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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive deep into the true meaning of pet — and especially dog — socialization, breaking apart the common myths and misunderstandings that so many pet parents unknowingly rely on. While many believe socialization simply means taking your dog to the dog park, sending them to daycare, or making sure they can tolerate the vet, the reality is far more layered and vital. Today’s pets live incredibly dynamic lives. They join us for coffee runs, shopping trips, family gatherings, vacations, and outdoor adventures. Because our dogs are spending more time than ever in human-centered environments, proper socialization becomes one of the most powerful tools we have to help them feel confident, safe, and calm during everyday experiences. Lorin and Rob discuss how socialization isn’t about demanding perfect behavior from your dog — it’s about understanding how they are likely to react, what their body language is telling you, and how they interpret new environments, sounds, surfaces, and social encounters. It’s also about understanding how other animals and people feel in those shared spaces. When you know what your dog needs and what they’re communicating, you can guide them instead of correcting them, support them instead of overwhelming them, and ultimately create better experiences for everyone involved. The episode also dives into the emotional and humorous side of human–animal interactions. Rob shares that his dog absolutely loves getting ear rubs — and he humorously admits he enjoys them too — while Lorin asks listeners to imagine greeting humans the same way many greet dogs: with high-pitched enthusiasm, animated hands, and boundary-free energy. Their playful banter sheds light on how our intentions don’t always match what a pet is comfortable receiving, and why respectful, thoughtful social interaction matters. From helping your dog navigate crowded spaces to understanding triggers and stress signals, from supporting shy or nervous dogs to helping confident dogs behave appropriately, Lorin and Rob unpack the many ways socialization ties directly to health, safety, behavior, and overall wellness. Whether you’re raising a puppy, rehabilitating a rescue, or simply trying to help your social butterfly become even more polite in public, this episode offers practical insights, relatable stories, and real-world examples to guide you. Join us for this thoughtful, fun, and eye-opening exploration of socialization and so much more on this episode of Practical Pet Chat.

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive deep into the true meaning of pet — and especially dog — socialization, breaking apart the common myths and misunderstandings that so many pet parents unknowingly rely on. While many believe socialization simply means taking your dog to the dog park, sending them to daycare, or making sure they can tolerate the vet, the reality is far more layered and vital. Today’s pets live incredibly dynamic lives. They join us for coffee runs, shopping trips, family gatherings, vacations, and outdoor adventures. Because our dogs are spending more time than ever in human-centered environments, proper socialization becomes one of the most powerful tools we have to help them feel confident, safe, and calm during everyday experiences. Lorin and Rob discuss how socialization isn’t about demanding perfect behavior from your dog — it’s about understanding how they are likely to react, what their body language is telling you, and how they interpret new environments, sounds, surfaces, and social encounters. It’s also about understanding how other animals and people feel in those shared spaces. When you know what your dog needs and what they’re communicating, you can guide them instead of correcting them, support them instead of overwhelming them, and ultimately create better experiences for everyone involved. The episode also dives into the emotional and humorous side of human–animal interactions. Rob shares that his dog absolutely loves getting ear rubs — and he humorously admits he enjoys them too — while Lorin asks listeners to imagine greeting humans the same way many greet dogs: with high-pitched enthusiasm, animated hands, and boundary-free energy. Their playful banter sheds light on how our intentions don’t always match what a pet is comfortable receiving, and why respectful, thoughtful social interaction matters. From helping your dog navigate crowded spaces to understanding triggers and stress signals, from supporting shy or nervous dogs to helping confident dogs behave appropriately, Lorin and Rob unpack the many ways socialization ties directly to health, safety, behavior, and overall wellness. Whether you’re raising a puppy, rehabilitating a rescue, or simply trying to help your social butterfly become even more polite in public, this episode offers practical insights, relatable stories, and real-world examples to guide you. Join us for this thoughtful, fun, and eye-opening exploration of socialization and so much more on this episode of Practical Pet Chat.