Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.0, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# The Dog Gurus

Launch And Grow A Profitable Pet Business

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://thedoggurus.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Best Pet Sitter Training for Pet Care Businesses](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/best-pet-sitter-training/) - Discover the best pet sitter training to boost your pet care business. Implement effective onboarding and elevate staff performance today!
- [Dog Daycare Insurance Cost: What You'll Actually Pay](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-daycare-insurance-cost/) - Discover the true dog daycare insurance cost to budget effectively. Learn how to calculate your premiums based on key business factors.
- [AI for Scheduling: A Practical Guide for Pet Care Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/ai-for-scheduling/) - Discover how AI for scheduling can save pet care owners time and reduce costs. Learn to optimize your appointments efficiently today!
- [Dog Daycare Insurance for Owners: What to Buy](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-daycare-insurance/) - Discover essential dog daycare insurance options, from Business Owner's Policies to coverage for your furry guests. Ensure your business is protected!
- [Dog Daycare Design Ideas: A Practical Layout Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-daycare-design-ideas/) - Discover essential dog daycare design ideas for success! Focus on zoning, safety, and durable surfaces to create a thriving space.
- [Dog Related Business: Start, Run, and Scale in the U.S.](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-related-business/) - Ready to dive into a dog related business? Learn how to start, run, and scale your venture successfully with practical tips and strategies!
- [How to Start and Grow a Business With Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/business-with-dogs/) - Unlock the secrets to starting a successful business with dogs. From dog walking to daycare, learn the best models and essential steps.
- [Dog Walking Franchise for Pet Care Operators: Decide Fast](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-walking-franchise/) - Considering a dog walking franchise? Learn why costs and market entry speed matter for pet care operators—maximize your profits today!
- [How to Start a Dog Walker Business: A Practical Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-walker-business/) - Launch your own dog walker business this week! Follow our practical steps to start building a sustainable income in pet care.
- [Dog Boarding Facility Requirements: The Complete U.S. Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-boarding-facility-requirements/) - Unlock the secrets to success with our comprehensive guide on dog boarding facility requirements in the U.S. Start your venture right!
- [Dog Sitting Software: Your Guide to Running a Smarter Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-sitting-software/) - Discover how dog sitting software can transform your pet business. Automate tasks, reduce admin time, and focus on caring for dogs!
- [How to Start a Dog Business: Your 2026 Startup Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-start-a-dog-business/) - Learn how to start a dog business in 2026 with five essential steps. Create a clear plan and secure your first clients without overspending.
- [U.S. Pet Business Market: Opportunities and Growth in 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-business/) - Discover key opportunities in the U.S. pet business market. With a projected growth to $228 billion by 2031, learn where to invest now!
- [Best Pet Services Business Options in the US (2026)](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-services-business/) - Discover the best pet services business options in the US for 2026. Explore top providers and services to meet your pet care needs.
- [Best Pet Business Software for U.S. Owners in 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-business-software/) - Discover the best pet business software for U.S. owners in 2026. Find solutions tailored to your needs and streamline your pet care operations!
- [How to Start a Small Dog Business in 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-start-a-small-dog-business-in-2026/) - Discover how to start a small dog business in 2026. Learn about growing pet care opportunities and essential steps for success.
- [How to Start a Pet Grooming Business in 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-start-a-pet-grooming-business-in-2026/) - Learn how to start a pet grooming business in 2026. Master key skills, build a solid model, and attract clients for sustainable success.
- [Training for Pet Grooming: Your 2026 Career Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/training-for-pet-grooming-your-2026-career-guide/) - Explore essential training for pet grooming in our 2026 career guide. Discover path options, gain certifications, and build a successful career today!
- [On Demand Coaching for Pet Care Business Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/on-demand-coaching-for-pet-care-business-owners/) - Unlock success with on demand coaching for pet care business owners. Receive expert guidance when you need it most—no waiting, just action!
- [How Much Should I Charge for Pet Sitting in 2026?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-much-should-i-charge-for-pet-sitting-in-2026/) - Wondering how much should I charge for pet sitting? Discover essential pricing strategies and local rates to build your thriving pet care business.
- [Top 3 Dog Daycare Software Alternatives 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-daycare-software-alternatives-3/) - Explore 3 top dog daycare software alternatives to help you decide the best solutions for your business needs and client management.
- [Doggy Day Care and Training: Your 2026 Pet Owner Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/doggy-day-care-and-training-your-2026-pet-owner-guide/) - Discover the benefits of doggy day care and training in 2026. Learn how to choose the best facility for your dog's growth and well-being.
- [Pet Retention Programs That Cut Churn and Grow Revenue](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-retention-programs-that-cut-churn-and-grow-revenue/) - Discover effective pet retention programs that cut churn and boost revenue. Build client loyalty through personalized plans today!
- [Top 4 Dog Training Software Alternatives 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-training-software-alternatives-4/) - Explore 4 dog training software alternatives to find the best option for enhancing your training methodologies and managing clients effectively.
- [Doggy Daycare Training: Your Complete 2026 Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/doggy-daycare-training-your-complete-2026-guide/) - Discover essential tips for effective doggy daycare training. Ensure your dog thrives in a social environment with this complete 2026 guide!
- [Top 5 Best Dog Training Business Software Alternatives 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/best-dog-training-business-software-5-alternatives/) - Discover the 5 best dog training business software alternatives to help you choose effective solutions for managing your training sessions and operations.
- [Top 3 Dog Boarding Software Alternatives 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-boarding-software-alternatives-3/) - Discover the top 3 dog boarding software alternatives. Compare options clearly to enhance your dog daycare and boarding operations.
- [Youtube card - Tim](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/youtube-card-tim/) - “There is an incredible wealth of knowledge that I’ve gleaned from The Dog Gurus. It’s really reinforcing knowing I have a reliable team that I can fall back on for encouragement and support whenever I need it” — Tim Neidzielski, Mollys Pampered Paws Manager
- [Youtube card - Brittany](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/youtube-card-brittany/) - “Definitely worth the investment. We’ve increased profits, our staff retention has gone up, and the social media [training] has been a huge facet for us. We’ve learned a lot of different ways to look at things that we are doing every single day” — Brittany Vincent, Hot Diggity GM
- [Youtube card - Andrew](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/youtube-card-andrew/) - “Honestly it’s been a wonderful experience – being able to [work] with people who have seen and done everything already in the industry. This is something that is invaluable, it’s has helped in more ways that I even know. You immediately become a part of the family who wants to see you win” — Andrew
- [Youtube card - Alyssa](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/youtube-card-alyssa/) - “The Dog Gurus was a huge impact on our culture and has helped us step by step as our business is growing. Definitely go ahead and get started, it will help you 100%.” — Alyssa Rodriguez, Riley’s Ranch Pet Resort GM
- [Managing Pet Intake and Departure](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-pet-intake-and-departure/) - Objective: Learn to manage the intake and departure processes for your facility for better performance. Content: An efficient pet care business benefits from well-developed intake and departure procedures. When these processes are followed, you’ll see more streamlined operations, better documentation, and seamless experiences for your clients and their pets. This Lunch and Learn will guide
- [When to Wag Your Tail for a Price Hike (Part 3): Communicating Your Price Adjustment with Confidence](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/when-to-wag-your-tail-for-a-price-hike-part-3-communicating-your-price-adjustment-with-confidence/) - So, you’ve determined the perfect price adjustment for your pet care business. Now comes the crucial step of communicating this change to your staff and customers. Here are some tips for a smooth transition: Transparency is Key Be upfront and honest with your staff and customers about the reasons for the price adjustment. Briefly explain
- [Navigating Price Adjustments](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/navigating-price-adjustments/) - Navigating Price Adjustments: A Positive Shift in the Pet Hotel, Daycare, and Grooming Industry Change is inevitable in the ever-evolving pet hotel, dog daycare, and grooming industry. As pet care professionals, our commitment is to deliver exceptional services to the furry companions we care for. Occasionally, we must confront the fear of implementing price
- [Happy Employees, Happy Pets: Building a Positive Culture in Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/happy-employees-happy-pets-building-a-positive-culture-in-your-pet-care-business/) - Do you dream of a workplace where your team comes in with smiles on their faces and your furry clients receive exceptional care? It all starts with building a positive workplace culture! This isn’t just about beanbag chairs and free snacks (although those can be nice perks!). A strong culture is about creating an environment
- [Ensuring Safe and Joyful Play: Dog Daycare Group Play Safety Standards](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/ensuring-safe-and-joyful-play-dog-daycare-group-play-safety-standards/) - Ensuring Safe and Joyful Play: Dog Daycare Group Play Safety Standards Dog daycare has become an essential service for pet owners who want their furry friends to socialize, exercise, and have a blast while they’re away. However, not all dog daycares are created equal when it comes to safety standards for group play. In this
- [Enhancing Staff Accountability in Pet Boarding and Daycare: The Operations Manual Advantage](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/enhancing-staff-accountability/) - In the bustling world of pet boarding and daycare, one key factor that sets apart exceptional establishments from the rest is the level of staff accountability. Responsible, reliable, and consistent care for our furry friends is of paramount importance to pet owners. An indispensable tool emerges—the operations manual- to ensure a seamless and well-managed operation.
- [Crafting an Effective Enrichment Schedule for Your Doggie Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/crafting-an-effective-enrichment-schedule-for-your-doggie-daycare/) - Running a successful pet care facility requires more than just providing a safe space for dogs to play; it involves creating an enriching environment that meets the physical, mental, and social needs of your furry clients. One key element in achieving this is developing a well-thought-out enrichment schedule. In this blog, we’ll guide you through
- [Adding Enrichment Programs to Your Services](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/adding-enrichment-programs-to-your-services/) - The Dog Gurus are strong advocates for pet care facilities charging what you are worth AND making profitable pricing decisions. One way to increase your revenue is by adding enrichment programs to your services. We LOVE enrichment programs and recommend every pet business include them in their services. We’ve seen over the years that
- [7 Areas to Save Time and Money in Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/7-areas-to-save-time-and-money-in-your-business/)
- [Providing Excellent Customer Service](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/providing-excellent-customer-service/) - Objective: Review the essentials of excellent customer service with your team. Content: This staff development session is designed to bring your team into alignment about the fundamentals of exceptional customer service. Whether providing customer- facing services or fulfilling a back-office role, basic customer service skills are essential for everyone on the team. With this Lunch
- [Team Communication and Collaboration](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/team-communication-and-collaboration/) - Objective: Learn and discuss effective communication strategies to build a stronger, moreeffective team. Content: A strong and supportive team and environment is essential in the pet care industry, where effective communication and collaboration directly impact efficiency, team member satisfaction, and the quality of care provided to pets and clients. However, many teams struggle with breakdowns
- [Highlighting the Unique Value of Your Pet Care Services](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/highlighting-the-unique-value-of-your-pet-care-services/) - Objective: Identify what makes your pet care facility unique and explore effective marketing methods to showcase your strengths. Content: This Lunch & Learn focuses on empowering you and your staff to communicate confidently about what makes your facility unique. Many pet care professionals are humble and may not always feel comfortable highlighting the aspects that
- [Handling Difficult Dogs: Setting Boundaries for Success](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/handling-difficult-dogs-setting-boundaries-for-success/) - Objective: Learn to proactively manage behavioral problems at your daycare facility by establishing clear boundaries and empowering your staff. Content: Setting boundaries for unacceptable behaviors at your facility can protect your staff and the dogs in your care. This Lunch and Learn will familiarize your team with potentially problematic behaviors and identify which behaviors are
- [2025 Daycare Games Closing Ceremonies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/closingceremonies/) - Congratulations to all the great pet care facilities and staff members who participated in the Daycare Games! We know from the pictures and emails that everyone was having fun! And we know dogs are being kept safer because of great staff training and management. We applaud everyone who participated knowing that you have skills that
- [Final Facility Standings](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/final-facility-standings-2/) - The final week’s standings! Wow, everyone did such a great job. The list below shows the rankings of facilities based off a weighted equation of medals won (3 points for Gold, 2 points of Silver, and 1 point for Bronze). It includes Recall, Group Sit, and Gate Boundary – all medals earned to date. Facilities are organized
- [2025 Medals for Event 3: Gate Boundary](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2025-medals-for-event-3-gate-boundary/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully recalled. Personal medal awards are listed below. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. NOVICE HANDLER MEDALS Gold Medal Novice Handlers A Dog's Best Friend | Bri Ruffalo A
- [Second Week Facility Standings](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/second-week-facility-standings-2-2/) - It’s the second week’s standings! The competition is getting fierce. The list below shows the rankings of facilities based off a weighted equation of medals won (3 points for Gold, 2 points of Silver, and 1 point for Bronze). It includes both Recall and Group Sit – all medals earned to date. Facilities are organized by
- [2025 Medals for Event 2: Group Sit](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2025-medals-for-event-2-group-sit/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully recalled. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. Novice Handler Gold Medals A Dog’s Best Friend | Bri Ruffalo A Dog’s Best Friend | Lola McMillan Core Pet Zone
- [2025 Medals for Event 1: Recall](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2025-medals-event-1-recall/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully sitting. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. NOVICE HANDLER MEDALS GOLD MEDALS A Dog's Best Friend | Bri Ruffalo Bark Avenue Omaha | KC Ceballos Core Pet Zone |
- [Litter Box Essentials](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/litter-box-essentials/) - Objective: Refresh your team’s skills surrounding litter box care and maintenance. Content: Cat care may be a less familiar part of your pet care business if you don’t regularly board felines. This session will provide your staff with the knowledge and techniques needed to maintain clean, odor-free, and cat-friendly litter boxes, ensuring a more comfortable
- [Effective Communication with Pet Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/effective-communication-with-pet-owners/) - Objective: Learn strategies to communicate transparently with pet parents to keep dogs and staff safe and happy at your pet care facility. Content: Equip your staff with the essential communication skills to effectively engage with pet owners. Effective communication builds trust and rapport through clear, empathetic, and informative interactions. This session will focus on techniques
- [The Importance of Routine and Structure in Pet Environments](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/importance-routine-structure/) - Objective: Reinforce the value of daily schedules and routines at your pet care facility. Content: This Lunch and Learn explores the importance of establishing and maintaining routines at pet care facilities, emphasizing how routines promote the well-being of dogs, improve staff efficiency, and enhance the overall environment of a facility. After exploring the benefits of
- [Meet Charter Member Paws and Pals Pet Resort](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-paws-pals-pet-resort/) - As part of our 4th Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members were facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [Meet Charter Member Barkaritaville Pet Resort](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-barkaritaville-pet-resort/) - As part of our 4th Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members were facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [Meet Charter Member ABC Pet Resort in Houston, Texas](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-abc-pet-resort-houston-texas/) - As part of our 3rd Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members are facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched in 2013 and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [Meet Charter Member Dog Tired in South Carolina](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/charter-member-highlight-dog-tired-south-carolina/) - As part of our 3rd Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members are facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched in 2013 and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [2023 Medals for Event 2: Group Sit](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2023-medals-for-event-2-group-sit/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully recalled. Personal medal awards will be listed below on or by February 24th, 2021. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. Novice Handler Gold
- [2023 Medals for Event 1: Recall](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2023-medals-event-1-recall/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully sitting. Personal medal awards will be listed below on or by February 15th, 2023. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. NOVICE HANDLER MEDALS GOLD MEDALS
- [2023 Medals for Event 3: Gate Boundary](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2023-medals-for-event-3-gate-boundary/) - Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully recalled. Personal medal awards are listed below. Download your virtual medals at the bottom of the page. NOVICE HANDLER MEDALS Gold Medal Novice Handlers A Dog's Day Away | Hailey Partsch 10
- [Leadership Skills Improvement](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/leadership-skills-improvement/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. Use these Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional resources or have a great resource to share with your fellow members. Leadership Skills Improvement We hope you are participating in The Daycare
- [Leadership with the Dogs in Your Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/leadership-with-the-dogs-in-your-playgroups/)
- [How Does Your Dog Daycare Compare to the Others in the Industry?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-does-your-dog-daycare-compare-to-the-others-in-the-industry/) - Do you wonder how well your dog daycare team compares to others in the pet industry? Is your team top-notch when it comes to working with the dogs? Now there is a way to put your team’s skills to the challenge by participating in the Daycare Games. This annual competition of dog daycare facilities and
- [The Daycare Games are Back!!!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-care-staff-training/) - How is your pet care staff training going? The world has the Olympics…and The Dog Gurus have The Daycare Games! Test your team’s skill with The Daycare Games! Sign up to participate in our annual competition among daycare facilities during February 2023. The Daycare Games is an annual competition of off-leash dog daycare play attendants and
- [Engage Your Staff and Keep them Learning](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/engage-staff-keep-learning/) - All month we’ve been helping you to get the most out of your membership at The Dog Gurus. We’ve created a Knowledge and Skills Training Checklist you can use with new staff members. But what about your current staff? How do you keep them engaged? Well one idea we would recommend is to create a monthly
- [First Aid Refresher: Signs of Bloat](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/7125-2/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. Use these Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional resources or have a great resource to share with your fellow members. First Aid Refresher: Signs of Bloat Busy summer boarding is
- [Dog Management in Heat & Recognizing Heat Stress](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-management-in-heat/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional
- [Pet Calming Tools & Stress Signals](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-calming-tools-stress-signals/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Safe Dog Handling – Loose Leash Walking Skills](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/safe-dog-handling-loose-leash-walking-skills/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Breaking Up Dog Fight Drills](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/breaking-dog-fight-drills/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional
- [Facility Evacuation & Maintenance](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/facility-evacuation-maintenance/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional
- [Communication Skills Refresher](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/communication-skills-refresher/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional
- [Games & Activities](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/games-activities/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional
- [Dog Bite Prevention](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-bite-prevention/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Leadership Skills Improvement](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/leadership-skills-improvement-2/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Self Care Habits](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/self-care-habits/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Assessing Playstyles](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/assessing-playstyles/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Marketing Photos](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/marketing-photos/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Difficult Conversations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/difficult-conversations/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [First Aid Basics](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/first-aid-basics/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Leader Skills Improvement Challenge](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/leader-skills-improvement-challenge/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Upselling with Integrity](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/upselling-with-integrity/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Managing Arousal](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-arousal/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Emergency Preparedness Challenge](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/emergency-prepare-challenge/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Fun and Games for Humans and Canines](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fun-games-humans-canines/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Get Competition Ready!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/get-competition-ready/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Turn a Job into a Career](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/turn-job-career/) - This month's Lunch & Learn is about defining opportunities for career growth in your business. Download the PDF handout to review with your staff Download the Employee Development Surveys Watch this video by Dog Guru Coach Jess Zellmer:
- [Assertive Communication Skills](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/assertive-communication-skills/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Building Happy Teams](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/building-happy-teams/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Canine Body Language](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/canine-body-language/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Heat Stress Prevention](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/heat-stress-prevention/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Team Fun during the Summer Sun!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/team-fun-during-the-summer-sun/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Preparing for a Rate Increase](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/preparing-for-a-rate-increase/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Proactive Behavior Management](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/proactive-behavior-management/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Cough, Honk, Hack: Managing Canine Cough](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cough-honk-hack-managing-canine-cough/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [#Goals: Fun, Safety and Engagement in the Play Yard](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/goals-fun-safety-and-engagement-in-the-play-yard/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Brrrrr! Cold Weather Safety for Dogs and Humans](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cold-weather-safety-for-dogs-and-humans/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. So check here on the first of each month for Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. We’ll suggest a timely topic and also offer suggestions of discussions for your team. Let us know in comments if you have questions or
- [Turning Complaints into Solutions](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/turning-complaints-into-solutions/) - This may be hard to believe but complaining can be a great tool for initiating change. The key is to learn how to complain constructively. If presented well and to the right people, complaints can lead to change and improvement without creating a toxic and negative environment. This Lunch & Learn is designed to provide
- [Caring for Geriatric Pets](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/caring-for-geriatric-pets/) - Being away from home and loved ones can cause stress for many pets, but especially seniors. Extended periods of stress can weaken the immune system making this population even more vulnerable to illness. Relieving and minimizing stress in your silver-haired guests can help keep them happy and healthy. In this Lunch and Learn you'll review the
- [Getting Information from the Play Yard to the Client](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/getting-information-from-the-play-yard-to-the-client/) - Improve communication processes between the play yard and the client. A small scratch, a broken toe nail, loose stool or excessive barking can occasionally occur even in the safest play yards. No big deal, right?!? You are correct, these issues should not be a big deal but can escalate quickly if the right communication does
- [Identifying Bloat](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/identifying-bloat/) - Understanding the medical emergency - Bloat Bloat, also known as gastric dilation-volvulus (or GDV), is a medical and surgical emergency that can present itself in the daycare and boarding environments. This condition is deadly in about 30% of dogs that it affects, even after extremely intensive medical treatment. To make your center a safer place
- [[Kiddie] Pool Safety](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/kiddie-pool-safety/) - One of the best parts about summer is filling the pools and watching the dogs run and splash around! It is important that your staff understand that pools are fun but can also present significant danger, even the small ones. Summer is a busier time when there will be more distractions and challenges present than
- [Managing Dogs that Already have "One Strike"](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-dogs-with-one-strike/) - Fur is flying, adrenaline is high, everyone is freaking out. These are common phrases heard when a scuffle in the play yard breaks out. It’s perhaps one of the scariest things that can happen during off-leash play. Seconds seem like hours when a scuffle happens. Every pet care center should have a formal system to
- [Puppies, Puppies, Puppies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/puppies-puppies-puppies/) - OK, let’s all admit it... One of the reasons we love this business is that we get to play with puppies! These little balls of fur are super fun but need to be handled with extreme care. Scientific studies confirm that dogs go through specific stages of physical and social development when they are
- [Teaching Tricks to the Dogs!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teaching-tricks-to-the-dogs/) - Let your staff have a little fun (and maybe bring in a little extra revenue) by teaching dogs tricks! Anyone on your team can learn to teach the dogs cute things like shake, play dead or peek-a-boo! Utilize this activity to demonstrate how to use positive reinforcement to teach the pets in your care some
- [Simple Self Care for Humans](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/simple-self-care/) - Incorporating self-care into the day at your pet care business can have many benefits including stronger morale, increased productivity, less stress and increased motivation. Even better news…simple self-care is very inexpensive (and mostly free)! This activity is designed to bring the importance of this topic to the forefront and teach the team how it can
- [Roll Calls and Periodic Dog Checks](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/roll-calls-and-periodic-dog-checks/) - Roll Calls and Periodic Dog Checks (PDC) are important procedures every day of the year but are particularly important during busier times. Summers and holidays bring many new clients and furry friends, but these months also bring new challenges. In most areas, heat will present an added layer of complexity to the day in the
- [Preventing Tragedies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/preventing-tragedies/) - Objective: To identify the potential dangers that are present in pet care businesses and review how to minimize the risk. Content: As pet care providers you have a HUGE responsibility to keep the pets safe. Whether you are a pet sitter, groomer or work in a dog daycare, it is important to recognize the dangers
- [Belly Aches to Bloat](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/belly-aches-to-bloat/) - Common Health Issues in Pet Care Objective: Understanding the common illness/injury that can occur in pet care. Content: There are several illnesses that can be present when animals are in the hands of a pet care provider. Dogs can bloat, cats can develop respiratory issues and the list goes on and on. Having the ability
- [Team Appreciation: Tell Me Something Good!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tell-me-something/) - Team Appreciation: Tell Me Something Good! Objective: Take a break and enjoy the successes of the busy season. Content: Celebration breeds more success! This is a fantastic lunch & learn to host during the end of summer or after the busy season. When you celebrate success at work, you encourage your employees to keep performing
- [Stress Management for Your Team](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/stress-management/) - Stress Management for Your Team Objective: This Lunch & Learn session will take team members through what stress is and what it does to the body. It will also discuss the symptoms of stress and teach strategies to deal with stress. Content: Stress symptoms can affect our health, even though we might not realize it.
- [5 Simple Steps to Creating a Personal Budget](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-simple-steps-to-creating-a-personal-budget/) - Objective: Show your team members that you care about them as people, not just as employees, by assisting each of them in creating a personal budget. Content: Picture a company culture where everyone feels like their best interests matter, where employees know the leader cares about their dreams, goals, health, and overall well-being. When this
- [Highs, Lows and Lessons Learned](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/highs-lows-and-lessons-learned/) - Objective: Breathe new life into the team by acknowledging areas for improvement and celebrating wins big and small. Content: Self-improvement is more effective when people can focus on their feelings and behaviors. Taking time to reflect on personal highs and lows can be a bonding experience for the team. At the conclusion of the year
- [Do This, Not That!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/do-this-not-that/) - Identifying Appropriate and Inappropriate Dog Behaviors Objective: Create a list of appropriate and inappropriate behaviors for the dogs and staff in your pet care business. Content: As a pet care business, it’s important to remember that you have control of the behaviors you allow in the
- [Managing Emotional Distress in Pets](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/emotional-distress/) - Managing Emotional Distress in Pets Objective: Increase the knowledge of the team on the topic of separation anxiety and other types of emotional distress seen in pets. Content: Most pets are likely to experience a certain amount of distress when away from their owners. Mild distress is very typical, even in pets that enjoy being
- [Understanding Warning Signals](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/understanding-warning-signals/) - Understanding Warning Signals Objective: Develop a deeper understanding of the message dogs are communicating through body language that can assist the team in diffusing a situation before it escalates to a fight. Content: Fights between dogs seldom happen “out of the blue.” To those who are skilled in understanding canine body language, there are some
- [Positive Reinforcement Training for Non-Dog Trainers](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/positive-reinforcement-training/) - Positive Reinforcement Training for Non-Dog Trainers Objective: To teach simple, positive reinforcement training skills to your entire team to improve the working relationship between humans and dogs. Content: Most dogs love tasty treats, cuddles, ear scratches, and toys! They enjoy these experiences so much, they will work hard to receive them. Training with rewards is
- [Standard Operating Procedues](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/standard-operating-procedues/) - Positive Reinforcement Training for Non-Dog Trainers Objective: Take a dive into your existing Standard Operating Procedures or...dip your toe into the process of creating them! Content: Creating Standardized Operating Procedures (SOP’s) for your business is an essential element to ensuring the financial and operational success of your business. Ensuring a consistent pet and customer experience
- [Tools for Managing a Dog Fight](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tools-for-managing-a-dog-fight/) - Objective: Refresh and review knowledge on tools and procedures for managing a dog fight. Content: Fights in playgroups do not happen out of the blue. Typically, there are many early warning signals that occur when a fight is imminent. The primary focus of every pet care provider should be on the prevention of dog fights.
- [Health and Wellness for Cats!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/health-and-wellness-for-cats/) - Objective: Refresh and review knowledge on overall cat health and comfort. Content: Cats are known to be mysterious creatures with a wide range of personalities. A cat may be friendly, curious, active or aloof. In general, these furry creatures aren’t usually very thrilled to suddenly find themselves in places with lots of other strange animals. They can
- [De-Stress and Re-Energize!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/destress-and-reenergize/) - Objective: Take an hour to de-stress, relax and have a little fun with the team! Content:No matter how passionate or hardworking your team is, there will come a time when some (or many) of them will start to burn out. It can be difficult toreversethisburnoutand moraledip once your staff has hit this point, so it’s
- [Greeting Fearful Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/greeting-fearful-dogs/) - Objective: Review methods of greeting a fearful dog in your pet care business. Content: A great pet care business will have a plan for working with fearful dogs. Nervous and fearful dogs will visit your pet care business or be a part of your pet-sitting service. The good news is most adjust to the environment
- [Effective Leadership with the Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/effective-leadership-with-the-dogs/) - Objective: Reinforce the importance of positive and effective leadership in the play yard. Content: Effective and humane management, strong positive relationships and sound leadership skills are the foundation of safe and fun off-leash playgroups. Effective leadership is proactive vs. reactive intervention. The dogs must trust you and have a strong bond with you. Therefore, you
- [Finding Common Ground](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/finding-common-ground/) - Objective: To celebrate the diverse group of people that make up your pet care team and to find similarities that unite the group. Content: Diversity and inclusion in the workplace brings multiple viewpoints into the room for increased creativity, new thinking, and improved performance. Many times, our pet care centers are made up of
- [Goal Setting for Skill Development](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/goal-setting-for-skill-development/) - Objective: Foster growth in each member of the team in this quick and easy goal setting session. Content: Providing a career path is important to employee retention, satisfaction and engagement. Great pet care businesses should always be trying to improve and grow the skills of their team. Setting individual goals for self-development will help
- [Doing Good in your Neighborhood!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/doing-good-in-your-neighborhood/) - Objective: Give back to your community by creating a calendar of doing good in your neighborhood for the coming year. Content: Investing in your community is a great way to give back to those who have helped support your business. It is also an excellent way to promote your offerings and services. Your local
- [Building the Best Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/building-the-best-playgroups/) - Objective: Assist staff in assessing dog playstyles to build safe playgroups that all the dogs will enjoy. Content: All dogs should enjoy their time at daycare, not just tolerate it! This activity will be a review of dog personality types and playstyles. Team or small group discussions will assess good matches to ensure all
- [Warning Signals That Precede a Dog Fight](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/warning-signals-that-precede-a-dog-fight/) - Objective: • To refresh skills in area of dog bite prevention • Reduce the risk of injury to human and canines • To keep the dogs happy, healthy and having fun • To continue to raise our bar of safety Click Here to download the PDF handout to review with your staff.
- [Marketing through Education!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/marketing-through-education/) - Content: Utilize this activity to guide your team on how to highlight the strengths of your pet care business through education of your clients and community. Prior to Lunch & Learn Session: In preparation for leading the group discussion, the leader should review the supporting document section to get refreshed on good communication skills.
- [Canine Water Safety](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/canine-water-safety/) - Canine Water SafetyObjective: Prepare your team for providing water play options during the heat of summer. Learn tips for preventing injury and accidents during water play. Content: There's nothing more enjoyable in the summer heat than a dip into the pool or romp through the sprinklers. Water play is an excellent way for dogs to
- [Initiating Play with a Dog](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/initiating-play-with-a-dog/) - Objective: Help your team expand their repertoire of games to play with dogs. Content: Fetch is usually the first game that comes to mind when playing with dogs. But playtime options can and should be as unique as your dog! It’s time to take playtime to new heights with fresh new tricks and games. Empower
- [Fun through the Ages](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fun-through-the-ages/) - Objective: Learn to play and modify games that appeal to dogs from the puppy stage through old age. Content: Dogs have different physical needs throughout their lives. There are games for dogs in every stage of life, from the playful tumbling of tiny puppies to the gentler play of senior dogs. Let age be no
- [Team Communication Do’s & Don’ts](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/team-communication-dos-donts/) - Objective: Improve teamwork and communication between staff members and supervisors. Content: Learn to prevent high turnover rates of front-line staff members by improving communication between team members and supervisors. This training will help new leaders learn effective communication styles and decrease frustration and unnecessary drama in the workplace. You’ll also practice empathy by learning more
- [Safety Drills](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/safety-drills/) - Objective: Ensure that your facility’s safety procedures are current and accessible to the staff in the case of an emergency. Content: Identify possible emergencies and develop or update safety procedures for these situations. Ensure that staff members are aware of safety procedures and where to locate supporting documents and materials in an emergency. Close this
- [Why Dogs Bark](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/why-dogs-bark/) - Objective: Learn several of the underlying reasons dogs bark and develop appropriate responses to this behavior. Content: Excessive barking can irritate even the most patient dog-lover, especially when you know that barking means something is bothering your canine friend. Understanding why your dogs are barking and what you can do to prevent and manage this
- [Separation Anxiety](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/separation-anxiety/) - Objective: Help your team learn to recognize and manage symptoms of separation anxiety. Learn tips for managing distress from separation anxiety and identify when dogs should be referred to a behavior expert. Content: From pandemic puppies to pampered pooches, separation anxiety can affect any dog who is separated from its humans. Separation anxiety can range
- [Team Appreciation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/team-appreciation/) - Objective: Take some time to appreciate your staff and celebrate something unique about each of your team members. Content: How well do you know your team? Building a strong team that works well together is crucial to any pet care facility. This lunch and learn is designed to be an excellent time to pause and
- [Care Fatigue: Helping Pets in the New Year](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/care-fatigue/) - Objective: Help your team overcome and prevent care fatigue. Learn coping mechanisms and techniques for fighting care fatigue and practice them as a team. Content: Care fatigue or caregiver burnout can affect anyone in a caretaking position, including pet care workers. This type of burnout can cause high turnover at caretaking facilities if not prevented
- [Working With A Fearful Dog](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/working-with-a-fearful-dog/) - Objective: Refresh your team’s knowledge on identifying and managing fearful dogs. Learn tips for safely handling fearful dogs and communicating with their owners. Content: Fearful dogs can come in many shapes and sizes. Empowering your team to screen for fearful dogs and learn to handle fearful behavior safely will ensure the safety and happiness of
- [Inside Scoop on Dog Conformation and Best in Show](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/inside-scoop-on-dog-conformation-and-best-in-show/) - Objective: Give your staff an overview of dog shows and competitions, specifically the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Content: Conformation dog shows are so much more than beauty pageants and are a widely popular event for many dog owners. Understanding the inner workings and purpose of dog shows and competitions is great information for anyone
- [Resilience](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/resilience/) - Objective: Help your team develop resilience and increase their ability to handle stressful situations. Learn resiliency techniques and practice them as a team. Content: Resilience allows people to draw on their internal strength and healthy coping mechanisms to deal with stressful situations and times of hardship. This Lunch & Learn is designed to teach your
- [Understanding Dog Aggression](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/understanding-dog-aggression/) - Objective: Learn to identify types of dog aggression and when it’s time to refer aggressive dogs to a behaviorist or trainer. Content: Canine aggressive displays can be a normal part of behavior, but when should you put your foot down and bar an aggressive dog from your facility? This Lunch and Learn will focus on
- [Inside Scoop on Dog Sports](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/inside-scoop-on-dog-sports/) - Objective: Give your staff an overview of the fun and exciting world of dog sports and titles. Content: Dog sports are an excellent way for your dog to burn off excess energy, practice life skills, and enjoy mentally stimulating activities. These sporting events are also rewarding opportunities for dog owners to develop deeper bonds with
- [Stress Management Tips for You](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/stress-management-tips-for-you/) - Objective: Take some time to check in and discuss ideas for stress reduction with your team. Content: Learning to manage stress is a valuable skill and can increase overall happiness at work and in life. Many pet care professionals have been dealing with high customer volumes and often operate with a short staff. These factors
- [Know Your Breeds: Poodles and Oodles of Doodles](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/know-your-breeds/) - Objective: Dispel some of the myths surrounding “doodles” and learn more about the pros and cons of designer Poodle mixes. Content: Expensive Poodle mixes or “doodles” have become increasingly popular in recent years. Pet care industry workers may struggle to keep up with the latest doodle blends and understand why they are so popular. This
- [Positive Coping Skills: Coloring](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/positive-coping-skills-coloring/) - Objective: Learn positive coping skills with your team to help everyone through the busiest months at your facility. Content: Positive coping skills are critical for the busy times at pet care facilities. Whether your facility is seeing an increase in pet boarding during heavy vacation months or facing unforeseen staffing shortages, this Lunch and Learn
- [Cat Enrichment](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cat-enrichment/) - Objective: Celebrate Happy Cat Month (or anytime!) and keep the felines in your care happy with some fun cat enrichment activities. Content: September is Happy Cat Month, but why not celebrate our feline friends all year round? This Lunch and Learn will focus on the importance of cat enrichment activities for your facility and how
- [Cough, Honk, Hack: Managing Canine Cough](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cough-honk-hack/) - Objective: Keeping your business healthy during a canine cough outbreak is possible. This Lunch & Learn is designed to review proactive management techniques to reduce the spread of illness and discuss procedures and protocols to manage an outbreak effectively. Content: Canine Cough (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It
- [AKC Canine Good Citizen & S.T.A.R. Puppies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/akc-canine-good-citizen/) - Objective: Give your staff an overview of of the AKC Canine Good Citizen and S.T.A.R. Puppy distinctions and how to achieve these certifications. Goal: Introduce AKC dog training programs and key components achieved to earn their certificatesIdeas to recognize dogs that earn these certificatesContent: Well behaved dogs are ambassadors for good social skills and behavior
- [Keep Your Sanity During Holiday Demands](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/keep-your-sanity-during-holiday-demands/) - Objective: Help your team recognize the importance of organization and balance during the busy holiday season. Content: Pet care facilities can see an influx in business during the November and December holidays. When care demands are high, and the schedule is full, there can be added stress on your staff. This Lunch and Learn is
- [Essential Pet Safety Tips](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/essential-pet-safety-tips/) - Objective: Review the essentials of pet safety to ensure a safe environment for you, your staff, and the pets in your care. Content: Working with dogs in the pet care industry can be incredibly rewarding, and prioritizing safety for yourself and the animals in your care will keep your business running smoothly. In this Lunch
- [Enrichment: Art for Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/enrichment-art-for-dogs/) - Objective: Explore safe and enriching art projects that can be done with dogs in your care. Content: Enrichment artwork for dogs is a creative way to engage their senses, stimulate their minds, and provide them with mental and physical stimulation. In this Lunch and Learn, we’ll explore the benefits of enrichment art, provide examples of
- [Do-no-harm: A Fundamental Responsibility in the Pet Care Industry](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/do-no-harm/) - Objective: Review the do-no-harm principle as it relates to the pet industry to create a safer, more welcoming environment that strengthens the bond between humans and dogs. Content: The principle of do-no-harm is fundamental to anyone who works in the care industry – including the pet care industry. Pet care professionals, from veterinarians or groomers
- [Simple Steps to Improve the Marketing For Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/simple-steps-to-improve-the-marketing-for-your-pet-care-business/) - To learn more about growing your business check out Growth Intensive
- [Creating a Budget for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/creating-a-budget-for-your-pet-care-business/)
- [When to Wag Your Tail for a Price Hike (Part 2): Finding Your Pricing Sweet Spot](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/when-to-wag-your-tail-for-a-price-hike-part-2-finding-your-pricing-sweet-spot/) - Congratulations! You’ve recognized the signs that it’s time to raise your pet care business rates. But with so many factors to consider, how much should you actually adjust your prices? Part two of our series will help you determine the perfect pricing sweet spot. The Art of the Price Hike There’s no magic formula for
- [When to Wag Your Tail for a Price Hike (Part 1): Signs It’s Time to Raise Your Rates](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/when-to-wag-your-tail-for-a-price-hike-part-1-signs-its-time-to-raise-your-rates/) - Running a pet care business is a true labor of love. You get to shower furry friends with affection and provide peace of mind to their owners. But like any business, financial health is crucial for long-term success. Knowing when and by how much to increase your prices is a critical skill for keeping your
- [Puppy Socialization at Dog Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/puppy-socialization-at-dog-daycare/) - Thanks to greater awareness about the way dogs learn, many people are beginning to understand the value of socializing their dog. We have all heard that dogs who are better socialized usually live happier, less stressful lives. But what, exactly, does socialization mean and is a dog daycare really good for socializing a puppy? For
- [Self-Care for Pet Care Professionals](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/self-care-for-pet-care-professionals/) - Objective: Help your team focus on self-care strategies that will benefit their health and improve the quality of service for your clients. Content: Prioritizing self-care allows individuals in the pet care industry to sustain their passion for working with animals while maintaining their well-being. This Lunch and Learn will focus on practical self-care tips for
- [Nurturing Thought Leadership in Your Pet Care Business: Empowering Your Team to Thrive](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/nurturing-thought-leadership-in-your-pet-care-business-empowering-your-team-to-thrive/) - Nurturing Thought Leadership in Your Pet Care Business: Empowering Your Team to Thrive Running a pet care business requires more than just a passion for animals; it demands strong leadership. As a business owner, envisioning a future where your enterprise not only thrives under your guidance but also flourishes when you’re not around is essential.
- [Developing Career-Minded Employees: The Power of Training](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/developing-career-minded-employees-the-power-of-training/) - Developing Career-Minded Employees: The Power of Training Nurturing career-minded employees is crucial for success in any industry. To achieve this, a well-structured training program is essential. Training Duration: It’s important to reinforce learning continuously to ensure retention. According to the University of Waterloo, employees forget 75% of what they learned within two days without reinforcement. Diverse
- [Positive Reinforcement Group Play Management](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/positive-reinforcement-group-play-management/) - Positive Reinforcement Group Play Management Positive reinforcement handling is a proven way to enhance dogs’ quality of life and can make your job as a pet care professional much easier. This approach avoids physical punishment, unpleasant sounds, or harsh scolding and instead uses rewards and praise to promote desiredbehavior. Unfortunately, aversive dog handling is still
- [Canine Cough and Influenza](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/canine-cough-and-influenza/) - Canine Cough and Influenza are critical topics for a pet care facility. Join us in prioritizing the well-being of our cherished four-legged companions. Let’s stand together in delivering the best care possible and further elevate the standards of the pet care industry. Dive into the recorded discussion as Dr. Heard, a distinguished veterinarian with a
- [Games you can Play to Manage Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/games-you-can-play-to-manage-playgroups/)
- [Work “On” Your Business Instead of “In” It](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/work-on-your-business-instead-of-in-it/) - Working on your business instead of in it is crucial for long-term growth and sustainability. When you work on your business, you focus on strategic planning, setting goals, creating efficient processes, and developing a clear vision for the future. This allows you to delegate tasks, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes in the market.
- [Holiday Revenue Magic](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/holiday-revenue-magic/) - Holiday Revenue Magic! In our recent Facebook Live session, we spilled the beans on how to maximize your revenue this holiday season. We’ve got fantastic, low-cost ideas up our sleeves that promise exceptional profits and a loyal customer base, ensuring you stand out from the competition. Here’s a glimpse of what we shared: 1. VIP
- [The Power of Networking and Collaboration in the Pet Care Industry](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-power-of-networking-and-collaboration-in-the-pet-care-industry/) - Running a pet care business can be challenging and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. There are many benefits of networking and collaborating with other entrepreneurs in the same industry. You will: Gain Valuable Knowledge and Insights Share Resources and Reduce Costs Connect with Experienced Professionals Unlock Referrals, Partnerships, and Market Expansion
- [Unlocking Credibility and Career Growth with PACCC Certification](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/unlocking-credibility-and-career-growth-with-paccc-certification/) - In our recent Facebook Live session, we delved into the world of PACCC (Professional Animal Care Certification Council) and how it can work wonders for your pet care business and staff. Here’s a sneak peek of what we discussed: Legitimizing Your Business and Staff Credibility Certification as a Career Path Strengthening the Quality of Care
- [Creative ways you can reward your staff during the peak season.](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/creative-ways-you-can-reward-your-staff-during-the-peak-season/) - Unlock the secrets of cultivating a thriving workplace culture and expressing gratitude for your team in our recent Facebook Live event. Discover how a positive culture begins with you and trickles down to your leadership team, fostering respect, care, value, and appreciation among employees. Learn strategies for rebuilding culture, including engaging in team-building activities and
- [Profit Network Coaches Share Their Success Stories](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/profit-network-coaches-share-their-success-stories/) - The Profit Network program is for business owners ready to elevate their business to the next level. Whether you want to understand better if your services are priced appropriately, want to develop a leadership team that allows you to truly have time off, or are ready to exit your business. Watch the recording of our
- [How to Decrease Employee Turnover and Attract Rockstars](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-decrease-employee-turnover-and-attract-rockstars/) - Discover practical strategies to reduce employee turnover and elevate your company’s performance in our recent Facebook Live session. We explore the factors contributing to absenteeism, offering actionable insights to cultivate an executive mindset and take control of internal challenges. Learn about the costs of employee turnover, from decreased productivity to financial burdens, and uncover effective
- [Standard Operating Procedures: What is Your Role in Consistent Pet Care?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/standard-operating-procedures-what-is-your-role-in-consistent-pet-care/) - Objective: Learn about the importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how to tailor your facility’s SOPs for better accountability and accessibility. Content: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in pet care facilities ensure the consistent and safe handling of animals, maintain cleanliness, and provide a framework for staff training and accountability. Health and wellness checks, feeding
- [Unleashing the Benefits of Trick Training for Dogs and Staff at a Pet Care Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/unleashing-the-benefits-of-trick-training/) - There’s more to it when providing exceptional care for dogs at a pet care facility than walks and cuddles. Trick training is a valuable tool that can enhance the experience for both dogs and staff. It provides mental stimulation and physical exercise for the dogs, promotes a positive environment, and strengthens the bond between staff
- [Essential Grooming Safety Tips for Pet Care Facilities](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/essential-grooming-safety-tips/) - As a pet care facility, ensuring the safety and well-being of the animals in your care is paramount. Grooming sessions play a crucial role in maintaining their health and happiness. This blog will discuss four essential grooming safety tips every pet care facility should implement. 1. Safely Securing Pets in Tubs or on Grooming Tables:
- [Top Tips to Running a Successful Pet Care Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/top-tips-to-running-a-successful-pet-care-facility/)
- [Generate More Revenue for Your Pet Care Business with Trick of the Month](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/generate-more-revenue-for-your-pet-care-business-with-trick-of-the-month/) - Are you a pet care professional looking for a quick and easy revenue stream that you can implement quickly? Whether you offer dog daycare, lodging, dog training, pet sitting, grooming or any pet care service, generating additional revenue and offering fun services to your clients is always critical. After all, who doesn’t want to increase revenue
- [The Value of Adding Enrichment Services to Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-value-of-adding-enrichment-services-to-your-pet-business/) - Do you know the value of adding enrichment services to your pet business? Today’s customer wants more specialized activities for their dog and they are willing to pay for it. Enrichment activities are a great way to set your care apart from competitors, engage staff, and boost profits for your business. How you add enrichment
- [Handout for Your Clients](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/handout-for-your-clients/) - As we focus on canine body language and dog play this month, we thought we would provide you with some helpful material you can offer to your clients. Use these “done for you” articles and checklists from The Dog Gurus to help promote your daycare and help explain why you operate the way you do!
- [Feline Respiratory Illness: Recognizing Symptoms in Cats](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/feline-respiratory-illness-recognizing-symptoms-in-cats/) - Objective: Recognize the symptoms of feline respiratory illness and learn to prevent the spread of disease at your facility. Content: Recognizing symptoms of feline respiratory illness in a pet care facility is crucial for preventing the spread of disease among resident cats and ensuring sick cats receive the appropriate care. By remaining vigilant and observant,
- [The Fastest Way to Make More Revenue For Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-fastest-way-to-make-more-revenue-for-your-business/)
- [Teaching Canine Body Language To Your Team](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teaching-canine-body-language-to-your-team/) - The best way to have peace of mind that your team truly understands the heart and soul of your business (the dogs!!) is to make sure you are teaching canine body language to your team. Learning to read dogs helps your team better communicate with the animals in your facility’s care (and each other!). Plus,
- [Strengthen Your Business By Being More Efficient](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/strengthen-your-business-by-being-more-efficient/)
- [Selecting the Best Staff Training Leader for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/selecting-the-best-staff-training-leader-for-your-pet-care-business/) - As a business owner we recommend delegating as much as possible…and that includes selecting the best staff training leader in your Pet Care Business. You need someone someone to oversee the onboarding and training of your staff. Let’s talk about the role of a staff training leader, skills they need to have to be a good
- [KPIs for Small Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/kpis-for-small-business/)
- [Installing a Dog Pool? 5 Things to Know First](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/installing-a-dog-pool-5-things-to-know-first/) - Remember that to dogs the world is familiar or unfamiliar and this also applies to pools and swimming. Just because a dog swims does not mean they will be comfortable swimming in your pool on the first visit. Additionally, many dogs do not know how to swim and are not comfortable initially getting into the
- [Increase Revenue with Add-On Sales](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/increase-revenue-with-add-on-sales/)
- [How to Keep Your Team Motivated](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-keep-your-team-motivated/)
- [Adding Dog Training Revenue To Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/adding-dog-training-revenue-to-your-pet-care-business/)
- [Pet Holiday Safety](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-holiday-safety/) - Objective: Educate your team about holiday health risks and pet safety concerns. Content: The holidays can be stressful and hectic for pet parents. This Lunch and Learn will discuss holiday-specific safety risks and health concerns for our four-legged friends and how to help you and your clients avoid these pitfalls. As a team, you’ll review
- [Essential Summer Safety Tips for Pet Care Business Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/summer-safety-tips-for-pet-care-businesses/) - As travel season is in full swing, pet care business owners and staff are working fast and hard to ensure all the guests are well and cared for. Unfortunately, the risk of accidents rises as our occupancy levels increase. Implementing essential measures and precautions can help keep dogs happy, healthy, and protected during summer. This
- [Does the Staff Drama Ever Stop?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/staff-drama-ever-stop/) - Are you tired of staff drama? Does all your time seem to be spent as a referee between “he said, she said”? If your answer is yes, then this post is for you. It’s time you changed your role from referee to coach and these five steps will help you make the transition. 1. Set new
- [Peak Season Staffing Tips](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/peak-season-staffing-tips/) - Building a reliable team of part-time staff members to work during peak periods is a great value to your business so here are some peak season staffing tips. It is important to integrating your seasonal workers into your team smoothly so keep in mind these points. Create a job description of the responsibilities you expect
- [Onboarding Staff in Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/onboarding-staff-in-your-pet-business/) - With staff shortages and rising costs, it’s important to assess your performance in onboarding staff in your pet business. Keep reading to learn onboarding success stories, how to keep your staff engaged, and how to build the dream team you really need and want. Onboarding starts at time of your offer to a new hire
- [Finding the Best Staff Training for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/finding-the-best-staff-training-for-your-pet-business/)
- [Handling Difficult Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/handling-difficult-dogs/) - Objective: Learn strategies for promoting positive behavior changes with difficult dogs while maintaining a safe and welcoming facility. Content: Handling difficult dogs requires patience, skill, and knowledge to ensure the dog’s and handler’s safety. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are essential to successfully addressing challenging behavior and building a trusting relationship with the dog. Counselors
- [An Ounce of Prevention](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/an-ounce-of-prevention/) - The Dog Gurus recently presented a two-day workshop for Puppyworks. We covered a wide range of topics dealing with off-leash play, including managing playgroups, dealing with problem behaviors, and responding to bites and fights. The common thread that started all of these sessions was prevention. The two most important factors in preventing problem behavior include
- [Are Bully Breeds The Right Dogs for Playgroups?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/bully-breeds-right-dogs-playgroups/) - One of the most often asked question about off-leash play includes the question of whether or not certain breeds should be excluded from playgroups. Often this comes up as a discussion about pitbulls, but The Dog Gurus tend to classify this as a discussion about bully breeds. Keep reading to see how we respond to
- [Are playgroups safe with owners present?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/playgroups-safe-owners-present/) - Does the thought of running playgroups with owners present worry you? Do you imagine the owners will get hurt, do the wrong things, or cause the dogs to behave differently? Do you think the best playgroup is one in which the owner is not present? I used to think all of these things too…until I
- [Are the Client and Dog on the Same Page?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/client-dog-page/) - One of the biggest challenges during dog evaluations is helping dog owners understand that their dog really does not enjoy playing with other dogs. Increase revenue by offering play alternatives for dogs and clients that prefer solo activities. The focus on the importance of dog socialization has contributed to the growth of the off-leash play
- [Case Study - Using the Evaluation Checklist](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/case-study-using-evaluation-checklist/) - Case studies are a great training tool for members and their staff. To close our two months spent delving deep into dog evaluations a case study seemed to be the best format to summarize using your new tools. We have prepared a case study video to help you start using the new Off-Leash Play Evaluation
- [Case Study: Dog Evaluation Jess](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/case-study-dog-evaluation-jess/) - Case Studies are great ways to learn more about dog evaluations. Grab a cup of coffee, print off the evaluation form to review and then sit down and watch this five minute video. Compare your thoughts against the decisions made by one daycare. Do you agree? Disagree? Get your staff together and talk about what
- [Client Communication Template](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/client-communication-template/) - We encourage professional pet care centers to communicate openly and honestly with their clients. However, one of the more challenging communications is when the client really wants their dog to play and the dog is not a good fit to the environment. We love hearing from our members and you have been telling us that
- [Green, Yellow or Red, Oh My!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/green-yellow-red-oh/) - As we continue our discussion of dog evaluations we are really excited to share the Off-Leash Play Evaluation Checklist. We think you are going to love the consistency and objectivity it provides. Your applicant dogs will be classified by the traffic management signal colors you have come to know in our products. How many times
- [How Long Has That Been Going On?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-long-has-that-been-going-on/) - If I had a dollar for every time that question was asked during my days managing dog daycare playgroups my pups would be getting monthly bark boxes for life! Communication and tracking dog behavior changes in playgroups was one of our biggest internal challenges. We all dislike dismissing a dog from our playgroups, so how
- [Screening Dogs Quickly: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/screening-dogs-good-bad-ugly/) - This month we’ve discussed a playgroup evaluation process that is slightly shorter and less intense than our usual screening process. We know many people will be tempted to use this modified version all the time. We realize that saving time often means saving money. But before you jump to this shorter evaluation process, keep in
- [Setting Up Playgroups for Profit](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/setting-playgroups-profit/) - Last week we discussed whether or not you can safely manage an off-leash play environment with owners present. Hopefully you are willing to give it a try. Keep reading to find some ideas on offering playgroups for profit. Offering playgroups with owners can be a great marketing tool. You might do this seasonally when bad
- [Specialized Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/specialized-daycare/) - We've discussed assessing the dogs periodically to make sure you have the right dogs in your center. But what if a dog who initially loved to play, now seems unhappy in group play? How can you keep the client happy and also give the dog an activity that is healthy and beneficial? Specialized daycare just might
- [The Pitbull Controversy - Should They Play?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pitbull-controversy-play/) - Allowing pit bulls to participate in off-leash playgroups is a controversy in the industry. Safety is a top concern for operators and is the reason some exclude the breed. Others receive feedback from customers that they don't want their dogs to play with pit bulls. As pet professionals we are sensitive to the perceptions of
- [Why Dog Owners Should Attend Evaluations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-owners-attend-evaluations/) - It might surprise you to learn that at Urban Tails dog owners have attended their dog's evaluations for 13 years. As we gained experience in evaluating dogs, we found a few simple guidelines allowed over 90% of the owners to stay in the room while their dog was evaluated and we wouldn’t have it any
- [The Secret Most People Don’t Know](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/secret-people-dont-know/) - Do you know the secret of making good decisions during dog evaluations? Keep an eye on your tester dogs! Keep reading to discover the key steps to creating a core group of tester dogs and understanding what they can tell you about the dogs you are evaluating. Dogs understand each other and by observing reactions of
- [How to Evaluate Dogs for Off-Leash Play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/evaluate-dogs-off-leash-play/) - What comprises an excellent and efficient dog evaluation process? Keep reading to elevate your evaluation process to excellence and view a sample dog application that pet parents can fill out. This form becomes your foundational planning tool. You can get your Off Leash Play Application pdf and start using the new form in your evaluations today! (Click here for
- [How to Fail a Dog Without Alienating the Owner](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fail-dog-without-alienating-owner/) - Telling an owner their dog failed your social evaluation is one the toughest parts of the job. You often get tears, anger, denial and rarely a new client. We think you can change the emotion of this tough conversation and keep the client. Find out how in this post. All Dogs Go To Heaven and
- [Training Staff With Dog Evaluations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/training-staff-with-dog-evalutions/) - Do you fully utilize the best dog body language classroom available? Every center offering off-leash dog play has a great classroom for studying dog language and behavior: the dog evaluation session. Do you take advantage of this opportunity and use it for staff training? Keep reading to find out how you can use dog evaluation
- [Do I Have to Do an Evaluation?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/do-i-have-to-do-an-evaluation/) - 20+ years ago when The Dog Gurus were starting their own dog daycare businesses, other pet industry professionals were resistant to the idea. Kennel operators at that time thought off-leash play was risky. The idea of bringing dogs together from different families and letting them intermingle and play was considered dangerous. It simply wasn’t done!
- [Who Should Do the Evaluation?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/who-should-do-the-evaluation/) - Time and time again when people prepare to open a daycare, they will approach The Dog Gurus and ask about doing evaluations. It seems most people inherently know that not all dogs might want to play together. And most people recognize it would be helpful to do an evaluation to determine which dogs would be
- [Monitoring After the Evaluation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/monitoring-after-the-evaluation/) - Your dog evaluation process is an important safety tool. However, the information provided is based on the dog's behavior in a short snapshot of time. Since your pet center is probably an unfamiliar environment for the dog you may have yet to see their true personality. That is one of the reasons we recommend not
- [Talking to Clients about Daycare Evaluations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/talking-clients-daycare-evaluations/) - “Start with the end in mind”, is a phrase made popular by productivity expert, Stephen Covey. He lists this as one of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People in his book by that same title. The principle is simple…envision your end state and set up processes that will aid you in getting to that
- [How to Safely Evaluate Dogs for Doggie Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-safely-evaluate-dogs-for-doggie-daycare/) - Dog daycare should be a safe and fun environment for every dog in the group. Ensuring the dogs that come to dog daycare enjoy the outing and are not just tolerating the play is the result of two key systems. Get a FREE copy of our Dog Daycare Summary Standards Learn more about Dog Evaluations
- [Benefits of Readiness Checks for Daycare and Lodging Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benefits-of-readiness-checks-for-daycare-and-lodging-dogs/) - Where’s Rover? One of the mysteries of professional pet care are the dogs that suddenly disappear from daycare for no apparent reason. These dogs can also be a challenge when they want to return after several months away from the playgroup. Do you evaluate the dog again before letting them return? There is definitely value
- [Secrets to Evaluating Dogs for Your Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/secrets-to-evaluating-dogs-for-your-playgroups/) - One secret to employee retention and fewer dog fights is making sure you are evaluating dogs for your playgroups. A great evaluation process for the dogs in your care is critical. Do you know what makes the best dog candidate for your services? Creating a list of the behaviors that are appropriate versus inappropriate for your
- [3 Reasons to Revamp Your Dog Evaluations Process](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/3-reasons-to-revamp-your-dog-evaluations-process/) - As professional pet care providers you know the importance of your dog evaluation process, and the value of a formal dog evaluation process for dogs attending your playgroups. Now you can use your current process and expand it to ensure the dogs and clients you most enjoy serving are the ones accepted to your program.
- [Make More Money By Knowing Your Numbers](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/make-money-knowing-numbers/) - You don’t have to be a financial expert or spend hours every week looking at your numbers to make more money in your business. Just select and use the right tools regularly and you’ll find more money in your pocket every month. Our Top Five Know Your Numbers list is a starting point to your
- [Meet Charter Member Camp K9!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-camp-k9/) - As part of our 2nd Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members were facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [Helping Pets Enjoy Long Healthy Lives](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/helping-pets-enjoy-long-healthy-lives/) - This month we are delving into the world of holistic pet care. When we love our pets we want them to enjoy a long, healthy life with us. My study of holistic pet care intensified when I lost Hank, my 8 year old golden retriever to cancer less than 3 weeks after diagnosis. In my
- [Work ON Your Business and Not Just IN It](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/work-business-not-just/) - It may come as a surprise to you that The Dog Gurus both have entirely separate jobs outside of their joint venture together as The Dog Gurus. We live in separate states and work together virtually. The only time we are together is when we speak at conferences or schedule a working retreat together. We
- [Why Spend a Month on Hiring Staff?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/spend-month-hiring-staff/) - As a small business owner an improved economy is generally considered only in positive terms. People spend money more readily and your sales are likely to grow. However, there is a challenge that comes with a better economy. Other businesses are also growing and expanding, creating a competition for high performing staff. When candidates have
- [Why Seek Excellent Communication Skills?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/seek-excellent-communication-skills/) - How many of your job descriptions list good or excellent communication skills as a requirement? Most of us seek to work with people that communicate well, but in reality how is this working out? It does not take long reviewing posts in industry discussion groups or surveying business owners on their frustrations to find a
- [Make More Money by Knowing Your Numbers](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/make-money-knowing-numbers-2/) - You don’t have to be a financial expert or spend hours every week looking at your numbers to make more money in your business. Just select and use the right tools regularly and you’ll find more money in your pocket every month. Our Top Five Know Your Numbers list is a starting point to your
- [All About Puppies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/all-about-puppies-2/) - What could be more fun than a room full of puppies? One of the greatest joys in owning a pet care facility is getting to play with puppies. If you’re like me, all work ceases when a puppy enters a room because, of course, you just have to go get puppy kisses! So it may
- [Staff That Shine](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/staff-that-shine/) - The Dog Gurus focus for off-leash playgroups is ensuring that they are both safe and fun. Consistently achieving a great safety record and dogs enjoying their day can be quite the challenge. It requires a great team of knowledgable staff that share a passion for off-leash play. As we celebrate our second anniversary we are
- [Teams that Rock](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teams-that-rock/) - The Dog Gurus focus for off-leash playgroups is ensuring that they are both safe and fun. Consistently achieving a great safety record and dogs enjoying their day can be quite the challenge. As we celebrate our second anniversary we are excited to feature members that truly focus on having safe and fun playgroups. Today’s post recognizes Teams that Rock
- [Is Certification the Next Big Thing in Dog Daycare?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/certification-next-big-thing-dog-daycare/) - You are one of the reasons that independent professional certification is happening for dog daycares. Robin and I were asked repeatedly when speaking in 2013 & 2014 when there would be certification for dog daycares. We definitely agreed with the need, but knew The Dog Gurus was not the right organization for the project. We
- [Should You Sell Retail Products?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/sell-retail-products/) - The Dog Gurus often get asked about selling retail products in pet care facilities. Should every business be selling products? As with so many questions, the answer is, “It depends.” There are a few things to consider before rushing out and purchasing a whole warehouse full of fun products to sell. Here are a few
- [Are You Ready to Become Certified?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/ready-become-certified-2/) - Yes...professional pet care certification is available for anyone working in dog daycare, pet boarding, dog walking or pet sitting. This week the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC) announced that registrations were open to take the Certified Professional Animal Care Provider (CPACP) exam. The certification is independent validation of your knowledge of the requirements of providing
- [10 Reasons For Exceptional Customer Service](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/10-reasons-exceptional-customer-service/) - When the Dog Gurus asked me to contribute to their month-long series dedicated to Customer Service—I was thrilled to participate! I feel very fortunate to work in an industry filled with so many amazing and kindhearted people who share a passion for pets. With businesses run by all these nice people, one might assume that
- [Daycare Operational Standards](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-operational-standards/) - The Dog Gurus have been involved in the dog daycare industry for over 20 years. We started when people had no idea what daycare was or why a pet parent would want such a service and have seen it grow to a much larger part of most pet businesses. Take Robin's daycare: She started her
- [Supercharge Your Marketing Efforts](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/supercharge-marketing-efforts/) - Nearly every business owner I know understands the value of marketing. They prepare Facebook posts, send periodic emails to their clients, put together brochures and newsletters, and spend time at community events promoting their business. It’s a lot of work to stay ahead of your competition and keep your name in front of your current clients and
- [Meet Charter Member Happy Camper Doggy Day Camp & Sleepover](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-happy-camper-doggy-day-camp-sleepover/) - As part of our 4th Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members were facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [Meet VIP Member Inn the Dog House](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-vip-member-inn-dog-house/) - This February ​T​he Dog Gurus are excited to celebrate their 4th Anniversary of The Daycare Games. For this member highlight, we interviewed Whitney Callahan, Owner of Inn The Doghouse in Lakewood, Ohio. Whitney’s team claimed the top spot in the 2017 Daycare Games in the large class. TDG: Provide a brief overview of your company.
- [Communication as a Competitive Advantage?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/communication-competitive-advantage/) - We all know the importance of customer service, but can basic communication serve as a competitive advantage in your business? There is irony in the digital age that makes communication easier, that focusing on the basics can set your business apart. I just checked my emails and was pleasantly surprised to find an email from
- [Meet Charter Member Delightful Dog](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-delightful-dog/) - As part of our 5th Anniversary of The Dog Gurus membership, we wanted to highlight a couple of our charter members. Charter members are facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they have loved being a
- [How to make your Facility Less Stressful](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/make-facility-less-stressful/) - As a dog trainer, I have one standard suggestion for making any pet care facility less stressful for the staff and the dogs: Teach a few basic behaviors to every dog! By selecting a few easy-to-teach behaviors to every dog in your care, you will build a stronger relationship with the pets, your staff will
- [Dog Daycare 2.0 – A Time for Change](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-daycare-2-0-time-change/) - The dog daycare and off-leash play industry was created because dogs like to play and busy dog owners loved having a dog as tired as them at home in the evening. It seemed like the perfect solution and our industry exploded. As a result there are many providers offering off-leash play services, but the quality
- [Supervision of Dogs At Excellent Daycares](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/supervision-dogs-excellent-daycares/) - One of the most important questions a family should ask before dropping their dog off to a facility for daycare or off-leash play is “Who is watching the dogs?” But do you know the correct answer to that question? Keep reading to learn what supervision of dogs means in an excellent dog daycare facility. Supervision
- [Does Your Dog Deserve Excellence?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-deserve-excellence/) - Right away I knew this dog playgroup was different from the others by the energy. Dogs were relaxed, calm and happy. In contrast to the last place where Fifi, the toy poodle, shook and hid behind the crate as Rascal and Rowdy raced around the room barking and chasing the smaller dogs. At first Steady
- [Warning Signals That Precede A Fight](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/warning-signals-precede-fight/) - Want a great way to prevent dog fights in an off-leash play environment? Do you know the key events that trigger a fight? Can you tell when a fight is most likely to happen? Keep reading to find out how you can keep dogs safer when they are playing with other dogs off-leash. Fights between
- [Minimizing Bites and Fights in Off-Leash Play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/minimizing-bites-fights-off-leash-play/) - Fights and bites in off-leash dog play. It’s one of the biggest fears for anyone in the pet industry. On the one hand some say minor injuries are as common a scraped knee when children play on a playground. On the other hand, there are an alarming number of punctures and even deaths during off-leash
- [Dangers of Play Between Large and Small Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dangers-play-large-small-dogs/) - It seems like every month The Dog Gurus hear about an injury that occurred with a dog in an off-leash play environment. Sometimes these injuries are minor, but more frequently we hear about severe injuries and even fatalities that occur during off-leash play. One of the main safety factors for any off-leash play environment should
- [Playstyles: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/playstyles-good-bad-ugly/) - You’ve evaluated the dogs, and you know they all love to play off-leash. Now what? One of the common problems with the next step in effective and safe off-leash playgroups is putting the right dogs together based on their play behavior. Continue reading to find out the pros and cons of each dog playstyle, which
- [Hot Weather Safety for Pet Facilities](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hot-weather-safety-pet-facilities/) - Recently a dog died from heat exhaustion in a pet care facility. The Dog Gurus would like to help raise awareness of these kinds of tragedies and offer valuable resources to help pet care professionals prevent these accidents from happening. Our friend, and pet care consultant, Gretchen Meienburg from MayCastle Consulting, has graciously provided us
- [The Trouble With Off-Leash Play Today](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/trouble-off-leash-play-today/) - The Dog Gurus can still remember one of the first American Boarding Kennel Association (ABKA) conventions Robin attended. She had been invited to speak about running a dog daycare and was sitting at a convention dinner with Susan Briggs and a few other ABKA members. At one point during dinner, someone asked for a show
- [Five Steps to Doing Off-leash Dog Play Right](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/five-steps-off-leash-dog-play-right/) - Follow these five steps and you will be on your way to doing off-leash dog play right. Keep reading to get your free download on “What Makes a Great Off-Leash Playgroup” to ensure you create a safe dog daycare. We are continually surprised by operating decisions of off-leash dog play providers. The majority of providers
- [Is Every Dog Enjoying Off-Leash Play?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/every-dog-enjoying-off-leash-play/) - Off-leash dog play was created as a safe, fun and enjoyable environment for social dogs, but are the dogs always having fun? Keep reading to find out if a tired dog is really the best measure of success in off-leash play and get a free download to find out “Are the Dogs Having Fun.” Off-leash
- [What Off-Leash Play Service Do You Provide?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/off-leash-play-service-provide/) - This may seem like a silly question, but ask current service providers for their answer and you will get many different responses. Off-leash play services have existed in the industry for over 20 years and their popularity has led to a wide range of operating practices Off-leash playgroups were designed as an environment where dogs that
- [How to Create Better Playgroups Instantly](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/create-better-playgroups-instantly/) - What is one thing you can do in your playgroups today that would help ensure all the dogs are having fun? Match the right dogs in the right groups! What is your favorite game to play on family vacation? A lengthy and strategic game of monopoly? A fast paced, animated game of Pictionary? A slow,
- [Staying Competitive in the Daycare Market](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/staying-competitive-daycare-market-2/) - Gone are the days when people asked “What’s dog daycare?” or “Why would I bring my dog here to play with other dogs?” The dog daycare industry is a couple decades old and daycare has moved from being viewed as a frivolous activity for a pet to a much needed social outlet for a beloved
- [How Are You Training Your Staff?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-are-you-training-your-staff/) - What’s the one thing that can make or break a service oriented business? Is it the size of your facility? The activities you offer? The dogs you take? The look of your facility? While all of these things are important, I think your biggest asset is your staff. One of the keys to having excellent
- [Assessing Dogs That Bully...Using Fruit!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/assessing-dogs-bully-using-fruit/) - How do limes, oranges and pomegranates relate to bully behaviors in dogs? Bullying behaviors encompass a continuum like most behavior and The Dog Gurus have created a fruity way for your staff to communicate and assess them. Keep reading for important tips for keeping your playgroups safe and fun for all the dogs when the
- [How to Reduce Problem Behaviors at Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/reduce-problem-behaviors-daycare/) - I love the conversation I recently had with a daycare owner. During the Daycare Games her staff had mentioned to her that the dogs were so much better behaved. They attributed the better behavior to the fact that the employees were practicing the daycare games everyday. This is how one employee put it: “It’s as
- [Meet Charter Member Monadnock Humane Society](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/meet-charter-member-monadnock-humane-society/) - This July The Dog Gurus are excited to celebrate our 5th Anniversary! To show our appreciation, we wanted to highlight one of our charter members. Charter members are facilities who joined The Dog Gurus as soon as we launched and have been with us ever since. We are thankful for their support and hope they
- [You Deserve a Pay Raise](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/you-deserve-a-pay-raise-2/) - You definitely deserve a raise in pay if you are the typical pet business owner that participated in our financial survey. Recently we received the detailed final report of 2017 financial results that The Dog Gurus and the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA) survey annually. Every year I look forward to this peek
- [Why We Don't Budget](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/why-we-dont-budget/) - When fall arrives my thoughts go to football, pet industry seminars, pumpkins and budgets. All of these are fun and exciting to me. One thing I love about our business is helping other business owners create their budgets. However, I know that for most people fall does not bring thoughts of preparing a budget and made me
- [Starting a Dog Daycare and Boarding](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/starting-a-dog-daycare-and-boarding/) - While many are aware that pet care is a billion-dollar industry, the steps required to successfully open one’s own boarding, grooming, daycare, or all-encompassing pet facility is less understood. Yes, having a love of animals is important, but that alone will not sustain a profitable business. You must be willing to take on areas such
- [How Much Space Do You Need to Run a Dog Daycare?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-much-space-do-you-need-for-your-dog-daycare/) - I frequently encounter new dog daycare business owners either at seminars, workshops, on Facebook or through email. When folks are first starting their own pet care business, they have many questions (and rightly so…staring your own business is not for the faint of heart!). One of the most commonly asked questions has to deal with
- [Tips for Monitoring, Managing and Communicating Dog Behavior](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tips-for-monitoring-managing-and-communicating-dog-behavior/) - As a pet care business owner operating a dog daycare or boarding facility, when you think about dog, it’s important to remember that you have control of the dog behaviors you allow in the dogs that use your services. In fact, creating a list of the appropriate and inappropriate behaviors from dogs for the services
- [Let's Talk about Software](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/lets-talk-about-software/) - Confused by the multiple software choices for pet care businesses? Looking for guidance on how to select the right vendor and software for your business? The Dog Gurus are frequently asked for our software recommendations so we were very happy to have one of our choices join us to share insight on this important business
- [How Your Personal Brand Affects Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-your-personal-brand-affects-your-pet-care-business/) - Looking for ways to make sure your pet care business stands apart from others in your community? You opened your pet care business with a plan to help as many dogs as possible. Now learn how your personal brand can make a difference! Listen in as we talk with JuliAnn Stitick the CEO, Recalibrated Living,
- [5 Pet Care Business Lessons Learned from Covid-19](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-pet-care-business-lessons-learned-from-covid-19/) - As 2020 comes to an end, let's look at the top 5 pet care business lessons learned from Covid-19. These ideas are great opportunities to increase your pet care operations in the future. Know Your Numbers – profitable pricing and understanding your fixed and variable costs were key to success. Understanding the financial numbers allowed
- [Celebrate Success With Your Pet Care Team](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/celebrate-success-with-your-pet-care-team/) - As a pet care business entrepreneur, you focus on growing your business and working through the trials of owning and operating your pet care facility. Once the current project is done you check the "completed" box and move right into the next challenge. However, this means you miss an important opportunity…the chance to celebrate with
- [The Two Most Important Factors to Operating a Safe Dog Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-two-most-important-factors-to-operating-a-safe-dog-daycare/) - Do you wonder what it takes to really operate a safe dog daycare? There are actually two key factors to operating a safe dog daycare. Proper dog evaluationsProper staff training Check out the video below to learn why these two factors are so important. Get our Dog Daycare Industry Standards Summary
- [Getting Burned out by Your Pet Business?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/getting-burned-out-by-your-pet-business/) - It's been a long 18 months and we know many are getting burned out by your pet business. First the pandemic, then shutdowns and lack of clients, then the world opened up more powerfully than we imagined only to suffer from staffing shortfalls and an inability to hire new people. How are you doing? How's
- [Exhaustion is not the Measure of Success](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/exhaustion-not-measure-success/) - You want a tired dog after a day of play with their buddies. We understand your goal and good dog play sessions will help you tire out your best friend while also monitoring the overall safety and health of your dog. It’s important that exhaustion is not the only measure of success when you bring
- [Avoiding Fights & Bites in Your Off-leash Dog Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/avoiding-fights-and-bites/) - Let's talk about avoiding fights and bites in your pet care facility. Did you know that you should have less than 2 fights/ bites requiring medical attention each year? How did we arrive at that figure? And how do you keep that number so low? Keep reading to find out that and other actions you
- [We Love to Solve Problems](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/love-solve-problems/) - One of our primary goals for The Dog Gurus library is to help you solve problems. We know it’s challenging to oversee daily operations, manage staff and create new tools and processes. That’s where we can help, as we really do love creating checklists, forms and guides that solve your problems. Check out our Library
- [Here are Your Special Gifts for Joining](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/special-gifts-joining/) - You get some special gifts just for joining The Dog Gurus Library! Get them all here! The Four E's Of Excellence E-Book ($74.95 value) Best practices for designing and running your off-leash playgroup, The Four E’s describes excellence in Environment, Evaluating dogs, Education and Excellent operations. Includes checklists and guides created by the industry's top
- [Welcome to The Dog Gurus Library](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/welcome-dog-gurus/) - Welcome to The Dog Gurus Library! Thank you for joining us in keeping dogs safe! Be sure to download your member badge to share your commitment to education!
- [Tips for Keeping Your Playgroups Safe & Fun](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tips-for-keeping-your-playgroups-safe-fun/) - Does your team do a good job of keeping your playgroups safe and fun? How do you build the best playgroups? Can your team easily determine what dogs should play together? Do you base your playgroups on more than just size? How do you know the key components of a great playgroup? Do you know the
- [Social Media Marketing Tips for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/social-media-marketing-tips-for-your-pet-business/) - Are you maximizing social media marketing opportunities on social media? There are a lot of opportunities to share your business on social media at no cost. It requires a plan and strategy to take advantage of this FREE organic traffic. The good news is most posts won’t even seem like a sales pitch. We find
- [Expect the Unexpected](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/expect-the-unexpected/) - We end our earth day week celebration being wildlife friendly. Now it may not seem like a property with dogs is compatible with a wildlife habitat or beautiful garden. However, our charter member Debbie Oliver, has proven that the two can co-exist peacefully. Debbie’s property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat designated by the National Wildlife
- [Is Your Daycare Report Card an A?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-report-care/) - How is your daycare program performing? Do you feel informed on the primary aspects that keep dogs and staff safe? Would you know if a red flag warning was waving in your program? If you are not sure, then keep reading for tips on the things you should be monitoring every month and a special
- [Which Professional Certification is Right for You?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/professional-certification-right/) - We are excited that the opportunity for professional certification is growing in pet care services. This means that anyone working in a career providing dog training, dog daycare, pet lodging, pet sitting or dog walking will soon be able to achieve a professional designation. Professional dog trainers have offered certification through the Certification Council of
- [The Value of Certification](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-value-of-certification/) - Why should I get certified? That’s a common question I hear as a dog trainer. After all, you have been training, you have some education, and very few of your clients ever seem to ask you about certification. So what’s the big deal? Why should you pay to take a test for certification? As a
- [The True Force Behind Professional Pet Care](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/true-force-behind-professional-pet-care/) - Certification is a giant step toward pet care services being viewed as a respected profession. The timing is important as the pet services industry continues to grow which leads to more coverage by the media when things go wrong. In fact, the dark side of serious injury or death of pets in professional pet care
- [Are These Things Happening in Your Daycare? Hopefully Not](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/things-happening-daycare-hopefully-not/) - When new business owners begin researching the dog daycare industry, they frequently have the same type of questions. Among the most common questions are those dealing with staffing ratios, space requirements for dogs, pricing structures, and hiring procedures. The Dog Gurus are involved in helping to create these daycare standards. But daycare standards aren't just
- [Regulation in Pet Care: Are you Prepared?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/regulation-pet-care-prepared/) - Recent events by regulatory bodies led us to reach out to Carmen Rustenbeck, CEO of our industry trade association, International Boarding and Pet Services Association or IBPSA. We feel it’s very important for our members to realize the potential impact of regulation on your business. If you operate in California this post is a must-read!
- [Being Prepared for Natural Disasters](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/prepared-natural-disasters/) - Often disaster preparedness and planning falls to the bottom of the "to do list". For most pet businesses it's a low risk occurrence so our time is spent on other daily demands. In the twelve years I owned Urban Tails we experienced three natural disasters. To kick-off our related content series I'm sharing my story
- [Tips for Managing Two Types of Emergencies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tips-managing-two-types-emergencies/) - If the thought of facing a single emergency in your business in a year is frightening, then what if you had two in less than two months? That was the reality for Dog Guru member, Gretchen Meienburg. Gretchen is owner in four pet resort businesses and had two of them close in the fall of
- [Preparing Your Pet Care Center for an Emergency Evacuation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/preparing-pet-care-center-emergency-evacuation/) - Preparing Your Pet Care Center for an Emergency Evacuation: Are you ready to go? Fire, flood or even a power outage could create the need to evacuate your pet care center. As with any emergency, being prepared will help keep you, your team and the pets in your care, safe during an evacuation. Ideally, during
- [Lessons Learned from a Hurricane Evacuation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/lessons-learned-hurricane-evacuation/) - Listen in on Robin's interview with Dog Guru member Laina Schonefeld from Barkaritaville Pet Resort in Corpus Christi, TX. They recently had to evacuate animals from their facility due to Hurricane Harvey. Laina talks about lessons learned from the experience.
- [Creating a Customer Referral Program](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/creating-customer-referral-program/) - Competition is increasing. Enlist your customers to grow your database by developing a referral program. Here we've provided an easy recipe to get you started. Click on the links below to see information and samples Customer Referral Program Customer referral tracking sheet Sample Friends and family referral letter Sample Reward letter for a referral Sample
- [3 Reasons to Prioritize Key Performance Indicators](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/3-reasons-to-prioritize-key-performance-indicators-2/) - Being a finance person, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are fun to me, and provide a different perspective on your business. In this post you'll learn three reasons why making KPI's a priority in your management toolbox will help you improve your business. 1. Provides Non-Financial Success Measures For most of us financial success is a
- [Benevolent Leadership ... with your staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benevolent-leadership-with-your-staff-2/) - Think back over your work career and the "bad bosses" you encountered. From today's perspective what did you learn from them? What traits did they share? Fortunately I only had two "bad bosses" and in hindsight recognize that both of them did not see or get me as an individual. They were focused on their own career
- [Increase Your Productivity with Self-care](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/beat-clock-get-margin-life/) - I’m sure many of you are skeptical how self-care can improve productivity. That was also my view until I grew tired of being tired and a good friend introduced me to The Art of Extreme Self-care by Cheryl Richardson. Looking back at the positive difference self-care has made in my life is remarkable and I
- [Stop Worrying, Create a Calendar](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/stop-worrying-create-calendar/) - The calendar is definitely one of our favorite planning tools, which may explain why we chose this as a topic we could discuss for a month! Now that you are in the groove of calendar planning why not expand the benefits with a financial and administrative planning tool. Stop worrying if you are getting things
- [Going Green in Your Office](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/going-green-office/) - I love organization. I love files. I love file folders. I’m very detail orientated and I like keeping paperwork in order. But after many years of creating very neat file folders filled with paperwork, I made the decision to go paperless. I was tired of boxes of paperwork filling my basement and figured it was
- [Beat the Clock - Get More Margin in Your Life](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/beat-clock-get-margin-life-2/) - Ever feel overwhelmed? Is your schedule out of control? Too much to do and too many commitments pulling you in different directions? Wonder how you can spend so much time with other people's dogs and not enough time with your own? If so, you are not alone. Juggling the day-to-day activities of your business on
- [How Are You Doing Taking Care of Yourself?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-are-you-doing-taking-care-of-yourself/) - When was the last time you took a day off? I mean really took a day off? No work calls, no work emails, no work at all? If you can't remember, then it's time to change your self-care planning! Working in the pet care industry can be emotional. Our love of animals creates extended relationships
- [The Secret Tool for Problem Solving and Creativity](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/secret-tool-problem-solving-creativity/) - At the Dog Gurus we love win/win/win solutions and the secret tool that helps you solve problems quickly and be more creative is also great self-care...meditation. The meditation we are talking about is not religious based or woo woo. In fact I love hearing more and more successful business people share the positive impact of
- [52 Ways to Reward Your Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/52-ways-reward-staff/) - We've been talking about self-care for YOU, as the business owner, and stressing the importance of taking care of the relational, emotional, and physical aspects of your life. But what about your staff? They can also get stressed, worried, and burned out at their jobs. So be sure to reward them, celebrate with them, and
- [Are You Maximizing Your Seminar Investment?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/are-you-maximizing-your-seminar-investment/) - At The Dog Gurus we feel everyone should regularly attend industry seminars so we are sharing tips on how to maximize your investment. My business and personal life shifted positively in 2015. It was a keystone year and I credit a seminar I attended as the trigger event. While the seminar content was excellent, that
- [Hiring Employees that Have "IT"](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hiring-employees-that-have-it/) - Once upon a time, all pet care facilities were operated by employees that had “IT.” For most of us…we were those employees...the entrepreneur who started the business. We had “IT” and we could manage the dogs with ease. Then we started hiring other people and we quickly realized that hiring the right people was hard.
- [Are You Putting the Right Dogs Together?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/putting-right-dogs-together/) - So how can you be sure that you are putting the right dogs together? The monthly bonus for September is the Playstyle Management Chart. Download your copy to learn about the different types of playstyles, learn general classification by breed-type, and note potential green, yellow, and red categories by playstyle. Follow the simple steps outlined
- [Conjure Up Fun & Safe Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/conjure-fun-safe-playgroups/) - Are you tired of telling your staff to play with the dogs? Frustrated by the challenge of keeping staff engaged with the dogs every day? Wouldn’t it be nice if you could wave your magic wand and put your image of safe and fun playgroups into action in your center every day? What is the
- [Dog Activities Revealed Part 1](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-activities-revealed-part-1/) - This month’s bonus item outlines the five different types of activities that should be provided when dogs are playing off-leash. Keep reading to learn more about the first three activity types. 1. Games Games are primarily about play and physical exercise. Sue Sternberg says in her book, Serious Fun, Play Like a Dog, that “Play
- [Dog Activities Revealed Part 2](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-activities-revealed-part-2/) - This month’s bonus item outlines the five different types of activities that should be provided when dogs are playing off-leash. Last week we revealed the secrets behind the first three types of activities, keep reading to learn more about the last two. To review part 1 of they series, click here. 4. Leadership exercises The Dog
- [Fence Fighting and Poop Eating??](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fence-fighting-poop-eating/) - There are two behaviors in off leash play that most dog owners don’t want to hear about, but pet care facility owners know they exist: Fence fighting and poop eating. Thankfully, these behaviors are usually limited to just a few specific dogs, but they still present a challenge for the daycare staff. So what do
- [Finding Hidden Clues to Playgroup Fit](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/finding-hidden-clues-playgroup-fit/) - By using the Off-Leash Play Application, the Evaluation Checklist and the Playgroup Management Chart (all are found in the Dog Managements Tools pdf), you can learn meaningful information on a dog’s fit to the play environment. We found two hidden clues that can predict playgroup success for yellow and red breed-styles. In most dog evaluation
- [How to Solve 90% of Daycare Problems](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/solve-90-daycare-problems/) - If you could solve 90% of your daycare problems with just one change in your staff management, would you do it? Just imagine playgroups with less jumping, less barking, less humping, less crowding at the gates, less snarkiness between dogs. It is possible. Keep reading to find out the one thing you can do to
- [Is the Barking Driving You Crazy?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/barking-driving-crazy/) - True confession: Barking drives me nuts! Really! Beyond the fact that it often indicates a dog in some distress, I just don’t particularly like the sound! I think perhaps that is why I got so good at finding solutions to solve any barking problems. You'll find solutions for barking and other common behavior problems in
- [Match the Dog Game](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/match-dog-game/) - Well, you know how we LOVE surprises! We also love giving away fun, free stuff to our members. So this month, since we are focusing on playstyles, we came up with a fun way to practice. We've created a game you can use to test your skill and get your staff engaged in talking about
- [Sample Playgroup Rotation Schedule](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/sample-playgroup-rotation-schedule/) - This month we are pleased to have a special bonus for all our members. Dog Guru members Jess and Dave Zellmer from Paws in Motion in King George, Virginia have been gracious enough to share their playgroup rotation schedule with The Dog Gurus members. All dogs in their center participate in group play so this
- [Time Outs versus Rest Periods](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/time-outs-versus-rest-periods/) - Time outs and rest periods...what's the different? You’ll notice on our Problem Behavior Management Guide which is the bonus time this month that we’ve mentioned time outs as a way to work on some behavior problems. In this post we’ll talk about the difference between a time out and a rest period. Both are important, but they
- [What about punishing bad behavior?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/punishing-bad-behavior/) - Human beings are hard wired to discipline undesirable behavior. It is in our nature. So it’s not uncommon for people to ask me if it’s ok to punish the bad behavior of the dogs in daycare. My simple answer to that question is “No”. But to get more into the heart of the matter, I’ll
- [What Benevolent Leadership Looks Like](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benevolent-leadership-looks-like/) - The Dog Gurus are advocates of benevolent leadership and we often speak at seminars on this topic. It's so important that at one point it was the first chapter of our book, Off-Leash Dog Play. But after a particularly engaging seminar where The Dog Gurus explained the importance of leading the dogs, we asked for
- [Which Playstyles Work Best Together?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/playstyles-work-best-together/) - Understanding playstyles helps to match the right dog's together. This month’s bonus Playstyle Management Chart provides you with an overview of some of the common breed types, what playstyle they most frequently present, and management tips for supervising them. Continue reading to find out how to use the Playstyle Management Chart which was included to
- [How Do Your Playgroups Measure Up?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-do-your-playgroups-measure-up/) - One of the biggest challenges in off-leash play is maintaining the right mix of dogs in just the right size group to ensure fun and safe play is happening. We’ve all had those days where a group of 10 dogs feels as if you are watching 20, or when a group of 14 feels like
- [Practice Observing Canine Body Language](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/practice-observing-canine-body-language/) - Grab your staff for a discussion about canine body language. We've put together a few videos to help you! These videos will give you an opportunity to practice seeing subtle changes in canine body language. Each video will be shown in normal speed, followed by slow motion. Be prepared to pause the videos to think
- [Four Ways Your Dog Tells You He Wants to Leave the Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/four-ways-your-dog-tells-you-he-wants-to-leave-the-daycare/) - Don’t you just love when dogs are having fun at daycare? One of my greatest pleasures is seeing a dog running off-leash with a look of pure joy on his face. But the reality is, dog daycare can also be overwhelming to dogs. How do you know when a dog needs a break from the
- [Three Dogs Who Shouldn’t Be in Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/three-dogs-who-shouldnt-be-in-daycare/) - Off-leash play environments can help reduce a dog’s stress and boredom, and give dogs a fun way to meet new people and other dogs. Obviously, I’m a big fan of off-leash play…but ONLY when it’s done for the right reasons with the right dogs. There are three dogs that shouldn’t be in dog daycare: The
- [Managing Problem Behaviors in Dog Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-problem-behaviors-in-dog-daycare/) - Keeping play safe and fun for all the dogs that attend can be a challenge if you are not managing problem behaviors in dog daycare. First you must be clear on what behaviors are appropriate versus inappropriate for the dogs that participate. If you don’t have these lists it can be a great team exercise
- [Managing Fights & Bites in Off Leash Play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-fights-bites-in-off-leash-play/) - Preparing for and managing fights and bites in off leash play is one of the most frequent requested topics we receive. While we believe every pet business should be prepared to handle fights or bites our focus has always been on the key steps to prevent them from happening. We know that there are two
- [Innovation In Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/innovation-in-your-business/) - Step back and take a fresh look at your operations and you may find some ideas for innovation in your business. Does your business need a refresh? We recently talked with Alex McKinnon from Kinn, Inc about ways business owners can use innovative thinking to move your business forward. Following are key points Alex shared
- [Three Games for Successful Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/three-games-for-successful-playgroups/) - We often talk about the three games for success playgroups. These are games your team can play to ensure the daycare playgroup is easy to manage. The great news is you can teach your team how to read dogs and manage them in a safe, effective and fear free way! Start by teaching your team to
- [Managing Dog Play Behaviors in Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-dog-play-behaviors-in-your-pet-business/) - Dog playgroups are supposed to be fun for every dog that attends but that will only happen if you staff does a good job of managing dog play behaviors. Does your staff know good vs not so good play? Do you worry that the dogs are not allowed to have fun at all? Or maybe they
- [How to Break up a Dog Fight](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/break-dog-fight/) - What’s the best way to break up a fight? How do you keep from getting bitten? What do you do after a fight? These are all great questions and are among the top questions that The Dog Gurus get asked. Keep reading to learn some tips and tricks on what to do if you have
- [What Happened? Evaluating Fights and Bites](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/happened-evaluating-fights-bites/) - Fur is flying, adrenaline is high, everyone is freaking out. These are common phrases heard when a dog fight breaks out. It's perhaps one of the scariest things that can happen during off-leash play. Seconds seem like hours when a scuffle happens. Once the dust settles, your biggest responsibility is to answer two questions: What
- [When to Dismiss a Dog for Fighting](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/when-to-dismiss-a-dog-for-fighting/) - The Dog Gurus are often asked how many times a dog should be allowed to fight before getting dismissed from off-leash play. Is it realistic to have a “three strikes and you’re out” rule? Are there times when mitigating circumstances might be a reason to give the dog another chance? Should the dog be dismissed
- [How to Tell A Dog Owner About A Fight](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tell-dog-owner-fight/) - We continue our discussion of bites and fights by entering the realm of client conversations. How do you tell the owner about a fight? What do you say? Who is responsible for any medical bills? Do you dismiss the dog from playgroups? Keep reading to learn The Dog Gurus thoughts on these topics. Pet facility
- [What to Do about Fights and Bites](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/what-to-do-about-fights-and-bites/) - As another daycare day comes to an end, you send another dog back home to a pet parent who invariably expresses the common belief that “Your job must be so much fun because you get to play with dogs all day.” You sigh and smile. Of course, being surrounded by dogs all day can be
- [Your Toolbox for Bites and Fights](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/toolbox-bites-fights/) - Want a comprehensive list of everything you need to manage dog fights and bites? Here are a few things I would recommend having on hand in the event of a fight: Air horns – making a loud noise that the dogs rarely hear may help to startle them enough to stop fighting. Marine boat air
- [Is Your Staff Prepared?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/is-your-staff-prepared/) - We’ve been focusing this month on safety and prevention of dog fights and bites. Multiple times you’ve read that one of the top two ways to prevent dog fights is to train your staff (a good dog evaluation process is the second one). So how do you prepare your staff? The Dog Gurus recommends the
- [The Hidden Cost of Dog Injuries](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hidden-cost-dog-injuries/) - It’s only a matter of time in professional pet care before you have a dog injury. Most of our client agreements outline that the business is not responsible for paying medical costs in the case of injury from a dog fight. Is this really the best decision for your business? Today’s reality with social media
- [It's a Numbers Game](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/its-a-numbers-game/) - As Dog Gurus Members, we all know that proactive evaluations and management are the keys to preventing fights and bites. Robin and Susan recommend that our playgroups consist of 80% green dogs, 20% yellow dogs and 0% red dogs. Are these numbers really effective at predicting your chance at an incident free year? Absolutely! We
- [Listen In on Client Conversations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/listen-client-conversations/) - Do you ever wonder how to talk to clients? While The Dog Gurus were together at a conference, we took the opportunity to do a couple of role play scenarios so you could listen in on a few possible client conversations. Feel free to listen to this audio recording and hear how The Dog Gurus
- [What Tools Do I Need for Breaking Up Fights](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tools-need-breaking-fights/) - One of the most often asked questions The Dog Gurus get is what tools should a pet care center have at its disposal to break up a fight. It seems there is an ever growing list of things you can use to stop a dog fight and safely protect yourself from getting bitten. So naturally
- [3 Lessons from the Fights & Bites Survey](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/3-lessons-fights-bites-survey/) - We appreciate the 217 respondents to our first Dog Daycare industry Fights & Bites survey. The responses we received were very interesting and we will continue to analyze the details and share them with you throughout the year. Stepping back and looking at the big picture results there are 3 lessons we want our members
- [Should You Hire A Dog Trainer?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hire-dog-trainer/) - This month we’ve discussed how you and your staff can teach a few basic cues to each dog to make your center safer, happier and less stressful for everyone. The Dog Gurus are huge advocates of creating a partnership between a dog training staff and your daycare/lodging staff. If you don’t already have a trainer
- [Teaching Your Staff To Train the Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teaching-staff-train-dogs/) - The Dog Gurus are huge advocates of establishing a solid partnership between the off-leash playgroup staff and a dog training staff. There is a great deal of synergy between those two groups which can allow you to increase the revenue streams at your business (we’ll talk more about this in a later post!). But even
- [Tools for Dog Training and Management](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tools-dog-training-management/) - This month we’re focusing on teaching the staff how to train dogs to respond to specific cues while they are at the pet care facility. Using Come, Sit and Wait, your staff can learn to have better management and control over the dogs and build a stronger relationship with the dogs. All of this leads
- [Dog Training Methods and Tools](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-training-methods-tools/) - There is a joke among dog trainers that if you get three trainers together, the only thing 2 of them will agree upon is that the third person is wrong. Sadly, the dog training industry can be a very fractured industry, mostly due to disagreements in the types of methods and tools trainers choose to
- [The Training/Daycare Partnership](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-trainingdaycare-partnership/) - I’m a dog trainer who opened a dog daycare. I loved merging my two services together. In hindsight, I realized one of the advantages I had was that I always had one or two dog trainers who also worked in the daycare. I didn’t realize how much this benefitted me until I started consulting and
- [Trainer Payment Options Simplified](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/trainer-payment-options-simplified/) - Discussion forums frequently rotate through the topic of how to pay a trainer and most responses focus on commission percentages. This is really the last step in deciding how to pay a trainer, so keep reading for the decisions you should make that will simplify your payment options. Like every position in your business you
- [Ways to Use a Dog Trainer in Your Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/ways-use-dog-trainer-facility/) - Over the past 20+ years, The Dog Gurus have seen the daycare industry move from stand alone daycare facilities to facilities that are one-stop shops offering pet parents a wide range of services. Over and over we see that facilities generating higher incomes often offer multiple services. If you aren’t offering training in your center,
- [When and Where Do the Boarding Dogs Play?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/boarding-dogs-play/) - Centers that provide daycare and boarding services have several options when offering off-leash play services as an activity. Do you create separate groups for the boarding dogs? How long should they play? Do you use the same evaluation process? Keep reading for the pros and cons on combining versus separating playgroups for boarding dogs in
- [Fit PAWS…Fun and Much More!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fit-pawsfun-much/) - Everyone that works out at a gym or with a trainer knows the emphasis on strengthening your core for overall health, but have you ever thought about that in the context of your dog? What’s amazing is how much fun dogs have working their core versus the torture most of us feel on the bosu.
- [FAQ's About Training the Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/faqs-training-dogs/) - This week we’re focusing on teaching your staff to train some basic obedience cues to the dogs. Your goal is not to completely train a dog for a client (that’s an option I would reserve for a trainer who you hire as an additional revenue stream). Instead we are discussing the opportunity for your staff
- [What One Member Says About Retail](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/one-members-says-retail/) - The Dog Gurus attended SuperZoo, the National Show for Pet Retailers again this year. We take time to research new products that might be beneficial to our members (stay tuned for upcoming posts on the fun stuff we found). We also take time to meet up with any members who are at the show. This
- [SuperZoo Spotlights - Great Toys!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/superzoo-spotlights-great-toys/) - The best thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE! The worst thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE. There is so much to see. The Dog Gurus spent a few days in Las Vegas speaking and shopping at SuperZoo. If you’ve never been there, it’s one of the largest retail tradeshows for pets and if you sell
- [SuperZoo Spotlights - Facility Equipment](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/superzoo-spotlights/) - This is Part 2 of our SuperZoo Spotlights talking about our favorite picks from this year's show. The best thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE! The worst thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE. There is so much to see. The Dog Gurus spent a few days in Las Vegas speaking and shopping at SuperZoo. If
- [SuperZoo Spotlights - Favorite Treats](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/superzoo-spotlights-2/) - This is Part 3 of our SuperZoo Spotlights talking about our favorite picks from this year's show. The best thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE! The worst thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE. There is so much to see. The Dog Gurus spent a few days in Las Vegas speaking and shopping at SuperZoo. If
- [SuperZoo Spotlights - Miscellaneous Favorites](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/superzoo-spotlights-miscellaneous-favorites/) - The best thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE! The worst thing about SuperZoo is it’s HUGE. There is so much to see. The Dog Gurus spent a few days in Las Vegas speaking and shopping at SuperZoo. If you’ve never been there, it’s one of the largest retail tradeshows for pets and if you sell
- [Cool New Products](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cool-new-products/) - The Dog Gurus have been at two trade shows recently and we always keep an eye out for new products that can help our members. See below from the cool new products Robin found at the AVMA conference and Susan found at SuperZoo. The blissful Dog - all natural body and bath stuff for dogs,
- [Dog Training Made Easy For Your Staff of Non-Dog Trainers](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-training-made-easy-staff-non-dog-trainers/) - Those who have been with The Dog Gurus for any length of time know that the staff handling the dogs need to be equipped with great leadership skills in order to most effectively manage the dogs. This starts with the right posture and attitude, but then continues with knowing how to reinforce the best behaviors
- [Grow Your Pet Care Business with More Grooming Revenue](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/grow-your-pet-care-business-with-more-grooming-revenue/) - Our favorite grooming expert, Joe Zuccarello joins us to talk about making more grooming revenue in your pet car business. He shares ideas on creative ways to add revenue to your grooming business. Be sure to watch our video to learn how: You can have a thriving grooming business without having a hair-cut business!Shed control
- [Four Steps for Adding a Membership Program to Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/four-steps-for-adding-a-membership-program-to-your-pet-business/) - Interested in adding a membership program to your pet business? Memberships are hot! They are common in so many industries and have grown during COVID. The pet care industry shouldn't be left out! We’ve helped many pet business owners to successfully add a membership program to their business. This addition can help your business obtain
- [Recurring Revenue In Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/recurring-revenue-in-your-pet-business/) - Wouldn't it be great to create a program that results in recurring revenue in your pet business each month? Planning and forecasting your income would be so much easier if you could count on a certain amount of revenue that results from the way you set up your revenue streams. It’s easier than you may
- [Working with Fearful Dogs in Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/working-with-fearful-dogs-in-your-pet-care-business/) - A great pet care business will have a plan for working with fearful dogs. Nervous and fearful dogs will visit your pet care center and the good news is most adjust to the environment quickly. However, for the dogs that need a little extra time and help adjusting it is important that you create an
- [Tips for Recruiting Groomers and other Team Members](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tips-for-recruiting-groomers-and-other-team-members/) - The rules to finding staff have CHANGED! Get the latest tips for recruiting groomers and other team members in our latest video. You have to adapt, embrace reality and compete for employees in today’s marketplace. This applies to your groom team as well as most other positions in your pet business. In your recruiting it’s
- [Can You Add Enrichment to Your Grooming?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/can-you-add-enrichment-to-your-grooming/) - Yes, we’re advocating you add enrichment to your grooming. This is often the place we see the most hesitation and fear from pets in our care. Enrichment activities bring fun and yummy treats into the picture to improve the mindset for dogs in your salon. The success of enrichment grooming has been proven by Samantha
- [Teach Your Team To Sell](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teach-your-team-to-sell/) - Do you wonder how to teach your team to sell? Are you looking to boost revenues with your existing clients and services? If you are in the situation of limiting clients or maximizing sales during peak periods this is a strategy that will pay back in more profits. We recently talked with Lori Davis from Paramount
- [Keeping Your Dog Enrichment Program Fresh](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/keeping-your-dog-enrichment-program-fresh/) - Your business thrives on enrichment activities, but how do you keep your dog enrichment program fresh? Do you feel like your activities are becoming routine? Do your staff and even the dogs seem a little bored with the same old routine? The great news is that it’s easy to refresh your enrichment activities and even better
- [Increase Success and Revenues With Levels Dog Training](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/increase-success-and-revenues-with-levels-dog-training/) - Levels Dog Training is a great way to generate revenue and keep you clients happy. Are you teaching group dog training classes but find you have some students that fall behind, or others that are superstars and move ahead faster than you can teach? Want to even the playing field so your clients get exactly what
- [Don’t Forget the Three R’s](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dont-forget-three-rs/) - Making your operations more earth-friendly can start with basics that are also free to implement. As a docent at the Houston Zoo in the nineties our earth day messages emphasized the three R’s: reduce, reuse and recycle. Reduce the amount of natural resources used and unnecessary packaging. Buying in bulk and eco-friendly containers is an
- [Benefits of Operating Green](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benefits-operating-green/) - Having owned and operated a successful “all green” pet boarding facility for fifteen years, and being an advocate for implementing healthier, non-toxic practices, I am frequently asked isn’t being green more expensive and not as effective for cleaning? Why even do it? My short answer: You do it for the animals in your care, your
- [Being Green – Saving Greenbacks & Trees](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/green-saving-greenbacks-trees/) - Too often small businesses think that being green is just something for tree hugging San Franciscans in their Birkenstocks. Well, as a small business owner located in San Francisco (but trust me never in Birkenstocks), I can tell you that nothing could be further from the truth. Pet Camp, the first certified green overnight pet
- [Have You Achieved Excellence?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/have-you-achieved-excellence/) - One of the key reasons we founded The Dog Gurus was to share the components of the best off-leash playgroups we had observed. We hate hearing about dog injuries and even deaths that result from dogs attending social playgroups as we know many of them they are preventable. We also don’t understand why some playgroups
- [Have You Found the Missing Link?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/found-missing-link/) - Why do some service providers fall short of excellence? What separates excellent providers from the average or baseline operators? In this week’s article you’ll learn about the missing link that keeps most pet centers average. Keep reading to find this missing link and move your operations to excellence! Think about a business you truly love…one
- [Just Do It! Please!!!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/just-do-it-please/) - How many times do you want to shout this phrase, most likely without the courtesy? I’ve had many conversations with pet center operators and a common frustration seems to be getting staff to follow procedures, complete checklists, and even read important instructions. Achieving excellence requires that staff be responsible and accountable for their role in
- [Starting Your Own Pet Care Business - 7 Tips to Avoid Mistakes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/starting-your-own-pet-care-business-7-tips-to-avoid-mistakes/) - Starting your own pet care business can be overwhelming. Hindsight is 20/20 and if we could travel back in time to our pet business planning days these are the tips we believe would have the biggest positive impact. Fortunately, when starting your own pet care business, you can benefit from the lessons we’ve learned over
- [Emergency Evacuations & Safety Protocols in Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/emergency-evacuations-safety-protocols-in-your-pet-business/) - Recent tragedies in the pet industry have us all reviewing our emergency evacuation and safety protocols for our pet business. What safety measures do you have in place? Do you require overnight staff? Do you have cameras and monitor systems? How often do you practice emergency evacuation drills? Do you know what common emergencies are
- [The Secret to a Profitable Pet Business You Love](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-secret-to-a-profitable-pet-business-you-love/) - Did you know there is a secret to a profitable pet business? How do you want your business to look one year from today? What would be your ideal work schedule and paycheck? Does your vision seem like an impossible dream? We’d say that the secret to making the vision for your business a reality
- [Building, Expanding, or Remodeling Your Pet Care Center](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/building-expanding-or-remodeling-your-pet-care-center/) - Are you building, expanding or remodeling your pet care? Confused about all the dog housing options available? We recently talked to Scott Manning from Midmark about best design options for animal health and ease of cleaning your animal enclosures. Midmark is the parent company for both Mason Company and Shoreline. Key take-aways Scott shared on animal
- [Maximize Your Busy Summer Season](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/maximize-your-busy-summer-season/) - Summer is here and you are seeing more bookings...but how do you maximize your summer busy season? You want to make sure you're making the most out of every client who comes through your doors. How can you maximize your busy summer sales with add on's, maximizing pet visits, tracking goals (what??? you don't have goals?
- [Five Tips for Inspiring Your Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/five-tips-for-inspiring-your-staff/) - Your staff is the backbone of your business and you rely on them to care for the pets, keep things clean, be kind to your clients and build a strong team. But how can you help to inspire them to do all that? We recently talked about five tips you can use to motivate your
- [The Value of Attending Industry Conferences](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-value-of-attending-industry-conferences/) - Money and time are both in short supply these days so it’s important to get the most value from attending industry conferences. How do you get the most bang for your buck?. There is definitely value as a business owner to attend conferences and they can also be a great way to grow and retain staff.
- [Building a Support Team for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/building-a-support-team-for-your-pet-care-business/) - Let's talk about building a support team for your pet care business. We talk all the time about your staff, but what about the rest of your support team? Think of your team as more than just the employees working with the dogs. Many of these roles are not full-time so outsourcing is a great
- [Check Out Some Of Our Favorite Products for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/check-out-some-of-our-favorite-products-for-your-pet-care-business/) - We always get asked about our favorite products for your pet care business. And it’s no surprise. There is so much equipment and supplies needed to operate a pet care business. What types of new and innovative ideas are fun for the dogs, help your business, keep you productive or set your business apart? What oldies,
- [Starting, Expanding or Moving Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/starting-expanding-or-moving-your-pet-care-business/) - Are you thinking about starting, moving or expanding your pet care business? Are you moving to a brick and mortar? Did you outgrow your current facility? Do you want to know WHEN you should make that kind of move? Is this even a good time to open or expand a pet care business? These questions
- [How to Maximize The Physical Space In Your Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-maximize-the-physical-space-in-your-facility/) - Do you wonder about the best layout for your facility to maximize the physical space? Have you ever considered the revenue per square foot that you are getting from your current layout? Is there a way to make more money simply by reconfiguring things? Are you trying to figure out how to fit in new
- [Pet Photography Tips: Capturing Great Images for Social Media and Marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-photography-tips/) - Objective: Learn key tips to improve pet photography skills and elevate your facility’s online presence. Content: In the age of social media and online marketing, creating a professional online presence for your brand is more important than ever. Curating a professional online presence on social media or a business website can help clients find you
- [5 Tips to Formalize Your New Staff Training Curriculum](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-tips-to-formalize-your-new-staff-training-curriculum/) - Employee development and learning is not always a top priority for busy pet care service businesses, but it should be. Staff training is a great investment of time and money for any business. Benefits include lower staff turnover, better employee job satisfaction and morale, and greater efficiency in the day-to-day running of the business. Read on for
- [Learn How to Train Your Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/learn-how-to-train-your-staff/) - Do you dread training a new employee more than training the most excited puppy? Wouldn’t it be great if your staff was as well-trained as the best dogs you care for? UGH! Training your staff is challenging – and time-consuming – without the right mindset in place. To help you with this daunting task, we
- [2-4-6-8, Who Do You Appreciate?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2-4-6-8-appreciate/) - The best-performing teams use six times as many positive comments for every negative one. When leaders actively foster a positive environment to their team, the work culture improves, and everyone thrives in an atmosphere of appreciation. In addition, positive reinforcement can increase the chances of a desired behavior reoccurring in the future. Interestingly, studies have
- [How Leadership Can Reduce Turnover](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/leadership-can-reduce-turnover/) - Employee turnover is something that every business with workers experiences. Employees will come and go. When employees leave, it’s costly for your business and significantly affects your bottom line. It also takes time and money to find and train a replacement. Therefore, it’s best for you to reduce turnover as much as possible. As I
- [Daycare Manager Role and Training](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-manager-role-training/) - The role of Daycare Manager holds a lot of responsibility and is a key position for larger programs. The Dog Gurus have a lot of resources that set your manager up for success. We realize it can be challenging to find the exact information you know is available so we created a checklist that summarizes
- [5 Steps for Training Your Pet Care Facility Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-steps-for-training-your-pet-care-facility-staff/) - One of the biggest challenges to owning and operating your own pet care facility is training your staff. In fact, here at The Dog Gurus we so often hear the phase "The staff sucks the life out you me" from exhasuted business owners who are tired of the revolving door of turnover on their team.
- [How to Motivate and Engage your Pet Care Team](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-motivate-and-engage-your-pet-care-team/) - Have you thought about how to motivate and engage your pet care team? The good news is bookings are picking up and most of our members are seeing more pets daily. Is your team ready for the increased volumes? How do you want your team to function? You can’t leave teamwork to chance if you
- [5 Tips for Creating a Staff Training Program for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-tips-for-creating-a-staff-training-program-for-your-pet-business/) - An important step in creating a staff training program for your pet business is identifying the curriculum you need to include. Use our five tips to get a head start on formalizing your training curriculum: Design a training plan for each role (job description)Identify the skills required to be successful in the role (actions staff
- [Who is Leading Your Pet Care Staff?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/who-is-leading-your-pet-care-staff/) - Is the person leading your pet care staff helping or hurting staff retention in your business? Have you considered the possibility that the person responsible for training new team members may actually contribute to your staff turnover? Chose the person who will be leading your pet care staff carefully. Selecting the leader of your staff training
- [The Secret to Finding Time to Train New Staff in Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-secret-to-finding-time-to-train-new-staff-in-your-pet-business/) - How many times are you so short-staffed that when you hire someone new short-cuts are taken in their training to get them productive ASAP? What is the secret to finding time to train new staff? It seems impossible to find the time to train and other staff have figured it out on the job, so
- [Year-End Recognition and Bonuses](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/year-end-recognition-and-bonuses/) - As we near the end of the year, you want to reward your team with year-end recognition and bonuses, especially those who have been with you through the craziness of the past several months. Before you start giving out money or gifts be sure you have clarity on your goal and budget. Are you wanting
- [Self Care for You and Your Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/self-care-for-you-and-your-staff/) - Self-care for you and your staff is important all year, however, in super busy peak times we know it can be challenging to remember to focus on self-care. Self-care isn't selfish. Let's look at some simple (and inexpensive) ways you can make sure you are taking care of your team and yourself so you don't burn
- [Getting Your Staff Ready for the Holidays](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/getting-your-staff-ready-for-the-holidays/) - With all the staffing challenges this year it's time to regroup and make sure you are getting your team ready for the holidays. It's the happiest time of the year...or maybe just the busiest!. It’s the perfect time to focus on preparing your staff and motivating your team to make the holiday season great. The holiday
- [Dog Parties are Fun, Fun, Fun!!!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-parties-fun-fun-fun/) - We are super excited this month to focus on your fun factor and we’re kicking the month off with super sized dog party FUN!!! A high fun factor is a great way to set your center apart from the competition so learn how to make your dog parties fun, fun, fun!!! We are fortunate to
- [Dog Party Graphics](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-party-graphics/) - Members looking to use images shared by Debbie Oliver in the Step-by-Step Guides to Dog Parties can access them in this blog post. Right click on image and select “Save Image As” to download image to your computer drive. EASY PARTY THEMES FIREMAN’S PARTY ANIMAL HOUSE ANIMAL HOUSE MEDIUM PARTY – KFC HARD PARTY –
- [How High is Your Fun Factor?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/high-fun-factor/) - All month we've been talking about increasing the fun factor at your pet care center. Safety is obviously important, but you need to balance the safety with fun. Don't be so safe that you don't let the dogs play at all! This week, we'll take one last look at some of the benefits of having
- [Fun Ideas for Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fun-ideas-business/) - The pet care business is a service-oriented business that does best with strong relationships: Relationships with the owners, with the dogs and between staff members. Games and fun help all these relationships grow stronger. Keep reading to find a helpful list of activities and a list of annual celebrations that will allow you to increase
- [Is Your Daycare Environment Enriching?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-environment-enriching/) - More than likely your daycare or off leash play environment is well supervised by well-trained staff members. And hopefully you have a safe play area that allows dogs to have fun. But is your daycare environment actually enriching to the dogs? Environmental enrichment is about more than just giving the dogs something to do. Good
- [Keeping Fido Fit During the Holidays](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/keeping-fido-fit-holidays/) - It's the most wonderful time of the year for some, but for people and pets, it can be a time of stress, little exercise and holiday happenings. With the average weight gain during the holiday season of 8 – 12 pounds (and that’s just humans….) Oh My Dog!!! That’s probably not the gift you or
- [Teaching Games to the Dogs and Staff (Part 1)](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/6133-2/) - This month we are talking about how to make your off-leash play environment enriching to the dogs. You can choose to incorporate activities based on dog difficulty level, staffing requirements or supply costs. But now what? You’ve got the equipment, you’ve got the space, but now how do you teach the dogs and staff? We’re
- [Teaching Games to the Dogs and Staff (Part 2)](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/teaching-games-dogs-staff-part-2/) - This is part 2 of our series on how to teach the dogs and staff to provide good quality environmental enrichment to the dogs. Check out part 1 where we provide the ground rules for the activities. Here are a few new ways to enjoy these activities. Freestyle – got folks who love to dance
- [The Games People Play…With Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/games-people-playwith-dogs/) - How many times have you heard someone say, “You work with dogs…that must be fun to play with dogs all day.” Most of us realize it’s not all fun and games, particularly if you are the owner of the facility. But we SHOULD be having fun with the dogs. This week, we’ll provide you with
- [Benefits of the Puppy Bubble](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benefits-puppy-bubble/) - It may surprise you that The Dog Gurus recommend puppies be viewed in a safety bubble. We definitely recommend social interaction for the puppy as young as 8 weeks of age. However, our reason for the bubble is so everyone in your center is on alert to ensure that ALL social experiences are positive. Keep
- [Creating a Puppy Socialization Package](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/creating-puppy-socialization-package/) - Want to generate more income while having fun? Then start a puppy program at your pet care facility. This month, we are focusing on how to help puppies under 4 months of age who show up at your facility. Let’s face it…getting a puppy can be daunting for new owners. Pet care facilities have helped
- [Other Programs for Puppies](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/other-programs-for-puppies/) - This month we’re talking about ways to help get puppies in your pet care center get started off on the right paw. The Dog Gurus are not fans of having puppies under 4 months of age attend a regular day of daycare. Instead, provide a better service to your pet parents by offering special programs
- [Potty Training Programs Create Loyal Clients](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/potty-training-programs-create-loyal-clients/) - How long has it been since you had a puppy in the house? It’s funny how quickly we forget the sleepness nights and focused effort required in housetraining a new puppy. As pet professionals you can be an important partner to new puppy parents on these issues, increase revenues and gain a loyal lifetime client.
- [Why Daycare 2.0 is a Win Financially](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-2-0-win-financially/) - The Dog Gurus have known at gut level that the Daycare 2.0 model is better for the dogs and your business. However, as a girl from Missouri with an accounting background it was time we spent time crunching the numbers and showing you the proof. Keep reading to find out what the numbers revealed when
- [Just 3 Numbers to Higher Profits](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/just-3-numbers-higher-profits/) - We understand that for most of you the numbers side of managing your business is last on the fun list and often ignored most of the year. This approach works as long as you are happy with your pay and your business financial results. We hear from a lot of you that making more money
- [Making Pricing Easy](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/making-pricing-easy/) - How do you set your prices? Many business owners survey local competitors and set prices either slightly lower or maybe a little more. This model is called competitor pricing and is one of the inputs that you should consider to your pricing, but not the only one. Keep reading to find out the other two
- [Packages Can Boost Profits](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/packages-can-boost-profits/) - While we definitely want you to have fun and engage with the dogs it's also important that your activities contribute to business profits. Depending on your business model extra activities can bring in sizable revenues. Keep reading for tips on creating activity packages to simplify client sales and also boost your business profits. Now that
- [Your Numbers Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/your-numbers-guide/) - Since we’re spending an entire month on your numbers it’s an important aspect to your business success. We know how easy it is to avoid your financial role, so we’re focused on providing tools to make your tasks quicker and easier. Keep reading for a bonus guide tool that will make it easier for you
- [Tis the Season!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tis-the-season/) - For most pet businesses there is a seasonality to the business cycles. This is actually one of the reasons that dog daycare became so popular. The peak season for daycare was a great fit to low seasons of dog boarding so kennels began adding the service. Keep reading for tips on how creating a calendar
- [Maximize Holiday Revenues](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/maximize-holiday-revenues/) - Peak periods are the perfect time to upsell other products and services. Review our upsell ideas in this blog to ensure you don’t miss out bringing extra cash to your business this holiday season. During your reservation call confirmations ask if an exit bath or spa service is needed if not already booked Confirm dogs
- [Revisiting Your Pricing Strategy](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/revisiting-pricing-strategy/) - One of the most important decisions you make a as a business owner is pricing your services. Most of you have probably set them too low. If you struggle with cash flow, stress over your bank balance or avoid making big purchases we encourage you to revisit your pricing strategy. Even if you don't do
- [Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Clients](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/holiday-gift-ideas-clients/) - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! This is a busy time of year for your business and also a wonderful opportunity to wow your clients with a fun holiday gift from your business (and their dog). To help get your creative juices flowing, we've compiled some ideas for you (complete with instructions). Some
- [Customer Experience is the New Marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/customer-experience-new-marketing/) - Recently we discussed how to get more pet parents to walk through your doors by developing veterinarian and customer referral programs. Now the focus shifts to acquiring and retaining those clients. You have heard us say it many times before that dog daycare has become a commodity. The industry is crowded with competition from the
- [Feline Behavior: Recognizing Signs of Stress in Cats](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/feline-behavior/) - Objective: Learn to identify signs of stress in cats to provide better care and support to your feline clients. Content: Recognizing signs of stress in cats is crucial for providing proper care and ensuring the well-being of cats in your care. Understanding the basics of cat behavior and the common signs of stress in cats
- [Emergency Response and Team Coordination](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/emergency-response-and-team-coordination/) - Objective: Review emergency protocols with your team and practice safety drills for emergency scenarios. Content: Emergency response and team readiness are vital for ensuring the safety of your staff, clients, and pets. This Lunch and Learn will discuss the importance of emergency preparedness and walk you through developing emergency safety plans for several scenarios. Once
- [Writing a Good Report Card](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/writing-a-good-report-card/) - Objective: Learn to communicate transparently with pet parents to keep dogs and staff safe and happy at your pet care facility. Content: Providing feedback to pet parents about their dog’s behavior can benefit your clients, staff, and the dogs in your care. This Lunch and Learn will address some of the critical elements of sending
- [Cross-Training Team Members for Versatility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/cross-training-team-members-for-versatility/) - Objective: Discover the benefits of cross-training employees to enhance your facility’s versatility and efficiency. Content: Cross-training your team members can benefit your facility by increasing scheduling versatility and expanding the services offered. In this Lunch and Learn, we will explore the concept of cross-training and its myriad benefits to your team. Then, your staff will
- [Set Your Business Up for Success in 2024: Your Comprehensive Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/set-your-business-up-for-success-in-2024-your-comprehensive-guide/) - Set Your Business Up for Success in 2024: Your Comprehensive Guide Welcome to our guide on positioning your business for success in 2024! In this blog post, we'lldelve into key areas such as financial management, goal setting, positive habits, and customer-centric strategies. Plus, don't miss out on expert tips and watch the video discussion for
- [Paws and Profits: A Year-End Review Guide for Pet Care Facility Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/paws-and-profits-a-year-end-review-guide-for-pet-care-facility-owners/) - Paws and Profits: A Year-End Review Guide for Pet Care Facility Owners As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time for pet care facility owners to reflect on thepast 12 months and strategize for a successful year ahead. The pet care industry is booming,and staying ahead requires a keen understanding of business
- [The Value of Operating with a Budget](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/the-value-of-operating-with-a-budget/) - Fourth quarter is HERE! Have you updated your budget? What? You don't have one? Let's talk about the value of operating from a budget. This is the best time of year to begin looking at plans for the future and how you are going to meet the goals you have for the upcoming year. Need
- [Heat Stress](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/heat-stress/) - Heat stress can affect any human or animal at anytime during the summer months. No one is immune from it even if you are a tough guy. First we must make sure our four legged friends have plenty of water and are in a cool environment. In order to take care of our four legged
- [Business Survival During Inflation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/business-survival-during-inflation/) - During today’s world of rising costs, you want to ensure your business survival during inflation. You need to ensure your business is set up to thrive despite today's financial landscape. Your focus should be on ways to strengthen your business, increase revenue, and maintain low payroll percentages despite rising costs and inflation. Following are some
- [Expert Insights on How to Hire the Best Employees](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/expert-insights-on-how-to-hire-the-best-employees/) - As one of your most significant investments, it’s absolutely crucial that you hire the best employees. You team should consist of talented employees that perform at a high level, fit into your company culture, and STAY. But, let’s be real. Finding the perfect candidate, let alone the employee selection process, is exhausting! We recently asked Andrea
- [A Healthy Advantage for Your Pets](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/healthy-competitive-advantage/) - Water is the foundation of health for us and our pets so it's the logical place to start on a road to optimum health and wellness. We can focus on two things regarding water: Quality and Quantity. Filtered or bottled water has been a growing part of our economy and the premise is a good
- [Diet Makes a Difference](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/diet-makes-difference/) - The food we eat is our source of fuel and contributor to our overall health. This also holds true for our pets so talk about diets. There are several ways you can significantly improve the overall health, behavior and quality of life for your pet when you feed them their optimal diet. Dog food aisles
- [Holistic Health Care Myths Busted](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/holistic-health-care-myths-busted/) - Living a healthy lifestyle is the premise of holistic care and we’re excited to share our favorite resources with you. Before we go too far we wanted to begin by busting common myths that surround holistic pet care. Holistic health is alternative medicine. False. Holistic Health is actually an approach to life. Rather than focusing
- [Enrichment Activities are Fun and Profitable](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/enrichment-activities-are-fun-and-profitable/) - No matter what kind of pet business you have, you can add enrichment activities to increase fun for the dogs and generate more revenue for your business. If you aren't doing enrichment, you should get on the band wagon of this industry trend. It’s been great to see our industry embrace enrichment activities. For many
- [Improve Retention with Better Onboarding and Training](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/improve-retention-with-better-onboarding-and-training/) - Better onboarding and training is a game changer in keeping your staff. We know hiring has been tough lately. So once you get a great employee you want to keep them. You may be surprised to learn that staff onboarding systems should be planned for a minimum of ninety days up to one year. Onboarding
- [First Aid and CPR Training for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/first-aid-and-cpr-training-for-your-pet-business/) - For years First Aid & CPR training has been on the radar of most pet care businesses. You’ve sent leadership to courses and possibly even trained your full team. How long has it been since the last training? Are your team’s skills up-to-date and ready to manage an emergency? We recently talked with Beth Bowers,
- [Fall Means it’s Time for Budget Planning for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fall-means-its-time-for-budget-planning-for-your-pet-business/) - As we enter the final quarter of 2021, it's time for budget planning for your pet business. Getting a head start will help you make all the key decisions about your business and set your business up for success. We are BIG proponents that a budget is the best financial tool for your business. It
- [Use Video to Make Your Pet Business Unstoppable](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/use-video-to-make-your-pet-business-unstoppable/) - Let's talk about how to use video to make your business unstoppable! It's no surprise that video is the most important medium these days. Have you noticed people rarely like to read anything anymore? We recently talked with video experts Steve and Jaime Geffner about some of the most important aspects of making your videos
- [How to Talk to Clients in Challenging Situations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-clients-in-challenging-situations/) - Things are crazy for the pet industry right now and you need to adapt to the busy, understaffed environment with systems that help you talk to clients in challenging situations. You can take great care of the pets AND the pet parents. But this means great communication is more important than ever and at the same
- [Eliminate the Stress in Raising Rates in Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/eliminate-the-stress-in-raising-rates-in-your-pet-business/) - Let's face it, we all want to eliminate the stress in raising rates because we all stress out when we need to increase pricing. However, raising rates is a requirement to remain a profitable pet business long-term. The key is to know your costs and profitability by the key services you offer. This method of
- [Forecasting Wage Increases for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/forecasting-wage-increases-for-your-pet-business/) - Now more than ever forecasting wage increases for your pet business has become a reality. The post-pandemic world is changing strategies for hiring including entry level salary rangers. In some areas minimum wage is being dictated by state policies and in other areas minimum wage increases are necessary to attract a good employee (and some places
- [Advanced Enrichment Skills to Play with the Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/advanced-enrichment-skills-to-play-with-the-dogs/) - Want some new ideas you can use in your enrichment program? Then you won’t want to miss our talk with Jamie Popper, CPDT-KA from Blue-9 Pet Products and learn about some great foundation skills that will set the pups up for future fun. Jamie shares tips on teaching three fun dog skills anyone can do
- [Finding Great Employees](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/finding-great-employees/) - Finding great employees can be a challenge. The reality of finding those A-team players is understanding that having solid average staff members is good for your business. What you really want to avoid are the low performers that have a negative impact on your team. The goal of your hiring process is to identify the future
- [Preparing for the Fourth of July](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/preparing-for-the-fourth-of-july/) - It’s summer time! Let the festivities begin! The Fourth of July. Celebrating America’s Independence. Picnics. Parades. Fireworks. Hotdogs. Lost dogs. Whoa…what? Yes… lost dogs. The celebrations surrounding the Fourth of July create the perfect storm that can lead to lost dogs. Keep your dog safe this holiday by considering a few of these tips. Download your own copy of
- [Hire the Best Staff for Your Pet Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hire-the-best-staff-for-your-pet-business/) - Now more than ever you may be asking yourself how to hire the best staff for your pet business. What's working and what's not in today's post-pandemic world of hiring? We have seen some changes in our industry regarding starting pay, bonuses and incentives to build a great team. Have you adjusted your thoughts on
- [Setting Personal Work Goals](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/setting-personal-work-goals-2016/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. Use these Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional resources or have a great resource to share with your fellow members. Setting Personal Work Goals Share 2-3 business goals you set for the
- [How to Initiate Play with Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/initiate-play-dogs/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. Use these Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional resources or have a great resource to share with your fellow members. How to Initiate Play with Dogs This topic is a great
- [Dog Greeting Behaviors](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dog-greeting-behaviors/) - The Dog Gurus want to make continuing education a little easier for you. Use these Lunch and Learn topic ideas and discussion items. Let us know in comments if you have questions or want additional resources or have a great resource to share with your fellow members. Dog Greeting Behaviors Ask your staff to list polite greeting behaviors
- [Get the most out of hiring and training your staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/get-the-most-out-of-hiring-and-training-your-staff/) - Do you feel like you are constantly hiring and training employees and want to know how to Get the most out of hiring and training your staff? Do you wonder if the time and effort is worth the expense? Training new team members is an investment of time and money for your business. Make sure
- [Preparing to Hire New Pet Care Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/preparing-to-hire-new-pet-care-staff/) - As pet business bookings begin to increase this is a great time to start preparing to hire new pet care staff. You want to get new team members in place early so you are prepared for an increase in business. Take a look at your goals and revamp your hiring process to bring on A-team
- [Top Three Secrets to Hiring for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/top-three-secrets-to-hiring-for-your-pet-care-business/) - Do you know the top three secrets to hiring for your pet care business? Do you know how chemistry, character and competence impact your hiring decisions? Do you know which one is most important (it's NOT competence!!). Learning to choose the best team members to right from the start can dramatically improve the team culture at
- [3 Marketing Tools That Will Save You Time](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/3-marketing-tools-will-save-time/) - In an earlier post I mentioned the key marketing strategy you can’t ignore and discussed why building relationships needed to be a key component of your marketing. These days social media makes this all easy. But even when things are easy, they still take time. And you have to be intentional on how you spend
- [Do You Speak Dog?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/do-you-speak-dog/) - Are you ready to have fun and stand out at your next community event? Last week we shared tips on creating a marketing strategy for your events. Now we want to help you have fun while you establish yourself as the canine body language expert. As a member of The Dog Gurus we know you
- [Eliminate Frustration & Enjoy the Holidays!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/eliminate-frustration-enjoy-holidays/) - This may seem like an impossible dream since holidays are peak season for pet care services. This month The Dog Gurus want to help you prepare and create fun for your clients and your team. The first frustration we want to help remove is the last-minute reservation requests from existing clients. There is still time
- [Free and Easy Graphics Creator](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/free-easy-graphics-creator/) - Want to create easy graphics for your business? Check out Canva. We've been using Canva to create loads of fun graphics for social media, our website, flyers and more. It's easy to use and most of the features are absolutely free. Add you logos to your own photos or create other graphics for your business.
- [Formalize Your Veterinarian Referral Marketing Program](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/formalize-veterinarian-referral-marketing/) - Successfully market your business to local veterinarians by developing relationships. These tools help you formalize your efforts, clarify your strategy, and track the results. Introduction to Veterinarian Referral Marketing from The Dog Gurus on Vimeo. Veterinarian Referral Networking Veterinarian Referral Networking Tracking Sheet Veterinarian Referral Networking Tracking Sheet (Excel version)
- [Are You Ready for Peak Season?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/are-you-ready-for-peak-season/) - Memorial Day has just passed and serves as the peak summer season kick-off. You’ve probably started your peak season hiring and training, but have you prepared financially? Yeah! You are still reading and I promise that you’ll be grateful in September when you can have an extra $10 grand in the bank. I want you to spend
- [Increase Your Pay by Wearing Your Financial Hat](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/increase-your-pay-by-wearing-your-financial-hat/) - As business owners we wear a lot of hats but some of them we tend to keep on the hat rack more than others. If you are like most of your peers, your financial hat is one that does not get much wear. It's tough to compete with the operational hat because finances are not
- [Remove the Angst in Raising Rates](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/remove-the-angst-in-raising-rates/) - One of the best pieces of advice I received as a new pet business owner was from a veteran during a trade association meeting. He told me to raise my rates every year. The increase does not need to be a big amount, but the consistency would condition clients to expect rates to change on
- [Value of Role Play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/value-role-play-2/) - We've loved our month on communication and unexpectedly learned something new ourselves. The value that role play can serve in improving your communication and customer satisfaction. You will definitely want to keep reading so you can watch as The Dog Gurus put themselves in your shoes having difficult client conversations. As a business owner focused
- [Listen in on Client Conversations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/listen-client-conversations-2/) - Do you ever wonder how to talk to clients? While The Dog Gurus were together at a conference, we took the opportunity to do a couple of role play scenarios so you could listen in on a few possible client conversations. Feel free to listen to this audio recording and hear how The Dog Gurus
- [Talking to Clients about Daycare](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/talking-clients-daycare/) - We love surprises and giving gifts so when our members make a request we work very hard to respond to you. Our surprise gifts this month are focused on helping you explain the off-leash play environment to your clients and set your program apart from your competition. We have prepared three different resource formats that
- [Communications Skills Refresher](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/communications-skills-refresher/) - The root cause of most relationship problems is a failure to effectively communicate. This is fairly common knowledge so why do we continue to have staff drama, upset clients and frustrated business owners? When we get busy we may decide we don’t have time for meetings or multi-task our way through the day. It may seem
- [Firing a Client](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/firing-a-client/) - I’m a huge fan of Michael Hyatt. I read his blogs, have his books, am a member of his Platform University, and I follow him on social media. Ok…so maybe I’m a groupie! At any rate, he’s a terrific virtual mentor. Imagine my surprise when I saw his article about firing a client, just a
- [Communication Clarity Saves Time & Money](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/communication-clarity-saves-time-money/) - Have you ever thought about how much time in your business is wasted as a result of communication breakdowns? In this series we are sharing ideas that will save you time and money by adding clarity in your communication system. Our video will help you get started clarifying your communication preferences for emergency situations. You
- [Creating a Dream Team in Your Center](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/creating-dream-team-center/) - What would your staff dream team look like? We want you to hold that vision as your goal, not the impossible dream. Many people’s dream job is to work with pets so the key is to create an opportunity in your business to make this dream come true for high performing team members. Building a
- [Don’t I Just Play With Dogs All Day?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dont-just-play-dogs-day/) - Employees new to off-leash play often envision an easy job playing with dogs all day. It can be challenging to communicate the detailed requirements of the daycare counselor role to new employees. We want to help our members do this, so your surprise bonus item is a version of our employee assessment modified for new
- [Hiring Best Practices From Members](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/hiring-best-practices-members/) - We LOVE our members! You are a very supportive and sharing group of business owners. We are excited to share a collection of interviewing and staff hiring tools. This month’s surprise bonus item demonstrates the power of your community and we thank you for sharing your favorite resources. Keep reading to access your bonus. Click
- [Is Daycare Counselor the Right Job for You?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/daycare-counselor-right-job/) - Do you have the right staff leading your playgroups? Does your team have and use the key skills required to keep dogs safe? Our consulting experience has consistently shown that a pattern of dog injuries indicate one of two root problems: Wrong dogs in playgroup or Staff are not viewed as leaders by the dogs
- [3 Steps to Attract & Retain High Performers](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/attract-and-retain/) - The good news is attracting and retaining high performing staff members is not just about the money. People that share your mission and have a passion for pets are looking for opportunities to work in an environment they enjoy. Keep reading for the three steps you can take to attract your dream team of high
- [Tips on Preparing to Hire](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tips-preparing-hire/) - 1 Preparing For Hiring from The Dog Gurus on Vimeo. Sample job descriptions are included as a bonus that you can download.
- [Unique and Creative Hiring Techniques from Your Fellow Members!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/unique-and-creative-hiring-techniques-from-your-fellow-members/) - One of our favorite resources is our members! Thanks so much to our Hiring Panel and to everyone that participated in our call this month (April 2018). Below is a summary of some of the best tips. Enjoy! 1. Define your company culture: Hire based on shared values and the candidate’s ability to fit in
- [3 Tips for Setting Profitable Pricing for Your Pet Care Business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/3-tips-for-setting-profitable-pricing-for-your-pet-care-business/) - Setting profitable pricing is one of the most important decisions you make for your pet care business. How you determine your pricing is often the difference between feeling financial frustration and confidence in your cash flow. We have three quick tips that can set you on the path to profitable pricing. Raise rates every year
- [Make Holistic Animal Care Fun & Simple!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/make-holistic-animal-care-fun-simple/) - As more people are seeking a natural approach for their own health, it is no surprise that many are doing the same for their animals. In response, a growing number of animal professionals are offering holistic services that can increase the welfare of the animals in their care along with their reputation and revenue. Holistic
- [A New Take on Dog Play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/new-take-dog-play/) - There are not many dog daycares that will be celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2015 and we would wager only one that is starting the year with a brand new format for dog play. Debbie Oliver, founder of Miss Daisy’s Dog Camp, is a very early pioneer in dog daycare and as you learned this
- [FAQs About Changing Your Daycare Program](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/faqs-changing-daycare-program/) - We love all the conversation and emails we’ve been having about Daycare 2.0! It’s obvious that many people are interested in trying something new. Of course, if you can make more money for less work AND keep the dogs and clients happier, who wouldn’t want to make a change? But we’ve had lots of questions
- [Marketing Daycare 2.0](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/marketing-daycare-2-0/) - This month we’ve been focusing on Daycare 2.0, a new model for dog daycare. We are encouraging all The Dog Gurus members to try the new model with at least a small group of dogs and see for yourself the added benefits of running your daycare differently. Our bonus item this month was an implementation
- [Miss Daisy’s Canine Activity Center Model](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/miss-daisys-canine-activity-center-model/) - Debbie Oliver is six months into her transition from a traditional dog daycare to a canine activity center business model. In an earlier post Debbie shared her plans for this transition and in this post provides an update six months into her new business model. We think you’ll find her experience helpful as you explore whether
- [Three Steps to Pricing Daycare 2.0 Services](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/three-steps-pricing-daycare-2-0-services/) - Do you love the idea of implementing daycare 2.0, but not sure how to price services in the new model? As much as we love the model for how the dog’s benefit we only want you to implement it as a profitable program in your business. Keep reading to learn the three steps to pricing
- [Toys, Treats, and Trinkets for Daycare 2.0](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/toys-treats-trinkets-daycare-2-0/) - Last month we discussed changing the model of daycare from the routine daylong daycare model to one that is more specialized, more high touch, and can generate more revenue. You want to be on the cutting edge of this industry and we want to help get you there! Be sure to check out a previous
- [A New Standard of Care](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/new-standard-care-2/) - If you could make more revenue using the same space, the same staff and the same number of dogs you have now would you do it? Of course you would! What if I also told you that making more revenue is also healthier for the dogs and safer for everyone at your facility? What if
- [A Peek Inside Member Facilities: Daycare 2.0](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/peek-inside-member-facilities-daycare-2-0/) - An important benefit of your membership in The Dog Gurus Community is learning from the combined experience of others in this industry. Many center policies are the result of lessons learned from mistakes we’ve made or from the successes in things that have worked extremely well. In "A Peek Inside member Facilities" feature we are asking
- [Pet Care Budgeting](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-care-budgeting/) - You have a pet care business up and running- congratulations! Whether you took over an existing dog grooming business or built your doggie day care from the ground up, learning how to make or keep your business sustainable is important. Every 6 months to a year, you should assess the current state of your business.
- [Save Time with Meetings?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/save-time-meetings/) - You may be surprised to learn that having more meetings can actually save time in your business. Our video explains why and outlines the meeting types and frequency we recommend to boost proactive communication and teamwork in your business. Hold Productive Meetings from The Dog Gurus on Vimeo.
- [One Secret to Employee Retention](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/one-secret-employee-retention/) - There are many reasons why employees quit their jobs. You cannot control a lot of them, but what if there was a common secret thread that could reduce your employee turnover. Would you give it a try? A recent blog posted the 6 Biggest Reasons Why Employees Quit Their New Jobs as: Lack of opportunities
- [Making Up Selling a Win/Win](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/making-selling-winwin/) - You’ve spent money and time marketing your business to get a new client. But don’t stop there. Many businesses miss out on the big opportunity existing clients have to increase your revenues. Are you actively marketing or up selling to your current clients? Now, we’re not talking the “would you like fries with that” annoying
- [What Pet Care Consumers Want: Five Insights for a New Year](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/pet-care-consumers-want-five-insights-new-year/) - The Dog Gurus are delighted to share this guest blog post written by Carmen Rustenbeck, Director and Founder of our industry trade association, The International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA). In a survey conducted in early 2017, consumers were asked what their experiences were with veterinarians, boarding facilities, and pet sitters. For all of
- [5 Tips for Improving Your Communication Culture](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/5-tips-improving-communication-culture/) - I often think about all the mornings I walked into my successful and profitable pet care center with a sense of dread. We had a thriving and happy client base, a well-trained staff and more than enough happy dogs romping in the play yards. So, what was so awful? I knew when I entered, the
- [Does Membership Have its Privileges?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/does-membership-have-its-privileges/) - How do you feel being a member of The Dog Gurus? Our goal is for you to feel the value received from your membership far exceeds the fees you pay. We also want you to feel part of a community that understands the issues, frustrations and responsibilities you have as a provider of off-leash play.
- [Why Smaller Playgroup Sizes Matter](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/smaller-playgroup-sizes-matter/) - The Dog Gurus believe only a small portion of family pet dogs actually enjoy off-leash play. (We estimate that less than 40% of dogs really love to play with other dogs.) This is the reason we love strong evaluation processes that help to identify those dogs that love dog-to-dog play. But the structure of your
- [The Key Marketing Strategy You Can't Ignore](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/key-marketing-strategy-cant-ignore/) - Marketing is a word we hear all the time. We sometimes equate it with other words such as publicity, advertising, promotion, or sales. I want to equate it to a different word that has helped me do a better job of marketing….that word is relationships. When you are in a service-based business such as the
- [Escape! Be Prepared In Advance](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/escape-prepared-advance/) - “We’ve lost a dog,” said Kathy, interrupting my ‘good morning’ phone greeting. Kathy and all her dog daycare staff were graduates of my Operation Find Fido Workshop. “What happened?” I asked. “Skye jumped both our four foot internal walls, ran through the main inside door just as a client opened it and then slipped out
- [Prevention is Key To Healthy and Safe Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/prevention-key-healthy-safe-dogs/) - April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month. Statistics show that most dogs will need first aid or emergency veterinary intervention due to sudden illness or injury at least once in their lifetimes. The most important part of first aid education is learning how to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. You can
- [Making the Most of Community Events](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/making-community-events/) - Have you considered participating in local community events to promote your business? Perhaps there is an upcoming dog walk, pet fair, school fundraiser, or other local event that invites merchants to participate. Is this something you should do? How do you make it worthwhile? Those are the issues we want to consider this month as
- [The Importance of Market Segmentation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/importance-market-segmentation/) - Now more than ever, information comes at us quickly. I get hundreds of emails a day, multiple text messages, pop up ads on my computer, and even folks messaging via Facebook. You know the feeling, right? We are literally bombarded with information. That’s the challenge we all face when we try marketing to our prospective
- [Have Fun with Pup Paint](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fun-pup-paint/) - You know we love to have fun with our pups so we're happy to share Pet Paint, a new product that is like face-painting for dogs, but on their bodies. Of course anything we recommend has to be very safe and tolerated easily if not enjoyed by the pups. We think this product succeeds in
- [How Successful is Your Marketing?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/how-successful-is-your-marketing/) - The marketing space is very crowded so it is more challenging to be heard and stand out. This makes it even more important to measure the performance of your marketing to confirm your efforts are effective. Keep reading for our tips on a basic set of marketing performance measures. New Client Acquisition Let’s get started
- [2 Strategies for Effective Communication](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/2-strategies-effective-communication/) - While The Dog Gurus often talk about the best ways to deal with dogs in daycare, it’s every bit as important to learn the best ways to help those on the other end of the leash: the pet parent. Dogs are like family members and when you need to convey difficult news to a pet
- [Done for You Holiday Graphics](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/done-for-you-holiday-graphics/) - Need some help reminding your clients to make their boarding, daycare, or grooming reservations for the holidays? We've created some graphics you can use! Just follow these easy steps: Click on any of the graphics below to open it in a larger format. Download the image and save it to your computer. Use it in email,
- [More Done for You Holiday Graphics](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/done-holiday-graphics/) - The holidays are a good time to remind your clients you appreciate them! We want to help you save time by preparing a few graphics you can use! Just download these to your computer and use them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or any social media accounts, email, or your company newsletter. Feel free to add
- [Get Ready for Summer with these Graphics](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/get-ready-summer-graphics/) - Spring is in full bloom which means...summer is just around the corner. Get a head start on your summer promotions with these ready-made graphics. This month, we'll show you some tips and tricks to add your logo and website to simple graphics like these. Promote your business to new clients while you also remind current
- [The Value of Assertive Communication](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/value-assertive-communication/) - It does not take long operating a pet business to figure out that the pets are the easy part. More challenging is successfully handling people issues. Regardless of whether the issue is related to a client or an employee the key to successful resolution is great communication skills. There are a lot of skills that contribute to
- [Looking Beyond Peak Season](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/looking-beyond-peak-season/) - Summer is here! It’s likely that your enclosures are full, you have a growing waitlist and the only thing you can think about is getting through the days ahead. A discussion about marketing this month may appear to be poorly timed, but please continue to read on. We know you’re busy, so this will be
- [Keys to Effective Employee Coaching](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/keys-effective-employee-coaching/) - Employee discussions are often dreaded conversations so it’s easy to put them off. You have a business to run and tire of your role as referee in employee drama. We agree you should no longer be the referee, but rather the coach. Keep reading to learn how changing your role to coach makes employee discussions
- [Millennials are on Your Dream Team](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/millennials-dream-team/) - One area that business owners seem to readily agree on is that managing millennials is a challenge. Shared areas of frustrations include their sense of entitlement, inability to accept feedback, brash communication style and lack of work ethic. It may be comforting to know that a two-year study confirms all of these as common generational
- [Positive Reinforcement: It's Not Just For Dogs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/positive-reinforcement-not-just-dogs/) - I’m a crossover trainer which means I started out training using choke collars, prong collars and other aversive measures, but eventually “crossed over” to a new method training most commonly known as positive reinforcement training. You can learn more about my story on my blog. The premise of positive reinforcement training is simply this: What
- [Managing Conflict to Avoid Eruptions](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/managing-conflict-avoid-eruptions/) - While it would be nice to totally avoid conflict, in reality it is part of our human experience. So our secondary goal is to manage conflict so it is only a disruption to our business and not destructive. Keep reading to learn the keys to managing conflict to avoid eruptions and destruction to your pet
- [Personalize Appreciation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/personalize-appreciation/) - You spend time recognizing your team for their hard work, yet you feel something is missing. They still don't seem engaged in their jobs, what has gone wrong? Your staff may feel recognized for the work they've done, but not appreciated or valued. Initially you may think that is impossible, but studies have shown that
- [Assessing Your Candidates](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/assessing-your-interviews/) - 2 Interviewing from The Dog Gurus on Vimeo. Check out The Dog Gurus recommendations on an interview process and sample questions here. Sample ads for a Daycare Attendant and Supervisor can be downloaded here. Download The Dog Gurus candidate interview assessment matrix.
- [Job Interviews](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/job-interviews/) - Check out your job interview templates. Use these to make your hiring process professional from start to finish (even for the candidate who doesn’t get the job!)
- [Make a Good First Impression - Orientation](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/make-good-first-impression-orientation/) - 3 Orientation from The Dog Gurus on Vimeo. Increase the retention rate of your new hires by having a formal employee orientation process. In this video we highlight why it's important to spend time planning a great "first day" along with tips that will help you customize a system for your business.
- [Benevolent Leadership...with your staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/benevolent-leadership-with-your-staff/) - Think back over your work career and the “bad bosses” you encountered. From today’s perspective what did you learn from them? What traits did they share? Fortunately I only had two “bad bosses” and in hindsight recognize that both of them did not see or get me as an individual. They were focused on their own career
- [What Can Our Business Learn from Family?](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/what-can-our-business-learn-from-family/) - June always reminds me of family. Yesterday was my mom’s birthday and Father’s Day. So June brings thoughts of family and me wishing Texas and Missouri were a little closer geographically. Since living over 1,200 miles away from my family I’ve created family-type bonds with friends and even in my business. Working in an industry based on
- [Increase Your Paycheck While Drinking Coffee](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/increase-paycheck-drinking-coffee/) - January is a great time of year to make the decision to take control of your pay and the financial results of your business. Most of you started pet centers to make money and follow your passion for working with pets. So The Dog Gurus could not spend a month focused on working on versus
- [The Business with the Biggest Heart Wins!](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/business-biggest-heart-wins/) - Do you ever wonder why some customers never come back? You thought they were happy but then you hear they’ve become a regular of your direct competitor. How about being blindsided after losing an employee who was an integral part of your team? Naturally, in both of these situations, you’re going to stop and wonder
- [Customer Service that Breeds Customer Trust](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/customer-service-breeds-customer-trust/) - At a recent Pet Industry conference in Denver, I had the pleasure of speaking to a group of Pet Industry business owners and managers on the topic of creating, promoting and protecting their brand. While it’s common to think of branding in terms of marketing collateral, successful pet care businesses understand that fancy logos, luxury
- [Turn Complaints into Compliments](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/turn-complaints-compliments/) - Do you want to know how pet care customers really feel about the experiences they have with pet care providers? Do you want to know exactly how customers want to be treated? I hope you do and if so, read Yelp! Believe me, I never want to promote a site that has been accused of
- [Boost Profits with Retail Sales Success](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/boost-profits-retail-sales-success/) - “It must be so awesome to have a business where you get to play all day with dogs”! How many times have you heard this statement? I bet you chuckle and maybe even roll your eyes at times because while, yes- pursuing a business around your passion for dogs is fabulous, it does not come
- [Dog Daycare Service Agreement Template for Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/service-agreements-dog-daycare/) - Protect your pet care business with our customizable service agreements dog daycare template. Ensure safety and clarity for every visit!

## Pages

- [Home](https://thedoggurus.com/) - The Summer Set Up SaleStart building now for your biggest second half of the year yet.Get StartedGet a Complimentary Fit Assessment Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Playbook & TemplatesAI Companion Growth RoadmapsStaff Training HubWhether you’re launching or scaling. We’ve got you covered.0–1 stage Launching Avoid costly mistakes with our Launch Blueprints Open with confidence using proven
- [Owner Products](https://thedoggurus.com/pricing/owner-products/) - The complete system for pet care owners to grow and scale. AI business companion, expert coaching, expert library, online courses & staff training.
- [Staff Products](https://thedoggurus.com/pricing/staff-products/) - Give your dog kennel staff the confidence to succeed from day one. Build skills, safety, and consistency across your team with proven training programs.
- [Pricing](https://thedoggurus.com/pricing/)
- [Contact Us](https://thedoggurus.com/contact-us/) - Contact us about our all-in-one Platform to launch and grow your pet businessWe respond to emails within 24 hours on weekdays. If you have not heard back from us in that time, please check your spam filters. If nothing is in your spam folder, please call us.Get a Complimentary Fit AssessmentTrusted by 1,500+ pet care
- [Preferred Vendors](https://thedoggurus.com/preferred-vendors/) - Preferred VendorsLooking for equipment, flooring, cleaning supplies, software or other items for your facility? You’ll find some of our favorite and most recommended vendors below.Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide ANIMAL ENCLOSURESASSOCIATIONS & CERTIFICATIONSBANKING & LENDINGCLEANING SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENTDAYCARE & LODGING EQUIPMENTENRICHMENT SUPPLIESFACILITY DESIGN & CONSTRUCTIONINSURANCELEGALMARKETINGRETAIL SUPPLIESSELL YOUR BUSINESSSOFTWARESTAFF RECRUITMENTAnimal EnclosuresAssociations, Certifications & EducationBanking
- [Media Hits](https://thedoggurus.com/media-hits/) - The Dog Gurus Press & NewsRead press and news articles about The Dog Gurus.Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide For up to the minute news, follow The Dog Gurus on LinkedIn or Facebook. Video/TV PALShow Ep #34 – Ruffly Speaking with Robin Bennett 05/09/2022 BLK9tv Dog Talk Interview with Robin Bennett 06/29/2021 Facebook Live
- [Owner Insights](https://thedoggurus.com/pricing/owner-insights/) - The complete system for pet care owners to grow and scale. AI business companion, expert coaching, expert library, online courses & staff training.
- [Podcast](https://thedoggurus.com/podcast/) - The Dog Gurus PodcastTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Listen to More Podcast Episodes
- [Blog](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/) - The Dog Gurus BlogNumber one in staff training and business education and coaching for the pet care industry.Search by topic:OperationsLeadershipEnrichmentFinancesMarketingCustomer ServicePet Health 2025 Medals for Event 3: Gate Boundary Handlers were competing against handlers of a similar experience level. Medals will be awarded based on the percentage of dogs successfully recalled. Personal medal awards are
- [Free Resources](https://thedoggurus.com/free-resources/) - Free Resources to grow your pet care businessExplore our library of free guides, checklists, and expert-led trainings designed to help you launch, grow, and scale. Ten Truths Every Pet Care Business Owner Should KnowDiscover ten expert backed truths you can start putting to work in your business today. Learn MoreThree New Revenue Streams for Pet Care BusinessesDownload and discover three
- [Meet the Gurus](https://thedoggurus.com/about/) - Meet the Dog GurusLeading the Pack in Pet Care EducationGet a Complimentary Fit AssessmentTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide The Dog Gurus isn’t just another pet care education company—we’re the pioneers. As the longest-standing education provider in the industry, we’ve helped countless owners and teams train staff, build thriving businesses, and tackle any challenge
- [Scale Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/scale/) - Build an Attractive Business Worth BuyingMaximize your business value and prepare for your next chapterGet StartedTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Built by Industry Leaders, for Industry Leaders.Build a business that someone else wants to buy. Whether you’re expanding to multiple locations, franchising, or preparing for a high-value exit, we provide the systems and
- [Growth Intensive](https://thedoggurus.com/growth/) - Take Back Control of Your Pet Care BusinessStop putting out fires and start building the profitable business you deserve.Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Built by Experts. Backed by Community.Transform your daily chaos into systems that drive consistent excellence and profitability. Build a business that works, even when you’re not there. Real Results for
- [Pet Care Business Launch Formula](https://thedoggurus.com/launch/) - Launch Your Pet Care Business with ConfidenceSkip the $10K mistakes and open faster with expert guidance every step of the wayTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Built For Pet Business Owners, By Pet Business OwnersThe only AI-companion built exclusively to help pet-care businesses move from guesswork to growth. Open your business confidently with a
- [Train Your Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/staff/) - Transform Your Pet Care Team into Your Greatest AssetReduce training time while building a safer, more consistent operationGet started todayTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Built by Pet Care Pros, For Pet Care Teams.Turn high turnover and inconsistent service into a well-trained team that delivers exceptional care every single day. Your Team Challenges Are
- [June 2026 – Promotion Thank You](https://thedoggurus.com/june-2026-promo-thank-you/) - Thank you for joining The Dog Gurus! We’re excited to have you. Our team will be in touch shortly with everything you need to access your account and get started.
- [Call Booked | Thank You](https://thedoggurus.com/call-booked-thank-you/) - Thank you for booking a call.We look forward to chatting with you soon and helping you take the next steps toward your goals. In the meantime, explore more about how to prepare to make the most of your call and learn more about how we can help pet care entrepreneurs like you.Trusted by 1,500+ pet
- [Member Login](https://thedoggurus.com/login/) - LoginDog Gurus PlatformStaff Essentials & Staff AdvancedLaunchGrowProAI-Powered PlatformLibrary Basic VIP All Access Members Library Trick of the Month Library & Trick of the MonthNeed help logging in? Submit a request via our Help Center.
- [Home (Lightbox Thank You)](https://thedoggurus.com/lightbox-thankyou/) - The all-in-one Platform to launch and grow your pet businessTurn your pet business into a $1M+ success story with expert systems and support.Book a strategy callTrusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Running a pet business is hard. But it doesn’t have to be.OverviewPlaybook & TemplatesAI CompanionGrowth RoadmapsStaff Training HubOverviewPlaybook & TemplatesAI CompanionGrowth RoadmapsStaff Training
- [The Dog Gurus Library](https://thedoggurus.com/dashboard/) - The Dog Gurus LibraryThe library has a new look and will be organized differently from how you are used to it. We are hoping this new layout makes it easier to navigate. The Dog Gurus LibraryTools & ResourcesRequires Library Subscription Trick of the MonthTrick of the MonthRequires TOTM Purchase Searching for your Learning Management System?Click
- [Trick of the Month Home Page](https://thedoggurus.com/totm-home-page/) - Trick of the MonthYour purchase of Trick of the Month provides a fun and engaging activity for the dogs in your center. Use our tip sheet to ensure the activities are also a great revenue generator and profitable for your business. To help with your calculations for pricing download our Pricing Excel workbook with Sample
- [Vault Login](https://thedoggurus.com/vault-login/) - Library Login Username: Password:
- [Error: Cannot Log In To Library](https://thedoggurus.com/error-cannot-log-in-to-vault/) - Oops! You’re not logged in to the Library.Please login to access the library. LOGIN
- [Dog Training for the Non-Dog Trainer](https://thedoggurus.com/dog-training-for-the-non-dog-trainer/) - Dog Training for the Non-Dog TrainerGet StartedHow does positive reinforcement work?What make a good rewardWhy Use a ClickerTeaching a BehaviorUsing a LureReducing the lureAdding the cueTeaching a Behavior Cheat Sheet Sit, Come, Loose Leash WalkingTeaching and using sitTeaching ComeLoose Leash WalkingSit, Come, Loose Leash Walking Cheat Sheet Tips & Tricks on Training DogsGeneralizationThe 3 D’s of
- [Newsletter Signup](https://thedoggurus.com/newsletter-signup/) - Newsletter Signup
- [Email signup thank you](https://thedoggurus.com/email-signup-thank-you/) - Thank YouThanks for signing up for our email newsletter! Check your inbox soon for news and updates from The Dog Gurus.
- [Opt-out preferences](https://thedoggurus.com/opt-out-preferences/) - This page was last changed on July 13, 2026, last checked on July 13, 2026 and applies to citizens and legal permanent residents of the United States. 1. Introduction Our website, https://thedoggurus.com (hereinafter: “the website”) uses cookies and other related technologies (for convenience all technologies are referred to as “cookies”). Cookies are also placed by
- [](https://thedoggurus.com/thank-successfully-unsubscribed-list/) - You have successfully unsubscribed from this promotional list.
- [Opt In Thank You Page](https://thedoggurus.com/thank-you-opt-in/) - Thank you — your download is on the wayWe’ve sent your free resource to the email you provided. Please allow a few minutes for delivery. Don’t see it? Check Promotions/Spam, and add support@thedoggurus.com to your contacts. Get 1:1 advice on which Dog Gurus Subscription is right for youLet’s transform your pet-care business together. On you’re
- [Managing Playgroups](https://thedoggurus.com/managing-playgroups/) - Managing Play GroupsThe Dog Gurus Managing Play Groups Resources: Playstyle Management Chart Playstyle Mix Chart Match The Dog Game Problem Behavior Management Guide Playgroup Staff Roles and Schedules Sample Playgroup Rotation Schedule
- [Evaluating Your Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/evaluating-your-facility/) - Evaluating Your FacilityThe Dog Gurus Facility Evaluation Resources: The Four E’s of Excellence The Four E’s Assessment Checklists Minimum Standards for Lodging, Dog Training and Spa Services Stand Apart with PACCC Certification Daycare Standards Summary List and Resources The Four E’s of Excellence Online Course (available FREE to All Access Members) Client Feedback Form for Dog
- [Handling and Preventing Injuries](https://thedoggurus.com/handling-and-preventing-injuries/) - Handling & Preventing InjuriesThe Dog Gurus Handling & Preventing Injuries Resources: Dog Incident Checklist Dog Incident Assessment Instructions Incident Report Form Ian Dunbar Dog Bite Scale Dog Bites and Fights Audio Presentation Dog Fight Check List Dog Fight Policy
- [Hiring and Evaluating Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/hiring-and-evaluating-staff/) - Hiring and Evaluating StaffThe Dog Gurus Staffing Resources: Hiring High Performers New Employee Performance Checklist and Guidelines New Staff Knowledge and Skills Training Checklist Experienced Employee Performance Checklist and Guidelines Leadership Exercises Hiring Ideas from The Dog Gurus Members Powerful Communication Skills Guide Nurturing Thought Leadership in Your Pet Care Business: Empowering Your Team to
- [Dog Training and Other Services](https://thedoggurus.com/dog-training-and-other-services/) - Dog Training & Other ServicesThe Dog Gurus Dog Training & Other Services Resources: How to Get Started as a Dog Trainer Adding a Membership Program to Your Business How to Talk to Clients in Challenging Situations2021-09-20T21:53:55-04:00By Susan Briggs|Customer Service|Things are crazy for the pet industry right now and you need to adapt to the [...]Read
- [Tools and Resources](https://thedoggurus.com/tools-and-resources/) - Tools & ResourcesWelcome to The Dog Gurus Library! Thank you for joining us in keeping dogs safe! Please enjoy the resources that we have to offer. Have fun implementing new ideas and tactics into your facility! Should you have any questions, issues, or ideas, we would love to hear from you at: support@thedoggurus.comTrusted by 1,500+
- [Privacy, Terms, & Conditions](https://thedoggurus.com/privacy-terms-conditions/) - Privacy Policy, Terms & ConditionsRefresh your coffee for reading all the legal stuff we have to tell you:Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Privacy Policy By accessing TheDogGurus.com, you acknowledge and fully understand TheDogGurus.com privacy policy and freely consent to the information collection and use practices described in this website privacy statement. The Dog
- [Webinar - Paws to Profits](https://thedoggurus.com/ondemand-webinar-paws-to-profits/) - Paws to ProfitsOn Demand Webinar: Discover essential guidelines and top tips for effectively establishing your dream multimillion-dollar venture.Trusted by 1,500+ pet care owners worldwide Turning Your Dream into a Multimillion-Dollar Pet Resort. Join industry leaders Terwisscha Construction, Live Oak Bank and The Dog Gurus, on this webinar on launching your ideal pet care facility. Discover
- [THE GROWTH LAB: Systems, Leadership & Financials That Attract Capital](https://thedoggurus.com/growth-lab/) - The Growth LabThe Growth LabSystems, Leadership & Financials That Attract CapitalReplace chaos with clarity—before you invest in a second mistake. Systems, Leadership & Financials That Attract CapitalReplace chaos with clarity—before you invest in a second mistake. Location | Date | TimeLive Oak Bank Campus 1757 Tiburon Dr Wilmington, NC 28403Wednesday October 15, 202510:00 AM –
- [Call Booked | Thank You (Strategy Call)](https://thedoggurus.com/call-booked-thank-you-sc/) - Thank you for booking a call!We look forward to chatting with you soon and helping you take the next steps toward your goals. In the meantime, explore more about how we support pet care entrepreneurs like you below. The Dog Gurus isn’t just another pet care education company—we’re the pioneers. As the longest-standing education provider
- [Lunch & Learn](https://thedoggurus.com/lunch-and-learns/) - Lunch & LearnLunch & LearnClick a topic to view our library resourcesLunch & Learns Managing Pet Intake and Departure Providing Excellent Customer Service Handling Difficult Dogs: Providing Boundaries for Success Highlighting the Unique Value of Your Pet Care Services Team Communication and Collaboration Litter Box Essentials Effective Communication with Pet Owners The Importance of Routine
- [Enrichment Daycare Bundle](https://thedoggurus.com/enrichment-daycare-bundle/) - Enrichment Daycare BundleThe only comprehensive program on the market that delivers a more enriching and stimulating experience for dogs in your care. Tools & Training to Implement + Staff Training + Ongoing Expert Support The only complete enrichment solution on the market for pet care businesses. This bundle includes everything you need to implement exceptional
- [Daycare Games Marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/daycare-games-marketing/) - Marketing Resources Use the marketing resources below to promote your participation in The Daycare Games and get local media coverage for your business. Also be sure to post pictures on your social media (use #DaycareGames) and be sure to tag @TheDogGurus if you post on Facebook so that we can share you posts on our page
- [Gate Boundary](https://thedoggurus.com/gate-boundary/) - Gate Boundary Good leaders control the three feet of space from the playgroup entry door or gate by keeping dogs out of this space on cue or with body blocking. Document the number of dogs that you have waiting calmly at the boundary line of your entry door/gate. Dogs can be in a sit or
- [Group Sit](https://thedoggurus.com/group-sit/) - Document the number of dogs in the playgroup that will sit at the same time on cue. Count the number of dogs that have their rear touching the ground at the same time for 2 – 4 seconds (time to hold sit varies by staff experience level as noted in the event goals chart). Submit
- [Dog Recall](https://thedoggurus.com/dog-recall/) - Document the percentage of dogs in the playgroup that come to you when called. You will call each dog to you individually using your come or recall cue. A successful recall is when a dog that is at least 6 feet away from you responds to your cue within 3 seconds and comes close enough
- [OddBall 2025](https://thedoggurus.com/oddball-2025/) - Great Seeing You At The ODD Ball 2025!Below is a resource library for you! Join us at the Pet Business Growth Workshop 2025 - February 26-28th, 2025 in Fort Worth, TXFree ResourcesCell Phones No Problems DownloadEnrichmentSchedule DownloadHidden ProfitLeak DownloadDaycare Ops Standard Summary DownloadNew YearChecklist DownloadOff-LeashPlay DownloadWhat Color Am I?Game DownloadTailwagging Paychecks DownloadExplore More Free Resources
- [Budgets Made Easy](https://thedoggurus.com/budgets-made-easy/) - Budgets Made EasyEffortless Budgeting for Pet Businesses Say goodbye to financial guesswork and hello to confident growth. Forecast your profits, plan for growth, and achieve peace of mind in just 60 days. Budgets Made Easy empowers pet business owners to take control of their finances with simple tools and expert guidance. Achieve Financial Peace of
- [Welcome to The Dog Gurus Community](https://thedoggurus.com/welcome-to-the-dog-gurus-community/) - Welcome to The Dog Gurus CommunityLaunch FormulaThe most comprehensive guide available to pet care entrepreneurs seeking to start their dream business. LEARN MOREGrowth IntensiveOur bite-sized training courses give you the knowledge to grow your pet care business without sacrificing your personal life. LEARN MOREStaff TrainingArm your staff with industry leading training to help them confidently
- [Notify of GI Courses - TY](https://thedoggurus.com/notification-confirmation/) - Thank You! Thank you for your interest in our Growth Intensive training course! We’ll notify you via email when this course is available! In the meantime, here are some recent posts you might find helpful! wpengine2026-08-05T10:00:02-04:00Dog Daycare Service Agreement Template for Ownerswpengine2026-08-05T10:00:02-04:00August 5, 2026|0 CommentsProtect your pet care business with our customizable service agreements dog
- [Webinar - Paws to Profits - TY](https://thedoggurus.com/webinar-paws-to-profits-ty/) - Paws to ProfitsOn Demand Webinar We Have Been Seen In: As Seen In
- [Leadership Development](https://thedoggurus.com/leadership-development/) - Leadership Development LibraryLeadership Development LibraryClick a topic to view our library resourcesStaff Training New Staff Knowledge and Skills Training Checklist Leadership Skills Improvement Challenge Leadership Exercises Lunch and Learn Topic Ideas Experienced Employee Performance Checklist and Guidelines Knowing Dogs Staff Training Knowing Dogs Staff Training Program Press Release to Highlight Your Facilities Safety and Training
- [Pet Business Finance Guide](https://thedoggurus.com/pet-business-finance-guide/) - Pet Business Finance GuideBuy Now – $44.95Make your pet business profitable! Empower yourself and take control of your business success by better understanding your accounting and financial systems. Comprehensive content written for the small business owner to be confident managing their business finances. Ebook format; the only financial and accounting resource customized to the pet
- [Operations](https://thedoggurus.com/operations/) - Operations LibraryClick a topic to view our library resourcesEvaluating Dogs Existing Dog Evaluation – Checklist and Instructions Off Leash Play Application Dog Evaluation & Instructions Client Feedback Form For Dog Evaluations Playgroup Dog Evaluation Dog Evaluations Course Existing Dog Readiness Checklist Managing Playgroups Playstyle Management Chart Playstyle Mix Chart Match The Dog Game Problem Behavior
- [Thank you for Renewing your Subscription to Launch Formula](https://thedoggurus.com/thank-you-for-renewing-launch-formula/) - Thanks for renewing your subscription to Launch Formula.The card on file will be charged in the next few days.Please let us know if you need anything else.The Dog Gurus
- [Thank You for Your Purchase](https://thedoggurus.com/thank-you-for-your-purchase/) - Thank You For Your PurchasePlease check your inbox for your receipt and further information about your purchase. Don’t forget to check your pesky spam and junk folder as well. Thanks again, The Dog Gurus Team
- [Pet Care Policies Handbook](https://thedoggurus.com/inside-scoop/) - Pet Care Policies HandbookBuy Now – $45This digital download is a handbook that provides an overview on establishing key policies for your pet business. The PDF guide and workbook include tips of things we wished we had known before starting. This workbook will save you time and introduce you to important policies that will save
- [Teaching Catch a Treat](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-catch-a-treat/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Catching a Treat RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Enrichment](https://thedoggurus.com/enrichment/) - EnrichmentEnrichmentClick a topic to view our library resourcesFun & Games Annual Pet Holiday Calendar Guide to Environmental Enrichment Miss Daisy’s Dog Party Guidelines and Checklists A Step By Step Guide to Dog Parties, Part 1 A Step By Step Guide to Dog Parties, Part 2 A Beginner’s Guide to FitPaws Equipment Daycare 2.0 Dog Daycare
- [Trick of The Month Marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/trick-of-the-month-marketing/) - Trick of the Month Marketing ResourcesUse the resources on this page to promote your trick of the month program and let your clients know how much fun the dogs are having! Social Media GraphicsRight-click on any image to download it to your computer. Ask us about our Trick Dog Program Benefits of Trick Dog Training
- [Teaching Leg Weaves](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-leg-weaves/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Leg Weaves RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Paws Up](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-paws-up/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Paws Up RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Cookies on Paw](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-cookies-on-paw/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Cookies on PawRESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Heel and Side](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-heel-and-side/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Heel and Side RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Peekaboo](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-peekaboo/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Peekaboo RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Crawl Under](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-crawl-under/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Crawl Under RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Go to Place](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-go-to-place/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Go To Place RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Take a Bow](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-take-a-bow/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Take a Bow RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Nose Touch](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-nose-touch/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Nose Touch RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Back Feet Up](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-back-feet-up/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Back Feet Up RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Paw Shake](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-paw-shake/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Paw Shake RESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Puppy Pushups](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-puppy-pushups/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching Puppy PushupsRESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Spin](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-spin/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teaching SpinRESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Teaching Lay On Your Side](https://thedoggurus.com/teaching-lay-on-your-side/) - TRICK OF THE MONTH: Teach Lay On Your SideRESOURCES: Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWDon’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use. Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Pet Health](https://thedoggurus.com/pet-health/) - Pet Health LibraryClick a topic to view our library resourcesPet Health Heat Index Chart Nine Point Checklist Holistic Pet Care Pantry Canine Cough Email Samples Hairy Situations: Crisis Planning, Response and Recovery for Your Pet Business Why Exhaustion is not the Only Measure of a Successful Play Session Handling and Preventing Injuries Dog Incident Checklist
- [Finances](https://thedoggurus.com/finances/) - FinancesClick a topic to view our library resourcesDog Training & Other Services How to Get Started as a Dog Trainer Adding a Membership Program to Your Business Read articles and blog posts about our operations resources Holiday Revenue MagicOliver Hughes2024-08-28T18:24:14-04:00Finances, Operations| Holiday Revenue Magic! In our recent Facebook Live session, we spilled the beans on
- [Dog Daycare 2.0 Toolkit Evergreen](https://thedoggurus.com/daycaretoolkit-evergreen/) - A Brand New, More Profitable Dog Daycare Model That’s Unlike Anything Your Competitors Are Selling! It’s Better For Your Staff. Better For The Dogs. And Better For Your Bottom Line! YES! I'M READY TO IMPLEMENT → OVERSATURATED MUCH? Chances are, you could throw a stick and hit an all day play doggie daycare. These puppies
- [test blog page](https://thedoggurus.com/test-blog-page/) - [AWL-BlogFilter blog_template="template1" blog_col_large_desktops="col-lg-4" blog_col_desktops="col-md-4" blog_col_tablets="col-sm-6" blog_col_phones="col-xs-12" blog_fixed_grid="yes" blog_image="yes" blog_image_link="yes" blog_image_lightbox="yes" blog_image_hover_effect="none" blog_image_quality="large" blog_title="yes" blog_title_font_size="32" blog_title_color="#cf342d" blog_title_below_image="yes" blog_desc="yes" blog_desc_characters="200" blog_desc_font_size="18" blog_desc_color="#000000" blog_desc_box_color="#ffffff" three_dots="no" blog_read_more="yes" blog_read_more_text="Read More" blog_comments_count="yes" blog_order_by="date" blog_order="DESC" blog_filter_order_by="date" blog_filter_order="DESC" blog_thumb_hover="yes" blog_thumb_spac="5" blog_load_more="yes" blog_pagination_LoadMore_color="#cf342d" blog_per_page_and_init_load="6" blog_on_load_scroll="6" load_more_text="Load More" no_more_text="No More Posts" blog_filters="yes" blog_filter_style="button_filter" blog_filter_all="yes" blog_all_text="All" blog_multi_filter_logic="yes" blog_filtering="blog_category" blog_buttons_color="#cf342d" selected_categories="69,58,65,54,60,57,50" exclude_categories="" custom-css=" " ]
- [Events Calendar](https://thedoggurus.com/events-calendar/) - Events Calendar Upcoming Events [MEC id=”17183″] Full Calendar of Events [MEC id=”17178″]
- [New to Site?](https://thedoggurus.com/new-to-site/) - New to Site
- [Launch](https://thedoggurus.com/how-to-start-a-doggy-daycare-dog-gurus/)
- [Are You Wearing the Right Hat?](https://thedoggurus.com/grow-your-business/) - [rev_slider alias="grow-your-business-hero"] Become the Ultimutt Pet Care Business Owner Without Sacrificing Your Quality of Life Take pawsitive strides towards growing your business using our seven proven leadership strategies Want to know the secret behind pet care business owners who actually enjoy their work (and look good while doing it)? It’s all about wearing the right
- [Launch Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/launch-your-business/) - [rev_slider alias="launch-your-business-hero"] Confidently Launch a Pet Care Business If you’re anything like our other clients, you’ve asked yourself... … Can I really make money working with dogs?… Where do I find the tools, resources, and support I need to get started and avoid costly mistakes?… How do I make sure I’m not wasting my time
- [Business Breakthrough Workshop Handouts](https://thedoggurus.com/workshophandouts/) - Welcome to The Dog Gurus Business Breakthrough Workshop 2022! This page contains all the resources you need for the workshop! To do our part in going green, we will not be printing these handouts, so be sure to download and print anything you want! Or, better yet, just save everything on your computer and help
- [The Dog Gurus Summit Registration](https://thedoggurus.com/live-event-tickets/) - The Dog Gurus Business Breakthrough Workshop Registration Register 5 or more individuals from the same facility at the regular registration rate and receive a 10% discount. Discount will be automatically applied in the checkout process. VIP tickets are not available for a discount. [rpt name="the-dog-gurus-summit"] Cancellation Policy: All cancellations must be made in writing and
- [Grow Your Business](https://thedoggurus.com/oldpoptin/) - [rev_slider alias="grow-your-business-hero"] Grow Your Pet Care Business with Proven Systems and Strategies Want to know the secret behind the most successful pet care businesses? It’s simple: systems. All the big dogs know, systems are vital in a growing business. And in the pet care industry, that means systems that help you: Attract, train, and retain
- [Four E’s of Excellence Registration](https://thedoggurus.com/four-es-of-excellence-registration/) - Four E’s of Excellence Registration TAKE THE COURSE! $289 Course Description The quality of your off-leash play operations requires sound policies and procedures in the four key areas of Environment, Evaluating Dogs, Education and Excellent Operations. Spend six weeks going through the Four E’s of Excellence free member gift with The Dog Gurus, Robin Bennett

## Landing Pages

- [masterclass](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/masterclass/)
- [membershipguide](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/membershipguide/)
- [off-leash-dog-play](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/off-leash-dog-play/)
- [workshop2022](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/workshop2022/)
- [fido](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fido/)
- [dogtraining](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/dogtraining/)
- [petsitting](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/petsitting/)
- [budgettoolkit](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/budgettoolkit/)
- [workshop](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/workshop/)
- [summit2020](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/summit2020/)

## Events

- [Mastering Customer Retention in Pet Care](https://thedoggurus.com/event/mastering-customer-retention-in-pet-care/) - Description: Loyal customers are the foundation of a thriving pet-care business. In this practical, easy-to-follow webinar, we’ll explore proven strategies to turn first-time visitors into lifelong clients and create programs that keep them coming back again and again. From building strong relationships to designing memberships that drive recurring revenue, you’ll learn how to make retention

## Fusion Elements

- [Youtube owner testimonials 4 up](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/youtube-owner-testimonials-4-up/) - See how other pet care owners transformed their business“There is an incredible wealth of knowledge that I’ve gleaned from The Dog Gurus. It’s really reinforcing knowing I have a reliable team that I can fall back on for encouragement and support whenever I need it” — Tim Neidzielski, Mollys Pampered Paws Manager “The Dog Gurus
- [here's everything - owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/heres-everything-owners/) - Here’s everything you get For Owners AI CompanionAutomate tasks, uncover insights, and reclaim 2+ days a week. Growth RoadmapsFollow proven step-by-step plans for every stage of your business. Community & CoachingLearn from experts and peers so you’re never building alone. Staff Training HubOnboard, track, and upskill your team with ease. Explore plan options
- [Here's everything - STAFF](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/heres-everything-staff/) - For Staff Canine body languageMaster reading subtle signals so staff can prevent issues and keep dogs safe. Group play leadershipGain step-by-step guidance to confidently manage group dynamics and activities. Enrichment activitiesDiscover proven ideas to keep dogs engaged, stimulated, and happy every day. Positive reinforcement handling skillsBuild confidence in safe, humane techniques that improve behavior and staff
- [Trusted](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/trusted/)
- [Summer Promo 2026](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/summer-promo-2026/) - The Summer Set Up SaleStart building now for your biggest second half of the year yet.Get StartedGet a Complimentary Fit Assessment
- [Group play safety pledge](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/group-play-safety-pledge/) - Safety First! Investing in a dog daycare that prioritizes safety through adherence to safety standards and promotes excellence through education, evaluation, enrichment, and emergency preparedness is crucial for your pet’s well-being. To dive deeper into these principles check out our video on Group Play Safety Standards.
- [Homepage Hero - Regular](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/homepage-hero-regular/)
- [Training system accredited by](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/training-system-accredited-by/) - The only staff training system that is accredited by
- [feature carousel horizontal buttons](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/feature-carousel-horizontal-buttons/)
- [why our training](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/why-our-training/)
- [black friday home hero](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/black-friday-home-hero/)
- [7 day free trial](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/7-day-free-trial/) - 7 Day Free Trial
- [Still have questions - KB container](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/still-have-questions-kb-container/) - Still have questions?Not sure how to change your password, reorder more workbooks, update your payment information, or submit a trouble ticket? View our knowledge base to get answers to all of your questions! VIEW OUR KNOWLEDGE BASE
- [apply nowcontainer](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/apply-nowcontainer/)
- [the team container NEW 2025](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/the-team-container-new-2025/)
- [We've been seen MOBILE ver](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/weve-been-seen-mobile-ver/) - We Have Been Seen In:
- [We've been seen in DESKTOP ver](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/weve-been-seen-in-desktop-ver/) - As Seen In
- [rounded 1/2 col light blue](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/rounded-1-2-col-light-blue/)
- [rounded 1/3 col light blue](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/rounded-1-3-col-light-blue/)
- [client logos desktop](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/client-logos-desktop/)
- [client logos mobile](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/client-logos-mobile/)
- [30 day happiness guarantee](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/30-day-happiness-guarantee/) - Turn Industry Expertise into Your Team’s Competitive Advantage Stop losing time and money to constant retraining. Join hundreds of pet care facilities who’ve built exceptional teams with The Dog Gurus proven training system that actually works. Free Consultation Call
- [generic hero setup](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/generic-hero-setup/)
- [YouTube Cards](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/youtube-cards/)
- [hero setup](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/hero-setup/)
- [YouTube Card](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/youtube-card/)
- [compare plans table - static](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/compare-plans-table-static/)
- [pricing block for owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/pricing-block-for-owners/)
- [col1](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/col1/)
- [we've got you covered orig](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/weve-got-you-covered-orig/)
- [Laptop Slider home](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/laptop-slider-home/)
- [bottom white container above footer](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/bottom-white-container-above-footer/)
- [TOTM collaboration container](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/totm-collaboration-container/) - Trick of the Month is a collaboration between The Dog Gurus and Blue 9 Pet Products
- [Blog Post Card Post Card 1863](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/blog-post-card-post-card-1863/)
- [4 boxes homepage tailored to your needs](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/4-boxes-homepage-tailored-to-your-needs/)
- [two block owner staff homepage](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/two-block-owner-staff-homepage/)
- [testimonial videos carousal home page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/testimonial-videos-carousal-home-page/)
- [2 column for owners - for staff - section](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/2-column-for-owners-for-staff-section/)
- [3 block testimonial](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-block-testimonial/)
- [home page redesigned boxes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/home-page-redesigned-boxes/)
- [Shawnte vid and scrolling testimonial boxes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/shawnte-vid-and-scrolling-testimonial-boxes/)
- [built for pet care owners block](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/built-for-pet-care-owners-block/)
- [3 testimonial column set up](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-testimonial-column-set-up/)
- [Why Pet Care Owners Choose The Dog Gurus Block](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/why-pet-care-owners-choose-the-dog-gurus-block/)
- [testimonial block two boxes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/testimonial-block-two-boxes/)
- [icon boxes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/icon-boxes/)
- [knowing dogs pricing column](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/knowing-dogs-pricing-column/) - Knowing Dogs 101 & 201(Staff Training) $129/monthpackage infoFor teams that need: — comprehensive education on canine body language — leadership and safety skills for group play activities what you’ll get Includes The Dog Gurus Library access Single location use for flexible training at any time (up to 25 people)Dashboard to track employee progressStudy aids, hands-on
- [icon boxes home page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/icon-boxes-home-page/)
- [call out banner](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/call-out-banner/)
- [We've been seen in 2](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/weve-been-seen-in-2/)
- [CTA bottom of page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/cta-bottom-of-page/)
- [how to get started block](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/how-to-get-started-block/)
- [top bar with free assessment](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/top-bar-with-free-assessment/)
- [search bar](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/search-bar/)
- [blog container](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/blog-container/)
- [PGC Dashboard to easily track](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/pgc-dashboard-to-easily-track/)
- [PGC Online access for any device](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/pgc-online-access-for-any-device/)
- [PGC container white w video screen](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/pgc-container-white-w-video-screen/)
- [full width 2 col w photo](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/full-width-2-col-w-photo/)
- [thanks header](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/thanks-header/)
- [TOTM resource buttons](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/totm-resource-buttons/) - Quick Reference Sheet DOWNLOAD NOWProgress Tracking Sheet DOWNLOAD NOW
- [TOTM marketing pg blurb](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/totm-marketing-pg-blurb/) - Don’t forget to visit the marketing page for social media graphics and report card phrases you can use.
- [video container](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/video-container/)
- [toggles2](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/toggles2/)
- [pricing block](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/pricing-block/)
- [3 color boxes](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-color-boxes/)
- [KPI 2 block](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/kpi-2-block/)
- [3 boxes from training page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-boxes-from-training-page/)
- [3 color boxes w icons no button](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-color-boxes-w-icons-no-button/)
- [intro for product page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/intro-for-product-page/)
- [jump link button](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/jump-link-button/)
- [Product Detail Hero header](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/product-detail-hero-header/)
- [we have been seen in LOGOS](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/we-have-been-seen-in-logos/) - We Have Been Seen In:
- [comparison table -staff training page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/comparison-table-staff-training-page/)
- [Bttm of page CTA - yellow w text & button](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/bttm-of-page-cta-yellow-w-text-button/)
- [3 color boxes - photo title button](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/3-color-boxes-photo-title-button/)
- [Hero image](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/hero-image/) - Profit NetworkMasterfully Scale Your Business Join an elite network of pet care business owners. The Dog Gurus Profit Network provides the coaching, accountability, expert guidance and tools you need to unlock extraordinary growth and profitability. To be considered, you must be running a pet care business that is at least 3-years-old and generating a minimum
- [blue 1/2 column video box](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/blue-1-2-column-video-box/)
- [toggles - delete this](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/toggles-delete-this/)
- [who we are box template](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/who-we-are-box-template/)
- [services box template](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/services-box-template/)
- [Gradient boxes template](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/gradient-boxes-template/)
- [gradient boxes - 3 col](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/gradient-boxes-3-col/)
- [color boxes 3 col](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/color-boxes-3-col/)
- [services box test](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/services-box-test/)
- [intro text](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/intro-text/)
- [headline](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/headline/)
- [title - delete](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/title-delete/)
- [services - delete this](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/services-delete-this/)
- [quote testimonial yellow w dotted border](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/quote-testimonial-yellow-w-dotted-border/)
- [top bar free - MOBILE](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/top-bar-free-mobile/)
- [gradient text](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/gradient-text/)
- [Home hero](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/home-hero/)
- [checklist - delete this](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/checklist-delete-this/)
- [legal info footer menu](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/legal-info-footer-menu/)
- [about footer menu](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/about-footer-menu/)
- [original container from blog page](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/fusion_element/original-container-from-blog-page/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/uncategorized/)
- [Daycare Owners](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/daycare-owners/)
- [Evaluating Your Facility](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/evaluating-your-facility/)
- [Pet Health](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/pet-health/)
- [Leadership Development](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/leadership-development/)
- [Operations](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/operations/)
- [Enrichment](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/enrichment/)
- [Marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/marketing/)
- [Finances](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/finances/)
- [Customer Service](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/customer-service/)
- [The Daycare Games](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/the-daycare-games/)
- [Lunch and Learn](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/lunch-and-learn/)
- [Hiring and Evaluating Staff](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/category/hiring-and-retaining-staff/)

## Tags

- [pet paint](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tag/pet-paint/)
- [marketing pet business](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tag/marketing-pet-business/)
- [successful marketing](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tag/successful-marketing/)
- [Youtube Card](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/tag/youtube-card/)

## Stats Types

- [view](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/view/)
- [Chrome](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/chrome/)
- [Macintosh](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/macintosh/)
- [Safari](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/safari/)
- [iPhone](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/iphone/)
- [Firefox](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/firefox/)
- [Windows](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/windows/)
- [Android](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/android/)
- [unknown](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/unknown/)
- [Linux](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/linux/)
- [Opera](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/opera/)
- [iPad](https://thedoggurus.com/blog/wpa-stats-type/ipad/)