What does local collaboration mean in 2025 and beyond? Why should pet sitters care about it? Kristin Holzapfel, founder of Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates, joins us to share her journey of building a thriving community of pet sitters across the Midwest. She talks about the importance of educating both pet sitters and clients, how to move beyond third-party platforms, and why fostering an open-minded, collaborative culture matters for the future of the pet care industry. We cover how local organizations can raise industry standards, support professional growth, and create lasting connections that benefit sitters, clients, and communities alike.

Main Topics:

• Founding Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates

• Transitioning off third-party platforms

• Building a local educational community

• Handling client referrals & connections

• Upcoming Pet Professional Summit goals

Main Takeaway: "We are not here to tell people how to operate their businesses. We want everyone to find the right fit for themselves and their clients."

Running a pet care business isn't one-size-fits-all. Every business owner and every pet has unique needs. That's why at Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates, we embrace open-mindedness and foster a culture of support—not judgment. Whether you're pen-and-paper or software-driven, whether you serve city clients or rural communities, your approach matters. It's about helping everyone find what works best for them and their clients. Because when we collaborate instead of compete, our entire industry gets stronger.

About our guest: Kristin Holzapfel is the founder and executive director of Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates (MPSA). A professional pet sitter since 2017 and owner of Pampered Pepperinos & Pals, Kristin specializes in reactive dog care and education. Passionate about building supportive communities, she launched MPSA to help raise industry standards, promote collaboration, and connect pet sitters across the Midwest. Kristin also teaches pet CPR and first aid and actively engages in local and regional pet care initiatives.

Links:

https://www.midwestpetsitteraffiliates.com

https://www.facebook.com/MidwestPSA

https://www.instagram.com/midwestpetsitteraffiliates

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Full show notes and transcript

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