Is your dog daycare an enriching environment that keeps dogs engaged, or is it just an expensive free-for-all where bad habits take root?

What hidden techniques do zookeepers use to keep animals mentally sharp and stress-free - and how can they give your daycare the edge?

What if a few simple changes to your daycare routine could transform your business, attract higher-paying clients, and create happier, better-behaved dogs?

In this episode, host Dom Hodgson sits down with Tim Jackson, the owner of Pet2Impressdaycareand the Dean of Enrichment University, to explore how principles from zoo animal care can help revitalise (and maybe even revolutionize) how you practise enrichment in your pet care facility.

Tim recently spent the day shadowing Lucy Starbuck, an enrichment specialist at Edinburgh Zoo, where he uncovered powerful insights into how structured activities, mental stimulation, and physical engagement can transform pet boarding and daycare services.

He shares why daycares should consider going beyond free play so you can create a healthier, happier, and more profitable business. Plus, in this week’s dog news, you can hear about how London’s longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, is finally retiring after a distinguished 12-year career. Dom also talks about his recent break to the Canary Islands, and shares why it’s crucial your take regular business breaks if you want to remain at the top of your game. 

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Zoo Strategies for Dog Daycares – How enrichment in animal care facilities can apply to dog daycare settings.

Why “Jobs” Matter for Dogs – The importance of structured activities to reduce stress and problem behaviors.

How to Market Enrichment Services – Educating pet parents on the value of a more engaging daycare experience.

The Future of Pet Boarding & Daycare – Why facilities that prioritize mental and physical stimulation will stand out.

Lessons from the Zoo – Funny and insightful moments from Tim’s experience with animal enrichment specialists.

Thanks to Tim for sharing his behind the bars insight into his trip to Edinburgh Zoo. If you want to learn more about how Enrichment University can help you offer more enriching experiences in your facility then click here now

Remember, you can find out more about enrichment, staffing solutions, and a ton of other topics by attending the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo which is happening in Las Vegas from 5th-8th May, 2025, and registration is open NOW, click here to grab your ticket.

To find out more about Dominic Hodgson and his exclusive pet business consulting services go to www.petbusinessmarketing.com/audition

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom introduces the episode while walking along the Sunderland seafront and shares the importance of taking a break. [07:19] – Dog News: London's longest-serving fire dog, Sherlock, retires after 12 years of service. What can you learn from his fantastic career?[09:15] - Dom discusses the importance of giving dogs a job and how enrichment activities can improve their well-being.[12:05] – Tim jumps in and shares his experience shadowing Lucy Starbuck at Edinburgh Zoo.[16:28] – Insights into the research lab at Edinburgh Zoo, where chimps voluntarily participate in cognitive tasks.[20:33] – Tim describes getting the chimps ready for meal time, and discusses how you can enrich doggy dinners in your daycare.[25:29] – The significance of catering to dogs at all life stages, including older dogs, and how pet businesses can offer specialized programs for senior pets.[30:10] – How a staff zoo visit can inspire better daycare practices, ensuring dogs get opportunities to engage in natural behaviors.[33:47] – Why enrichment is not only important but absolutely vital to running a successful daycare with satisfied dogs and clients.[39:14] – Dom signs off with a reminder to book your ticket for the Pet Boarding and Daycare expo coming up in Vegas!

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