Staff Reviews What Does It Mean… Being Green? - Stay-N

Transcription

January/February 2010
Staff Reviews
What Does
It Mean…
Being Green?
Helping Local
Animal Shelters
MEMBER PROFILE:
Stay N Play
Pet Ranch Inc.
Dripping Springs,
Texas
PLUS:
Heart Disease & Pets
Dog Park Tips
Using the Leash Inside the Home
PRICE $9.95 (US) www.petcareservices.org
Journal
P E T S E RV I C E S
C O N T E N T S
2010
S
January/February
E
Staff Reviews
L
HUMAN RESOURCES:
MEMBER PROFILE:
C
I
FACILITIES:
By Al Locker
A
R
Dripping Springs, Texas
By John Ridge and Christy Stettler
T
Stay N Play Pet Ranch, Inc.
34
On the Cover: A client at Stay N Play Pet Ranch relaxes during
a canine massage.
18
By Veronica Boutelle
What Does It Mean…
Being Green
24
34
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT:
How Pet Care Facilities Can
Help Local Animal Shelters
42
By Joy Lee
18
DEPARTMENTS
Chief Governace Officer’s Column
Pet Care Services is
Your Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Thoughts From the CEO
Increase Your Triple Bottom Line . .
6
Dog Boarding
Defining A Green Plan . . . . . . . . .
8
Dog Daycare
10 Ways To Keep Your Dog
Safe In Off-Leash Play . . . . . . . .
10
Dog Training
Do You Really Think a Leash Is
Only For Walking Your Dog . . . .
12
Education
A Few Green Tips . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Holistic & Green
Introducing The Holistic
& Green Section . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convention Scrapbook . . . . 32
Clip & Copy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Lifetime Members . . . . . . . . 46
Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
New Members . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Congratulations . . . . . . . . . 50
New CKOs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Industry News . . . . . . . . . . .
Resource Guide . . . . . . . . . .
Ad Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
53
54
57
59
24
16
Animal Health
Protecting Their Hearts, and Yours:
Research Into Heart Disease
Offers Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
We Care
...for Pet Owners, about Our Members, about Your Pets, for Your Pets.
THE TRADE ASSOCIATION FOR PET CARE PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1977
EDITOR
’S
LETTER
MOVING TOWARDS GREEN
remember the very first Earth Day. I was in
sixth grade and the event greatly impacted
my views about our environment. I learned
how precious our water is, that air fresheners
won’t clean our air, and the importance of
recycling cans. The acronym EPA (Environmental
Protection Agency) was etched firmly on my
brain reminding me to respect our planet
and value its limited resources.
A couple of decades later when I worked
for the Clean Air Campaign of the Pikes Peak
Region, I was dismayed to learn how passive
(and lazy) our society had become about
protecting the environment. When I talked
to people about ways they could reduce the
amount of pollution in our air by riding
their bikes or carpooling to work, using the
bus instead of their car, and installing cleaner
burning stoves and fireplaces in their homes;
I mostly heard arguments about why they
couldn’t do any of these things. While the
students I talked to at school presentations
were more enthusiastic, I was surprised at
how many of them didn’t have a clue as to
what EPA stood for or what recycling meant,
let alone how to do it.
Today, I am very pleased that being
“green” is in vogue again and that this issue
of Pet Services Journal is focusing on ways
you—as pet care providers—can preserve
our environment. To me, it just makes sense
to be green. I come from a conservative family that taught me to live within my means
I
By Christy Stettler
and not be wasteful. So I recycle all
my cans, plastics,
tin, cardboard and
glass. As our light
bulbs burn out at
home, we replace
them with compact
fluorescent bulbs
(and we have yet
to replace one of
those bulbs). We bring our own bags to use
at the grocery stores and we buy products
that do not waste resources in their
packaging.
You, too, can make your facility green
(or greener). Read how your past Chief
Governing Officer Charlotte Biggs kept the
environment in mind when starting her
facility and her future “green” plans in our
Member Profile. Al Locker talks about the
pros and cons as well as the multitude of
options available to you in his article entitled
What Does it Mean . . . Being Green? And
Carla Morris shares simple “green” things
that her facility does that you can start doing
immediately in the Education column.
Being green—it is more than just a
passing fad. It is the right thing to do and I
believe that people want to do the right
thing. Be the leader in your community by
setting the example for them at your facility
and keep our planet green.
2010 PET CARE SERVICES DIRECTORS
Susan Briggs, CKO (713) 658-0900
Urban Tails, L.L.C., Houston, TX
[email protected]
Lori Cawood, CKO, CAPCT (309) 829-5023
Canine Classic’s Spa & Resort, LLC, Bloomington, IL
[email protected]
Laura Else, CKO (907) 780-5450
Pet Nanny’s Place, VFA, Juneau, AK
[email protected]
Courtney Emken, (512) 251-7600
DogBoy’s Dog Ranch, Pflugerville, TX
[email protected]
Emerson Hughes, (804) 672-7295
Holidy Barn Pet Resorts, Glen Allen, VA
[email protected]
Gretchen Meienburg, CKO (419) 592-7387
Pampered Pets Bed & Biscuit, VFA, Napoleon, OH & Ft.
Wayne, IN
[email protected]
Carolyn Millar, CKO (207) 942-5117
Carden’s Country Club For Pets, VFA, Bangor, ME
[email protected]
Howard Nestell, III, CKO (559) 432-5959
Elaine’s Pet Resorts, Madera, CA
[email protected]
Joan Nieman, (203) 750-5209
Best Friends Pet Care, Inc., Norwalk, CT
[email protected]
Richard Schutt, CKO (303) 344-0600
Tenaker Pet Care Centers, VFA, Aurora, CO
[email protected]
Polly Thiel, CKO (515) 221-2295 ext. 6
PetSmart PetHotels, Clive, IA
[email protected]
Grace Woodford, CKO (770) 253-7234
Dog House Kennel & Grooming, Inc., VFA, Newnan, GA
[email protected]
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Joan Saunders, (719) 667-1600
All material contained in this magazine is copyrighted by the
Pet Care Services Association, unless otherwise indicated.
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part
without the permission of PCSA is prohibited. Controlled
circulation paid at Colorado Springs, Colorado.
PUBLICATION OFFICES
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Joan Saunders; [email protected]
Ph: (719) 667-1600
MANAGER OF PUBLICATIONS
Christy Stettler; [email protected]
Ph: (877) 570-7788, ext. 125
ADVERTISING
Vincent Yorke; [email protected]
Ph: (719) 360-7341
DESIGN
Delta V Marketing; [email protected]
Ph: (719) 637-3761
EXECUTIVE OFFICES
Pet Care Services Association
2760 N. Academy Blvd. Suite 120
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
Toll Free: (877) 570-7788
Ph: (719) 667-1600 FAX: (719) 667-0116
Web Address: www.petcareservices.org
E-mail Addresses & Phone Extensions:
General: [email protected] ............Ext. 121
Membership:
[email protected] ........Ext. 124 & 122
Education: [email protected] ..Ext. 114
VFA: [email protected]. 116
Classified Ads: [email protected]. 125
Events/Meetings: [email protected] Ext. 111
Orders: [email protected]. 121
PET CARE SERVICES ASSOCIATION OFFICERS
Susan Briggs, CKO ..............Chief Governance Officer
[email protected]
Gretchen Meienburg, CKO ............Vice President
[email protected]
Polly Thiel, CKO ....................................Secretary
[email protected]
PET SERVICES JOURNAL is the official
publication of PCSA. Published bi-monthly in
Colorado Springs, CO. Its purpose is to promote
the boarding and pet care industries. Advertising
rates available upon request. Articles and news
releases relevant to the boarding, grooming and
professional pet care industries accepted. All
photos and copy become the property of the
Pet Services Journal.
While it is intended that material in this
publication provide accurate information on the
subjects covered, publication of any article,
advertisement, product information, or other
information or data does not imply that PCSA
endorses or approves the authors’ viewpoints,
advertiser, or any advertised product or service.
Neither this publication nor PCSA in any way
endorses or guarantees the accuracy, reliability or
completeness of the facts, views, opinions, recommendations, information or statements contained
in this publication. Readers are encouraged to
consult with expert authority (attorney, accountant
or other professional advisors) before acting on
any information contained herein.
ON THE INTERNET:
www.petcareservices.org
Pet Services Journal January/February 2010
3
CHIEF
GOVERNANCE
Pet Care Services
is Your
Association
By Susan Briggs, CKO
PCSA 2010 CGO
“
Take pride in letting
your community know
that you excel in pet
”
care…
If you have a question or concern
regarding the Pet Care Services
Association, contact the CGO:
Susan Briggs
Email: [email protected]
4
OFFICER
’S
COLUMN
honored to serve you as the new
ITheamPresident
of the Board of Directors.
Board members you elected are
extremely dedicated to the mission of our
association. We are all looking forward to
the New Year believing that the economy
will continue to strengthen and prosper
for all our members.
On behalf of the Board, I want to
thank the 249 members who took time
replying to the survey prior to our meeting
in Orlando. Your input is being utilized
by the Board and our CEO as we consider
all the programs and services we offer.
For example, we immediately implemented
your feedback by creating membership
rate tiers based on the size of the facility.
Pet Care Services Association is a
reflection of the involvement and passion
of our members. To maximize our success
we need all members to participate in
surveys, volunteer for committees, share
knowledge as a mentor, write articles
and present local seminars. It was clear
from the survey that members are under
the misconception that only Board or a
select few can participate in these opportunities which is not the case. We want
and need volunteers to share their passion
so please email me if you want to be more
involved with your association and I will
hook you up!
The survey comments also surfaced
several misperceptions about our
Accreditation Program (formerly called
Voluntary Facility Accreditation Program).
You can be an accredited facility if you
do not offer dog boarding. The program
does not mandate the procedures you
implement in your pet center. It does
specify certain outcomes or requirements,
but not the specifics of how you achieve
them. I encourage all members to take a
second look at this program that truly sets
your pet center apart from the competition.
Take pride in letting your community
know that you excel in pet care by meeting
the highest standards documented in
our industry.
As leader of our Board, my goal is
to continue the positive momentum
that closed 2009. We want to improve
and increase the communication with all
of our members. We want to ensure all
members are clear on our programs and
volunteer opportunities. It is also important that existing programs are viewed as
critical resources to you in providing
quality pet care. Our goal is to be the
leading source of pet care trends and issues
and to provide resources for all members
to have business success.
Two new sections have been formed
that will facilitate more information and
resources for you. The rapid growth of
social media and smart phones bring new
marketing opportunities to all small
businesses and the future Technology
Section will keep us informed on these
and other new trends in the rapid developing world of technology. Being green
and organic is important to many consumers so how do we reflect this in pet care?
Our Green and Holistic Section will
share easy steps all of us can take to be
greener and will also provide information
on the growing list of holistic pet care
modalities being utilized today. Look for
articles from these new sections in this
and future issues of the Pet Services
Journal.
My request to all members for 2010
is to help us ensure the Pet Care Services
Association brand does reflect high quality
pet care from each and every member.
We have implemented minimum standards and practices that all members
agree to abide by when they pay their
member dues. It is the duty of each of us
to protect our brand and report violations
by fellow members. This is a key difference in the revised Standards & Practices
and Ethics programs—members can
report violations of other members.
Our brand is only as strong as the
weakest link so we must work together
to ensure all members are compliant
with high quality care. You told us in
the survey that is the top priority for
your association and together we will
continue to be the standard setters in
the pet care industry. d
5
THOUGHTS
FROM
THE
CEO
green, using sustainable business
Increase Your Being
practices, adhering to the triple bottom
line and lessoning your carbon footprint
all concepts that operate from the
Triple Bottom arepremise
that you and your business are
connected to something larger than just
Line yourself.
By Joan Saunders,
Chief Executive Officer
“
This issue of the Pet
Services Journal focuses
on numerous ways anyone can increase their
”
triple bottom line.
regarding the Pet Care Services
Association, contact the CEO:
Joan Saunders
6
This thinking can lead you to consider how your actions will affect others,
the pets you care for, the pet community
in general, your town or state, society as
a whole, the world community and the
planet.
Building on this thought and taking
even small actions towards incorporating
sustainable business practices into your
operation can actually increase the quality
and profitability of your facility or
organization while attracting customers
who are also committed to those using
sustainable practices.
This philosophy is known as the “triple
bottom line” or “the three pillars—people,
planet, profit”. Simply put, if you take
care of people and our planet, you and
your business will profit.
The phrase triple bottom line was
originally coined by John Elkington in
1994 and later in his book Cannibals
with Forks: the Triple Bottom Line of 21st
Century Business in which he describes
the social and environmental impact of an
organization’s activities and the criteria
for measuring its success.
More recently, Andy Savitz wrote
the book, The Triple Bottom Line: How
Today’s Best-Run Companies are Achieving
Economic, Social, and Environmental
Success—And How You Can Too. Savitz
works with Fortune 100 companies and
major nonprofits to develop and implement
environmental, social, and economicly
sustainability strategies. Savitz demonstrates how the best and most successful
businesses uses his triple bottom line
model to sustain their business and
increase their chances of being more
successful in the decades to come.
You don’t have to wait and read these
books to implement “green” strategies.
There are a plethora of simple things
you can do today to increase your triple
bottom line. Debbie at Lucky Dog in
Colorado Springs uses recycled packing
materials to muffle sound at her boarding
and day care business. Many facilities
have found ways to use biodegradable
cleaning products; others use organic
products in outdoor runs and potty
areas. Some members use and sell only
natural or human grade pet foods. You
can consider who and where the products
you use are made and use those that
support local or indigenous cultures
rather than mass producers that may
operate using high carbon footprint production processes. A common practice is
to reduce your ecological footprint by
carefully managing your facility’s energy
consumption. Your local utility can
advise you on how to conserve energy at
your facility.
Human Resource strategies can be
examined from the Triple Bottom Line
perspective as well. Are your people
strategies sustainable for your employees?
I find ways to encourage and empower
my employees to grow by encouraging
participation in planning and decision
making. Paying fair salaries and maintaining a safe work environment can be
cost effective to the business. Another
“people” strategy is to give back to your
community such as your local shelter or
animal rescue or allow employees time
off to volunteer there. I know many of
you do this already.
This issue of the Pet Services Journal
focuses on numerous ways anyone can
increase their triple bottom line. It is
loaded with simple and effective ways
for you and your facility to be green
with several articles that expand on my
suggestions above. Watch for more green
articles in future editions. d
DOG
BOARDING
Defining A H
Green Plan
By Jaime Van Wye
ow green is your kennel? These days,
being “green” is not only ecologically
responsible, it’s a great way to set yourself
apart from the competition and position
yourself as a market innovator. Defining a
“green” policy does not only help you and
your staff work towards your goals of a
more environmentally-friendly business,
but it lets your customers know that you
care about important issues.
Lighting
Replace all lighting with florescent bulbs,
which are longer-lasting and more energy
efficient.
How Can You Go Green?
There are a dozen small ways to go green
that you’re probably already doing (or can
implement easily) and a few bigger commitments that you can make towards
making your business eco-friendly. If
going green seems like a bit of a financial
crunch to take on, don’t worry. The good
news is that many changes you can make
will actually save money in the long run.
To begin with, sit down and make a
list of the items you currently do that are
eco-friendly and what you’d like to do;
post it conspicuously for both your staff
AND the public. Keeping on top of your
policies, like any other new policy you
introduce, will require some work at first
to make sure employees are on board, but
after a while, it will become second
nature.
Paper Consumption
Reuse, reuse, reuse! Do you have a scrap
paper stack? Old paper should be recycled
and the back of paper can be used for taking notes.
“
HVAC Maintenance
Dog fur and dust can clog your filters fast
so keep on top of your maintenance program. Your system will consume less energy and work more efficiently.
Go Digital!
Think about implementing an online system to take vaccination records, for example. Purchase an online fax number for
about $10 a month (try www.myfax.com)
so you can receive and send faxes via your
email program. The best part is that you
can keep a digital copy of the fax with no
filing! Think about moving your forms
online as well to capture data from your
clients. Moodle.com is an easy-to-use
form creator that can be customized to
meet your needs, while reducing paper
enrollments (If you’re concerned about
If going green seems like a bit of a financial crunch to take on, don’t
worry. The good news is that many changes you can make will actually
”
save money in the long run.
regarding dog boarding, contact
PCSA's Dog Boarding Section Chair:
Jaime Van Wye
Email: [email protected] or
[email protected]
8
Electricity
Energy consumption is one of the big
places where businesses can save resources
- and money. Identify any lights that can
be turned off during business and after
hours. Make sure that all non-essential
items are unplugged and turned off when
they’re not in use. That idle computer
someone left on eats up tons of power,
and unplugging small items like cell
phone chargers can make a difference, too.
liability, check with your lawyer about
having clients “sign” electronically).
Water Conservation
One simple thing you can do to save
water is to promptly repair leaky faucets.
Make sure that staff is not overusing
water and consider switching your landscaping water to a grey water system.
Depending on your city regulations, you
may be able to divert your laundry runoff
towards your garden.
Chemicals and Cleaning Products
Are you using the most earth-friendly cleaning products? In a kennel environment, look for a balance between the
need for disinfection and “green” cleaners. Re-evaluate your cleaning regimen
and see if you can go green on some of
your cleaning products - even if it’s only
adding recycled paper towels to the bathroom. Consider purchasing your disinfectants in powder or concentrated form
(most chemicals you buy are mainly
water) to save on shipping and transportation costs.
Reusing
Have a “junk closet” of stuff taking up
space? Clean it out and help out locally
by donating your excess supplies to a
local rescue or animal welfare organization.
Materials
If you’re remodeling or adding fixtures to
your business, consider recycled products
or reusing materials, for example purchase lightly used office equipment. Do
you have a rubber floor? Chances are you
already have a product in your building
with some recycled content in it.
Retail
If you sell retail, stay local and purchase
items made in the USA. Try adding
some eco-friendly toys or supplies to
your product line (like West Paw
Designs). It not only saves on energy
consumption, but clients love buying
“green.”
Once you’ve figured out where you
stand on these initiatives, draw up a plan
and share it. You’ll be surprised how easy
it is to go green, and clients will love to
hear about it. d
Jaime Van Wye is the owner and director of a
dog training and agility center in Los Angeles,
The Zoom Room, as well as the author of the
satirical self-help book, How to Have an IllBehaved Dog. She is the founder and creator
of KennelStart, a solutions-oriented company
specializing in kennel consulting.
9
DOG
DAYCARE
ogs that have appropriate outlets for
D
10 Ways To healthier,
their energy are usually happier,
better socialized, and better
mannered
Off-leash dog play is
Keep Your becoming adogs.
more popular way for owners
to exercise their pets. However, for some
Dog Safe In dogs, off-leash play is not all fun and games.
can get hurt, seriously injured, or
Off-Leash Play Dogs
even killed in poorly run playgroups.
By Robin Bennett, CPDT
1. Is it right for your dog?
The average age of the dog that enjoys a
good romp with a group of other dogs is
six months to three years of age. Puppies
from three to six months can definitely
benefit, but they can also be more easily
traumatized if not put in the right group.
If your dog chooses to avoid other dogs,
then an off-leash play setting may not be
the best outlet for him. Dogs that enjoy
off-leash dog play usually actively seek
out the attention of other dogs.
Remember, it’s not about the dog, it’s
about the environment. If you dog doesn’t enjoy off-leash dog play, that doesn’t
make him a bad dog. It merely means
he’s a dog that would rather participate in
some other activity.
2. What is socialization?
Many people take their dog to off-leash
play sessions so they can socialize their
dog. This is a great idea, but remember
that socialization is not just about exposure to any and all things in the world.
Socialization means positive interactions
are created to help a dog grow, play, and
learn. It should not be a random
encounter with just any dog or person
available. A bad experience, especially for
a puppy less than five months of age, can
have lifelong implications.
regarding Daycare, contact PCSA’s
Daycare Section Chair:
Robin Bennet
10
3. Controlling your dog
Off-leash dog play should not be a free
for all. Dogs do best if they have been
taught some basic skills. You should be
able to get your dog’s attention and call
him to you even if he’s off leash playing
with another dog. This will give you a
good measure of control when he begins
to get too rowdy.
4. Dog play… the good, the bad,
and the ugly
Not all dogs play nicely. Some dogs play
well, but only with certain playmates.
Just as with children, you must choose
your dog’s playmates wisely. Educate
yourself to learn the difference between
playstyles and make the best match for
you dog. Remember to separate dogs by
size and by playstyle. Small dogs should
never be placed with very large dogs—
even if they play well together. Small dogs
can create a predatory behavior in some
larger dogs, which can become deadly
very quickly.
5. Playstyles
Some dogs love to chase one another;
others love to wrestle and playbite; others
like to play gently using their paws like
kittens; still others like to body-slam one
another. Put your dog with dogs that have
similar playstyles. If your dog is gentle, she
will not enjoy playing with a dog who bodyslams her. Both play styles are appropriate,
they just aren’t appropriate together.
6. Too much arousal can lead to
aggression
Dogs need rest periods and breaks even
when they are playing. Teach your dog to
come to you periodically and don’t allow
the dogs to become overly rowdy in their
play. It looks like fun, but can seep into
aggression very quickly. If the dogs don’t
slow themselves down occasionally during
play, you need to do it for them by calling them to you and giving them a short
30-second break. Don’t allow play to go
uninterrupted for more than two to three
minutes at a time.
7. Introducing dogs
Always introduce your dog one on one
and go at the dog’s pace. Allow the sniffing to occur since it is a necessary part of
the greeting ritual. Don’t force a dog to
greet another dog if either dog is showing
avoidance. When you show up at a playgroup, have the other dogs move away
from the gate before you enter. If owners
aren’t there to move their dogs away, just
wait until the dogs get bored and go away
on their own. Then bring your dog in
when things are more settled. Watch for
any signs of stiffness or nervousness.
8. Supervision is the key, but you
need to know what you are
looking for
Happy dogs have loose, curved bodies.
They play with exaggerated, repetitive,
lateral movements. Their bodies
remain fluid and loose during play.
They play taking turns (one dog pins
another, then they switch roles). They
also take periodic breaks. Nervous or
tense dogs are still and rigid. They play
with precise movements that are quick
and tight. They don’t take turns (one
dog always seems to pin the other and
keep him pinned too long). Look for
common signs of stress to see if any
dog is becoming overwhelmed.
9. Recognizing stress signals
Here are some common stress signals
in dogs. If you dog starts to show com-
binations of these at one time, he’s
probably becoming overwhelmed. Lip
licking is an easy-to-recognize signal
that occurs when a dog flicks his
tongue in and out of his mouth.
Yawning is not usually a sign of contentment as much as it is a sign of
nervousness. Half-moon eye is when
you see the whites of the dog’s eye
around the outer edge of the eye. If
your dog is repeatedly clawing and/or
jumping on you in a panic-stricken
sort of way, he’s asking for help. Don’t
make him “just deal with things”. You
need to assess the environment to see
why the dog is so frightened.
10. Be your dog’s advocate
Don’t be afraid to remove your dog
from a group if the play seems inappropriate. Ask questions and ensure
those supervising the dogs have experience. Not all play is good for all dogs
and it’s up to you to make sure your
dog is having a good time and learning
good behaviors.
For more information on keeping
your dog safe, see the following
resources: Off Leash Dog Play by
Robin Bennett, CPDT and Susan
Briggs, CKO at http://www.dreamdogproductions.com. d
Robin Bennett is the co-owner of All About
Dogs, the largest dog training company in
Virginia. Since beginning her company in
1993 she has grown from a sole proprietorship to a Corporation that boasts fourteen
instructors teaching private lessons as well as
numerous group classes and behavior modification lessons for shy, fearful and aggressive
dogs. She is a Colonel in the United States
Marine Corps Reserve and is
married with two children.
Robin is an active member
of the Pet Care Services
Association and is Section
Chair of the Daycare
Committee.
11
DOG
TRAINING
literally amazed at the number of
Do You Really Iam
homes I go to with rowdy and unruly
adolescent dogs and out-of-control pupwith one thing in common.
Think a Leash pies—all
Each of these dogs and puppies are off
They are not attached to their owner
Is Only For leash.
in any way, shape or form. The fact is a
or line on your dog “in the house”
Walking Your leash
is your best offensive tactic to gaining
puppy or dog.
Dog? controlCaseofinyourpoint:
When I was on a dog
By Jim Burwell
forum recently reading about a bad jumping habit someone was seeking advice on
for their dog, I was reminded of an
encounter with a past client. To this day, I
am still astounded at the phenomenon I
witnessed. My first lesson was with their
out-of-control rescue pup—a small 15
pounder as I remember, 18 months old
who was certainly friendly. He spent the
first ten to 15 minutes of the lesson hurling
himself at me and his owners trying to get
up on the sofa and onto our laps for his
share of love and affection. But it didn’t
stop there. He’d get up on our chests, lick
our faces, and then do it over and over
again. Initially, the owners thought it was
“
He fussed and struggled for a while until
he settled down with his Kong toy. When
he tired of that, he fussed a little more
and then finally settled down while we
talked. Once he was quiet and relaxed for
a while (about five to10 minutes), I asked
him to sit and invited him up on the sofa
to sit nicely next to me. I maintained control of him on the sofa with the leash. At
the first attempt to crawl up and lick my
face, I simply removed him from the sofa
(not making a fuss) and settled him on the
floor once again. On the third attempt to
sit nicely by my side on the sofa, we had
success. Some dogs may take longer. We
got lucky. We also taught him to get off
the sofa as well by sending him to his dog
bed which was conveniently close by. It is
much less confrontational that way.
While some people may find using
the leash inside the home with their dog a
small inconvenience, the end result—
good manners—is achieved much more
quickly. And it allows you to send a very
strong message when used every day: “I’m
in charge. You have to listen to me now.”
I talked to the clients about the value
While some people may find using the leash inside the home
with their dog a small inconvenience, the end result—good manners—is achieved much more quickly. And it allows you to send a
very strong message when used every day: ‘I’m in charge. You have to
”
listen to me now.’
Jim Burwell, Houston’s “Dog Whisperer,”
has been training dogs for 25 years. He
is founder of Jim Burwell’s Petiquette, an
in-home dog training franchise. If you
have a question or concern regarding
dog training, contact him at (713) 7280610; Email: [email protected],
[email protected]. Be sure to
visit his Web site www.petiquettedog.com.
12
cute, but called me for training and
behavior lessons once they realized that
the dog was out of control.
As we discussed their priority issues
with their new pup (his current behavior
being at the top of the list), I put a leash
on their dog and put my foot on the leash
close to his collar giving him some
maneuvering room but preventing his
jumping. I gave him a stuffed Kong toy
and said, “Settle.” I then ignored the dog.
of combining this with three daily twominute sessions of “come”, “sit” and
“down” to provide him with a sense of
working for leadership rather than having
to be responsible for it himself. Long
walks allowed the owners to more constructively manage his energy rather than
him using his destructive talents on their
prized possessions back home.
I hope this helps one of your clients
so, pass it on. d
13
EDUCATION
A Few T
Green Tips
he challenge before me is to write an
article for the Pet Services Journal that
includes education and “green”. Now the
education aspect doesn’t bother me at all,
but the “green” makes me a little nervous
since I don’t have a lot of experience or
knowledge in this area.
As I thought about it, though, it
came to me that there are probably many
other facilities like ours that want to do
more for the environment, but do not
have large amounts of funds to allocate
toward this endeavor. So I have decided
to suggest a few little things you can do
to start your “green” journey without
breaking your pocket book.
By Carla Morris, CKO
Education Section Chair
Recycling
Ok, I know this can be a dirty word, but
I am completely amazed at how easy it is
and how much we saved when we recently started recycling. In our area
(Nebraska), green dumpsters with frogs
on them are commonly used at schools
for recycling paper and cardboard products. Now the cool thing about this is
that when we recycle our paper and cardboard in these dumpsters, the school
receives monetary credit for the amount
“
offers recycling to their employees. Now
here’s the double bonus part of this—our
employee’s husband picks up our plastic
and tin cans and then drops them off at
his recycling center at no cost to us. In
return, our employee can use our dumpster for her trash. Not only do we get to
recycle plastic and tin, the employee is
able to save money by cancelling her
trash service. I figure a bag or two of
trash in our dumpster is a great trade off
for the three or four bags of plastic and
tin cans that end up there each week
headed for the landfill. You, too, can easily ask your employees and clients if they
have access to a recycling center.
Wouldn’t a complimentary night’s stay
each month at your business be worth a
lower garbage bill and you being a step
closer to being “green”? In addition, think
of the “great word of mouth” when the
person helping you tells their friends
about what their fabulous boarding
facility does to be more environmentally
friendly.
Turn Off the Lights
How many times have you walked
through your facility and asked yourself,
Think of the “great word of mouth” when the person helping
you tells their friends about what their fabulous boarding facility
”
does to be more environmentally friendly.
For questions or concerns regarding
education, contact PCSA’s Education
Section Chair:
Carla Morris, CKO
14
that is collected. So it’s a double bonus—
we can’t go wrong. We help reduce the
amount of garbage that goes into the
landfills while helping local schools financially. Check the schools and churches in
your area to see if they have a similar program. It’s an easy way of going “green” at
no cost to you.
As for plastic and tin cans, one of our
employee’s spouse works at a place that
“Do we really need all those lights on?”
Or “Is it necessary to have the place lit up
enough to land airplanes? A little common sense is all you need to help you
travel that “green” road. Besides it will
lower your electric bill as well as conserve
energy.
In the summer, we save on electricity
by turning off the lights in the kennel.
We have the advantage of natural lights—
not an excessive amount, but enough
to keep our place from looking like a
dungeon. The cool thing about this is
it also makes an amazing difference in
our cooling bills (no pun intended
really!) by turning off those hot lights.
Consider Your Thermostat
In the winter, we save energy and
reduce heating costs by lowering our
thermostat. We found we could run
our thermostat a few degrees cooler in
the winter as well as a few degrees
warmer in the summer and everyone
still feels comfortable. It’s another simple step to helping the “green” journey
to a better environment, and like the
other suggestions save money. Who
doesn’t like to save money!
We have also installed programma-
ble thermostats. Our local hardware
store carries them and the instructions
were easy to follow. It was a simple
solution with big results. We program
our thermostats to run more frequently during business hours and less often
during the night when no one is at the
facility. We save energy costs and control the environment.
I hope I’ve given you a few ideas
you can implement to make your facility a little more “green”. We at
Pampered Paws didn’t realize how easy
and cost effective it would be to take
these few easy steps to do our part for
the environment. As I mentioned,
“green” is not a subject I know a lot
about and I figured if I can do these
things, other Pet Care Services
Association members can too. So walk
around your facility and ask yourself,
“What can I do to be a little more
‘green’ without shelling out a lot of
‘green’?” It’s easier than you think and
you’ll feel good about helping the
environment. We sure did! d
Carla Morris is a second generation
kennel owner and has been in the business 20 years. Education is a passion of
hers and she firmly believes that the only
way to excel is to be in a state of constant
learning. Her dog boarding facility
Pampered Paws has been a Pet Care
Services Association
Silver Accredited since
2001.
15
HOLISTIC
AND
GREEN
Care Services Association has added
Introducing Peta Holistic
& Green section to its list of
many valuable resources. I was honored to
asked and am excited to serve as this
The Holistic & besection’s
first chair. In this capacity, my
role
is
to
facilitate the joining of people
Green Section and information
on holistic care and
By Crista Meyer
green practice options for use in a professional pet care environment.
Why was this section formed? It is
difficult to turn on the television these
days without hearing of the damage
inflicted on us personally, as well as the
earth we live on, by the continual assault
of chemicals surrounding us and in our
foods. Many of us have begun incorporating more healthy choices in the foods we
eat and the products we bring into our
homes. We are incorporating time proven
and more body friendly modalities such as
improved nutrition, chiropractic treatments, massage therapy, acupuncture and
essential oil therapy into our own daily
lives and those of our pets. As we build
and renovate our homes, we are choosing
to use more green products such as less
toxic insulation, solar energy and low or
no VOC paints.
Because of these choices in many of
our personal lives, a survey was conducted
in the spring of 2009 to gather input on
“
conference schedule.
The first Holistic & Green (H&G)
section roundtable meeting was held at
the Orlando PCSA conference in October
2009. Eighteen people attended the
roundtable and many signed up to be on
the H&G committee. Another person,
who had been unable to attend the
roundtable or any of the conference programs, made the trip just to seek out Kim
Shotola (The Lightfoot Way) and then
signed up to be on the committee. Many
more people found me afterwards saying
they wished they had been there but
needed to attend other roundtables
instead. Wow!
Ideas and information flew at the
roundtable as people discussed healthier
foods, cleaning/disinfecting options,
flea/tick products, methods of handling
pet waste, holistic health modalities, more
efficient facility design and much, much
more. It was a dynamic and energizing
meeting. All left feeling fired up about
sharing what they had learned and used as
well as learning more from others. Better
meeting their customers’ needs by creating
healthier environments and service
options was a goal of all. After all, a
healthier pet means a customer for longer
period of time!
…47.3 percent were interested in learning more about holistic
pet care therapies and 43 percent were interested or currently
”
using ‘green’ practices in their facility.
Crista Meyer is co-owner of Urban
Tails in Houston, Texas. Always interested
in health and green living, she began
serious study of holistic health approaches
for animals while living in Angola, Africa
with 7 animals to support. She has been
a member of Pet Care Services Association
since 1999. Crista can be reached at
[email protected] or (713) 658-0900.
16
our membership’s interest in holistic and
green issues. Of those responding, 47.3
percent were interested in learning more
about holistic pet care therapies and 43
percent were interested or currently using
“green” practices in their facility. A stunning 74.6 percent of survey responders
indicated that they had used in their facility, or recommended to their customers,
natural or raw food diets. Further, 54.7
percent responded that they would attend
presentations if they were on a seminar or
So, watch for all kinds of innovative
and exciting information to come out of
the newly formed H&G section. All
interested parties are welcome to assist as
we get this off the ground. Please contact
me if you would like to participate by
writing articles, contributing to the Yahoo
groups list, be a contact on a subject for
which you are knowledgeable, etcetera.
The more the merrier! You can email me
via [email protected] or telephone
713-658-0900. d
17
Articles
HUMAN RESOURCES
STAFF REVIEWS
BY VERONICA BOUTELLE
the company and the individuals who comprise it forward.
The good news is it doesn’t have to be
like this. The staff review process can be a
useful tool for everyone involved to help build
a smooth-running business that is enjoyable
to own and work for.
taff performance reviews enjoy near-universal unpopularity—dreaded
by employer and employee alike. For the employer, reviews feel like
meaningless busywork, something you are expected to do but which never
really seems productive or useful. Many employers are also uncomfortable
having to assess people and deliver criticisms. For the employee, the
process can be both punishing and embarrassing.
Some employers avoid reviews altogether. In another common scenario, the responsible manager downloads a generic HR template online
that contains only superficial review criteria like attitude and dress code,
things that have little meaning and no direct relevance to the company in
question. Or, to avoid conflict, the manager reviews the employee more
favorably than what he or she really perceives. Either way, it means that
when reviews happen they seldom have the impact they should, to move
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18
REVIEWS THAT WORK
First, tie staff reviews to job descriptions and
any staff training you do so the items under
review are directly relevant. Make the items
specific. For example, rather than reviewing
an item called Attitude, a concept too broad
to be a useful starting point for a discussion,
have an item called Willingness To Help
Colleagues And Go Above and Beyond
Where Needed. A detailed item like this gives
you specific instances to refer to when assessing how an employee measures up.
Second, make feedback meaningful. The
format of review feedback is often an undefined
scale, for example 1-10. Say we know 10 is
“excellent” and 1 is “bad”. That still leaves us
without a definition of what it takes to be a 10
or any shared understanding of the numbers
in-between. One employee might be proud of
receiving an 8; another might see it as a rebuke.
Neither knows what the 8 is meant to convey.
Instead of vague scales, use rubrics. A rubric is
essentially a defined scale with each number
or rung on the scale clearly spelled out.
HOW TO USE RUBRICS
Make the scale short. For example, use 0-4
rather than 1-10. This makes the rubrics
easier to write and use plus leaves less
room for haggling, misinterpretations,
and so on.
Be specific. People need to know
exactly what you mean by a particular
score and what is expected of them.
When writing rubrics, it is often
helpful to start by creating a generic
example. Something along the lines of:
4 - Exhibits complete mastery.
3 - Highly competent with some additional room for learning.
2 - Basic skills and competencies in place.
1 - Does not meet basic requirements.
Guided by this generic rubric, you
are now ready to write rubrics for the
individual employee’s points of review.
Say a point of review is: “Recognizes tension on the daycare floor and acts proactively to defuse unsafe situations and
avoid incidents”. That would translate
into the following rubrics:
4 - Consistently reads overt and subtle
body language and reacts early with
appropriate measures to keep dogs out
of conflict.
3 - Recognizes most body language and
tensions and responds in time to
defuse tensions and avoid conflicts
in most cases.
2 - Able to read obvious body language
signals and responds in time to avoid
conflict in those cases.
1 - Does not recognize enough body language to proactively respond to avoid
conflict or may recognize body language
but does not respond proactively.
Be prepared to share examples to back
up your scores. Name specific incidents and
observations. Say you give an employee a
score of 2 on the above rubric because
19
Articles
HUMAN RESOURCES
you have seen this person miss subtle signs of resource guarding, making
him or her unable to respond as quickly as is ideal. If at all possible, share
specific incidents, like “The tiff between Fido and Spot over the pink tennis ball.”
Be as positive with feedback as possible. Don’t focus exclusively on areas
that need attention—give at least equal weight to things employees do well.
And then be specific about areas for improvement, couching such suggestions in the context of the rubric. As in: “You are doing a great job noticing
when chase and wrestle games are getting too heated and stepping in on
those. What I’d like you to work on next to move from a 2 to a 3 is recognizing some of the more subtle signs dogs give each other when they feel
possessive about a toy or another resource.” Follow up with a specific plan
for accomplishing this improvement. For example, is there a staff training
you would like the person to attend? Is there a DVD to watch or a book
to read? Will you pair him or her up with a colleague who has these skills?
20
SET GOALS ON DAY ONE
Even the best employees cannot be expected
to read minds. Don’t make it a mystery how
to be the model employee; nobody should be
left to guess. Give new employees the review
points (in rubric form) the day you hire them,
so they know exactly what is expected of them
and what to strive for.
GET EMPLOYEES INVOLVED
Self-assessment can be a powerful tool, worth
incorporating into your review process. The
potential gains are:
Getting employees involved in the review
process helps them better understand what
they are being evaluated on and what you are
looking for.
Employees who actively participate in the
process are less likely to be taken aback by
their scores, which means that conflict stemming from defensiveness and embarrassment
is less likely.
If the rubrics are clear and well thought
through, an employee’s perspective on his or
her job performance is less likely to be far off
from yours. And if it is, you will have a clear
sense of any areas in which perspective is out
of whack or where expectations have not been
clearly communicated before you go into the
one-on-one review.
Give the employee the review and ask
him to complete and bring it to the next
scheduled review appointment. At the review,
go point by point, asking the employee to
share his self-score and to explain why he has
scored himself this way. If your score matches,
give any additional thoughts or examples to
reinforce his. If not, tell the employee what
you agree with in his self-analysis and explain
why you have scored him differently, again
using examples and specific incidents wherever possible. Avoid any negotiation. Your score
IS the score—unless you realize there is a
compelling reason to do so, do not change
your score. If the employee’s score was higher
than what you gave him, give specific examples and direction for how the score can be
raised to the one the employee gave himself.
BE GOAL-ORIENTED
In addition to going over the rubric
review points, use your staff review
appointment to set concrete goals for
each employee between now and the next
review. Keep the goals to a limited number—something in the region of two to
four, depending on the complexity of
goals and length of review period. Be sure
to define what success will look like. How
will you and your employee know if the
goals were met? For example:
A non-concrete goal: Improve your
understanding of dogs.
A concrete goal: Improve reading of
canine body language, specifically recognizing signs of resource guarding.
In this instance, success would be
quantifiably fewer incidents/tiffs on the
playground.
Create an action plan with benchmarks and interim deadlines to make sure
the work required to achieve the goals is
not left to a mad dash right before the
next review. Having progress meetings
along the way re-ignites motivation for
getting things done, shows support of
employees and their development, and
helps you catch early on if things are not
moving along as hoped.
The first time you institute this goal
program, start with simpler goals on a
“
shorter time frame. For example, if you carry out reviews twice a year, make
the goals quarterly. This is another great place to get your employees involved.
Have them fill out a goal sheet in which they suggest areas for their own
improvement or professional development. Have some ideas of your own prepared and decide with your employees which goals they will pursue this quarter. Make sure at least one of them comes from their own list and is of strong
interest to them.
From here on, the review process is made up of evaluating goal success,
revisiting your rubrics for the position in question, and setting the next quarter’s goals.
EVERYONE WINS
A review process that includes collaborative goal setting and employee involvement is much less aversive and uncomfortable for both parties. It creates a
greater sense of responsibility for one’s own job performance. And it allows you
to be an effective manager and leader, rather than merely The Boss. d
Veronica Boutelle is the founder of dogTEC and author of How To Run a Dog Business:
Putting Your Career Where Your Heart Is. To contact Veronica or to learn about how
dogTEC’s services and products can help your business succeed visit www.dogtec.org.
Even the best employees cannot
be expected to read minds. Don’t
make it a mystery how to be the
model employee; nobody should
”
be left to guess.
21
ANIMAL
H E A LT H
Protecting Their
Hearts, & Yours:
Research Into
Heart Disease
Offers Hope
By Patricia N. Olson, DVM, PhD
President and CEO of
Morris Animal Foundation
“
…pets must rely on
caregivers to act on
”
warning signs…
If you have specific health concerns,
please e-mail me at
[email protected],
and I’ll try to address them in an
upcoming column.
22
frequently touched by the actions of
Inotamouronly
donors—exceptional pet parents who
provide the best care during
their pets’ lives but also strive to ensure
better health for future generations. One
such donor, who recently sponsored a
Morris Animal Foundation study, put her
heartache over losing a pet into words with
the following dedication: “In memory of
Pixel: Your broken heart has broken my
heart.”
While many people recognize their
own risks for cardiovascular disease, the
No. 1 medical cause of human death in the
United States, few know that 3.2 million
dogs—like Pixel— suffer from it as well.
Cats also suffer from heart disease.
The statistics, collected by the
American Veterinary Medical Association,
represent special lives, dogs that lift our
spirits and enrich our days, whether we
are fortunate enough to live with them on
a daily basis or they are frequent, welcome
visitors at pet care and services facilities
like yours.
Researchers funded by Morris Animal
Foundation (MAF) are hard at work to
identify early warning signs of heart disease
and stop it in its tracks. We recognize
that funding research is only part of the
overall battle though—getting it into the
hands of those who can use it for the
greater good is equally as important. And
this is where we seek your help in disseminating information to pet owners.
Unable to ask for our help, pets must
rely on caregivers to act on warning signs,
including coughing, trouble breathing
and fainting, to catch heart disease before
it causes irreparable damage and death.
Regular veterinary visits are imperative for
effective treatment; some cardiovascular
disease does not show outward signs until
the disease is terminal.
For this reason, MAF funds veterinary
scientists like Dr. N. Sydney Moise,
whose study focuses on early detection.
The work of Moise and others brings pet
owners one step closer to better treatment
and prevention of this multifaceted disease.
Genetics are to blame for some canine
heart disease, but bacteria and heartworms contribute to a rising number of
cases.
At Cornell University, Moise studied
the mechanisms of arrhythmogenic right
ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a
disease affecting boxers, English bulldogs
and Labradors. With MAF funding,
Moise and second-year veterinary student
Eva Oxford, PhD, made exciting discoveries about structural abnormalities in
boxers’ hearts. The abnormality, which
appears as dark rods in the heart, may
disrupt electrical impulses.
In healthy canine hearts, millions of
connected cells receive electrical impulses
to shorten and relax the cells simultaneously. Moise and Oxford theorize that
genetic defects in dogs break down the
“glue” that binds cells together, causing
arrhythmias and heart failure. Once
researchers understand these abnormalities,
they will be better equipped to discover
ways to prevent and treat them.
MAF funding not only shed light on
ARVC genetic mutations, but the investment
also inspired Oxford to pursue veterinary
research as a career. When Oxford met
Moise, the student was completing
research into arrhythmias in people, so
they decided to collaborate.
“This MAF funding has resulted in a
young person becoming so inspired that she
changed her career to veterinary medicine,”
Moise says. “Dr. Oxford is so driven to
find answers for this disease. This
research will yield benefits for decades
to come.”
To read more about Moise’s study,
visit the MAF Web site: http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/resources/clinical-trials/. Also, please remember that the
Foundation lists clinical trials, which pet
owners can enroll in, online at
http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/
resources/clinical-trials/.
Our goal is to empower pet owners—
and pet care services professionals—to
take control of their pets’ health care.
When that happens we all win, because
pets live longer, healthier lives. d
Articles
M E M B E R
P R O F I L E
Stay N Play Pet Ranch, lnc.
DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS
By John Ridge and Christy Stettler
tay N Play Pet Ranch® is the result of Charlotte Biggs’ vision of building an “all natural” and “green” facility for pet care. Biggs, who has a
Bachelor of Science degree, spent eighteen successful years in sales and marketing as well as management for the pharmaceutical industry. She spent 80
percent of her time traveling while her four dogs virtually lived at different
boarding facilities.
Often when Biggs picked up her dogs at these facilities, she’d say to
herself, “I would love to do one of these (boarding facilities) my way.” She
imagined a facility that would provide the type of care she wanted for her
pets, one that provided the level of attention she expected, one that would
return the right pets to the right owners, clean and well fed.
Bigg’s friend Betty Gale shared her desire to create such a facility. They
S
24
decided to leave their corporate jobs, pool
their resources and build a pet care facility
that would keep pets safe, healthy and happy
in an all natural environment.
THE PROCESS
Biggs and Gale worked with a full list of consultants to assist them in the necessary steps
to build their dream pet care facility. A CPA
(Certified Public Accountant) helped put
their business plan together. An attorney, after
verifying there was no conflict, registered the
STAY N PLAY PET RANCH, INC.
name Stay N Play Pet Ranch and set up a business entity
for them. An intellectual property attorney walked them
through the Federally Registered Trademark process for
their name and logo. The Small Business Development
Center and the Small Business Administration assisted
with the loan approval from an appropriate lender.
Once the decision was made to build a pet care facility, Biggs and Gale joined Pet Care Services Association in
1996 to learn all they could about the industry, the facilities needed, and the operational activities involved in such
a venture. “The members of PCSA were so willing to share
information that it certainly made it a lot easier for us,”
says Biggs. “The local meetings, the convention and most
importantly networking with others in the industry provided a wealth of information at just the right time.”
VITAL STATISTICS
SERVICES
Dog Boarding, Cat Boarding, Pet Supplies/Products, Training,
Grooming, Day Boarding, Canine Massage and limited Canine
Rehab Services
NUMBER OF ENCLOSURES
Sixty indoor-outdoor dog, twelve cat
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
Fifteen full-time, seven part-time
RESERVATIONS/CANCELLATIONS
Reservations for boarding, grooming and training are required in
advance. Boarding reservations require 24-hour notice for cancellation. Holidays require a 14-day cancellation notice, deposits become
non-refundable if this is not adhered to.
ENTRANCE AND IMMUNIZATION POLICY
Documented vaccinations or titer test results are required, including
canine cough. The only exceptions are allowed with a letter from a
veterinarian stating that vaccination is not in the pet’s best interest
due to age or illness.
FEEDING
Feeding occurs twice a day. This provides two opportunities a day to
assess the pet’s eating habits, as well as reduce the volume of food
consumed by any potential bloat dog.
CLEANING SUPPLIES
L.O.C. (Liquid Organic Cleaner) for most surfaces, including equipment, Kuranda beds, crates, etc. Natural laundry soap, SA8,
biodegradable, with no phosphates. Chlor-Air, Kennel+Plus for disinfecting dog runs, play yards, and equipment. FleaBusters for flea
and tick prevention, and Nature’s Specialty natural shampoos and
conditioners.
RETAIL ITEMS
All natural pet foods and treats, natural pet shampoos and conditioners. Collars and leashes, training support items. Limited dog
beds and toys, cat treats and toys. Shoo!Tag natural pest control
products and biodegradable poop bags.
STAFF TRAINING
Stay N Play participates in educational opportunities that arise
through associations and local events. Staff is trained in the Pet
Care Technician Level I program, and with the opportunity to move
on to Level II. Pet Care Technicians go through an on-the-job training program with a 30-day and 90-day review process. Trainers and
groomers are members of their respective associations.
IF THEY KNEW THEN WHAT THEY KNOW NOW
Biggs - There would be different sizes of dog runs to accommodate
different sizes of dogs and groups of family dogs, rather than having
all runs be the same size. Gale – Grooming turned out to be a secondary source of business; make sure you have the proper spaces
available to accommodate the washing as well as the grooming.
Charlotte Biggs and Betty Gale are the proud founders and
owners of their “all natural” and “green” pet care facility.
WEBSITE
www.staynplaypetranch.com
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Articles
M E M B E R
P R O F I L E
Dogs play in excerise yards filled with cedar mulch.
BUILDING GREEN ON A LEAN BUDGET
With the help of Pet Care Services, Biggs and Gale found
architect Todd Schrimpsher, a member of the American
Institute of Architects, who was experienced in designing pet
care facilities. Schrimpsher researched and designed their
facility based on their desire to have it as green as possible.
He also identified the builder and orchestrated all aspects of
the physical construction of the facility.
At that time, the green building movement was still on
the fringe of the construction industry. Materials and
processes were harder to find and more expensive than they
are today. While Biggs and Gale had a long wish list of
building characteristics, their budget required careful selection of which to include in the final design. Through the
process of value engineering with the architect, they simplified the construction plan to make the facility financially
feasible without resulting in an inferior product. They
focused on keeping the features that were best addressed in
the initial stages while holding off on others that would be
better to add in the future.
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In November 1998, construction was completed and
Stay N Play Pet Ranch opened its doors for business. The
building was designed and built as “natural” and “green” as
the budget would allow. Attention to wind patterns supplied
the orientation of the building to maximize fresh air flow
and reduce the need to use air conditioning. A rain water
collection system and an aerobic septic system were built.
Plenty of windows were used to allow as much natural light
as possible into the building. High tech gutters were placed
in the trench drains to ensure the smooth and total elimination of liquids down and out of the boarding buildings.
These features made the Stay N Play Pet Ranch building as
environmentally friendly as possible.
THE FACILITY
Today, the 6,800 square foot stone and cement board-ranch
style building sits on nine beautiful hill country acres in
Dripping Springs, a semi-rural community outside of
Austin, Texas. Proximity to a fault line required that the
building footers be placed deeper than normal in the ground
Articles
MEMBER PROFILE
and the walls cross-strapped to meet earthquake
standards.
Nearly 1,600 square feet of roof surface area
allows for the capture of rainfall that flows through
six-inch downspouts to an underground piping system. The water then flows into three collection
tanks placed behind the main building, each with a
10,000 gallon capacity. A pump house sits next to
these tanks where the water is filtered through an
ultra-violet light, a charcoal filter, and a fiber filter
to produce some of the best tasting water possible.
A bottled water company sales representative once
visited the facility on a sales call and after making a
comparison, found that he couldn’t beat the water
quality at the facility.
The main building contains a reception and
retail area, two boarding buildings, a cattery, grooming salon, training office, a massage room and the
operational areas of kitchen, bath, laundry room
and mop room. Classical music is played throughout the building to reduce stress and provide a
calming influence. The second floor is an eight-hundred square foot apartment which houses the night
manager.
Outside the building are eight exercise yards
ranging in size from 200 to 400 square feet. Cedar
mulch fills the play yards which serves as a natural
insect repellent while providing a more natural surface for the dogs to play on. A 5,000 square foot
training yard with lights is also available for training
classes and activities.
Several miles of walking trails are available for
the “Nature Walkers” (a very popular position
among Stay N Play’s employees) to take the dogs.
From a leisurely stroll through flat shady woods to
Rainwater collection tanks.
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The roof-over-roof design helps keep fresh air flowing through
the boarding areas.
challenging routes through the hills, dogs of all ages and energy
levels can be exercised.
Because of the mild Texas climate, the boarding areas contain
inside/outside runs for the dogs. The building design features a
roof-over-roof concept which not only promotes fresh air being
pulled through the buildings but provides cover for the outside
portion of the runs.
The cattery is in a room separate from the dogs, with tworoom condos that can open up to allow cats from the same household to share the same space. Instead of a play yard, picture windows allow extra sunlight into the cattery. It also has televisions for
the cats to watch.
THE BUSINESS
Biggs and Gale own and operate Stay N Play Pet Ranch, making
all of the upper management decisions, while the day-to-day business is managed by Business and Operations Manager, Melody
Hilburn, and Director of Kennel Operations Lynn Fruchey, DVM.
Gales oversees much of the maintenance and physical facility
needs, while Biggs oversees the daily operational and business
aspects. Hilburn manages the front office, grooming, retail sales, as
well as general business and marketing. Fruchey handles human
resources, daily lodging operations, the Nature Walkers, the trainers and the massage therapist.
Stay N Play Pet Ranch’s website is their key instrument for
reaching the pet-owning public, with 90 percent of their advertising being internet based. Biggs and Gale are learning about social
media outlets and recently established themselves on Facebook,
Twitter, and Yelp. Their other marketing efforts include direct marketing to veterinarians in the community, along with advertising in
and writing a column for a local monthly magazine.
When Stay N Play Pet Ranch first opened, employee turnover was a problem. Over time, Biggs and Gale have gained experience in interviewing and
identifying personalities that best fit their business. Once they find a good
employee, they do what they can to keep them by providing positive feedback,
training, and pay based on performance rather than tenure length. They also
recognize performance achievements at special luncheons and offer employee
discounts on products and services. Because of these practices, employee
turnover is no longer a problem. Now, if an employee leaves, they do so because
of personal life changes rather than workplace factors.
THE PETS AND THE PEOPLE
Stay N Play Pet Ranch’s policy is to provide undivided attention to the person
in front of them at the moment, without rushing through the interaction. To
ensure customers receive first-rate service, sufficient staff is scheduled in the
front office to handle the projected transactions for each day such as answering
phones and serving retail clients.
New clients are given a tour of the facility. They are shown the runs, the
back rooms, literally every inch of the facility—so they can see what kind of
environment their pet will be spending time in. “You see everything at Stay N
Play,” Gale says. “If you go to a place, and they don’t show you where your dog
is going to be staying, that should be a red flag.”
All food provided to the animals are human-grade containing no added
chemicals, byproducts, or preservatives. Should it be the choice of the owner,
food from home is allowed. Staff is also equipped to safely handle raw food for
the many pets boarded at Stay N Play Pet Ranch that are on a raw food diet.
Due to the large customer base of geriatric, diabetic, epileptic, and surgery
recovering animals, community play is not offered. However, thanks to a high
pet care technician to pet ratio, each pet receives individual attention to their
needs, even when they are perfectly healthy.
RUNNING A “GREEN” OPERATION
Biggs and Gale are celebrating their
eleventh year of service and have remained
true to their all natural and “green” philosophy regarding the operation of their facility. They minimize as much as possible the
use of chemicals. Instead, they use organic
cleaning agents, natural shampoos and
conditioners, non-phosphate and
biodegradable laundry soaps, and feed natural human-grade dog and cat foods. Two
front-loading washing machines are used
for laundry, which require less water than
top-loading machines.
Natural and non-chemical pest control products are applied to the pets to
prevent fleas and ticks. Ionizers are used
throughout the facility to minimize the
risk of airborne spread disease.
Biodegradable bags are used throughout
the facility and by our “nature walkers”.
The Front Office Administrator
takes “mom’s” instructions for
her pappion over the phone.
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MEMBER PROFILE
PAWS Shelter and Humane Society
of Hays County. In addition, Stay N
Play provides training for dogs from
PAWS so they become more eligible
for adoption. Over the years, they
have helped ten dogs find a home
through their involvement.
Stay N Play also donates training
and boarding packages to local high
school and church fundraising
events.
PLANS FOR THE FUTURE
After nearly twelve years in business,
Biggs and Gale continue to plan for
expansion and improvement of Stay
N Play Pet Ranch. In January, they
will repaint the walls with a natural
paint, something they wished they
could have done when the facility
was first built.
Also in the planning process are
Stay N Play gives back to their community by supporting the local animal shelter.
the additions of a covered training
pavilion and rehabilitation center,
which would create an extra 2,000
Sterilized recycled paper pellet litter is used in the cattery and
square feet for the facility. In addition, they plan to add
for small animal bedding. All natural pet foods and supplies
suites to their facility, rooms that will be almost like a hotel.
are offered in their retail section.
Their plans are subject to the ups and downs of the
GIVING BACK
The gift of sharing by the members of Pet Care Services
Association inspired Biggs to give back to the Association.
For the last nine years, she served on the Board of Directors,
first as the Director of Region 8, then as the Vice Chief
Governance Officer for the years 2008 and 2009.
Of the things she’s accomplished, Biggs considers the
establishment of Board Policy Governance a major step in
the growth of Pet Care Services Association. This created a
structure for the association to better meet the needs of the
pet care industry as it rapidly expands and evolves.
Biggs is also proud of the way the Board responded to
the situation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Through
Pet Care Services Association’s relationship with the
American Kennel Club’s affiliate AKC Companion Animal
Recovery (AKC CAR), an emergency relief fund was established where members could donate money. The donations
assisted in the recovery of displaced animals and their transport to Pet Care Services Association member facilities,
where they were boarded until their owners were found or
until they could be adopted.
Stay N Play Pet Ranch is also involved in the local com“Hudson” checks out Stay N Play’s selection of all natural
pet foods and supplies offered in their retail section.
munity. Bi-annual fundraisers are held at the facility for the
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economy, just like many other businesses.
Biggs and Gale have found that with the
way that markets change, it helps to conduct research instead of responding to
knee-jerk reactions. “You can have all the
best laid plans in the world,” Gale says,
“but if the market and the economy don’t
allow for it, they won’t do you any good.
AT THE END OF THE DAY
Making a difference in the life of pets and
their owners is what Biggs and Gale enjoy
the most about running a pet care facility.
Their staff strives to provide the best possible experience for owners needing a
place for their pets to stay, be groomed,
or be trained.
Gale notes that the pet care business
can be stressful at times. Unless reliable
staff can be found, most of the work has
to be done by the owner, twenty-four
hours a day, seven days a week. “Every
now and again,” she says, “you have to
take a step back and take a good look
around to help stay alert to what needs to
be done. Non-stop immersion in minutiae can stymie creativity and cause
burnout.”
Biggs has learned to handle stress and
long hours by spending time with the
pets staying at the facility. “They always
brighten my day and my mood if I’m in
an overwhelming situation,” says Biggs
fondly. “I’m getting as much as I’m giving
and it clears my head.”
Biggs remains focused on why she
started her business, and encourages others to do the same. “Never forget that
we’re working with living, breathing, loving creatures and it is all about them
when it comes to their needs and their
owners’—our clients—needs, recommends Biggs. “With this at the front of
our minds, we can make more successful
business decisions.” d
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FACILITIES
WHAT DOES IT MEAN…
BEING GREEN?
BY AL LOCKER
reen is a term coined for being earth-friendly. Although it has been
around for awhile, it really became popular in the early 1970s. In
1994, the United Nations described green as “sustainability” or “meeting
the needs of the present without sacrificing the needs of our future”.
Most of us want to be good stewards of the gifts given us and to preserve those gifts for future generations. Now that’s green to me!
G
ABOUT LEED
Around 1993, the U.S. Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org) was
formed to focus on a universal system which defines and measures green
building standards. The committee developed the first LEED (Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System,
which continues to be updated and now includes building operations,
maintenance issues, specific ratings for different industries, and even
remodeling projects.
Design experts recognized for their knowledge of the LEED rating sys-
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tem are permitted to use the LEED
Accredited Professional (AP) acronym after
their name, indicating they have passed the
accreditation exam given by the Green
Building Certification Institute (a thirdparty organization that provides accreditation
for the USGBC). Now even builders and realtors have their own Green Certifications.
LEED assigns “points” based on the
potential impacts and human benefits of each
credit based on a set of impact categories. The
intent is to promote healthful, durable, sustainable, affordable and environmentallysound practices in building design, construction and operation. Seven major topics are
addressed by LEED:
• Sustainable Sites
• Water Efficiency
• Energy and Atmosphere
• Materials and Resources
• Indoor Environmental Quality
• Innovation in Design
• Regional Priority
To be LEED certified, a project must
earn a minimum of 40 to 49 points. Higher
designations of Silver, Gold and Platinum can
also be achieved.
EXAMPLES OF BEING GREEN
When building or remodeling, the key is to
use materials that are rapidly renewable, recyclable, and have recycled content. The facility
should be built using the least amount of
non-renewable natural resources as possible.
Here are a few green things to consider:
FOUNDATION
Use forms made of plywood. Plywood is more
sustainable, uses lesser parts of the tree saving
Articles
FACILITIES
PROS AND CONS OF LEED CERTIFICATION
It is quantifiable and measurable.
It is a broadly-accepted standard, providing
agreed-upon measurements, which means there’s
substance behind the claims.
There is a third-party certification process, further
ensuring substance behind the claims.
It provides very specific direction (and parity) for
people and companies desiring to decrease their
buildings’ impact, essentially making green building accessible to a much broader audience than
would otherwise be the case.
It’s incredibly detailed and time-consuming, and
therefore expensive.
Contractor/owner is required to maintain spreadsheets in various categories itemizing costs of
materials in specific building systems. The subcontractors will need to provide some of that information, as well as other information such as how far
certain products traveled from the manufacturer to
the jobsite for the Regional Material Credit.
Another part of the compliance process can involve
contacting the manufacturer or their suppliers in
order to obtain information such as where the raw
materials were harvested, how much recycled
material was used in the process and the content
of any cleaners and polishes required to maintain
the product. In all, the general contractor may be
responsible for up to 30 submittals. This can add a
lot of extra expense for that type of research and
record keeping.
the best part for other more valuable uses. This reduces the impact on our
forests.
Add fly-ash to the concrete. Fly ash reduces the amount of cement
required and uses a trash by-product of manufacturing.
FRAMING AND SIDING
Use advanced wood framing techniques such as no headers in non-structural walls and building wall corners with two studs. (Be careful here, as most
building departments haven’t advanced this far with their codes.)
Use finger joint lumber or steel studs.
Recycle construction debris.
Use fiber cement, metal or masonry siding.
Avoid using vinyl and wood siding.
Avoid using wood composite siding that is held together using a
formaldehyde-type adhesive that emits gas for years.
ROOFING
Use longer-life shingles with some recycled content.
Use metal, concrete or tile roofing.
Use light colored roofing material to reflect the summer sun.
Avoid asphalt-based roofing on flat roofs.
WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS
Select an insulated window frame and insulated “low e-glass”.
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Special green products may not be readily available, may be more expensive and may have long
delivery times, which could delay construction,
adding to the cost of the project.
Not all points are created equally, although they
are often measured equally. For example, the presence of bicycle storage and changing rooms earn a
similar number of LEED certification credits as the
installation of solar panels do. While both are
important, they do not necessarily equal the same
decrease in environmental impact or upfront and
operational costs.
There are many junctures during construction
where companies incur added cost, time, certification fees, etc. The green result could theoretically
be achieved without certification. So what’s really
important—green or certification?
A project can receive LEED certification even if it is
located in environmentally inappropriate areas,
such as a sensitive watershed, wetland, forest, or
prime farmland. This is green “sprawl”.
Some processes, materials, and approaches now go
beyond the current LEED certification categories.
Therefore, marketing LEED as “the answer” may be
limiting companies’ efforts to make further strides
in the area of sustainable building.
Carefully install windows and doors to prevent air leaks.
Provide large eaves or awnings over the windows to
shade from direct sunlight.
Use new solar tube skylights. This provides natural light
which results in improved employee health and greater productivity. It also reduces the lighting requirements during
the day and therefore, energy consumption.
PLUMBING
Use a high-efficiency water heater or an on-demand tankless
heater.
Insulate the water heater and pipes.
Use high efficiency and/or dual control flush toilets.
Use low-flow faucets.
Pre-plumb for future grey water systems. Years ago, most
soaps and chemicals were not biodegradable. Today, it is hard
to find any products that are not biodegradable, so we are
back to rethinking the collection of grey water from the
shower and sink. Some areas already have two sewer lines—
one for grey water to reuse for irrigation and one for black
water that goes to the sewage treatment plant.
Use cleaning and bathing systems that require less water.
HVAC
Size your HVAC systems properly.
Use high efficiency units.
Properly insulate and seal all ductwork; check it using an
infrared inspection.
Use a heat recovery ventilation system.
Use programmable thermostats.
Try new affordable geothermal heating and cooling.
ELECTRICAL
Use compact, T-5 fluorescents and LED lights, instead of
incandescent light bulbs. Lights produce heat, and these
lights not only use less energy to produce the same amount
of light, but also reduce the heat load for the HVAC system
thus reducing energy consumption.
Use motion sensor switches to automatically turn lights
off when the room is not occupied.
Use energy-efficient appliances.
INSULATION
Get an infrared energy audit to make sure you have the
proper insulation.
Use the highest recommended amount of insulation for
your area when you build or when you replace existing insulation.
Seal all wall penetrations such as around light switches
and pipes.
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FACILITIES
INTERIOR FINISHES
Use paints, adhesives and caulks that have low or no VOCs (volatile organic
compounds).
Use natural flooring or one with recycled content such as recycled rubber
for the day care floor and seamless epoxy for the kennel area floors.
LANDSCAPING
Preserve existing mature trees.
Plant deciduous trees on the south side.
Plant coniferous on the north side.
Use organic mulch.
Plant native grasses and plants.
Use drip irrigation.
Install a rainwater collection system (see below).
Use a permeable paving system for parking. This will allow rainwater to
stay on site and lessen the burden on the storm water system.
While under construction, control erosion and storm water pollution.
Compost grass clippings and plants.
RAINWATER HARVESTING
Collect rain water. More attention is now being paid to the capture and use of
rainwater. Because of the world’s growth and development, our fresh water sup-
38
ply is being depleted and fast becoming
the next scarce resource. Eighty-two percent of water in the United States is used
for irrigation. If we can reduce the
amount of ground water used for that
purpose, it will go a long way to solving
the problem of our coming water
shortage.
Several kinds and sizes of collection
tanks and systems are readily available
even for retro-fit situations (see
www.johndeeregreentech.com). Charlotte
Biggs of Stay N Play Pet Ranch in
Dripping Springs, Texas has been collecting water for years and uses it for all her
needs. Once collected it goes through a
simple filter system for particulates; any
bacteria is destroyed by an ultra violet
light process.
Don’t these all seem like common
sense things our mom’s told us for example,
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FACILITIES
“Turn out the light when you leave the room unless you want to pay the light
bill!” and “Shut the door—were you raised in a barn?”
BEING GREEN IN YOUR FACILITY
Your general operations and maintenance can be “greened up” by:
• Use recyclable products or products that have recycled products in them. Use
an onsite storm water management program.
• Be sure to use biodegradable cleaning products.
• Set and use programmable thermostats.
• Use recycled paper products.
• Implement a recycling program.
• Replace old equipment with high efficiency equipment.
• Use water saving techniques and cleaning protocols.
• Fix leaking faucets and running toilets.
GREENWASHING
The 10th edition of the Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines green wash
as “disinformation disseminated by an organization so as to present an environmentally responsible public image”.
It is similar to the “reduced fat, lite, and low sodium” food advertisements
trying to promote their healthy products! Investigation is required to determine
if the green product has a net green effect, when considering its manufacture,
life, and operation.
One example is the new hydrogen-powered car that produces water when it
burns the hydrogen fuel. The problem lies with making the hydrogen fuel,
which takes fossel fuel for that process. You might as well go ahead and burn
the natural gas, which is a very clean-burning fuel that emits CO2 and water
when burned. When considering new green products, research is needed to
make sure the cure is not worse than the illness.
THE FUTURE
In closing, we should be committed to constructing and operating more sustainable projects, preserving our natural resources, and providing healthy spaces
for our employees and our customers. However, I’m not going green just to say
that I did it.
GREEN PRODUCTS now on the market include:
Light sensors that will adjust the lights during daylight hours to account for the
natural daylight, reducing energy usage.
New countertops with 75 percent recycled glass and stone scrap. They are nonporous, require no sealers and are stain and scratch resistant.
20 SEER air conditioner compressors that are 40 percent higher efficiency than the
normal 13 SEER used today.
New Styrofoam insulation that provides a high insulation value and is made of 80
percent recycled content.
Smaller wind-powered generators for individual roof-top use.
Photoelectric panels that are roof mounted.
40
For me, green decisions also need to
make economic sense. For example,
installing a 20 SEER A/C unit that is
triple the cost of a 16 SEER unit, when
the energy savings won’t equal the difference in cost before the unit wears out
does not make sense. Unfortunately, there
are many examples of this, and it will be
up to you to weigh the value of each
selection.
As time goes on and we become
aware of actions affecting our environment, Americans will continue to do a
good job of correcting and improving our
actions to keep us green. d
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Green Building and Remodeling for
Dummies, by Eric Corey Freed
Green Building A—Z, by Jerry Yudelson
Dogs Gone Green, by Grant Garl, article
on www.northbaybiz.com
Our Green Building, by Grant Garl, on his
website, www.FitnFury.com
Charlottte Biggs, Stay ‘n’ Play Pet
Ranch—[email protected]
Al Locker is President of Turnkey, Inc, a
third generation, family owned, design/construction company. Turnkey provides all
types of commercial design and construction
including vet clinics, pet resorts, and even
zoo exhibits. Al and his wife Suzanne also
own ABC Pet Resort, a Pet Care Services
Association Gold accredited boarding facility. Suzanne is a Certified Kennel Operator,
has served as a regional director as well as
our association’s president. Both Al and
Suzanne have served as co-chairs of the
Accreditation Committee. Al also conducts
seminars for the Intro to Pet Care Services
educational course about Site Selection,
Business Planning, and Design/Construction.
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Articles
C O M M U N I T Y I N V O LV E M E N T
HOW PET CARE FACILITIES
CAN HELP LOCAL
ANIMAL SHELTERS
BY JOY LEE
ith the downturn in the economy, many non-profits have seen a
W
sharp drop in donations and are struggling. For animal shelters, the
economic crisis has also resulted in more pets being abandoned at their
facilities as families loose homes and jobs. Many shelters are facing critical
shortages in funding and supplies, while the number of animals in their
care has increased. Local pet care facilities can help provide needed support
for those who care for homeless pets. Following are several suggestions and
ideas that a pet care facility can do to help shelters. In return, these shelters
will probably refer new clients to you for future services.
It is difficult to work with a large number of shelters or rescue groups,
so if possible, develop a primary (formal or informal) partnership with one
local animal organization. Get to know the people and find several shelter
42
staff contacts to make the relationship flow more
smoothly. Sit down with them to ask what their
specific needs are and brainstorm a couple of programs that may work well for both organizations.
If your facility offers training, one idea
might be to set aside several enclosures and
training time for one or two dogs from the
shelter that may have been there a long time,
may need a break from the shelter environment, or may need some work on manners
before they are able to find a home. Take
these dogs into your facility and provide some
exercise and obedience training to make them
more adoptable. If the shelter has a website,
ask that they be featured on the website with
information about where they are being
trained and what they are working on. Offer
ongoing support with any behavior problems
once the pet gets adopted and you will probably find that these new pet parents will use
your facility for other services as well.
If you have the space, offer to foster dogs
through lengthy medical treatments, such as
heartworm injections. Dogs going through
heartworm treatment need a quiet and calm
environment to help their overall recovery,
and if you have the right facility to do this,
you may help save a life.
Grooming services are also helpful. Offer
to groom dogs on a weekly or monthly basis,
either at the shelter’s facility (if they have the
equipment and space) or at your own. It is
amazing how much more adoptable a poodle
or cocker spaniel is with a good bath and
haircut – especially if they are among the
hundreds of strays that have been on the
streets for a while. Provide a “free first groom”
coupon or a “notes from the groomer” card
“
…events and similar ideas
where the proceeds benefit the
shelter can strengthen relationships with your clients and help
”
homeless animals.
with information about that particular
dog to the family when they adopt one of
your groomed dogs and you may pick up
a new client.
Organize fun events for your clients
that also serve as fundraisers for your
shelter. Dog walks, Halloween costume
contests, pictures with Santa, wine tasting
or “yappy hour” events and similar ideas
where the proceeds benefit the shelter can
strengthen relationships with your clients
and help homeless animals. You can also
collect supplies such as food, towels, toys,
kitty litter, newspapers, etc, and then
transport them to the shelter. Rather than
throw out or return damaged merchandise,
donate them to the shelter.
Of course, any homeless pets that
you take in at your facility should be fully
vaccinated, spayed or neutered if possible,
past any risk of contagious illness such as
canine cough that can spread through
your boarding population and generally
healthy. If you follow these simple guidelines and develop a successful relationship,
you can help shelter animals, develop
goodwill in your community and probably
generate new clients as a result.
Joy Lee is co-owner and general manager of Rover Oaks Pet Resort in Katy, Texas.
She is passionate about animal rescue and
authored the book, “Rover’s Rescues…
True Stories of Shelter Dogs and Second
Chances”. A portion of each book sale is
donated to Citizens for Animal
Protection in Houston. Visit her website,
http://www.joyleebooks.com/ for more
information. d
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CLIP&COPY
Many members have told us they would like to see articles on topics common to the pet
care industry that they can use as reference materials for their clients. This column is meant
to be clipped out of the magazine, copied, and kept for later distribution to clients who may
have questions on the topic. Feel free to customize it with your business logo or stamp.
!
DOG COLLARS
BY AUDREY PAVIA
You won’t find a shortage of dog collars in the marketplace these days. A variety of types and styles abound. Here is a breakdown of the
most commonly seen collars and their pros and cons.
FLAT COLLARS OR BUCKLE COLLARS
These collars are made from nylon or leather, and buckle or snap closed. They are good for dogs that know how to walk on a leash without pulling. They are ineffective at restraining untrained dogs.
LIMITED SLIP COLLARS
Limited slip collars are designed to prevent the dog from choking when it pulls on the leash and from slipping its collar. The collar slides
over the dog’s head and becomes snug when pressure is applied to the leash. It doesn’t tighten completely; however, which helps prevent choking.
CHOKE CHAINS
Choke chains are collars made from links of chain that tighten when pressure is exerted by the leash. They are good for training purposes, but are too harsh for every day use.
PRONG COLLARS
These metal collars feature dull prongs that point inwards when worn around the dog’s neck. When tension is applied to the leash, the
prongs put pressure around the dog’s throat. Prong collars are considered training tools and should only be used for teaching dogs not
to pull.
HALTI HEADCOLLAR
Similar to a halter worn by a horse, the Halti Headcollar fits around the dog’s neck and over the muzzle. The leash attaches underneath
the dog’s jaw. The Halti prevents dogs from pulling and gives the handler good control of the dog’s head. Some dogs don’t like the strap
that fits around the muzzle and will paw at it.
GENTLE LEADER HEADCOLLAR
The Gentle Leader is a nylon halter that fits around the dog’s neck and over the base of the muzzle. The leash attaches underneath the
dog’s jaw. The device works by making it difficult for dogs to pull. It also enables the handler to maneuver the dog’s head for better control. Very strong and unruly dogs can still pull a weak handler when wearing the Gentle Leader.
ANTI-PULL HARNESS
Anti-pull harnesses usually feature a single or double ring that attaches to the leash between the dog’s shoulder blades. They work by
putting pressure on the dog’s chest when the dog pulls. These harnesses work well on smaller dogs, but may not be suitable for bigger,
stronger dogs with weaker handlers.
REGULAR HARNESS
Standard harnesses fit around the dog’s torso, with the leash attached to a ring between the dog’s shoulder blades. These types of harnesses are good for dogs that need gentle restraint because they are small, sensitive or well trained. They are not suitable for dogs that
have a tendency to pull while on a leash.
Audrey Pavia is a freelance writer specializing in animal subjects. She has authored 22 books and dozens of articles about animals,
including rabbits. Audrey lives in Norco, California, with her husband and a menagerie of pets.
44
45
Lifetime Members
As of October 1, 2009
THANK YOU FOR YOUR LIFE-LONG COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING QUALITY PET CARE
Active Lifetime members
Big Valley Pet Resort
Delmyra Kennels, Inc.
A Dog’s Eye View
Michael H. Cable, DVM
Poulsbo, WA
Ruth Gordon, CKO
Exeter, RI
Billi Bonze Bathhouse & Bone
Boutique
Denise’s Animal House, LLC
Nana Will
Boulder, CO
ABC Pet Resort & Spa
Suzanne Locker, CKO
Houston, TX
46
Bill Mason
Dallas, TX
Denise Meinhardt
Lebanon, OH
DogBoy’s, Inc
Halliday’s Pet Resort & Day
Care
Charles H. Halliday
Canton, MI
Halo House Animal Resort
Denise Rappaport
Franklinville, NJ
Alaska Canine Services
BlackNose, LLC / Dude Ranch
Pet Resort
David Gillespie
Anchorage, AK
Edmond Blausten
Glen Allen, VA
All Dogs Gym
Camp Ruff-N-More
Myrian Bergeron
Manchester, NH
Cory Gulson
Johnson City, TN
Animal Care Unlimited
Chamberlain’s Retrievers
Janice Breaux
Lacombe, LA
Beth Chamberlain
Blairs, VA
Animal House Pet Hotel
Chase’s Corner Kennel LLC
Sharon Hughes
Versailles, KY
Tina Chase
Comstock Park, MI
The Animal Keeper
Cherokee Kennels
Brenda Costello
Encinitas, CA
Pat Urben, CKO
Oregon, WI
Sean Queenan
San Francisco, CA
The Animal Tender Pet Resort
Country Club Pet Resort
Foxmoor Kennel Ltd
K9 Country Club & Training
Academy
Leslie Lynne Jacobson
St. George, UT
Wendy Brooks
Rocky View, AB Canada
Susan Boyd
Tomball, TX
Catherine Laria
Bulverde, TX
Auberge des 4 Pattes
Cozy Canine Camp
The Grateful Dog, LLC
Karla’s Rendezvous for Pets
Josette Brideau
Wendake, QC Canada
Laura Thistle
Crownsville, MD
Heather Hathaway
Brighton, CO
Karla Schwarz
Madison, NH
Bayside Bed & Biscuit
Creekside Kennel
Green Acres Kennel Shop
Kenl Inn, Inc.
Trisha Murphy, CKO
Kemah, TX
Fred LeBlanc
Spring, TX
Don Hanson
Bangor, ME
K.Q. Allen
Lincoln, NE
Courtney Emken
Austin, TX
Easdale: The Best Pet Care
Nancy Secrist
Akron, OH
Ebb Tide Kennels and Stables
Joan Greenwald
Holley, NY
Everything Under One Woof,
LLC
Sharon West
Wentzville, MO
Fog City Dogs
Hill Country Pet Ranch
Elizabeth Turner
Boerne, TX
Holiday Barn Pet Resorts-West
P. Emerson Hughes
Glen Allen, VA
Hyer Luv Kennel and Groomers
Fred Hyer
Rockford, MI
J.M. K-9 Training
Jeni Lynn Mather
Brockton, MA
K-9 Bed ‘n Breakfast, LLC
Sharon M. West
Dardenne Prairie, MO
Kennelworth Kennels
The Pet Brigade
Valley Vet Hosp/Inn For Pets
Fon & Audrie Johnson, CKOs
Zach Karr
Glenview, IL
Regis Jackson
Ft. Lewis, WA
Ted Diamond, DVM
Hadley, MA
San Diego, CA
Mariah-Belle Manor Kennel
Pet Nanny’s Place
Warrior Run Petcare Center
Rachann Mayer
Mt. Airy, MD
Laura Else, CKO
Juneau, AK
Yvonne Arnold, CKO
Watsontown, PA
Maryland Shore’s Pet Resort
The Pet Palace
Theresa Stevens
Vienna, MD
Darrell Bivens
Houston, TX
Westlake Animal Inn Pet Resort Pet Galaxy, Inc.
Mentor TLC Pet Lodge
Pet Ponderosa Resorts & Spas
George Zivich
Mentor, OH
Regis Jackson
Graham, WA
Molly’s Country Kennels, Inc
Pet Tailor
Bob Payne, CKO
Lansdale, PA
Kathy Nolan
Castleton, VA
Morris Animal Inn, Inc.
Pine Ridge Pet Centre Ltd.
Walter Morris, CKO
Morristown, NJ
Paul Pobega
Coldwater, ON Canada
The Palms Pet Resort & Spa
Royvon Dog Training School
John McGhee
San Antonio, TX
Darren James
Esher, UK United Kingdom
Pals For Pups
Stay N Play Pet Ranch, Inc
Patti Howerton
Roselle, IL
Charlotte A. Biggs, CKO
Dripping Springs, TX
Paws ‘N Play
Stone Valley Pet Lodge
Vicky Warren
White Plains, MD
Jackie Petsu
Petersburg, PA
Peninsula Pet Lodge Inc
Top Dog, Ltd
San Antonio, TX
Joie Chandler
Olalla, WA
Bill Lee
Greenville, SC
Michelle Erickson
Lazy K Ranch
Byron Hassell
Tarpon Springs, FL
Lynn Haegeland
Frank Haegeland
Martinez, CA
Woodlawn Kennel
Brock Benson
Alexandria, VA
Caroline Roden, CKO
Surprise, AZ
Auxilary Lifetime Members
The K9 Nanny LLC
Tianta Nelson
Great Falls, MT
Monique Weber
Urban Tails, L.L.C.
Elizabeth Chaney
Lothian, MD
Susan R. Briggs, CKO
Houston, TX
Stan Slaton
Daniel Slaton
Westlake Village, CA
Indian Harbour, NS Canada
Marilyn Dusek, CKO
Joe & Sue Introne CKO
Dottie Eberhardt 8T
Dan GoldKamp
St. Louis, MO
Pfizer Animal Health
Harry & Barb Corbin
Panama City, FL
Barbara Pest
St. Marys, ON Canada
Nestle Purina PetCare
APO, AE USA
Hardy, TX
Perfect Pet Resort
Three Dog Night Manitoulin
Associate Lifetime Members
Barkley Pet Hotel & Day Spa
®
Jim Krack, CKO
Donna Krack
Peyton, CO
Mary Finke
Exton, PA
Attention All Members
Please remember to update your
Web sites, brochures, business cards
and yellow pages ads with the new
Pet Care Services Association logo.
You will find the new logos at
www.petcareservices.org in the
Members’ Only section under
Member Downloads. Please call
877-570-7788 x 124 if you
have questions.
47
Calendar
P E T S E RV I C E S
R
All Dates and Locations are subject to change.
February 14, 2010
EVENTS FOR
2010
April 29-30, 2010
A
Western Veterinary Conference
N
D
Las Vegas, Nevada
For additional information, visit www.wvc.org.
Regional Meeting
March 14-17, 2010
Colorado Springs, Colorado
E
Intro to Pet Care Services
L
Denver, Colorado
April 23, 2010
September 27-29, 2010
Intro to Pet Care Services
A
HH Backer
Baltimore, Maryland
Chicago, Illinois
C
For additional information, visit
www.HHBacker.com.
September 28-30, 2010
April 21-22, 2010
Annual Convention and Expo
Regional Meeting
www.kenneldeck.com
Baltimore, Maryland
Chicago, Illinois
To List Your Event: Send your submissions at least two
months in advance to: [email protected].
To learn more about Pet Care Services Association events, visit www.petcareservices.org.
48
Welcome
New Members!
New Members October-November 2009
THANK YOU FOR JOINING OUR FAMILY OF MEMBERS
Aberdeen Acres Pet Care Center Camp Bow Wow-Naples
Fido’s Playground
Posh Pets Salon & Boutique
Stephenson, VA
Russ Ebersole
Naples, FL
Dominic Tiziano
Isel Tiziano
Barcelona, Catalunya
Susie Hunt
McAllen, TX
Iris Gabbert
Jim Merryman
Camp Bow Wow-Rockland
Hingham, MA
Robin Fox
Above & Beyond Pet Care Hospital
Lubbock, TX
Lori Anderson
Kathleen McMurray
AnnaBelle’s Pet Station
Lansing, MI
Ann Andrews
Robin Hiar
Nanuet, NY
David Oberman
Kathy Fiume, Owner
Camp Bow Wow-SW Dallas
Fox & Hounds Pet Care, Inc.
Precious Pets Resort
Lecanto, FL
Charlene Strong
Groomers Connection Academy
SDN BHD
PUP North Pet Lodge
Duncanville, TX
Stacey Copeland
Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Ryan Leong
Pinny Law
Eveleth, MN
Nanci Jorgenson
David Jorgenson
Brooklyn, NY
Jason Orloff
Matt Soto
Central Bark Doggy Day Care
Valerie Hanby
Austin, TX
Red Rock Pet Resort
Oswego, IL
Judith Haft
Barkers Pet Resort
Claremont High School
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Sharona Broder
Shai Morali
Victoria, BC
Anne Light
Indian River, MI
Brad Dirkse
Heidi Dirkse
Beds-N-Bones Pet Lodge
Woodland Hills, CA
Bark & Play
Leon Cohen
Indian River Pet Resort
St. George, UT
Marilyn Mason
Jim Mason
Joann and Terry Schultheiss
Maricopa, AZ
Denise Kaczmarik and Cindy
Williams
Stay. A Pet Resort
Lawrenceville, G
Columbus, GA
Tom Schmidt
Kenney, TX
Macon Pets Resort & Spa
Sully’s Stay and Play
Cozy Paws Pet Lodge
Macon, GA
Lori Wright
Bluebonnet Bunk’n Biscuit
Tomball, TX
Susan Edgar
Dawn McDaniel
Albany, WA
Ryan Sullivan
Tony Sullivan
Selma, TX
Phillip Vaughan
Creature Corner
Gahanna, OH
Total Pet Care
Nauset Kennels, Inc.
Inglewood, CA
Noriko Kobayashi
Batavia, NY
Russ Marchese Jr.
Diane Marchese
Elizabeth Bell
Clearwater, FL
Karen Bolinger-Zyetz & Chuck
Zyetz
Austin, TX
Valerie Border
Elizabethtown, KY
Calista Boarding Facility & Tres
Patas Pet Shop
Las Cruces, NM
Tracy Hadley
Camp Bow Wow-Agoura Hills
Cindy Cox
Pomona, NY
Pamela Mainardi
Ariana DeSimone
Catherine Crews
Chicago, IL
Cypress Falls Pet Resort
Cypress, TX
Joan Kennedy
Diane Cox
Doginhaus
Agoura Hills, CA
Paul Berkovitz
Park City, UT
Sheri Arsenault
Camp Bow Wow-Broomfield
Dogtopia of Munster
Broomfield, CO
Jan Stokes
Jessica West
Munster, IN
Nick Autry, Operations Manager
Camp Bow Wow-Cherry Hill
Sante Fe, NM
Cherry Hill, NJ
Michelle Bryson-Rivers
Heidi Duffy
Courtney Eaves-Carter
Claire Ellington
Milwaukee, WI
Eastham, MA
Kirsten Davis
Noell Smith
Urban Doghouse
Niclasse-Cerf
Midland Park, NJ
Carole Cerf
Dean Cerf
Mary Peters
Houston, TX
PetSmart PetsHotel-#1934
Collegeville, PA
PetsHotel Manager
PetSmart PetsHotel-#1987
Virginia Beach, VA
PetsHotel Manager
Place For Pets - All About Love
Port Orange, FL
Crystal L’Amie
Carl Chapman
Hamilton, IN
Annie Zoll
Laura Seifert
Weona Pet Resort
Great Falls, MT
Sandra Larson
Wescott Acres Luxury Pet
Resort
Columbia, SC
Laura Mitchell
Skip Mitchell
What A Good Dog! Inc.
Villanova, PA
Mary Remer
Carolyn Garson
Jeff Wood
Richmond, BC
49
Congratulations!
PCSA Education Program Graduates October-November 2009
LEVEL 1: Certified Pet Care Technicians
Nancy Thompson
Steven Bousa
Courtney Emken
Sharod Hopkins
Bernardsville Country Knls
Bernardsville, NJ
Alamo Heights Kennel Club & Salon
San Antonio, TX
DogBoy’s Dog Ranch
Austin, TX
NEADS
Princeton, MA
Sara Jensen
Jamie Harris
Garrett Hester
Jimmy Rightnour
Rover Oaks Pet Resort-Houston
Houston, TX
Perfect Pet Resort
Lothian, MD
Gregory Quijano
Julie Brooks
Elaine’s Pet Resorts-Madera
Madera, CA
Perfect Pet Resort
Lothian, MD
Dawn Mihall
Christina Maselli
Elaine’s Pet Resorts-Madera
Madera, CA
Onion Creek Kennels
Buda, TX
Valerie Bristow
Maci Brianna Robles
Creekside Kennel
Johns Island, SC
Onion Creek Kennels
Buda, TX
Jennifer Reeves
Jessica Padilla
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
Onion Creek Kennels
Buda, TX
Kiamesha Allen
Michelle Farris
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
Camp Critter Country, Inc.
Grand Junction, MI
Lynnette S. Gherna
Amanda Phillips
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
Camp Critter Country, Inc.
Grand Junction, MI
Cherizar Brown
Josh Morrow
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
St. Francis Service Dogs
Roanoke, VA
Marites Lichtenberger
Benjamin Elliot
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
Roanoke, VA
Breton’s School For Dogs & Cats
Danville, CA
Alamo Heights Kennel Club & Salon
San Antonio, TX
Rebecka Hendershot
James Chase Fielding, III
Kingsmark Kennels
Flagstaff, AZ
Katrina Mudd
Kingsmark Kennels
Flagstaff, AZ
Jennifer Schultz
Kingsmark Kennels
Flagstaff, AZ
Pet Dominion
Rockville, MD
Rachel Gerrish
Country Lane Pet Resort
Moscow, OH
April Corris
Simmons Veterinary Clinic
Lake Worth, FL
Daniel Ogden
Bethany Hansen
Reisterstown Boarding Knl, Inc
Reisterstown, MD
Stay N Play Pet Ranch, Inc®
Cristian Benitez
Kcy Horton
Wignall Animal Hospital
Dracut, MA
Beth Tschop
Canine Country Club
Washington, IL
Molly McGeady
Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat, Inc.
Davidsonville, MD
Mary Ann Lewis
Livermore Ranch Kennels
Livermore, CA
Olde Towne Pet Resort
Springfield, VA
Kristopher Eric Lundborg
Pet Nanny’s Place
Juneau, AK
Kimberly Farr
Petz Plaza
Baton Rouge, LA
Kimberly Hall
Happy Tails Pet Resort/Spring Creek Animal
Hospital
Jackson, WY
Chellsea Bremer
Josh Bernard
Hospital
Jackson, WY
Karen Frank McCarron
Robert Fisher
Avondale Pet Resort
Des Moines, IA
Lake Land College
Dwight, IL
Roanoke, VA
Hanna Wade
Roxanne C. Andersen
Ilaizer Albino
Jermaine Niblett
NEADS
Princeton, MA
Roanoke, VA
David Fleury
Michael Dalton
Bayside Animal Lodge, Ltd.
Gig Harbor, WA
NEADS
Princeton, MA
Roanoke, VA
Stacy Lewis
Foxmoor Kennel Ltd
Tomball, TX
Nicole Paul
Wilmington Animal Hospital
Wilmington, DE
Angela Carson
John Keezer
Karla Schwarz
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
NEADS
Princeton, MA
Karla’s Pet Rendezvous
Madison, NH
Monica Frye
Alice Tong
Peter Gagnon
Bobbee Gronenthal
Creature Comforts Pet Retreat
Loveland, CO
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
NEADS
Princeton, MA
Nebraska Animal Medical Center
Lincoln, NE
Nicole Baldwin
Paradise Pet Lodge, Inc.
Woodinville, WA
50
Hospital
Jackson, WY
Melissa Kittler
Brenna Steinmeyer
Kayla Cockburn
Joy Haldeman
Longs Peak Animal Hospital
Longmont, CO
Truckee-Tahoe Kennels
Truckee, CA
Hunterdon County Polytech
Flemington, NJ
Ruff Housing
Winston Salem, NC
Tina Mac Rostie
Thomas J Gliebe
Barbara H. Altvater
Jesus German
Forest Shadows Pet Resort
Magnolia, TX
Truckee, CA
Flemington, NJ
Mixed-Up Mutts
LaPorte, IN
Mark Haynes
Stephanie Gast
Bryn L. Kolodziejski
Joe Jackson
Forest Shadows Pet Resort
Magnolia, TX
Canine College
Farmington Hills, MI
Flemington, NJ
Mixed-Up Mutts
LaPorte, IN
Carolina Polydoro
Caryn Shade
Sherry J. Mitchell
James Warren
Bayside Bed & Biscuit
Kemah, TX
Doggie Depot, Inc.
Downers Grove, IL
Flemington, NJ
Mixed-Up Mutts
LaPorte, IN
Tracy Kosina
Lindesay Greene
Christine Olivo
Juan Dominguez
Dog Club of West Linn
West Linn, OR
Folsom Dog Resort & Training Center
Folsom, CA
Flemington, NJ
Mixed-Up Mutts
LaPorte, IN
John Stutz
Dana Bulger
Jessica Lefebure
Andrea Rizzi
Dog Eaze Inn
Woodbridge, VA
Folsom, CA
Flemington, NJ
Barkside Lodge / The Gray Dog Lodge
Lenoir City, TN
Tim Pietila
Jicole Martinez
Sharon Elber
Amanda Amos
Thousand Hills Pet Resort
San Luis Obispo, CA
Folsom, CA
Flying Fur
Newport, VA
Lenoir City, TN
Jennifer Straw
Kristine Kiss
Cecilla Parrish
Emily Reed
Boom Towne Canine Center
Farmington, NY
Pine Ridge Pet Centre Ltd.
Coldwater, ON
Tipton Pet Hotel
Lubbock, TX
Lenoir City, TN
Melodie Rios
Beth E. Stanton
Carolyn Villarreal
Natalie Hernandez
Farmington, NY
Paws Pet Resort & Spa
Cheshire, CT
Camp Bow Wow-San Antonio
San Antonio, TX
Feather & Fur Animal Hospital
Kailua, HI
Cindy Piedigrossi
Melissa Stanton
Christopher Brown
Jodi Sousa
Farmington, NY
Paws Pet Resort & Spa
Cheshire, CT
D is for Doggy, Inc
New York, NY
Feather & Fur Animal Hospital
Kailua, HI
Janelle Dumlao
Lauren Isabelle
Jaime Huff
Susan C. Moser
A DOG’S LIFE
Sunnyvale, CA
K9 Kaos Dog Daycare
Dover, NH
Barkwood Inn
Charlton, MA
Pabby’s Pet Care
Hatboro, PA
Miki Katahira
Sarah Robb
Stephanie Jean
Curtis Frederickson
A DOG’S LIFE
Sunnyvale, CA
Dogs-a-Jammin’
Woodinville, WA
Barker’s Pet Motel & Grooming
St. Albert, AB
Urban
Saint Paul, MN
Lisa Tricoli
Fabian Romo
Candis Lynn Boutin
Stephen Sarault
Canine & Company
Depew, NY
Stay - a modern dog hotel
Chicago, IL
St. Albert, AB
Happy Paws, LLC
Smithfield, RI
Christina Michalski
Lynsie Bernier
Greg Ward
Paula Pugliese
Canine to Five: Detroit Dog Daycare
Detroit, MI
See Spot Run On 21
Omro, WI
Countryside Kennel
Thorndale, ON
Dog Heaven Resort
North Thumberland, PA
Abielyn Larson
Yvonne Ciborowski
Blair Brown
Leslie Eskin
Stone Mountain Pet Lodge
Blaine, MN
Happy Hounds Dog Day Care, LLC
Plymouth, MI
Countryside Kennel
Thorndale, ON
Eskin
Playa Del Rey, CA
Jacquelyn Shales
Katy Johnson
Elaine Walker
Donna Blake
Four Paws, Inc.
Morrisville, PA
Dogs All Day
Charlotte, NC
Happy Tails Day Care & Pet Resort LLC
Corning, NY
Top Dog Retreat
Elmhurst, IL
Shaina Beeson
Jessica Penner
Michael Buko
Margaret Fox
Orlando Canine Country Club
Orlando, FL
Pampered Pets Inn, LLC
Mooresville, NC
Contemporary Guidance Services, Inc.
New York, NY
Fox Run K-9 Resort
Wrightsville, PA
Tomi Donovan
Lisa Fregosi
Christina Diaz
Joann Schultheiss
Orlando, FL
Pampered Pets Inn, LLC
Mooresville, NC
Contemporary Guidance Services, Inc.
New York, NY
Schultheiss
Maricopa, AZ
Christina G. Craw
Shawna Webb
Kara Bessinger
JoAnn Carlucci
Orlando, FL
K9HQ Boarding Facility
London, ON
Ruff Housing
Winston Salem, NC
Morris Animal Inn
Morristown, NJ
51
Congratulations!
(continued)
Tammi Creamier
Cindy Piedigrossi
Lisa Tims
Zachary McArthur
Elaine’s Pet Resorts-Fresno
Fresno, CA
Farmington, NY
Morris Animal Inn
Morristown, NJ
Houston, TX
Kristine Wolverton
Melodie Rios
JoAnn Carlucci
Gail Harris
Fresno, CA
Farmington, NY
Morris Animal Inn
Morristown, NJ
Elizabeth Country Kennels Pet Resort &
Spa
Elizabeth, CO
Frances Sabo
Tonya Robson
Tammi Creamier
Taurus Training and Doggy Play Day
Austin, TX
Fresno, CA
Meghan Price
Kristine Wolverton
Canine Country Club
Washington, IL
Rebecca Putnam
Davidsonville, MD
Jenny Uphaus
Woodinville, WA
Christine Bell
Williamsburg Kennels
St. Louis, MO
Margaret J. Cistone
Kirton Kennel
Hanover, PA
Crystal Gray
Ashley Larson
Sun City Pet Lodge
Sun City, AZ
Top Dog Resort
Harrisburg, SD
Fresno, CA
Karen Barta
Frances Sabo
Truckee, CA
Canine Country Club
Washington, IL
Stacy Weightman
Rebecca Putnam
Houston Dog Ranch
Houston, TX
Davidsonville, MD
Mary Crump
Jenny Uphaus
Rover Oaks Pet Resort
Katy, TX
Woodinville, WA
Joanne Marie Sheafer
Christine Bell
Brevard Jail Complex
Cocoa, FL
Plymouth, MI
Rachel Malay
Prison Pet Partnership Program
Gig Harbor, WA
Kimberly Hall
Happy Tails Pet Resort/Spring Creek
Animal Hospital
Jackson, WY
Amanda Foster
Hilltop Pet Resort
Mount Juliet, TN
Taniko Chono-Gray
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
Jessica Davila
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
Zachary McArthur
Houston, TX
Gail Harris
Elizabeth Country Kennels Pet Resort &
Spa
Elizabeth, CO
52
Melodie Rios
Farmington, NY
Tonya Robson
Taurus Training and Doggy Play Day
Austin, TX
Meghan Price
Top Dog Resort
Harrisburg, SD
Karen Barta
Truckee, CA
Stacy Weightman
Houston Dog Ranch
Houston, TX
Kirton Kennel
Hanover, PA
Mary Crump
Rover Oaks Pet Resort
Katy, TX
Crystal Gray
Greg Perkins
Tipton Pet Hotel
Lubbock, TX
Autumn Curtis
Gig Harbor, WA
Farmington, NY
Margaret J. Cistone
Nancy Janoch
Alvinita J. Stuart
Gig Harbor, WA
Williamsburg Kennels
St. Louis, MO
Cindy Piedigrossi
Joanne Marie Sheafer
Brevard Jail Complex
Cocoa, FL
Ashley Larson
Randy Glassco
Sun City Pet Lodge
Sun City, AZ
Tipton Pet Hotel
Lubbock, TX
Nancy Janoch
Plymouth, MI
Alvinita J. Stuart
Tamara Wetegrove
San Antonio, TX
Gig Harbor, WA
Greg Perkins
Tipton Pet Hotel
Lubbock, TX
Autumn Curtis
Leanne Labranche
St. Albert, AB
Gig Harbor, WA
Randy Glassco
Tipton Pet Hotel
Lubbock, TX
Rachel Malay
Victoria Robinson
Gig Harbor, WA
High Tail Hotel
San Francisco, CA
Tamara Wetegrove
San Antonio, TX
Kimberly Hall
Amber Keirn
Lenoir City, TN
Happy Tails Pet Resort/Spring Creek
Animal Hospital
Jackson, WY
Leanne Labranche
Paula Pugliese
Amanda Foster
Victoria Robinson
Dog Heaven Resort
Hilltop Pet Resort
Mount Juliet, TN
High Tail Hotel
San Francisco, CA
Jessica Esquivel
Taniko Chono-Gray
Amber Keirn
Animal Inn Kennels
Las Vegas, NV
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
Lenoir City, TN
Holland Kochanski
Jessica Davila
Paula Pugliese
Morris Animal Inn
Morristown, NJ
Citizen Canine
Oakland, CA
Dog Heaven Resort
St. Albert, AB
New Certified Kennel Operators (CKO)
Orlando, Florida was the location where six of our members earned the designation of Certified Kennel Operator or CKO. This
designation comes after many years of hard work, classes, and other tasks designed to assure they are truly worthy of the CKO
title. Read about our newest CKOs below.
Lori Cawood, Owner of
Canine Classic Spa & Resort
in Bloomington, IL, has
been a member of Pet Care
Services Association’s Board
of Directors since 2006. She
has been committed to the
pet care industry for more
than 28 years. Earning her
CKO is yet another sign of
Lori’s dedication to pets and
pet parents.
Renee Davis, Manager of
Four Paws Pet Resort in
Dalton, GA, loves to read,
learn and test to keep challenging herself to be a better
person. To those who are
thinking of enrolling in the
Level III: Certified Kennel
Operator course, Renee
would tell you, “Study the
book and just be you during
the process. If you are a
good ethical committed operator, you will do fine
throughout the process.”
Barbara Kelley, Manager
of York Boarding Center in
York, NY, enjoyed the
process of becoming a CKO
as it confirmed to her that
being involved in the pet
care industry is truly her
life’s passion. She states the
CKO process is worth the
time and effort. She feels
more confident having completed the certification and is
comfortable making changes to improve her business.
Bonnie Krupa, Manager of
Happy, Clean and Smart in
Muncie, NH, thought it was
nice to interact with the new
CKOs and to develop lasting
relationships that will help
with networking and professional advice. She highly
recommends taking the Level
III course. According to
Bonnie, “Your clients and
members of the community
view you as a professional and seek you out to ask questions and feel more comfortable boarding their animals
with a facility that has credentialed staff members.”
Jessica Molina, Bayside
Kennels in Virginia Beach,
VA, enjoyed having the
opportunity to highlight her
accomplishments in the pet
care industry, as partial fulfillment of the Level III
coursework. She believes
that acquiring her CKO
illustrates to clients and the
community of her ongoing
commitment to animal welfare. Jessica states, “CKO certification is completely
obtainable if you are already following through with
honest and sincere devotion to your clients, as well as
their pets.”
Janelle Whiteman, Owner
of Pet Resort at Willow Wood
in New Albany, OH, enjoyed
the challenge of taking the
written test and preparing for
it was her favorite part of the
CKO experience. She would
like to tell others to go for it!
“It’s a great experience… all
of it,” says Janelle. Her
advice to others would be to
not get nervous; give clear,
concise answers and have fun!
53
INDUSTRY NEWS
Anivac Corp Attains Rights to Supply
Revolutionary Disinfectant to the Animal World
Anivac Corporation is pleased to announce the availability
of the Accel® TB product line that has taken the Canadian
market by storm and is now available in the USA. Accel®
TB is a registered cleaner & disinfectant that contains the
revolutionary Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide® (AHP®)
Technology that has been called the first new class of disinfection technology in 20 years and 8000 disinfectants
reviewed.The need for a safe and effective means of killing
pathogens such as influenza, Parvo and MRSA has come
to the forefront of the animal industry today. It is easy to
make a disinfectant that kills these pathogens, but it is difficult to make a disinfectant that is safe to use.
AHP’s track record speaks for itself. It is currently
used in:
• Approximately 80 percent of the veterinary clinics in
Canada
• Approximately 80 percent of the hospitals in Canada
• Worldwide on cruise ships
AHP is a synergistic blend of commonly used, safe
(Generally Regarded as Safe (GRASS) or EPA listed inert)
ingredients that when combined with low levels of hydrogen peroxide produce exceptional potency as germicide
and performance as a cleaner.
Benefits over traditional disinfectants include:
In order to disinfect most traditional disinfectants
require the surface to remain wet for 10 minutes, therefore
requiring re-application of the product. Accel TB sanitizes
in just 30 seconds and disinfects in just one minute.
Traditional disinfectants normally require a cleaning
and rinsing step prior to the application of the disinfectant. Accel is considered a cleaner and disinfectant therefore it can be used as both the cleaning and disinfecting
product.
AHP is an environmentally preferred product. In
Canada it was the first disinfectant to receive EcoLogo
Certification and in the USA it has achieved Green Seal
Certification. In addition the EPA’s Design for the
Environment (DfE) awarded AHP with Champion Status
for Safer Detergents Stewardship Initiative Award (SDSI).
AHP is also rated as a Category IV product by the EPA,
the safest standard.
Accel TB RTU (Ready to Use) is available in 32oz
bottles and gallons. For more information call JCG
Enterprises at 281-935-0220 or email
[email protected]
Cat Condos Give Professional Catteries More
Flexibility
Minneapolis-based Larson Systems Inc. has devised a cat
housing system that gives professional cat breeders, cat
boarders and veterinarians more flexibility in the way they
accommodate felines in their care.
The Cat Condos are based on a simple cube. Each
cube gives cats a minimum of 10 cubic feet of living
space, with a raised loft area and a solid floor. Walls are
made of tough, easy-to-clean 1/2-inch ABS plastic that
allows cats privacy on three sides. Doors are made of
3/16-inch diameter wire with close-tolerance spacing to
keep cats’ paws inside; the 5/16-inch wire steel frame is
powder-coated for a durable finish. The frame and walls
54
are offered in a variety of color combinations to complement facility décor.
The cubes, designed by Dave Larson, owner of Stone
Mountain Pet Lodge, can be stacked on top of each other
to create a three-level condo with portholes on the top and
bottom to stimulate climbing from one level to another.
Conversely, the portholes can be closed to provide a tower
of single “rooms” during periods of peak occupancy, such
as holidays. Tools are not required to open or close the
portholes.
Larson Systems also offers Cat Condo Banks. The
Condo Banks can be configured as two, three-story condos or as six individual spaces. The condos are mounted
on swivel locking casters for easy movement. Their compact size allows them to pass through a standard 7 x 3-ft.
door. A standard 4-inch HVAC pipe connects via a standard dryer hose to the facility’s exhaust system.
For more information on Larson Systems’ Cat
Condos, contact Kathy Thunstrom at 763-780-2131, or
visit www.larsonsystems.com/kennelproducts.
2009 Pet Services Industry Survey Available
Pet Care Services Association is pleased to announce the
completion of the 7th edition of the Pet Services Industry
Survey. The survey, conducted every two years, provides
up-to-date data on pet care industry trends and benchmarks to help businesses evaluate their performance and
make informed decisions.
The 99-question survey was distributed to pet care
service facility owners and managers in 2009 who are
members of the Pet Care Services Association. Members
from the United States, Canada, and Australia responded.
One of the key findings showed that the industry has continued to flourish despite economic challenges. Members
reported increased revenues and a bullish outlook.
Members are also planning to add services and improve
facilities. These findings mirrored a report by CNN
Money that the pet care industry is growing at a rate of
more than four percent even during the current economic
downturn.
For the past 35 years, Pet Care Services Association
(formerly ABKA – the American Boarding Kennel
Association) has set the standards for dog boarding facilities. Since the previous survey conducted in 2007, the
association changed its name to better reflect the shift in
the industry from boarding to a wide array of services.
Members now offer expanded services such as daycare,
grooming, training, retail, services for special needs pets,
lodging services for cats, pool time, nature walks, exercise
programs and luxury spas.
According to Joan Saunders, CEO of Pet Care
Services Association, “Our name change reflects our emergence into an association of members providing a wider
range of non-medical pet care services for a wider variety
of pets. Because of this, the 2009 Survey provides much
more detail about these expanded services.”
The 2009 Pet Services Industry Survey is free to all of
the Association’s members. Nonmembers can purchase a
copy by calling (877) 570-7788 or visiting www.petcareservices.org.
55
Resource Guide
Your Source for All Pet Care Services
The Resource Guide is a permanent feature in the Pet Services
Journal and is designed to be a convenient reference to all
programs and benefits offered by the Association.
GENERAL INFORMATION
A complete listing of Pet Care Services Association staff departments and contact information
is available on page 3. For general questions or to request an information packet call toll free
877-570-7788, ext. 121 or email [email protected].
MEMBERSHIP
Established in 1977 as the non-profit trade association for the boarding
kennel and professional pet care industry, Pet Care Services Association has
approximately 2,900 members nationwide and in several countries around
the world. For membership applications or changes to your membership
information, contact the Pet Care Services Association Membership
Department via email at [email protected] or by phone:
877-570-7788, ext. 124. Information and applications are also available
online at www.petcareservices.org.
Online Membership Directory
Pet Care Services Association maintains an online membership directory, in
the form of the Pet Service Locator, of all its active members. Associate members
can be found in the Industry Supplier Section on the home page. Search
functions allow for listings by city, state, and service. To update your listing,
contact the Pet Care Services Association Membership Department via email
at [email protected] or by phone at 877-570-7788, ext. 124.
Pet Care Services Association Logo Recognition & Protection
The Pet Care Services Association trademark logo is recognized by the public
as an association of pet care professionals committed to providing the best
pet care possible. Pet Care Services Association members have exclusive use
of the Pet Care Services Association logo in advertising and public communication, but misuse of the logo can adversely affect the public’s trust in
member facilities. It is important that all members support the limitation of
its use to members only. Questions or concerns about the use of the Pet Care
Services Association logo can be referred to the Membership Department
via email at [email protected] or by calling 877-570-7788, ext. 124.
MEETINGS
The Annual Pet Care Services Association Convention and Trade Show, usually
held in October, offers members educational seminars, open forums, presentations by industry leaders, and a Trade Show representing over 50 of the
industry’s top suppliers.
Spring Meetings provide networking and educational opportunities
similar to the national convention on a smaller scale and allow the opportunity to focus on topics of regional interest.
For information on meetings call John Cooke toll free 877-570-7788,
ext. 111 or visit the “Events” page of our Web site, www.petcareservices.org.
Online registration is available for most events.
WEB SITE
Pet Care Services Association ’s Web site, www.petcareservices.org,
receives more than 300,000 hits each month—many of these visitors
are pet owners looking for somewhere to board their pets. The “Find a
Service Provider” locator features a listing of all members, sorted by city
and state for pet owners who are looking for a boarding facility in their
area. The site provides public access information such as:
• Tips for pet owners on how to select a boarding kennel
• Information about Pet Care Services Association, such as our Code
of Ethics, the Bill of Rights for Pets in Boarding or Daycare Facilities,
and our education and accreditation programs.
• Online Trade Show provides extensive list of pet services vendors
and supplies
For Pet Care Services Association members, the Web site provides
exclusive access to informtion that helps members better manage
their businesses and succeed in the kennel industry, including:
• A Bulletin Board that allows members to share their expertise or
post questions and chat with other members in real time
• Classified Ad Listings where members and other online visitors can
view and place employment or real estate advertisements
• The Pet Services Journal Online which has archived articles from
past issues of the bi-monthly magazine
• The E-Newsletter, the monthly exchange of questions and answers
for members
• The Boarderline Online makes the Pet Care Services Association bimonthly newsletter available electronically
• Download Center where members can download and print out
copies of informational pamphlets, a sample boarding contract, the
Pet Care Services Association logos, as well as Industry Statistics
How do I get into the Members Only portion of the Web site?
To access the information exclusive to members, visit our new Web site
at www.petcareservices.org and select “Members Click Here for Log-In
Instructions” at the top of the page. This will take you to the first page
of the Members Only section, where you must use a username and
password.
If you don not know your username and password, please call
Angela Ashmore, Membership Coordinator, at 877-570-7788 ext. 124 or
email [email protected] to assist you. Once you are in, you will
have the option to change your password.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions!
57
I certification testing is also available in Spanish.For additional information or to enroll call 877-570-7788, ext.114, email [email protected] or visit www.petcareservices.org.
RESOURCE GUIDE CONTINUED
COMMUNICATIONS
Pet Services Journal & Boarderline E-Newsletter
Pet Care Services Association publishes a bi-monthly magazine, Pet Services
Journal, which goes to members only. Pet Services Journal offers articles of
interest to boarding kennel operators and professional pet care providers,
industry news, notices of important meetings and events, member profiles,
interviews, roundtables dealing with industry issues, industry statistics, surveys
and information about new products and services of value to members. Each
month, Pet Care Services Association publishes the Boarderline E-Newsletter,
which features news from the association’s members. For editorial inquiries
call 877-570-7788, ext. 125, or email [email protected]. For advertising inquiries call 719-360-7341 or email: [email protected].
Meetings and Annual Convention
Pet Care Services Association offers advertising opportunities in the Annual
Convention Exhibit Program. Sponsorship opportunities are available at the
Annual Convention and Regional meetings. For rates, ad specifications and
deadlines, call 877-570-7788, ext. 111 or email [email protected]. Pet
Care Services Association members receive a 10% discount on display advertising.
E-Newsletter
The Pet Care Services Association E-Newsletter is a monthly forum that
allows members the opportunity to communicate with each other—pose
questions, share solutions, and offer ideas. The E-Newsletter format typically presents member responses to questions posed by members in the previous edition, followed by new questions from members, and finally highlights of any new Pet Care Services Association information to pass on to
the membership. If you are an Pet Care Services Association member and
have provided us with an email address, you are on the E-Newsletter mailing list. If you have not provided your email address, just call 877-570-7788,
ext. 125 or send an email to [email protected].
SECTIONS
Pet Care Services Association has several special “sections” to provide
a resource center for Pet Care Services Association members in which
to find and share information. Information specific to these sections
is available in the Pet Services Journal, online at www.petcareservices.org,
and in the form of seminars presented at national conventions. For
additional information contact the section chairperson listed below.
Grooming Section: Grace Woodford, CKO, 122 Jefferson Place,
Newnan, Georgia 30263
Email: [email protected] or
[email protected]
Training Section: Jim Burwell, Houston, TX
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Cat Boarding Section: Jim Williams
Dog Boarding Section: Jaime Van Wye, Southern California
Dog Daycare Section: Robin Bennett, 14885 Persistence Dr.,
Woodbridge, VA 22191. Email: [email protected]
Holistic Committee Section: Crista Meyers, 1618 Webster, Houston,
TX 77003. Email: [email protected]
Technology Committee Section: Brian Linning, 27607 W.
Brandenburg Rd., Ingleside, IL 60041. Email: [email protected]
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
PROGRAMS
Ethics Program
Based on the Pet Care Services Association Code of Ethics, this unique and
highley-respected Ethics Program enables Pet Care Services Association
members to work toward better self-regulation and demonstrate to the
public their commitment to quality pet care and ethical business dealings.
The Pet Care Services Association Code of Ethics and its companion, Bill of
Rights for Boarded Pets, is available online at www.petcareservices.org. For
questions regarding the Ethics Program call 877-570-7788, ext. 118 or email
[email protected].
Accreditation Program
The Facilities Accreditation program has been developed as a
vehicle for professionalizing the boarding kennel industry by
providing over 200 objective standards of excellence in 17 separate
areas of pet care facility operation. Participating pet care facilities
can, by bringing their facilities into conformance with these standards,
achieve accredited status designation from the association. Pet Care Services
Association accredited pet care facilities are designated with the Accreditation
ribbon. For additional information or to enroll call 877-570-7788, ext. 116,
email [email protected] or visit www.petcareservices.org.
Staff Evaluation Program
The three levels of the Pet Care Services Association Educational Program
include: Level I-Certified Pet Care Technician; Level II-Advanced Certified Pet
Care Technician; and Level III-Certified Kennel Operator. Pet Care Services
Association recommends the Certified Pet Care Technician Program for all
kennel staff. Many pet care facility operators require completion of this program by all of their personnel. This course contains the basic information
about animal care that is required by anyone who cares for pets. The second
step in the three-level Pet Care Services Association education program is
the Certified Advanced Pet Care Technician Program, which offers more
advanced training in pet care and an introduction to pet care facility management. Completion of both the CPCT and CAPCT Programs is required for
personnel who wish to apply for certification in the third level of the Pet
Care Services Association program, the Certified Kennel Operator (CKO)
Program. The Level I and Level II certification tests may be taken online. Level
58
Public Education
Pet Care Services Association conducts ongoing public education
about the industry by means of print advertising, news releases,
brochures, seminars and consultation with feature writers for various
national publications. The association promotes the Pet Care Services
Association Bill of Rights for Boarded Pets, which spells out for pet
owners the obligations of member boarding kennels to their clients
and the animals in their care.
Educational Literature
“Let’s Talk About…” Brochure Series masters are provided to Pet Care
Services Association members for duplication and distribution to
clients on a wide range of topics related to boarding pets. For a complete list, check out the “Downloads” section under the “General
Store” heading at www.petcareservices.org.
The booklet “How to Select a Boarding Facility”is a great tool to educate
pet owners on quality boarding services and a great way to promote
yourself as an Pet Care Services Association member. Clip & Copy
Articles in each issue of the Pet Services Journal include a wide variety
of topics of interest to pet owners and are designed to be cut out of
the magazine and passed out to clients. A collection of 19 of the past
Clip & Copy articles along with the How to Select a Boarding Facility
booklet and all of the Let’s Talk About... brochures is available in the
Pet Owner’s Packet. For more information or to order these materials
call 877-570-7788, ext. 121, email [email protected], or visit
www.petcareservices.org.
Partnership with Canine Companions for Independence (CCI)
Pet Care Services Association is proud to partner with a group that
has successfully blended a great love of dogs with a focused mission
to help others—Canine Companions for Independence. CCI is an
organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistances dogs and ongoing support to ensure
quality partnerships. Pet Care Services Association participates in
fund raising efforts for CCI and many Pet Care Services Association
members have volunteered to provide quality boarding options to
CCI puppy raisers. Pet Care Services Association coordinates and spon-
sors an annual coloring contest for members to participate in to benefit CCI. If you would like to get involved in the CCI partnership, or would
like more information, send an email to [email protected]
or call 877-570-7788, ext. 122.
Emergency Relief Fund
The Pet Care Services Association Emergency Relief Fund provides a
way for members and concerned individuals to make contributions
to help pets, pet care professionals and pet rescue organizations.The
fund is administered by a panel comprised of the Pet Care Services
Association president and the directors of the affected regions. The fund
is incorporated as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity and contributions are
tax-deductible. Donations may be made online at www.petcareservices.org
or by calling Pet Care Services Association toll free 877-570-7788, ext.121.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Books and Videos
Pet Care Services Association publishes several books for industry
members… Building, Buying and Operating a Boarding Kennel helps
prospective industry members understand more about the pet-care
industry and is the authoritative source for design assistance for construction and remodeling of modern pet-care facilities. Pet Care
Services Association also offers a variety of specialized books and
booklets dealing with specific industry issues, such as: The Law and the
Boarding Kennel Operator, Dealing With Aggressive Dogs, Public Relations
Guide for Boarding Kennel Operators, Sample Kennel Procedures Manual,
Taking Lawful Employment Actions and more. Video titles include: How
to Operate a Doggie Daycare, Pre-Entry Evaluations for Dogs and more.
For information or to order call 877-570-7788, ext. 121, email
[email protected], or visit www.petcareservices.org.
Convention Audio/Video Tapes
Seminars held at past Pet Care Services Association national conventions are available on audio, video or DVD. For a complete listing of
seminar titles call 877-570-7788, ext.121, email [email protected],
or visit www.petcareservices.org.
Industry Research
Pet Care Services Association publishes bi-annual industry statistics
that come from data supplied by a survey of Pet Care Services
Association members. This report lists average income and expense
percentages for small, medium and large kennels, in all service areas.
These figures can assist kennel operators in evaluating their own kennel figures, or can assist in developing proposals for financing. The
association also collects information from pet owners for indications
of industry trends and consumer demands.
Insurance
A number of insurance programs are available that offer several dramatic
money-saving advantages to boarding kennels and grooming shops,
some available at attractive rates to Pet Care Services Association
members. Plans cover property, pets, general and professional liability
and health. Some offer discounts to members who are certified or
whose kennels are accredited. For information, call toll-free 877-5707788, ext. 124, look up “Insurance” on the “Industry Supplier” page of
the Pet Care Services Association Web site (www.petcareservices.org),
or email [email protected].
Credit Card Processing
Pet Care Services Association has partnered with the world’s largest
credit card processor to offer members a low cost, state of the art processing program. Merchant Services, a First Data Company, has developed a members only program that offers the lowest possible rates
and award winning service. You can call toll free (800-432-7192) for
answers to any credit card processing question. You may also fax your
current processing statement to 904-491-5016 to receive a complimentary analysis to make certain you are not paying too much.
ADVERTISER INDEX
Excellent Pet Care . . . . . Inside Front Cover
Intro to Pet Care . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover
AKC/Eukanuba Championship . . . . . . . . 56
Alpha Tech Pet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Animal Health Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
AppointIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Benton Bros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Blue Crystal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Cat’s Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Circa Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Clark Cages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Design Learned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Direct Animal Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Dog Kennel Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Gentzler & Smith Associates (Kennel Pak). . . . . 9
Governor Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Horst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Houndquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
J & J Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
K-9 Bytes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Kennel Deck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Kuranda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Larson Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
LGL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Market Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insert
Mason Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Mutt Matts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Paragon School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Pet Detect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Pet Exec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
ProGreen International. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
PureAyre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Ryan’s Pet Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insert
Snyder MFG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Star Jet Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
T-Kennel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
U.S. Cremation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
2760 N. Academy Blvd. Suite 120,
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
Toll Free: 877-570-7788 / Phone: 719-667-1600 / Fax: 719-667-0116
Internet: www.petcareservices.org
www.petcareservices.org
59

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