Episode 17: Avoiding Digital Disasters With Anjie CoatesWelcome back to another episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness In today’s show, host Mary  and co-host Kate are joined by special guest Angie, your go-to expert for all things security—especially when it comes to guarding your tech in the modern world. Sparked by a simple conversation that led Mary to drop $500 on new protective gear, the trio dives deep into personal and business security measures that every petpreneur should consider. From the potential risks associated with wireless devices and EMFs (electromagnetic fields), to practical tips for protecting your phone, laptop, and sensitive data, Angie gives us the rundown on staying safe in both our digital and physical environments. They discuss everything from why your everyday passwords might be putting you at risk, to how Faraday pouches can keep your devices secure at trade shows, airports, and beyond. Whether you’re concerned about hackers, EMF exposure, or just want to make sure your business and personal information stays protected, this episode is packed with actionable advice and a few fun stories along the way. So grab your notebook—this is one you’ll want to take notes on!

Welcome to another episode of Women Petprenuers Presents Family Readiness Podcast! In today’s episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen, dive into two important topics every pet professional should have on their radar: disaster preparedness and peer support in the grooming industry. First, Mary shares actionable steps for preparing your business for the unexpected—from setting up cloud-based folders for vital documents and photos, to building a simple (and, yes, laminated) checklist that can secure your insurance, receipts, and records before disaster ever strikes. If you’ve wondered how to be truly ready when things go sideways, you’ll want to grab a notepad for this one. Then, Kate introduces peer support for the pet professional community, drawing from her work with Bishop’s Mission and her experience as a first responder. They discuss why having a confidential, judgment-free support group matters, how these Zoom calls work, and how anyone struggling can reach out for help. With practical tips and heartfelt conversations, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to ensure their pet care business—and their mental health—is ready for whatever comes next. Grab your snacks (or, if you’re the hosts’ pets, try to snag a few extra treats), and settle in for a conversation full of insight, support, and that signature friendly banter.

Welcome back to Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness! In this episode, hosts Kate Klasen and Mary Oquendo dive into the seasonal challenges that pet owners face as spring transitions to summer. From navigating wildlife encounters in rural areas to dealing with venomous snakes, rising temperatures, and firework anxieties, Kate and Mary share personal stories and practical advice to help you keep your pets safe and comfortable.Listen in as they cover tips on handling heat waves, the do’s and don’ts of keeping water in your car, and how to spot the signs of heat stroke in both pets and people. The duo also discuss solutions for pets who fear fireworks, the truth behind screen doors as pet barriers, pool safety, and the dangers of household chemicals and fertilizers. Plus, they share a few humorous anecdotes about their own clever canines outsmarting childproof locks!If you’re a pet lover gearing up for summer—or just want to be prepared for anything your four-legged companions can throw at you—this episode is packed with practical tips, product recommendations, and plenty of laughs. Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join the conversation!

Welcome to another episode of Women Petpreneurs! In this week’s show, host Mary Oquendo and co-host Kate Klasen dive into the crucial topic of handling pet emergencies while traveling—timed perfectly for the busy season of grooming shows and vacations. Drawing from their personal stories and real-life scenarios, Mary and Kate discuss everything from region-specific pet health risks (like ticks on the East Coast or valley fever in Arizona) to navigating emergency veterinary care when you’re far from home. They offer practical tips on travel prep: keeping microchip info updated, carrying medical records and extra meds for pets with chronic conditions, and using handy apps like vet locators. You’ll also hear a wild tale of a runaway dachshund in Australia, and get advice on what to do if your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar place. Whether you’re a competitor on the road or just traveling with your furry companion, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt moments to help you keep your pets safe and sound on the go.

In the latest episode of Women Petpreneurs, we had quite an exciting discussion about the importance of having safety measures in place at home, particularly when it comes to pet safety. Mary shared her personal experience with a malfunctioning air fryer and highlighted the essential role of testing your home safety systems. We explored the value of having fire blankets and discussed whether pet masks and emergency plans are necessary in case of disasters like wildfires or volcanic eruptions. Kate emphasized the significance of being prepared for unforeseen situations and shared useful tools like fire blankets and the innovative Rescue Retriever device. Safety isn't just about humans; it's about our furry friends too! Don't miss out on this crucial and insightful conversation.

In this episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness  hosts Mary Oquendo and  Kate Klasen dive into an essential topic for pet business owners and anyone passionate about safety – flood preparedness and prevention. While it's challenging to prevent floods entirely, understanding the immense power of water is crucial. Mary and Kate share insights into assessing flood risks in your area, practical strategies like landscaping for flood diversion, and the importance of knowing your local emergency management resources. They also discuss the significance of having a well-prepared emergency plan, including essentials like go-bags and proper insurance coverage, to ensure both human and pet safety. Join the conversation as they emphasize the importance of awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness.! In this episode, our hosts, Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen delve into two critical topics for pet owners: pet identification and planning for our pets' futures. As pet identification becomes increasingly important, they discuss recent issues with microchip companies, like Save This Life, and the importance of regularly checking your pet's microchip functionality and information. They also explore alternative methods of identification, such as GPS collars and traditional collars, emphasizing the significance of keeping information up to date. Transitioning into the latter part of the episode, they tackle the tough yet necessary conversation about what happens to our beloved pets if something unfortunate happens to us. From legal considerations to having conversations with potential pet guardians, they provide valuable insights and suggestions to ensure our pets' welfare. Whether it's emergency planning or discussing long-term care, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt discussions that every pet owner needs to hear. Tune in and be prepared to take actionable steps for your pet's safety and your peace of mind.

In this episode of Women Petpreneurs, Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen delve into the sensitive and often heart-wrenching topic of knowing when it's time to say goodbye to a beloved pet. As experienced pet professionals, they explore the challenges of recognizing the signs of a pet's declining health and the emotional complexities involved in making end-of-life decisions. Mary shares personal anecdotes about her own pets, including the emotional rollercoaster of determining the right moment for their pets to cross over. The hosts discuss the different ways pet owners and professionals process grief and emphasize the importance of supporting one another through this difficult time. They also touch upon resources like grief counselors and the significance of acknowledging the deep bond between humans and their pets. Join Mary and Kate in this heartfelt conversation that offers support and understanding to anyone facing the inevitable decision of letting go of a cherished animal companion.

Welcome to another episode of Women PetpreneursPresents Family readiness. In today's episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen dive into a crucial topic for pet owners: toxicity and how to ensure the safety of our beloved pets. Mary shares her recent experience with her dog, Cecil, at the vet, highlighting the importance of proactive care and dealing with suspicious lumps. They delve into the rising concerns over marijuana toxicity, particularly with THC gummies, and the dangers of common household items like rat poison, medications, and certain foods. With insights from a veterinary professional, we'll learn about identifying signs of toxicity and how to properly prepare a first aid kit for pets. Get ready for an informative discussion that every pet owner needs to hear.