get a free towel they can use on Splash Days, and those who buy a filled treat jar for $6 can refill it for $3. “We also use these in our donation gift baskets, with a note telling them to keep the jar and come see us for a refill!”

TOWEL COST: $11, TREAT JAR COST: $2.50 | SOURCE: AnimalsINK

The post Tout Your Own Brand with Custom Merchandise, Branded Freebies appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

Riverfront Pets
Wilmington, DE

Laura and Clinton Gangloff got permission from their landlord to try a different approach with signage. Instead of white lettering with red accents on the facade, like other businesses in the building, they hung a perpendicular sign with the Riverfront Pets logo, complete with red fire hydrant. “We still have the printed name on our awning so you can see who we are from across the road, but I think we reach more consumers with the placement we have now,” Laura says.

COST: $4,000 | TIP: Add stickers to your storefront outlining services and supplies. “We have found that is pretty helpful also.”

Dog Krazy
LEESBURG, VA

Fun fact about the original Dog Krazy logo, shown here on the Leesburg location: It’s the font from ’90s animated series Ren & Stimpy. Nancy and Chris Guinn hung signs on the facade as well as perpendicular to the store to catch potential customers from all directions.

COST: $6,000 | TIP: Nancy says, “Make sure it stands out. A good sign is worth every penny. Think about what makes you want to go inside a business. If the sign is cheaply made and doesn’t catch your eye, your store may go unnoticed. Bold, bright and fun is what I always look for.”

The Pet Barber
HOUSTON, TX

With its logo and sign, owners Paul Willis and Kristen Cover let potential customers know they specialize in hand-scissoring. Cover says they proposed black lettering with uplighting, but that the landlord ultimately required an illuminated sign.

COST: $6,000 | TIP: Cover says to “negotiate the signage before you sign the lease, especially if you have something very specific in mind.”

Wags To Whiskers
PLAINFIELD, IL

When Janelle Pitula moved her business late last year, its sign came with her. Initially, there was pushback. “There were some challenges with the village as they said it was a bit too big, but they conceded and gave us a variance since we’ve been in town for 14 years.”

COST: $5,000 | TIP: Make sure your sign is clear, readable, stands out from other tenants and represents your business. “If you can do your logo, great. If not, just be clear.”

The Modern Paws
TAMPA, FL

This store’s logo features a paw print within a dotted circle, with that alone serving as its icon. On their storefront, Ben and Lisa Prakobkit used it both as a decal on the door and above with “The Modern Paws” on an awning. Of guidelines, Ben says, “The property association did require any awnings to be made out of certain materials and fabrics, so we made sure to adhere to those requirements.”

COST: $5,000 for decals, awning and lighting | TIP: “Your signage is what any customer, or even potential customer, sees first. Make it clear and bold. You want to make the best first impression before a customer even steps in your doors. The signage draws customers in, customer service keeps them coming back.”

Southern Barker
LEXINGTON, KY

Lily, the Stewart family dog, stars in this store’s logo and sign. Leslie Stewart says that property guidelines dictated “that the sign itself be lighted, but because of our font, it was difficult to manufacture. We opted for a flat acrylic sign with gooseneck lighting above.”

COST: $4,600 | TIP: “Make sure the design, colors and font can be seen well from a distance and that the view is unobstructed.”

Fetch Ri
RICHMOND, RI

Before deciding where to place signs for her store and applying for permits, Johnna Devereaux walked the entire property to determine sightlines. “We wanted to ensure that no matter which angle you were looking at the building, you would always see the Fetch RI signage. We have four exterior signs and two interior.”

COST: $1,500 | TIP: “It can be argued that on-site signage is the No. 1 marketing tool you have. After all, you can have the greatest business cards or ads, but if someone doesn’t find your store visually appealing and inviting from the outside, they may never step foot inside to see what you have to offer. When it comes to signage, take your time and do it right. First impressions are everything.”

Lewis & Bark’s Outpost
RED LODGE, MT

In historic Red Lodge, MT, regulations do not allow for neon or blinking signs without city approval. Danielle Chandler decided to forgo the red tape and instead use vinyl lettering on a storefront display window. “We chose the window, color and large size for visibility,” she says.

COST: $300 | TIP: If your store sits in the shade all day like hers, Chandler recommends placing colorful, seasonal windsocks outside with shiny windmills in flower pots. “The movement catches a lot of eyes. The days we forget to put them out, our sales are noticeably lower.”

The post 8 Standout Sign Designs for the Ultimate First Impression appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.

AK BarkANCHORAGE, AK

This store promotes inclusiveness with its celebration table. Those who bake can buy mixes and bone-shaped trays, and those who don’t can pick up ready-made cakes and pies. “Happy Birthday,” “Welcome Home” and “Happy Adoption Day” cookies cover all dogs, as do pink and blue hats and toys.

BRANDS: Puppy Cake, Bubba Rose Biscuit Company, The Lazy Dog Cookie Co., Multipet, ZippyPaws.

TIP: Consider not offering a birthday discount. Mark Robokoff explains, “Birthday items would essentially be perpetually discounted. What we usually do instead is get a good photo if the dog is in the store (or from the customer’s phone if not), and wish them a happy birthday or gotcha day on our social media. Customers love to like and share the photos, helping to spread the word and making us guests at their party!”

Southern BarkerLEXINGTON, KY

This charming “Party” hutch offers everything needed for a pet celebration. Members of its Birthday Club get a free treat and a discount on purchases. “We also try to take a picture of every birthday boy or girl that stops in, and we post it to all of our social media,” Leslie Stewart says.

BRANDS: ZippyPaws, Hugglehounds, Planet Dog, Haute Diggity Dog, Bosco and Roxy’s.

TIP: Carry Pearhead chalkboard celebration signs and block sets. Customers can use them to do their own photo session at home.

Mutts & Co.6 STORES IN OHIO

Celebration items are big sellers at these stores. Mark Vitt says, “Every day we have multiple customers coming in looking for a special treat for their dog’s birthday or gotcha day, and we point them right to our celebration section. They always grab a few cookies or cake for the party. But in addition, we suggest a bulk chew, a toy, or a bag of treats to share with other family pets, or even something fun to wear like a birthday hat or sports jersey.”

BRANDS: Puppy Cake, K9 Granola Factory, Bosco and Roxy’s, Planet Dog, Multipet, Bubba Rose Biscuit Company, PetCakes.

TIP: Cross-promote between departments: “We offer a free grooming service, like a Smooch a Pooch Dental Care Treatment, for dogs getting groomed during their birthday month.”

The Green SpotOMAHA, NE

At the top of this pet celebration display sits a sign encouraging customers to also pick up a ready-made treat from the bakery case or order a custom cake. Whitney Kamish reports that their birthday category sales are up 20 percent from last year.

BRANDS: Huxley & Kent, Lulubelles, HuggleHounds, ZippyPaws, Mirage Pet Products, K9 Granola Factory, Bocce’s Bakery, Taj Ma-Hound, Bosco and Roxy’s, Brixtix Bakery, PuppyCake.

TIP: Keep a set of Pearhead photo blocks open. “We use them when taking pictures for social media of customers’ pups.”

Miss Doolittles Pet Spa & BoutiquePOTTSVILLE, PA

The celebration case at this store couldn’t be sweeter. Missie Mattei uses cake stands and tiered dessert trays to make birthday treats and dog toys look even more special.

BRANDS: Preppy Puppy Bakery, Bubba Rose Biscuit Company, Pawsitively Gourmet, Taj Ma-Hound, Mirage Pet Products, Bardel Bows, Huxley & Kent, Petlou, ZippyPaws, Multipet.

TIP: Ride the birthday category wave. “We are constantly adding as the demand grows and we find new birthday related items.”

Fetch RIRICHMOND, RI

Treat bar meets pet celebration display here. The Part-y bar experience includes free samples and posing with a special photo frame for social media.

BRANDS: Puppy Cake, Bocce’s Bakery, Kong, Charming Pet, Mirage Pet Products.

TIP: Don’t forget the rescue dogs who don’t have a known birthday. “We made up different photo frames so pups celebrating birthdays or gotcha days can be recognized.”

Flying M Feed Co.HOUSTON, TX

This celebration display looks like that of an actual party, complete with plush cake slices and handwritten place cards at each setting. Toys are presented as party favors.

BRANDS: Doggie Express, ZippyPaws, K9 Granola Factory

TIP: Point out popular products. Trace Menchaca says, “We offer a ‘registry list,’ which lists our best-selling birthday gifts should someone be attending a party and looking for something fabulous!”

Bark on MulfordROCKFORD, IL

What would a pet celebration be without a party hat? Or sombrero? This store has both, plus other accessories and supplies, in a charming display. “Lots of our customers are into celebrating their dog’s birthdays,” Kaye Busse-Kleber says. “Some even put choices of items down on the floor to see which their dog prefers!”

BRANDS: Puppy Cake, Buster’s Party Shop, FunDog Bandanas, Preppy Puppy Bakery, Bocce’s Bakery.

TIP: Encourage pet parents to tag your store on social media. “We re-post their pic of their dog celebrating, with our products.”

Firehouse Pet ShopWENATCHEE, WA

This colorful celebration display sits right next to the bakery case. Dogs get a free bag of treats and don a birthday hat and other props before having their photo taken for social media.

BRANDS: Preppy Puppy Bakery, Taj Ma-Hound, Bosco and Roxy’s, Charming Pet, Kong, Planet Dog, Haute Diggity Dog, Merrick, Swell, Nuggets Healthy Eats, Bocce’s Bakery, K9 Granola Factory.

TIP: Display pics of pups in store. Jennifer Larsen says, “We play them on our TV, slideshow on a loop.”

Healthy Pet ProductsPITTSBURGH, PA

When shopping this store’s small birthday section, dogs get showered with attention. Toni Shelaske says, “We hand out free birthday bandanas, lots of love and feature them on our Facebook and Instagram pages.”

BRANDS: Puppy Cake, K9 Granola Factory, Bocce’s Bakery, ZippyPaws.

TIP: Feature pet-centric photo frames in your display to hold pet birthday pics.

Lucky DogsSKANEATELES, NY

Party hats and cookies sells best at this store, Amy Schiek says, with customers getting multiple celebration options with the latter: “Happy Birthday,” “Welcome Home” and “Adopted” options.

BRANDS: Bubba Rose Biscuit Co. Bosco and Roxy’s, Haute Diggity Dog, Bocce’s Bakery, Charming Pet.

MuttigansEMERALD ISLE, NC

The display may be small, but it’s sweet and supports this store and coffee bar’s “Barkday Party Package.” It includes a reserved table with decorations, personalized cake, party hats, goodie bag and 20-percent discount on treats and toys, plus a dedicated staff member to help manage the fun, starting at $60.

BRANDS: Preppy Puppy Bakery, Bubba Rose Biscuit Co.

Animal ConnectionCHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

Pattie Boden says location is key for pet celebration products. “They are a good seller now that we have a dedicated birthday section! Before that, we had them on the front counter as an impulse buy, and we still have that bakery case with a few “pupcake” and “everyday treats,” but this section brings far more attention! It’s right in the area where the toys and apparel are and right next to a big wall of treats, so it’s hard to miss!”

BRANDS: Huxley & Kent, Haute Diggity Dog, LuluBelles, ZippyPaws, Harry Barker, Pawsitively Gourmet, 2 Paws 4 You Bakery, Signature Bonz, Bark Local.

TIP: Offer party favor treat bags to local pet business that do not carry celebration products, such as a doggie daycare.

Dog LoversTARPON SPRINGS, FL

This store builds its birthday display around Merrick’s Grain-Free Birthday Paw-ty canned food.

The post Help Pet Owners Celebrate Their Friends’ Birthdays appeared first on PETSPLUSMAG.COM.