Pet Boarding and Daycare Podcast with Dominic Hodgson

Have you ever wondered what really goes down at the biggest pet boarding and daycare expo in the world?

Curious about what latest industry insights and trends get shared at these events?

Are the in-person networking opportunities worth the travel time?

This jam-packed episode comes to you LIVE from the 2024 Hershey Expo, where host Dom Hodgson gives you an all-access backstage pass to hear from movers and shakers in attendance. You’ll get all the juicy details as Dom chats with the rebels, rule-breakers, and rising stars of pet care world – vendors with visionary twists, experts spilling game-changing secrets, and dynamic daycare owners bringing a fresh spark to boarding and enrichment.

Dom and his roving reporter Tim Jackson didn’t just fly over 3,000 miles for the chocolate (although, let’s be real, that helped) – they came to have a blast with some incredible business owners. Couldn’t make it this year? Don’t sweat it – they’ve packed up all the highlights, insights, and excitement and brought the expo straight to your ears! Just don’t forget to register for Pet Boarding and Daycare West in Vegas in May.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to all the amazing folks we interviewed in this episode! Stay tuned for part two next week, where Dom dives even deeper into expo highlights and shares more inspiring success stories from industry leaders.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Las Vegas from 5th-8th May, 2025. You can be the first to find out when registration opens by adding your details here

Huge thanks to this week’s show sponsors Pet Resort Hospitality Group

Pet Resort Hospitality Group are building a family of the highest quality Pet Boarding and Daycare brands in North America. If you want to know what the future of your business could look like if you ever want to sell, then reach out to PRHG by going to petresorts.love

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – The founders of Canine Labs discuss how they’re revolutionizing faecal testing services for daycare and boarding facilities.
[04:32] – Dom, now back in England and de-jetlagged,reflects on the good vibrations he picked up at the Hershey expo.
[08:38] – A conversation with Sean Felty from Greenlin Pet Resorts about expanding to six locations and implementing enrichment-based services.
[10:00] – Dom and Sean explore the financial benefits of transitioning to a daycare induction program and maximizing client engagement.
[14:34] – Pet care business owner Jen shares her success with enrichment activities and discusses her ideas for a Tim Jackson-inspired “murder mystery” event.
[18:42] – Chelsea from The Ruff Inn shares how Dom’s pricing strategy advice helped her realize the importance of charging for high-quality services.
[23:06] – Holiday House Pet Resort owner Katy Metzler talks about navigating staffing challenges and finding passionate, client-focused team members.
[27:25] – Erin and Hayley from Playful Pups Retreat discuss their plans to incorporate premium add-ons like scent rooms and activity bowls.
[29:54] – Tracy, owner of Details Pet Grooming, reflects on her favourite expo insights and her upcoming scent space project inspired by Dom’s enrichment tips.
[41:07] – Dom teases the upcoming second instalment of this Hershey special, where we’ll hear from more insightful attendees and vendors.

Are you looking to transform your pet care facility into a true community hub?

Curious about creating memorable experiences that keep clients coming back for more?

Wondering how to turn your pet care facility into the kind of place clients can’t stop talking about?

In this episode, host Dom Hodgson sits down with Michelle Sarwas, owner of Bark Avenue Day Camp. Michelle shares her incredible journey from financial analyst to pet care entrepreneur, revealing the keys to building lasting bonds with clients and their dogs. Her approach to hosting open-house events, implementing personalized enrichment activities, and engaging clients in unusual and unforgettable ways has helped her facility thrive, even through challenging times.

Learn how Michelle’s client-centered strategies set her apart in the pet care industry and keep customers returning and referring. By hosting live events, offering personalized enrichment, and creating memorable experiences, she’s built deep loyalty and sparked enthusiastic referrals. Tune in to hear how you can implement Michelle’s strategies and make your facility a no-brainer for pet owners seeking more than just a daycare.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! And huge thanks to Michelle and Tim for sharing their LIVE event success story.

You can find out more about Tim’s Enrichment Program here.

You can find out more about Michelle’s awesome daycare here

Need help making your facility more profitable? Why not reach out and book a consultation with Dom. Click here to book now.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Hershey from 4th-7th November. That means NOW is the time to secure your place at the biggest dog daycare expo of the year. Grab your ticket by clicking here now

Huge thanks to this week’s amazing show sponsor Canine Lab Testing. 

Canine Lab Testing are the industries go-to partner if you want to keep your furry guests safe. They provide fast, reliable parasite screening and health testing, ensuring peace of mind for you and your clients! To get started with a stress-free screening process click here CanineLabTesting

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom, with Tim Jackson in the sidecar, has arrived in Hershey and gives a preview of the Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo.
[05:48] – Tim and Dom discuss the importance of in-person events in driving client loyalty and a sense of community.
[13:45] – Michelle jumps in to share her journey from financial analyst to pet care business owner and how Bark Avenue Daycamp came to life.
[19:14] – Hear how Bark Avenue managed to recover from stumbling out of the starting blocks amid the great recession. 
[21:41] – The evolution of playgroups: why smaller, enrichment-focused groups benefit dogs and elevate the daycare experience.
[24:54] – Michelle reveals the marketing challenges she’s attempting to overcome by educating clients and sharing experiences.
[31:25] – Michelle explains how guided facility tours build client confidence and give insight into Bark Avenue’s day-to-day care.
[38:00] – Enrichment add-ons: Michelle describes the new “Pawcasso” painting sessions and other unique activities.
[40:25] – Looking forward: Michelle’s future plans for growth and new add-ons that continue to set Bark Avenue apart.

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! And a special thank you to Michelle for being an amazing guest. You can learn more about Bark Avenue Daycamp by visiting barkavenuedaycamp.com.

Is your website attracting the right clients for your pet care business?

Do you feel overwhelmed by the technical aspects of SEO and online marketing?

Curious about how a strategic online presence can elevate your pet business?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson sits down with his good buddy – and digital marketing expert – Fernando Camacho from Overdog Digital. Together they break down the essentials of creating an impactful online presence. Fern, a seasoned marketer and former dog trainer, dives into the must-have website features, the basics of SEO, and the power of Facebook ads for pet care businesses. 

If you want to attract high-end clients and make your website truly stand out, then this episode is brimming with powerful strategies to amplify your digital presence and grow your brand. Dom also gives a sneak peek into his upcoming trip to the Hershey Expo, where he’ll be sharing fresh insights on positioning, pricing, and standing out in a competitive market. 

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! And huge thanks to Fern for being an awesome guest, you can find out more about Fern’s services by clicking here OverdogDigital

Need help making your facility more profitable? Why not reach out and book a consultation with Dom. Click here to book now.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Hershey from 4th-7th November. That means NOW is the time to secure your place at the biggest dog daycare expo of the year. Grab your ticket by clicking here now

Huge thanks to this week’s amazing show sponsor Canine Lab Testing. 

Canine Lab Testing are the industries go-to partner if you want to keep your furry guests safe. They provide fast, reliable parasite screening and health testing, ensuring peace of mind for you and your clients! To get started with a stress-free screening process click here CanineLabTesting

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Setting the scene with updates on the upcoming Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo in Hershey, PA.
[04:30] – Dom shares a soccer-inspired lesson on “renegade thinking” in business and the power of doing things differently.
[07:29] – The importance of understanding your client journey: how to guide new clients from interest to loyalty. 
[10:32] – Fern introduces Overdog Digital and his journey from dog trainer to digital marketing expert.
[13:43] – Website best practices: Why a fully responsive site is essential and how it impacts client perception.
[15:07] – How to get on top of your social presence and showcase your skills and specialities digitally.
[18:13] – Website 101: The business-boosting basics that can take your site from snooze-fest to spectacle.
[24:24] – The role of social proof: How reviews and testimonials can boost your site’s credibility.
[27:30] – SEO explained: Fern shares strategies for optimizing your website to get found by the right clients.
[33:01] – Why Facebook ads are a game-changer, but not the be-all and end-all of marketing efficiency. 
[36:38] – Fern’s journey from solo entrepreneur to building a team and the importance of delegation.
[40:20] – Wrapping up with a quick-snippet from Eyal Cohen on his fascinating business journey.

Worried your insurance policy won’t hold up when disaster strikes?

Concerned about unexpected expenses that could wipe out your hard-earned profits?

Not sure if your current coverage is enough to protect your business from potential lawsuits, property damage, or employee claims?

In this episode, Dom sits down with David Pearsall from Business Insurers of the Carolinas to uncover the often-overlooked world of insurance for pet businesses. With over 30 years of experience, David breaks down the complex coverage you need to protect your business from the unexpected—whether it’s dealing with canine flu outbreaks, property damage from extreme weather, or skyrocketing employee injury claims. If you’re running a pet care facility and not 100% confident in your coverage, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in to discover how to; 

David also shares insider advice on how to work with insurance companies, avoid duplication of coverage, and build long-term relationships to ensure your business is protected as it grows.

And that’s not all. This episode also features;

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! And huge thanks to David Pearsall for being an amazing guest, you can find out more about David by clicking here BusinessInsurersofCarolinas

Need help making your facility more profitable? Why not reach out and book a consultation with Dom. Click here to book now.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Hershey from 4th-7th November. That means now is the time to secure your place at the biggest dog daycare expo of the year. Grab your ticket by clicking here now

Huge thanks to this week’s brand new show sponsor Canine Lab Testing. 

Canine Lab Testing are the industries go-to partner if you want to keep your furry guests safe. They provide fast, reliable parasite screening and health testing, ensuring peace of mind for you and your clients! To get started with a stress-free screening process click here CanineLabTesting

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] Coming up in this week’s show…
[03.00] A look at the exciting speaker list for the Hershey Expo, and why YOU should attend.
[06:00] Take niching inspiration from a seaside sausage dog walk…
[10:00] How Canine Lab Testing can help keep your facility clean, safe and parasite free
[16.06] Assessing your facilities ‘risk’ factors.
[19.18] How industry insurance needs have changed in recent years?
[23.41] How to avoid duplication with your insurance needs
[26.30] Reviewing Your Insurance: How frequently you should review and update your policies to stay protected and avoid inflation-driven premium increases.
[30:34]  How Business Insurers of the Carolina’s can help you become a better risk for insurance companies
[38.30] How keeping on top of pricing helps you protect your pet business

Wondering how to turn hesitant dog owners into loyal customers?

Curious about how a strong onboarding process can work magic for your business?

Did you know, if you don’t have a five-star onboarding experience that makes new clients feel valued and special, you could be missing out on countless upsell opportunities, glowing testimonials, and valuable referrals…

In this early Halloween special, Dom Hodgson is here to sprinkle some wow-factor on your welcome mat. He shares hauntingly-helpful insights on how to transform nervous prospects from spooked to satisfied, by crafting a seamless onboarding process that leaves clients confident they’ve made the best choice for their dog.

Plus, Dom catches up with recruitment specialist Joe Latona from Walker Scout. Joe provides an update on important shifts in the recruitment industry and offers advice on how pet care business owners can adapt to these changes.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! And huge thanks to Joe Latona for being an amazing guest, you can find out more about him by clicking here WalkerScout

Need help crafting a four-seasons onboarding process in your facility? Why not reach out and book a consultation. Click here to book now.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Hershey from 4th-7th November. It’s time to secure your place at the biggest dog daycare expo of the year. Grab your ticket by clicking here now

Huge thanks to this week’s show sponsors Pet Resort Hospitality Group

Pet Resort Hospitality Group are building a family of the highest quality Pet Boarding and Daycare brands in North America. If you want to know what the future of your business could look like if you ever want to sell, then reach out to PRHG by going to petresorts.love

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

Tune in to this spooktacular episode and learn how to give your pet care business a frighteningly good business-boost!

Are you looking for new ways to diversify your pet care offering?

Curious about how to add premium services that cater to a growing trend of dog owners wanting their pets involved in every aspect of their lives?

Is it a struggle to continually grow your business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

In this episode, host Dom Hodgson speaks with Tamsin Rogers, owner of Ambleside Dog Walkers and Dapper Dog Weddings (AND the Pet Business Inner Circle marketer of the year!). Tamsin shares how she developed her unique pet care services that go far beyond taking the dog for a walk round the block. From leading premium dog adventure treks in the stunning Lake District to launching a successful dog wedding concierge service, Tamsin shares how she tapped into her niche and turned it into a thriving second business. 

You’ll also hear about her journey in balancing business growth with personal time, a struggle many pet care entrepreneurs face, as well as getting a sneak peek at what a full consultation day with Dom looks like…

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! You can learn more about Ambleside Dog Walkers and Dapper Dog Weddings by visiting amblesidedogwalker.com and dapperdogweddings.com

There are always opportunities to add enrichment activities, training services, and enhanced exercise options to boost income. Need more help with that? Why not reach out and book a consultation form with Dom. Click here to book now.

Remember, the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo is happening in Hershey from 4th-7th November. Be the first to find out when the show info goes live by clicking here now

Huge thanks to this week’s show sponsors Pet Resort Hospitality Group

Pet Resort Hospitality Group are building a family of the highest quality Pet Boarding and Daycare brands in North America. If you want to know what the future of your business could look like if you ever want to sell, then reach out to PRHG by going to petresorts.love

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

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom introduces Tamsin’s unique dog wedding concierge service and how it ties into her adventure trek business.
[03:57] – Dog News! A deep dive into the rise of luxury pet spending and why dog owners are now splurging more on their pets than their kids.
[13:58] – Tamsin and Nigel tell us how they found their first full consultation day with the Pet Biz Wiz!
[18:13] – Why a full day with Dom trumps talks, masterminds, and podcasts combined…
[22:14] – How the wedding hotspot of the Lake District gave Tamsin the ideal backdrop for her premium dog services.
[23:21] – How collaborating with a local hotel for a doggy wedding event gave Tamsin and Nigel a surge in visibility and clientele.
[26:40] – Tamsin shares her struggle with balancing business growth and personal time, and the plan Dom helped her develop.
[28:11] – The confidence to raise prices: Why Tamsin decided to charge more for her premium dog services.
[33:17] – Tamsin and Nigel recap their day with Dom and how they’ve set their business up for long-term fool-proof success.

Struggling to lead your team effectively as your pet care business grows?

Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of scaling and managing multiple locations?

Unsure how to inspire your team and create a culture that drives business success?

If you are curious about how to grow from a single location to a multi-resort operation, then this episode has you covered. Host Dom Hodgson sits down with Phil Miller, owner of Pawville, which operates nine pet resorts, two veterinary hospitals, and a variety of pet services. Phil shares his remarkable journey from working on cruise ships to building a thriving pet care empire, detailing the challenges, growth strategies, and vital leadership skills he absorbed along the way.

Sit back and listen to Phil’s enthralling story and discover actionable tips for scaling your own pet care business.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in!

And thanks again to Phil for being such an amazing guest. You can learn more about Pawville and their services by visiting pawville.com.

Don’t forget, registration is now open for the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo, which is happening in Hershey from November 4th – 7th , click here to secure your place now

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Find out more about Dom’s coaching and consulting programs by going to petbusinessmarketing.com/workwithdom

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Exciting news about the upcoming Hershey Expo, where todays guest will be a featured speaker.
 [02:44] – Why it’s crucial to be consistent in your marketing and business operations.
[08:20] – Dog News! The rise of luxury services for dogs in the Bay Area and what this means for pet care businesses.
[12:12] – Phil Miller shares his journey from cruise ships to the pet care industry.
[14:10] – How a chance encounter led to Phil starting his first pet resort and the early challenges he faced.
[18:30] – Phil’s secret strategy for acquiring additional pet resort locations and building his brand.
 [24:25] – The ‘a-ha’ moment when Phil realized the importance of becoming a leader rather than just a manager.
 [29:00] – How integrity became a core value for Pawville
[34:02] – Why Phil is expanding  into veterinary services and the challenges of entering a new market.
 [40:00] – Dom and Phil talk the importance of creating exceptional client experiences and how this drives word-of-mouth referrals.

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring story and valuable insights on how to scale and succeed in the pet care industry!

Are you ready to take your doggy daycare to the next level?

Want to stand out as the go-to canine enrichment expert in your community?

Are you frustrated by unruly dogs, unmotivated staff, and clients who don’t see the value of your services?

Well, you are in luck because in this episode, host Dom Hodgson dives deep into the world of enrichment and introduces Enrich University, a comprehensive program designed to help pet care businesses enhance not only their enrichment services, but also dramatically improve their marketing strategies, and heighten the overall client experience. Dom sits down with Tim Jackson, one of his Elite mastermind members and the ‘dean’ of the university, to discuss how Enrich U can revolutionize your business.

Also, in this packed episode, Dom shares an incredible story about a stray dog in Georgia that chased down a doggy daycare bus and found a new forever home. He chats with Tyson Cash, the daycare owner who was driving, about how this feel-good story brought media attention and a surge in business inquiries. 

And, in Dog News’ first double header, you’ll also hear from Sara Lamont, a canine expert, who sheds light on why English Bulldogs are the most expensive dog breed in the world and what that means for pet owners and businesses…

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! 

Also huge thanks to guests Tyson Cash, Sara Lamont and Tim Jackson for sharing their stories and insights.

Find out more about Tyson’s facility, Keller Creek Dog Boarding by clicking here

Discover more about the Canine Family Planner, Sara Lamont by clicking here

You can find out more about Tim and Enrich University by visiting http://petbusinessmarketing.com/enrichu

Don’t forget, registration is now open for the next Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo, which is happening in Hershey from November 4th – 7th , click here to secure your place now

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:

[01:50] – Double Dog News! A stray dog chases down a daycare bus – Tyson Cash shares the wild ride that made headlines![09:55] – Discover Tyson’s secret sauce for an enrichment-packed daycare experience that keeps tails wagging.
[13:14] – Bulldog bliss! Sara Lamont spills why English Bulldogs are a luxury breed and worth every penny!
[23:29] – The hidden costs of owning a bulldog – Sara gives you the scoop on what every owner should know.
[29:23] – Fasten your seatbelts! Dom and Tim launch their plans for Enrichment University.
[32:07] – Tim Jackson breaks down how enrichment turned his daycare into a high-profit paradise.
[37:37] – Dom shares insights on packaging, promoting, and selling enrichment services.
[42:36] – The Enrich University program: What it offers and how it can help your business grow.

Tune in to this episode and discover how Enrich University can help you boost your pet care business and stand out in the modern-day market!

Is your pet care business struggling to manage rapid growth?

Are your pooch playgroups feeling cripplingly chaotic?

Looking for expert advice on balancing business success with team satisfaction?

Well, you’re in luck! In this episode, Dom Hodgson chats with cousins and business partners Dan and Mallory Poirier, owners of Buffalo’s largest pet care facility and founders of Pack Pro. They share their inspiring journey from humble beginnings when as kids they ran local lemonade stands and dog walked for neighbours, to now managing a bustling facility and launching an innovative online staff training program.

Dan and Mallory also share the pros and cons of working in a family business, how they divide and conquer to make the most of each other’s skill sets, and how their mutual support really helped during the early days of the business, and during covid…

In dog news this week you’ll hear how to make the most of the Black Friday promotion season…

In this episode, you’ll discover:

This episode explores the journey of growing a pet care business, with a focus on managing chaos, keeping employees engaged, and building a strong operational foundation.

You can learn more about Pack Pro and their online training programs by visiting packprotraining.com.

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Remember, tickets are now on sale for the biggest doggy daycare expo in the calendar. The famous Pet Boarding and Daycare ‘Hershey’ Expo. To secure your place go to PetBoardingexpowest.com

If you want to know more about how Dom’s coaching and consulting can help your dog daycare move forward, go to StrategyCall now.

Episode Highlights:

[02:30] – Dom’s tips for smart Black Friday promotions without sacrificing profits.
[07:51] – Dog News! UK Rail introduces a dog treat menu, a first for the rail network.
[12:14] – Dan and Mallory’s pet care business origin story.
[18:36] – How the cousins made it past through the rocky first few weeks and months.
[21:53] – Why a personal touch is all you need to steal business from big corporations
[23:58] – How rapid growth lead Dan and Mallory to experiment with group management.
[27:55] – Pack Pro is born: the journey from in-person consulting to an online training powerhouse.
[35:54] – What Pack Pro offers and how it can help your facility train staff more effectively.
[40:21] – Reaching clients worldwide: Pack Pro’s global impact on the pet care industry.

Is your pet care business struggling with team management and leadership?

Do you feel overwhelmed by communication challenges within your facility?

Are you looking for ways to improve your leadership skills and grow your business with confidence?

Then you’re in the right place! In this episode, Dom Hodgson sits down with leadership consultant Phillip Paris, who shares expert, actionable advice on how to tackle the common leadership challenges faced by pet care business owners. From effective communication to staff management, Phillip reveals practical tips to help you build a more efficient, empowered team.

There’s also the latest instalment of Dog News, (or should we say “Rodent” News?) as well as a look at the amazing speakers who are set to appear at the upcoming Hershey Expo…

Tune in to hear about:

Huge thanks to our listeners for tuning in! You can learn more about Phillip’s consulting services and his Leadership Revolution program by visiting yourpetbusiness.com.

You can subscribe to the Pet Boarding and Daycare Magazine by going to PetBoardingandDaycare.com

Episode Highlights:
[01:55] – Rat News! A look at Blackpool’s newest pet boarding house—just for rats!
[03:49] – How niching down your services can simplify your marketing and help you stand out.
[07:14] – Phillip Paris shares his background and how he became a leadership coach in the pet care industry.
[14:42] – Common leadership struggles in the pet care industry—and how to overcome them.
[16:50] – The key elements of Phillip’s Leadership Revolution program and how it can transform your business.
[20:40] – A look at the varying communication methods between younger and older members of your staff
[25:40] – How to manage the ups and downs and deal with workplace drama effectively.
[31:04] – Leadership is about action: How Phillip’s one-on-one training can help business owners.
[34:50] – Hear who’ll be speaking at the upcoming Hershey expo and how you can secure your place.

Tune in to this episode to learn how mastering leadership can revolutionize your pet care business and boost your team’s performance!