Episodes

  • Practical Pet Chat - 2026 - Episode 1 - Welcome to Practical Pet Chat 2026

    Practical Pet Chat - 2026 - Episode 1 - Welcome to Practical Pet Chat 2026
    Jan 11 2026
    On this edition of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin kick off 2026 by reflecting on the close of another year and sharing what’s ahead in the months to come. They dive into key updates and announcements for the show, outline what listeners can expect in the new year, and discuss emerging themes shaping the pet industry—from evolving pet parent expectations to changes impacting care, services, and business operations. The conversation also takes a more personal turn as Rob and Lorin recap their holidays, share moments that stood out, and talk about how time away helped shape their perspective heading into the new year. As always, the discussion blends industry insight with real-world experience, thoughtful observations, and approachable conversation. Whether you’re a pet parent, pet professional, or simply passionate about the pet world, this episode offers a warm, insightful, and engaging start to 2026—full of perspective, practical takeaways, and a clear look at what’s coming next on Practical Pet Chat.
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    15 mins
  • Practical Pet Business - Episode 38 - The Pet Business Business - Review and Look Ahead

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 38 - The Pet Business Business - Review and Look Ahead
    Dec 17 2025
    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take pet business owners through a comprehensive and practical year-end review designed to turn reflection into forward momentum. As the year comes to a close, they break down what to look at across your business—from timelines and key events to sales performance, seasonal trends, and the initiatives that delivered results (or didn’t). They explore the changes that happened over the past year and the changes that still need to happen, helping owners assess what evolved organically and what requires intentional adjustment. The conversation covers vendor relationships, product assortments, pricing, and partnerships, with insight into what to keep, what to refine, and what to reconsider as you plan ahead. A central focus of the episode is your customers: how their needs, expectations, buying behaviors, and feedback shifted throughout the year, what they communicated directly or indirectly, and how those insights should influence your decisions going forward. Lorin and Rob also discuss how external factors—market conditions, industry trends, and operational realities—play into your planning process. The episode wraps with a clear, actionable “quick-start” path for 2026, offering guidance on setting priorities, creating realistic timelines, and aligning your business goals with customer success. It’s a practical, thoughtful roadmap to help pet business owners close the year with clarity, confidence, and a strong foundation for the year ahead.
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    20 mins
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 47 - Year End Pet Parent Review for Your Pets

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 47 - Year End Pet Parent Review for Your Pets
    Dec 14 2025
    In this year-end episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob invite pet parents to slow down and reflect on the year that was—through the lens of their pets’ lives. From shifts in daily routines and household dynamics to new experiences, challenges, and milestones, they explore how your pet’s world has changed and evolved over the past year. Lorin and Rob encourage listeners to revisit the highlights—the small moments and big memories alike—that brought joy, growth, and connection. Whether it was mastering new training goals, navigating health changes, welcoming new family members (human or animal), or simply strengthening your bond through everyday life, this episode is a reminder of how meaningful these shared experiences truly are. The conversation also turns to preparedness and care, emphasizing the importance of reviewing and updating your pet’s safety plans as the year comes to a close. Lorin and Rob walk through key considerations such as refreshing emergency “go bags,” reviewing medications and medical records, confirming emergency contacts and care instructions, and ensuring plans are in place should the unexpected occur. These simple but often overlooked steps can make a significant difference in protecting your pets when it matters most. This episode blends reflection, gratitude, and practical action—helping pet parents honor the year behind them while feeling informed, organized, and confident heading into the new year. All of this and more on this special year-end episode of Practical Pet Chat.
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    21 mins
  • Practical Pet Business - Episode 37 - Tradeshow and Event Planning for 2026

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 37 - Tradeshow and Event Planning for 2026
    Dec 11 2025
    In this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob tackle one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics for pet professionals as we head into a new year: budgeting and planning for the 2026 pet industry landscape, with a special focus on local events, expos, shows, and community gatherings. As the pet industry continues to grow and evolve, so do the expectations placed on business owners. Events that were once “must-attend” cornerstones have become increasingly expensive, more complex to navigate, and, in many cases, less predictable in the value they provide. Lorin and Rob encourage listeners to take a step back and ask the tough but necessary questions: Am I truly getting enough ROI from the events I attend? Is the financial cost aligned with the opportunities I’m actually receiving? How much time, team bandwidth, and personal energy am I sacrificing—and is it worth it? They break down the hidden costs that pet pros often forget to calculate: staff coverage, travel logistics, preparation hours, inventory management, marketing spend, post-event follow-up, and the emotional toll of constant show cycles. As the industry shifts, the “value” of showing up is no longer as straightforward as it once was. Lorin and Rob also explore a deeper question: loyalty. You reward your customers’ loyalty every day. But are the events, associations, and organizations you support giving you that same loyalty back? Are they helping your business grow, supporting your goals, and acknowledging the commitment you bring year after year? Because at its core, the pet industry is built on relationships—relationships with customers, vendors, community partners, and each other. Yet those relationships are being tested as resources are stretched thinner and expectations continue to climb. The hosts unpack how to evaluate which relationships are truly beneficial, which commitments deserve to be renewed, and which may need to be reconsidered altogether. Whether you're a retailer, service provider, manufacturer, or pet professional carving out your place in the market, this episode gives you the tools to rethink your 2026 strategy with clarity and confidence. All of this—and plenty more strategic insights, tough truths, and practical advice—on this episode of Practical Pet Business.
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    20 mins
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 46 - Creating Brainiacs with Winter Indoor Interactions

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 46 - Creating Brainiacs with Winter Indoor Interactions
    Dec 8 2025
    Winter is here, the days are shorter, and both people and pets are spending more time indoors. On this heartfelt and insightful episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore what that seasonal shift really means for our animals — and how we can turn it into something positive, enriching, and memorable. As activity levels change and outdoor adventures become less frequent, our pets’ routines, emotional needs, and energy patterns shift too. Lorin and Rob break down how winter impacts behavior, motivation, mood, and even training responses — and why understanding these changes matters for every pet parent. But this episode isn’t just about challenges — it’s about opportunity. The hosts share creative, practical ways to keep pets engaged, stimulated, and happy indoors: ✨ snuffle mats and scent puzzles ✨ DIY treasure hunts ✨ indoor adventure zones ✨ training refreshers and trick building ✨ cozy bonding activities that enrich connection They offer guidance on how to transform cold-weather downtime into intentional enrichment, learning moments, and deeper relationships with our animals. Winter becomes less about limitation and more about growth, warmth, memory-making, and shared comfort. Lorin and Rob also discuss how to recognize and support pets who may become restless, anxious, sluggish, or less social due to weather and daylight changes — much like humans navigating seasonal shifts. They explain how to adjust routines, expectations, and connection strategies to honor your pet’s changing needs. Whether you’re curled up by a fire with your dog, watching your cat search for sunshine patches, or simply wondering how to keep your pet’s brain busy when outdoor time is limited, this episode is packed with insight, compassion, and inspiration. Tune in for a fun, supportive conversation that reminds us winter isn’t just a season to endure — it’s a season to bond, teach, laugh, nourish, and grow together with our pets.
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    18 mins
  • Practical Pet Business - Episode 36 - What Pet Industry Centric Organizations Do and Don't Do

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 36 - What Pet Industry Centric Organizations Do and Don't Do
    Dec 4 2025
    On this thought-provoking episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take a candid look at the evolving world of pet industry organizations, associations, and trade groups — and what their shifts mean for today’s pet professionals. As the industry continues to grow, so do the expectations placed on business owners. Associations revise their missions, events change formats, leadership shifts direction, and suddenly what once felt like home can start to feel unfamiliar. Lorin and Rob unpack why these changes happen and how they can be both positive and challenging for those who are trying to stay informed, connected, and relevant. They explore questions many pet business owners quietly wrestle with: What if an organization you’ve always supported no longer aligns with your values or business philosophy? How do you decide whether the pressure to join, renew, or attend is worth the investment of money, time, and energy? What does real value and industry support look like today? From shifting educational agendas and membership requirements to events that cater to new audiences or priorities, the hosts discuss how these changes can spark growth — but also confusion, reflection, or frustration. Lorin and Rob share practical insight on: ✔ recognizing when an affiliation is no longer a fit ✔ how to maintain professional relationships without compromising integrity ✔ setting healthier expectations for what associations should provide ✔ choosing groups, events, and partnerships based on purpose — not pressure They remind listeners that belonging everywhere isn’t the goal — belonging where you are respected, supported, and aligned is. Whether you’re a longtime industry insider, a growing business trying to find your seat at the table, or someone reevaluating where you spend your resources and attention, this episode offers clarity, confidence, and a refreshing dose of honest conversation. Tune in for perspective, encouragement, and guidance on navigating pet industry affiliations in a way that supports you, your mission, and your business growth.
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    21 mins
  • Practical Pet Chat - Episode 45 - Seasoning Pets For The Changing Season and More...

    Practical Pet Chat - Episode 45 - Seasoning Pets For The Changing Season and More...
    Nov 30 2025
    On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin explore the often-overlooked impact that changing seasons have on our pets—and on us as their caregivers. As temperatures drop, daylight shifts, and our calendars fill with seasonal activities and celebrations, our pets experience these changes right alongside us. Rob and Lorin break down how to adjust your daily routines, expectations, and overall care to keep your pets feeling secure, healthy, and supported through each transition. From weather-related safety and increased indoor time to holiday gatherings, travel, and schedule disruptions, they highlight all the subtle (and not-so-subtle) factors that can influence your pet’s wellbeing. You’ll hear practical suggestions for preparing your pets for new environments, helping them stay mentally and physically engaged, and creating safe, comforting spaces as the world around them changes. They discuss how “seasoning” your pets—giving them the right preparation and patience—can make these shifts smoother, safer, and even enjoyable. Whether it’s managing winter hazards, adapting exercise routines, or helping your pet handle the excitement and stress of seasonal events, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, real-life experiences, and plenty of helpful reminders. Join Rob and Lorin for a fun, informative conversation designed to help you and your pets thrive through every season.
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    20 mins
  • Practical Pet CHat - Episode 44 - Pet Parents Celebrating Thanksgiving Safely With Their Pets and Guests

    Practical Pet CHat - Episode 44 - Pet Parents Celebrating Thanksgiving Safely With Their Pets and Guests
    Nov 24 2025
    On this fun and festive Holiday episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob unwrap the many ways pet parents can celebrate Thanksgiving safely, joyfully, and with far less chaos. As families gather, kitchens buzz, and plates overflow, our pets are right there in the mix—curious, excited, and very interested in the smells (and opportunities) that come with the season. Lorin and Rob walk listeners through the key things to keep in mind for your pet’s comfort, your guests’ experience, and your overall sanity during the long holiday weekend. From which classic Thanksgiving dishes are safe—or absolutely off-limits—for pets, to how to manage doorways, boundaries, and well-meaning guests who love to share “just a little taste,” they cover it all with humor and practical wisdom. They also dive into the realities of Thanksgiving-day energy: the noise, the traveling, the kids, the food prep, the cleanup, and the sneaky moments when pets think they’ve discovered the jackpot of unattended snacks. With stories from their own celebrations and the very different ways they prep their homes and menus, Lorin and Rob paint a vivid picture of two Thanksgiving worlds—leaving the audience to decide which feast they’d rather attend. Whether you’re hosting, visiting, or keeping things quiet at home, you’ll come away with tips to keep your pets relaxed, safe, and part of the celebration. All of this, plus plenty of laughs, on this warm and lively Holiday episode of Practical Pet Chat.
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    18 mins