Highlights from PSI’s Pet Sitter World
As the founder of Shoreline Happy Paws, I’ve always believed that staying ahead of the curve is crucial in the pet care industry. To me, clients and pets deserve nothing but the best. That’s why I’m committed to continuously improving our services and knowledge base. Just last month, I attended the Pet Sitters International Pet Sitter World Conference to ensure I stay on top of industry trends, and business best practices, Today, I’m sharing my top highlights from PSI’s Pet Sitter World 2024.
The Ever-Evolving World of Pet Care
Pet Sitters International’s Pet Sitter World Conference happens in a different US city every year. The conference is very well-attended, with tickets usually selling out months before the conference dates. I have shared about my experience attending conferences in the past but, this year, I felt the PSI conference came at a great time for me both personally and professionally. I enjoyed getting to know this part of New York, located almost seven hours – by car – from the CT Shoreline.
Networking and Learning
First, the conference was a hub of activity, bringing together pet care professionals from all over the US and many from Canada, due to its location in Niagra Falls. In addition to the conference line-up of speakers, attendees had the opportunity to share our challenges, successes, and tips, during breaks and after hours. I always say that the magic happens outside of the sessions and education – we all let our guard down and share our best practices over dinner and drinks.
Workshops and Seminars
One of the highlights of the PSI annual conference is the array of workshops and seminars offered. From the latest in pet advocacy and behavior to advanced marketing and management, each session in this year’s event provided valuable insights that I’m excited to implement in our daily operations.
Tori Mistick, who has mentored me in the past, presented on engaging pet parents through social media videos and exploring the potential and possibilities of online courses for pet businesses. I always enjoy your insights. Additionally, Teoti Anderson presentation was excellent. A renowned dog trainer, canine expert, and author, Teoti taught us about how genetics play a role in dog behavior and how to manage, teach, and connect with our dogs without trying to change who they are.
Implementing New Knowledge
Since returning from the conference, I’ve been working on integrating the new knowledge and skills I’ve acquired into our business practices. Here’s how we’re elevating our services as a result of our participation in Pet Sitter World 2024.
1. Enhancing our Training Programs: We’re constantly revamping our staff training to include the latest in pet behavior and handling techniques. As a result, our team is equipped to recognize and respond to pet health and home care issues, ensuring the safety of our clients and their pets.
2. Updated Health and Safety Protocols: Attending a conference like PSI puts our processes front and center. Discussing logistics with business and industry experts at these events helps me identify opportunities for improvement.
3. Improved Customer Service: As we continue to grow, we will implement new strategies to enhance our communication with pet parents, providing you with more detailed updates and personalized care plans whether it be via our online scheduling software, Time to Pet, the TTP app, our website, or social media.
In the pet care industry, standing still means falling behind. As pet care trends evolve and new research emerges, it’s our responsibility to stay informed and adapt our practices accordingly.
Embracing Technology
The conference also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology in pet care businesses. We work with Time to Pet because they are the most adaptive and user-friendly pet care app on the market. They were at the event as a sponsor but also as a business partner, ready to answer questions and troubleshoot challenges.
Looking to the Future
Attending the Pet Sitter World Conference always reinvigorates my passion for pet care and business growth. It’s clear that the pet industry is constantly evolving, and I’m committed to ensuring that Shoreline Happy Paws evolves with it.
By staying current with industry trends, investing in education, and implementing best practices, we’re not just running a pet care business – we’re creating a community of well-informed, compassionate pet care professionals dedicated to providing the best possible care for your beloved companions. Our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement will always be at the heart of everything we do. After all, your pets deserve nothing less than the very best care, and that’s exactly what we aim to provide, now and always.
We are accepting new dog walking and dog hiking clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your pet(s) up for success. Existing clients may book dog walking and pet sitting services by logging in to your client profile.
Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
