Practical Pet Chat

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob open up about some of the most challenging aspects of being a business owner—making tough calls, having uncomfortable discussions, and managing the inevitable waves of burnout. These are not just abstract business concepts; they’re real issues that almost every entrepreneur faces, especially in the pet industry where passion runs high and emotions are often intertwined with business decisions.

Through candid conversation and actionable advice, Lorin and Rob share ways to be honest with yourself about where you and your business truly stand, while also extending yourself grace during the difficult moments. They explore practical tools and resources—like leaning on trusted contacts, using technology to measure progress, and building strong relationships—that can help you check in on the overall health of both your business and your personal well-being.

Owning and running a business in the pet world comes with unique rewards and unique pressures. The very passion that drives us to serve pets and their people can sometimes make the challenges feel heavier and the stakes feel higher. But you don’t have to carry that weight alone.

Join Lorin and Rob as they walk through strategies to identify stress points early, manage them with clarity and confidence, and create pathways that support not only the survival of your business but also your ability to thrive as a person and leader. This episode is both a reminder and a resource: that you’re not alone, that your struggles are valid, and that there are solutions and communities ready to support you.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dig deep into one of the most polarizing topics in the pet world: grain-free diets for dogs and cats. Over the past decade, this debate has caused pet parents, veterinarians, and even entire pet food companies to take strong and often opposing positions. With so much noise, half-truths, and conflicting marketing messages, it’s no surprise that many pet parents are left wondering what’s truly best for their furry family members.

Lorin and Rob don’t hold back as they unpack the myths, the marketing, and the science surrounding grain-free food. They don’t always see eye to eye, which makes for a dynamic and thought-provoking conversation. Along the way, they explore surprising insights—like what a hinged jaw can reveal about your pet’s natural eating habits and how that small detail can shape the way you think about nutrition.

From fillers versus balancing nutrition, to the role of legumes and alternative ingredients, to whether “grain-free” automatically means “healthier,” they cover it all. They also take a closer look at pet food studies—how they’re conducted, why results can be misleading, and how to interpret the information without getting lost in jargon or scare tactics.

This episode isn’t about giving you a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, it’s about equipping you with the tools and knowledge to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and make decisions that fit your pet’s unique needs. Whether you’ve been feeding grain-free for years, are considering making a switch, or simply want to cut through the confusion, this discussion will help you see the issue in a clearer, more balanced way.

Join Lorin and Rob for a candid, practical, and sometimes surprising conversation about one of the pet industry’s most divisive issues—because when it comes to your pets, informed choices are always the best choices.

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob revisit the often misunderstood world of white labeling. At first glance, it might seem like a quick way to expand your product line or increase profits, but as they remind us, it’s your name, your reputation, and your relationship with customers on the line.

They break down the key questions every pet business owner should ask: When does white labeling make sense, and when is it a mistake? How do you make a white-labeled product unique and reflective of your brand, rather than just another generic option? And how do you move beyond competing on price alone to deliver real value that keeps customers coming back?

Throughout the discussion, Lorin and Rob share best practices, common pitfalls, and creative approaches for making white labeling a strategic growth tool instead of a risky shortcut. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or already have white label products in your lineup, this episode will help you think critically about how to protect your brand, build trust, and create offerings that truly stand out in the competitive pet marketplace.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive into a topic that touches the hearts of so many pet parents—adding a new pet to the family. Whether you’re bringing home your very first companion or introducing another furry friend into an already full household, the process comes with joy, excitement, and, of course, challenges that need thoughtful preparation.

They explore the unique dynamics of single-pet households versus multi-pet households, and why the approach to integration isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each pet has its own personality, history, and comfort level, and success depends on recognizing those differences and tailoring the introduction process accordingly.

From meeting in a neutral setting to carefully transitioning into your home and your current pet’s established territory, Lorin and Rob discuss strategies that reduce stress, encourage positive interactions, and set the stage for long-term harmony. They also share the subtle cues to watch for, how your own demeanor and energy can influence the outcome, and why being calm, consistent, and vigilant makes such a difference.

But it’s not just about logistics—it’s also about building trust, creating space, and respecting each pet’s pace. Along the way, Lorin and Rob highlight common mistakes pet parents make during introductions, unique issues that can arise (especially with older pets, rescues, or different species), and practical solutions for overcoming those hurdles.

Whether you’re considering adding a playful puppy to your cat’s domain, pairing two dogs together, or adopting a rescue with unknown experiences, this conversation is filled with real-world best practices, personal insights, and thoughtful tips that will help you avoid problems and create a smooth transition.

If you’re thinking about expanding your pet family—or simply want to better understand the dynamics of multi-pet households—this episode is full of valuable takeaways to ensure your home remains a place of love, balance, and happy companionship.

All of this and so much more on this edition of Practical Pet Chat.

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob dive deep into their experiences and observations from the SuperZoo 2025 National Trade Show in Las Vegas—one of the pet industry’s most anticipated events of the year. With thousands of retailers, vendors, groomers, innovators, and pet enthusiasts under one roof, SuperZoo once again delivered a whirlwind of energy, excitement, and discovery.

From the moment they stepped onto the show floor, Lorin and Rob were surrounded by the latest in new products, fresh services, up-and-coming companies, and innovative educational sessions designed to help the industry move forward. They take you along for the ride—sharing what they saw, what impressed them, and what left them scratching their heads.

But beyond the buzz and the shiny new launches, there are always questions that surface once the glow of the trade show fades:

Which trends have real staying power, and which are more hype than substance?

What are the true benefits of attending such a large-scale event for retailers and vendors?

And how do you separate the excitement of the show from the practical realities of running a business?

Lorin and Rob talk candidly about the hits and misses—from standout products and brands that genuinely moved the needle to the ones that didn’t quite deliver. They also highlight the evolving role of trade shows in today’s pet business landscape, and why it’s so important for businesses to have a clear strategy when deciding to attend.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Practical Pet Business without a little humor—so yes, Lorin even manages to sneak in a discussion about the cost of bananas amidst the deep industry talk.

Packed with insights, real-world reflections, and a few laughs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the pet business space. Whether you’re considering attending your first national trade show, looking for inspiration from this year’s trends, or just curious about what the future of the industry might hold, you’ll find plenty to take away from this conversation.Prodc

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob take listeners inside their experience at SuperZoo 2025, the premier national pet trade show held in Las Vegas. With thousands of exhibitors, retailers, groomers, and innovators under one roof, the show was packed with energy, ideas, and plenty of pet-world passion.

They walk through what it’s really like to be on the show floor—from massive vendor booths and creative product displays to the live grooming contests that wowed audiences with artistry and skill. Along the way, they share the new products that caught their attention, the rising brands making a splash, and the categories that are clearly setting the tone for the year ahead.

But it’s not just about the shiny new things. Lorin and Rob also reflect on the trends shaping the future of the pet industry, the misses that didn’t quite land, and the broader shifts they see coming down the road—from nutrition and wellness to sustainability, enrichment, and technology-driven solutions for pets and pet parents alike.

Whether you’re a retailer, a brand looking for inspiration, or simply someone who loves staying ahead of the curve in the pet space, this episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes observations, and plenty of real-world perspective on what’s hot—and what’s not—after one of the industry’s biggest events.

All of this and so much more on this edition of Practical Pet Chat.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob take a deep dive into the strategies and insights behind identifying the pet products that truly drive traffic and build excitement for your store. They discuss how small shifts—like moving the location of key products, refreshing displays, and keeping a close eye on consumer trends—can make a big impact on engagement and sales.

Beyond the logistics, they emphasize the importance of staying true to your store’s brand and philosophy while still catering to the evolving wants and needs of pet parents. When you connect your preferences and expertise with the desires of your customers, you not only strengthen your product mix but also create a unique shopping experience that stands out from the competition.

Lorin and Rob also explore how product selection ties directly into customer loyalty, and how loyalty naturally fuels repeat traffic, stronger word-of-mouth referrals, and ultimately more sales. By combining the right products with an intentional focus on customer experience, you can generate a buzz that keeps your store top of mind and your community excited to come back.

Whether you’re looking for practical merchandising tips, inspiration to refresh your product strategy, or ways to deepen customer loyalty, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you build traffic, sales, and long-term success in your pet business.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive into the important topic of when and why to take your pet to the vet. While your veterinarian is a key partner in your pet’s health, you know your pet better than anyone else—trusting your instincts is an important part of making timely decisions. From routine visits to situations that require urgent attention, Lorin and Rob share insights on how to align with your vet to create the best health plan for your companion. Rob also recounts a recent experience at the vet’s office that highlights how one pet owner’s selfishness can negatively impact both people and animals. All this and more on Practical Pet Chat.

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob dive into a pressing question for many pet business owners: physical store vs. virtual presence. They explore the key factors in weighing the value and return on a brick-and-mortar location versus running an online shop, from cost considerations to customer experience. Learn how to spot the signs and interpret customer trends so you can plan for long-term success—no matter which channel (or combination) you choose to reach your audience. Plus, they tackle the challenges of cutting through the noise in today’s crowded online pet business marketplace. All this and more, right here on Practical Pet Business.

On this episode, Lorin and Rob dive into the fascinating world of pet food processing and explore how different preparation methods shape the final product your pet eats. From extrusion to baking, freeze-drying to air-drying, we break down what each process means for nutritional value, ingredient integrity, and overall health impact. Some methods can enhance certain benefits, while others may compromise your nutritional philosophy — and knowing the difference matters. We also share key considerations to help you decide what’s best for your pet and your unique situation. It’s an informative and engaging conversation that just might change the way you look at your pet’s food.