What does it really take to grow a pet care facility from the ground up?

How do you turn casual community engagement into a powerful marketing tool?

And why is understanding your brand the first step to building loyalty that lasts?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson chats with Bryan Kiefer, a former pet care facility manager turned industry expert at RunLoyal. Bryan shares the ‘in the trenches’ secrets about how he helped scale a small business into an award-winning operation, all while navigating the challenges of community engagement and tech adoption. He also dives into how client surveys uncovered surprising insights that helped him refine services and exceed client expectations –  making small tweaks that led to significant growth.

There’s also the latest instalment of dog news where Dom shares a fascinating new study that uncovers when dogs are officially considered “old” (spoiler alert: it’s not just about age).

Plus, hear from Kellie McEntire, an Enrich U scholar, as she shares her experience implementing the Pirate Month theme and reveals how it boosted both client engagement and staff morale in January. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

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.

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

To enroll in Erich University and get access to a fully customizable enrichment curriculum and ‘done-for-you’ monthly marketing resources click here EnrichUniversity

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

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom reflects on the response from Sean Felty’s productivity episode and introduces this week’s show.
[03:06] – Dog news: A study reveals when dogs are officially considered “old” based on breed.
[09:13] – Bryan Kiefer shares his career journey from managing a pet facility to working with RunLoyal.
[17:45] – The importance of branding and community engagement in growing a pet care facility.
[19:33] – How simple surveys helped Bryan identify client needs and build trust within the community.
[27:12] – Bryan’s transition to RunLoyal and how his experience shapes their tech development.
[29:02] – Leveraging a branded app to increase upsells and improve client convenience.
[32:18] – The benefits of dynamic pricing and how it drives client loyalty and early bookings.
[37:47] – How Bryan’s first hand facility experience enhances RunLoyal’s offerings for pet businesses.
[45:05] – Kelli McEntire shares her Pirate Month success story, boosting client engagement and staff morale.

Wondering how to keep labor costs under control without sacrificing quality?

How do some daycares manage to keep their wage costs below the mythical 40%?

What tools and systems can help you improve efficiency across multiple locations?

In this episode, Dom chats with Sean Felty from Greenlin Pet Resorts, who shares his game-changing productivity calculator – a tool designed to help pet care facilities slash labor costs and dramatically increase profitability. Sean reveals how his background in healthcare management inspired the creation of this system, and how implementing it in his own facilities led to six-figure savings. 

Later in the episode, Tim Jackson yet again dives into the transformative role of enrichment programs and how they not only enhance the dogs’ experiences but also increase client retention and revenue. Tim explains why enrichment should be the ‘Hero’ service your daycare provides, and why smart daycare owners are making themed enrichments the core offering that sets successful facilities apart. Don’t miss out on this revolutionary listen!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Thanks to my awesome guest Sean Felty. To get a copy of Seáns FREE Dog Daycare Labor Management Guide – Click here now 

Follow Next Tree Strategies on Instagram here and Facebook here 

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.

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

To enroll in Erich University and get access to a fully customizable enrichment curriculum and ‘done-for-you’ monthly marketing resources click here EnrichUniversity

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

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom introduces the episode, setting us up for the dulcet tones of Sean Felty and Tim Jackson.
[03:14] – Sean Felty discusses his background in healthcare management and how it shaped his productivity calculator.
[08:00] – The challenges of labor management in seasonal businesses and avoiding runaway costs.
[12:37] – Sean explains how his productivity calculator tracks volume and hours daily.
[16:17] – Discussing the immediate savings and operational improvements after implementing the system.
[22:33] – Hear the success stories from facilities that used the productivity calculator to cut costs.
[29:37] – Tim Jackson reflects on Pirate Month and its impact on Enrich U participants.
[31:15] – How Enrich U’s themed months simplify marketing and drive client engagement.
[35:00] – Dom and Tim give a sneak peek at upcoming themes like Superhero Month and Dino Month.
[37:00] – Dom wraps up and looks ahead to the PB&D Podcast blowing out its first birthday candle very soon…

Ready to take your pet care business to the next level? Tune in, take notes, and start making 2025 your most profitable year yet!

Are you ready to elevate your pet care business to new heights this year?

Curious about the strategies top industry leaders use to boost profitability and attract dream clients?

Do you want to turn ordinary days at daycare into unforgettable experiences for your clients and their dogs?

In this episode, Host Dom Hodgson shares 20 powerful business resolutions that – if you action them – will help you have your most profitable and stress-free year to date.

The Pet Biz Wiz is breaking down bold moves like themed months (how about a doggy dating show for Valentine’s month?!) and exclusive VIP services that affluent clients can’t resist. By implementing these strategies, you’ll create a more fulfilling experience for clients and position your business as a trusted pet care leader in town.

Dom also dishes out strategies for ditching deadweight services, boosting your email game, and hosting open-house events that have clients lining up like dogs at treat time. This episode teaches how to boost profitability with enrichment offerings, strengthen client relationships through email marketing, and using themed promotions to drive engagement. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

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.

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

To enroll in Erich University and get access to a fully customizable enrichment curriculum and ‘done-for-you’ monthly marketing resources click here EnrichUniversity

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

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom kicks off the year with a preview of resolutions to supercharge your pet care business.
03:50] – Dog News! Meet Sharwood, Britain’s top canine blood donor, who’s saved up to 160 lives with an incredible 40 donations.
[08:08] – Why prioritizing enrichment services leads to higher profits and happier clients.
[13:39] – The Profit Pincer Attack: focusing on profitability over growth.
[19:05] – The importance of targeting affluent clients with premium, personalized offerings.
[20:40] – It’s Nichin’ Time! Learn from the likes of Sean Parker who has leveraged the small dog sector with great success.
[23:50] – Step into the 21st century (or back out of it) with both online and paper-and-ink marketing.
[25:50] – Hosting open-house events to showcase your facility and convert prospects into clients.
[31:10] – Cutting the fluff! Why you should lose the deadweight services that detract from your “hero” pet care offers.
[40:55] – Dom’s personal resolutions and how balance fuels business growth and creativity.

Start your year with clarity, confidence, and a game plan to make 2025 your most successful year yet. Hit play now and transform your pet care business today!

What can niche services in Dubai teach us about creating loyalty in our own pet facilities?

How do you build a team that stays motivated, happy, and committed?

And why does attending industry events (or skipping them) make such a difference to your success?

In this special new year’s episode, Dom Hodgson reflects on an incredible 2024, highlighting the biggest lessons from some of the podcast’s most memorable interviews. Hear from podcast favourites like Eve Molzhon about why not attending expo’s is the cardinal sin for pet business owners, as well as Vance Morris who discusses how you can create a Disney-esque “rope-drop” for your clients.

But the highlight reel doesn’t stop there. You’ll also hear how Sean Parker created client loyalty with niche pet services in Dubai, how Sean and Jenn Felty boosted profits with tiered boarding options, and how Tim Jackson used enrichment programs to dramatically grow revenue. 

Save yourself from trawling back through hours of Dom’s weird English accent and jump right into these easily digestible delights!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Thanks to all the special guests who made this podcast such a success in 2024! 

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.

To enroll in Erich University and get access to a fully customizable enrichment curriculum and ‘done-for-you’ monthly marketing resources click here EnrichUniversity

 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] – Dom kicks off the episode with reflections on 2024 and why it’s been a standout year for the podcast.
[04:19] – Sean Parker discusses the power of niche services and memberships in building client loyalty at My Second Home in Dubai.
[10:35] – Eyal Cohen talks about scaling pet resorts while maintaining their original charm and appeal.Z
[14:41] – Eve Molzhon explains why attending expos is critical for networking, avoiding mistakes, and staying ahead in the industry.
[19:27] – Claire Cronin offers financing advice to help pet care businesses grow and innovate.
[24:58] – Rich Schlatter uncovers the secrets to keeping staff motivated, happy, and loyal.
[29:10] – Sean and Jenn Felty reveal how tiered boarding options boosted profitability at Greenlin Pet Resorts.
[36:37] – Vance Morris shares how to create a Disney-style “rope-drop” experience that keeps clients excited and engaged.
[41:45] – Tim Jackson explores how enrichment programs can transform your facility’s revenue and customer satisfaction.
[46:40] – Dom wraps up the episode with his final thoughts on carrying these lessons into 2025.

What if you could look back at your business mistakes with the wisdom you have now?

What do you want your business to be like one, five, ten years in the future?

How can storytelling like Dickens transform your marketing into something unforgettable?

In this special Christmas themed episode, host Dom Hodgson reflects on lessons from his own journey while channelling the spirit of A Christmas Carol to see the past, present, and future of his business. But don’t worry, you’re coming along too as Dom guides you through a mini coaching session to help you uncover what’s working, fix what isn’t, and dream big for 2025.

Later in the episode, Dom welcomes Colin Theriot, a master copywriter, to deliver a storytelling masterclass that will take your marketing to the next level. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a simple story into a client magnet, Colin breaks it down step by step, showing you how to connect with your audience in ways that resonate – and sell big time.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom introduces the special Christmas theme inspired by A Christmas Carol.
[04:48] – Dom shares how mastermind sessions helped him transform his business in 2017.
[08:15] – Why looking back on pivotal moments in your career can shape your future decisions.
[09:22] – Why identifying current frustrations is the first step to real change.
[13:25] – Setting a bold vision for the future: What you want your business to look like in 2025.
[17:30] – How Disney-inspired storytelling themes are elevating the Enrich U program.
[19:36] – Sit Around the Campfire: How stories drive deeper engagement in dog daycares.
[21:24] – Colin Theriot explains how storytelling builds trust and drives client action.
[25:26] – Colin Theriot introduces the “Sandwich of Authority” and its role in marketing.
[33:45] – Colin’s tips for recycling content to stay consistent without burning out.

Don’t let your future success become the ghost of Christmas yet to come—tune in now and get inspired to make 2025 your best year yet!

Curious how you can make dogs feel at home from the moment they step into your facility?

What’s the science behind reducing fear and anxiety for pets—and how can you use it to elevate your daycare experience?

Could “comfort-driven enrichment” could be the next enriching experience you add to you facility?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson sits down with Fred Silber of Pet Therapeutics to explore how comfort-driven enrichment is transforming pet lodging. Fred shares the fascinating science behind why dogs feel calmer in cozy, well-designed spaces and how offering premium comfort can bridge the gap between “nervous first visit” and “tail-wagging regular.”

Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the incredible things happening in Enrich U as the graduates spill the beans on their most recent creative enrichment successes. From liver-scented elves causing chaos to snuffle cafés turning mutts into treat-seeking detective dogs, these stories prove that a little creativity goes a long way. Stick around to the end to hear about the pirate plans that are already keeping daycare owners up at night—because nothing says commitmentlike dressing up a staff member as Captain Jack Sparrow!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Thanks to special guest Fred Sliber. You can find out more about pet therapeutics amazing products by clicking here Pettherpeutics 

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

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.

To enroll in Erich University and get access to a fully customizable enrichment curriculum and ‘done-for-you’ monthly marketing resources click here EnrichUniversity

 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] – Dom sets the stage for the episode and introduces “comfort-driven enrichment.”
[09:00] – Fred Silber shares his journey from designing sofas for homes to creating luxury for boarding facilities.
[13:00] – The science behind comfort: Why dogs instinctively seek cozy spaces and how this reduces stress.
[16:32] – First impressions matter: How comfort-driven suites help anxious dogs settle in faster.
[19:00] – Premium pricing: Fred explains how facilities can charge more for luxury comfort add-ons.
[28:30] – Cleaning made simple: Fred’s innovative designs ensure hygiene without compromising on style.
[31:19] – Liver-scented elves and snuffle spaces: Enrich U graduates share their favorite holiday enrichment ideas.
[33:30] – Naughty dogs and pirate plans: How creative, themed activities boost daycare engagement.
[37:00] – The ripple effect: Why enrichment creates happier dogs, satisfied clients, and motivated staff.
[40:22] – January preview: Dom teases the pirate-themed treasure hunt for Enrich U graduates.

How do you measure a successful year in your pet care business?

What numbers truly matter when it comes to growth and fulfilment?

Ready to discover why it’s never too late – or too early – to create impactful promotions?

In this special episode, host Dom Hodgson takes a creative spin on reflection with his 2024 “Pet Biz Wrapped,” inspired by Spotify’s famous annual recap. Dom peels back the curtain on his year, sharing not just the financial wins but also the personal and professional milestones that made a difference. He also reveals how to balance business savvy with a fulfilling life. Spoiler Alert: It’s about much more than just money…

Dom dives deep into his favorite strategies for crafting promotions that resonate year-round and shares how creative marketing, like personalized emails and old-school mailings, can make a lasting impact. Because let’s face it, who needs Black Friday when you’ve got Dom’s year-round bag of marketing tricks – no stampedes required! 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

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.

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] – Dom kicks off with festive vibes and his version of “Pet Biz Wrapped.”
[03:07] – Why Spotify Wrapped is genius marketing and how you can learn from it.
[08:42] – Dom’s take on seasonal promotions: Why it’s never too late to run an offer.
[16:30] – Fitness, family, and fun: Why personal growth is as important as business growth.
[18:50] – How Dom’s email strategy generated massive wins this year—and why you should double down on yours.
[23:15] – The unexpected power of physical mailings and how they build client loyalty.
[29:51] – Looking ahead to 2025: Dom’s event-heavy calendar, new book projects, and big goals.
[37:00] – The art of outsourcing: How to free up time for high-impact projects in your business.
[40:22] – Lessons from letting go: How saying “no” created space for new opportunities.

The end of the year is the perfect time to reflect, refine, and plan. What will your 2025 look like? Tune in for inspiration, practical strategies, and a few laughs along the way.

What’s the secret to creating calmer dogs, happier owners, and a thriving daycare?

Could blending behavioral science with heart be the key to your next big breakthrough?

How can zoo-inspired enrichment ideas revolutionize your daycare’s approach to play and learning?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson takes you from the buzz of the Hershey Expo to an enlightening chat with Annie Grossman, author of How to Train Your Dog with Love and Science.

Annie dives into the heart of behavioral science, revealing how understanding dog psychology can radically improve how your daycare operates.

She explains why daycares are the perfect “labs” for training, shares the essentials of reading dog body language, and outlines her premium “Day School” model that blends training with enrichment to create a standout service clients are willing to pay top dollar for.

Annie also unpacks how science-backed training isn’t just about solving problem behaviors—it’s about building confidence, creating trust, and setting dogs up for long-term success. Combined with insights from zoo-inspired enrichment strategies, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you stand out, deliver exceptional care, and grow your daycare business.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Dom also catches up with his good buddy Eve Molzhon as they look back on a very successful Pet Boarding and Daycare Expo…

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

Host Dom Hodgson has a very small number of coaching and consultation opportunities available for 2025. To be considered to work with Dom, and experience his exclusive, impactful pet business consulting services you can apply now by going to www.petbusinessmarketing.com/audition

Find out more about Annie Grossman and her amazing new book by clicking here now

Find out more about Eve Molzhon by clicking here now

Remember, the next pet boarding and daycare expo is happening in Vegas in May. You can – and you should – click here to add your contact details now, so you are the first to learn when registration opens!

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

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Dom introduces the episode and teases his Hershey review and chat with Annie Grossman.
[02:46] – Dog News! A sad article about the passing of Las Vegas star Mr. Piffles, and how the Flamingo honoured him.
[07:33] – Hear the Hershey Expo highlights, including Eve Molzhon’s tips for first-timers and the wildest vendor moments.
[09:50] – How expo networking can lead to creative partnerships (and a cocktail or two).
[14:45] – Annie tunes in and explains her journey into science-backed training and how it led to her book.
[19:50] – Why daycares are the ultimate “labs” for understanding dog behavior and perfecting training methods.
[24:12] – Annie’s “Day School” model: charging premium rates for hands-on, behavior-based programs.
[25:32] – Enrichment lessons from zoos and how they inspire daycare transformations.
29:55] – Breaking down the essentials of reading dog body language and why it’s a game-changer for staff.
[34:32] – How playful storytelling can make marketing more impactful and blow clients’ socks off.

Are you unintentionally blending in when you should be standing out?

Did you know that simple tweaks to your messaging can make your pet care business irresistible?

Want to know the secret keys to creating endless marketing content without starting from scratch?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson sits down with the brilliant Colin Theriot to explore the art of crafting copy that grabs attention and drives action. Colin shares his DUST framework—a system for making your business Different, Unique, Special, and Tribal. We uncover the overlooked elements that make a website truly magnetic, share the secret to crafting offers that feel irresistible, and discuss how subtle changes in tone and presentation can make your marketing unforgettable.

Colin also reveals his “lazy genius” method for recycling content to save time and dominate your market. With his expert insights, you can discover how bold, strategic tweaks can outshine competitors, turn quirks into compelling selling points, and create a brand that resonates deeply with your audience.

Listen now to discover:

Huge thanks to Colin for sharing his wisdom on this podcast. You can find out more about Colin and visit his website by clicking here now.

Host Dom Hodgson has a very small number of coaching and consultating opportunities available for 2025. To be considered to work with Dom, and experience his exclusive, impactful pet business consulting services you can apply now by going to www.petbusinessmarketing.com/audition

Remember, the next pet boarding and daycare expo is happening in Vegas in May. You can – and you should – click here to add your contact details now, so you are the first to learn when registration opens!

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

Episode Highlights:

Remember, copywriting isn’t just about words – it’s about connection, creativity, and crafting a business that customers can’t help but choose. 

Curious about how enrichment can revolutionize your daycare?

Wondering how leading facilities are tackling challenges like staff turnover, client loyalty and ever increasing competition?

In this episode, Dom Hodgson takes us back to the Hershey Lodge for the second part in a deep dive into what went down at the biggest pet boarding and daycare event on the planet.

This time, Dom and Tim bring you more insightful conversations with attendees, vendors, and speakers who are redefining success in the pet care industry. Despite battling some serious jetlag, our dynamic duo managed to soak up all the pet biz wisdom they could find in Hershey and deliver it directly to your ears!

From the clever twist of a murder mystery month that drew clients in droves to the surprising impact of scent branding on creating unforgettable client and canine experiences! These quick-fire snippets reveal the bold ideas, proven systems, marketing hacks, and enrichment concepts that are shaping the future of the pet businesses.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

Thanks to everyone who took part in this fun episode. Remember, the next pet boarding and daycare expo is happening in Vegas in May. You can – and you should – click here to add your contact details now, so you are the first to learn when registration opens!

Host Dom Hodgson has a very small number of coaching and consultating opportunities available for 2025. To be considered to work with Dom, and experience his exclusive, impactful pet business consulting services you can apply now by going to www.petbusinessmarketing.com/audition

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

Episode Highlights:

[00:51] – Meet Allison Strauel, owner of Skydance Pet Lodge, sharing how themed enrichment and diversifying services have skyrocketed her business.
[09:16] – Discover the story behind Enrich University and how monthly themes like “Murder Mystery Month” are turning daycares into client magnets.
[16:34] – What’s holding daycares back? Dom uncovers the biggest mistakes owners make when implementing enrichment.
[18:15] – Hear from Barkleigh’s own James Severs on how the expo’s come together and how this year’s Hershey expo broke records.
[19:52] – Tim chats to the owners of Dogs 24/7 who are on a self-improvement crusade.
[27:40] – Alex Varney gives her family business’ origin story and previews her own seminar on the power of self-critique.
[35:30] – Aroma branding specialist Kevin Rhodes gives us the low-down on his development of pet-specific scents and how important a good-smelling facility is.
[39:23] – Brothers Matthew and Mark of The Pup Camp share how they’re scaling their daycare while maintaining premium pricing and safety standards.
[42:41] – How adopting the Chick-fil-A model of consistency is helping daycares scale effectively.
[44:35] – A sneak peek into next week’s episode with Dom’s interview featuring marketing expert Colin Theriot.

If you’re ready to learn how to bring fresh ideas and proven strategies into your daycare, this episode is packed with inspiration straight from the Hershey Expo floor. Don’t miss it!