Bundle of Inspiration
I was really inspired by the January Best of the Best story on bundling puppy packages. I’ve been wanting to put together a checklist for not only puppies, but for all newly adopted dogs and cats. This gave me the idea to go a step further and include my community partners as well. We have a trainer, a pet coach, daycare/boarding kennel and more that we could include as well. It truly is about community and how it takes a village. — Kimberly Gatto, The Wagging Tail, Las Vegas, NV
Grooming Curiosity
I’m always curious about groomers: how people pay them, if it’s working for them, how they train them and pay for training, how they get through the struggles that seem to be in every store with grooming. Maybe some feedback with struggles and successes from store owners on this someday? — Jennifer Larsen, Firehouse Pet Shop, Wenatchee, WA
Sharing Support
I’m really enjoying all the photos and input from business owners all over the country. Several stores in my area are so “closed” to the point that they even block other store owners on their social media. I am great friends with other store owners, and we share ideas all the time. It’s good to have support of the PETS+ and Pet Boss Nation families! — Pattie Boden Zeller, Animal Connection, Charlottesville, VA
The Word Is ‘Bloom’
I like picking a word for every year to use as a guide. This year my word is “bloom.” So my goal is to become the brightest flower in the field. I have subscriptions to multiple magazines, both trade magazines and home improvement / DIY mags. My favorite by far is PETS+ because it combines the best of trade, information and fun. — Wendy Megyese, Muttigans, Emerald Isle, NC
Get Fit
I just finished my certification as a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer through The University of Tennessee! I’m in the process of developing classes for dogs and their humans to get fit, but most importantly to have fun together and build that human-animal bond! — Ann Weber, Fancy Paws, Elkins, WV
Local Flavor
Would love to see more about boutique pet stores and bakeries. Especially ones that add local flavor in their product selections. — Esther Foster, Pawsitively Sweet Bakery, San Antonio, TX
(Ed: You’re in luck! Plans for our April-May issue include a story on this very subject. Don’t miss that issue!)
Erratum: An item on Theo Pet Grocery’s video in January’s Benchmarks feature (page 34) misidentified a veterinarian interviewed. Dr. Melissa Walker gave her recommendations on a fresh diet for senior dogs.