OverDog: Dog Daycare & Boarding Business Tips

Ever wonder how mega-brands like Apple, Nike, and Disney build such loyal followings—and how you could channel that same magic into your dog daycare or boarding business? In this episode, Fern dives into what makes these iconic names tick, uncovering the branding strategies behind their cult-like fanbases. From Taylor Swift's superfan engagement to In-N-Out Burger's laser-focused simplicity, you'll hear fresh ideas that could reshape the way you connect with your customers.

Get ready for a fun, idea-packed ride as Fern breaks down six powerhouse brands and explains how their tactics translate to the pet care world. Wh...

Get ready to go behind the curtain of one of the pet care industry’s most influential yet often misunderstood organizations—IBPSA. In this episode, Fern brings on Carmen Rustenbeck and Brian Remo to share the real story of how this trade association came to be, what it actually does for your business, and why now might be the most important time to get involved. It’s not just about standards and certifications—this is about community, advocacy, and giving you a serious edge in an industry that’s evolving fast.

Plus, hear all about IBPSA’s new kind of...

Are you so busy eyeing the competition that you’re missing what’s really stalling your pet business? In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern digs into a surprising truth: it’s not the new dog daycare down the street that’s threatening your success—it’s your own complacency. Tune in to hear why staying stagnant is the real danger and how obsessing over what others are doing might be costing you valuable growth opportunities.

Fern also unveils a game-changing tool that could revolutionize how pet businesses handle customer service—especially after hours. Plus, he shares the sub...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we're diving into the often-overlooked blind spots that could be silently sabotaging your pet care business. From failing to follow up with new leads to treating clients like fleeting transactions, Fern lays out seven common mistakes he's seen time and time again in dog daycares and boarding facilities. These aren't just minor issues—they're growth blockers that could be costing you money, loyal customers, and even staff retention. If any of that hits home, this episode is your reality check.

But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom. Fern al...

What if growing your pet care business wasn't about guessing your way through it, but following a step-by-step formula that’s already been proven to work? In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern dives into what he calls the “algorithm of success”—a repeatable path built from patterns he’s seen in the most successful entrepreneurs. From vision and mindset to resilience and strategy, this episode walks you through what it really takes to thrive in a competitive market.

Fern pulls back the curtain on the essential traits and actions that drive real growth—like how to spot the...

Think you're asking the right questions about your business? Think again. In this episode, Fern and Overdog’s own Director of Operations, Kasey Jervis, dig into the questions dog daycare and boarding businesses should be asking—but usually aren’t. From understanding the lifetime value of your clients to uncovering why customers quietly drift away, this conversation challenges you to take a deeper look at your business operations and mindset.

You’ll also hear real talk about burnout, delegation, and what it really takes to build a brand—not just run a service. Plus, Kasey opens up about her...

Is your dog business just a set of services, or is it a brand that people feel something about? In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we're taking a deep dive into the crucial difference between running a business and building a brand. If you've ever thought your logo and color scheme were the extent of your branding, think again. This conversation unpacks how to truly become unforgettable in your community and the industry—by crafting emotional connections, elevating customer experiences, and showing up in powerful, personality-driven ways.

You'll hear why injecting your "why" into every corner of...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we're diving into what it really takes to make your pet care business stand out in a crowded market. It’s not just about looking professional — it’s about being unforgettable. You’ll learn why simply having “satisfied customers” isn’t enough, and how creating bold, emotional, and consistent branding can leave a lasting impression on your clients. From logos to taglines to the tone of your messaging, discover how to shape every element of your business to cut through the noise and make people remember you.

But we’re not just talking...

Today we're diving into the big debates shaking up the dog daycare and boarding world. From whether you should offer discounts, have seven-day-a-week daycare, or let employee dogs join playgroups, Fern lays out the pros, cons, and his personal takes to help you make the best calls for your business. You’ll get a straight-shooting look at topics where strong opinions fly—and where there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Plus, Fern shares a clever marketing tactic he picked up from his college tours that could give your facility an instant edge with new customers. It's a jam-packed episode desi...

Thinking about starting your own dog daycare or boarding business? In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern brings on two seasoned experts from The Dog Gurus, Shawnte and Amber, to break down what it really takes to set up a pet business for long-term success. From the big essentials like business planning and defining your core values, to the often overlooked (but critical) pieces like building the right team and creating systems that actually work — this is the insider knowledge you didn’t know you needed.

If you’ve ever wondered why some businesses thrive while others...

To celebrate the 200th episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern is joined by Patrick and Dana Lyons for a quick recap of the recent Overdog Business Retreat—an event designed to help pet business owners reset, recharge, and rethink what’s possible. But the real meat of this milestone episode is all about mindset, and specifically, the beliefs that are quietly holding you back.

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking “I can’t,” “That won’t work,” or “I’m not ready,” this episode is your wake-up call. Fern and his guests dive deep into the sneaky nature of limitin...

If you think enrichment is just about tossing a few toys into the play area, think again. In this episode, Fern sits down with Kim Buchanan of Fetch Dog Resort to dig into the creative and wildly effective world of sense-based enrichment. Kim shares how she transformed her traditional daycare setup into a fully immersive experience that’s as rewarding for the dogs as it is for her staff—and yes, it’s been a game-changer for her bottom line too. From themed sensory rooms to pricing strategies that actually work, she’s reinventing the daycare model in the coolest...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we're diving into one of the most frustrating challenges pet care businesses face—keeping up with client vet records. If you're tired of chasing down vaccination updates and wrestling with outdated systems, you're not alone. But what if there was a seamless, automated way to handle it all? That’s exactly what today’s guest, David Servodidio from VetVerifi, is offering. He shares the behind-the-scenes journey of creating a powerful tech solution that could totally transform how your business manages compliance and communication with vet clinics.

From real-time vaccine verifications to int...

Feeling overwhelmed in your pet business and wondering how to keep up with all the tech talk flying around? You're not alone. In this episode, Fern pulls back the curtain on one of the biggest shifts hitting the business world today—AI—and what it actually means for dog daycare and boarding businesses like yours. From the messy reality of running a small business to the excitement (and hesitation) around new tools, this is a real-deal conversation about how to stop fearing the future and start using it to your advantage.

Fern shares practical, tested ways AI can...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, it’s all about answering your biggest questions. Fern not only dishes out valuable advice for dog daycare and boarding business owners, but also brings on a special guest you probably already know—Kasey Jervis, Overdog’s behind-the-scenes powerhouse. If you’re wondering how to attract more customers, where your marketing dollars should go, or why your Facebook ads are flopping, you’ll want to soak in every minute of this one.

Kasey brings her firsthand experience of owning a boutique dog daycare into the conversation, and together, she and Fern tackl...

The pet care industry is evolving fast, and staying ahead means being open to change. In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Sarwas from Bark Avenue Day Camp to talk about how she’s pivoted her business over the years—constantly innovating, adapting, and pushing the industry forward. 

From transitioning to an enrichment-based daycare model to introducing solo play options and a scent room designed for canine mental stimulation, Michelle shares the strategies that have helped her business thrive, even in tough times.

If you’ve been wondering how to stand out in a competi...

Running a pet care business is stressful—there’s no way around it. But what if you could change the way you experience stress instead of letting it wear you down? In this special episode, Fern sits down with someone who knows a thing or two about handling high-pressure situations—his dad, Dr. Fernando Camacho Sr. As an oncologist for over 40 years, he faced some of the toughest emotional and mental challenges imaginable, yet he remains one of the most positive people I know. How does he do it? And more importantly, how can you apply those same lessons to you...

If you don’t have a crystal-clear vision of where you want your business and life to be in the next few years, how do you expect to get there? In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of a vivid vision—a powerful tool that helps you define your future in detail so you can take the right daily actions to make it a reality. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of what’s next, or caught up in the day-to-day grind, this is exactly what you need to get back on track.

You’ll learn how...

Raising prices—it’s one of the most dreaded tasks for pet business owners, but it’s also one of the most necessary. How do you do it without scaring off customers? How much is too much? And what’s the best way to communicate the change so clients actually understand the value behind it? In this episode, we’re tackling all of it.

You’ll learn the right and wrong ways to raise prices, how to handle customer pushback, and why pricing strategically is key to keeping your business strong and sustainable. If the thought of a price incr...

What the hell does Bruce Lee have to do with running a pet care business??? More than you might think. In this episode, we dive into some of the legendary martial artist’s most powerful lessons and how they apply directly to business owners like you. From mastering one skill instead of chasing every new trend to breaking through plateaus and embracing adaptability, these principles could be the game-changer your pet business needs.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next move, this episode will challenge your mindset and push you to take acti...

Are you running your business like a boss or leading it like a true leader? There’s a big difference, and it impacts everything—from your team’s morale to your bottom line. In this episode, we break down the key distinctions between being a boss and being a leader, revealing how even small shifts in your approach can create massive changes in your business. If you’ve ever struggled with staff retention, motivation, or just getting your team to truly buy into your vision, this is the episode you need.

We’ll also take a look at what so...

We welcome back industry veteran Joe Zuccarello, who shares his extensive knowledge from over 40 years in the pet care industry. Joe, a leader at Paragon Pet Grooming School and a private consultant, dives into the challenges and opportunities of managing a grooming department. We explore the importance of fostering collaboration, setting clear expectations, and integrating grooming staff into the broader team culture. 

Joe highlights actionable strategies, such as building a skilled team from within and ensuring regular check-ins for accountability and growth. Learn how to create a thriving grooming service as part of a pet care business, i...

In this episode we focus is on critical business missteps that serve as powerful lessons for pet business owners looking to stay ahead of the curve. We’ll highlight how resistance to change and an over reliance on outdated business models can lead even the most successful companies to failure. 

Whether it’s failing to embrace emerging technology, ignoring shifts in consumer behavior, or clinging to legacy systems, the key takeaway is clear: businesses must remain adaptable and forward-thinking. You’ll see that success is not just about what has worked in the past, but about staying flexibl...

Today we’re talking about how you can create a more structured and enjoyable environment for dogs and staff alike. With insights from the team at PackPro, listeners will learn how effective training, group management, and employee empowerment can transform daily operations and elevate the overall daycare experience. 

Whether it’s refining processes or setting clear expectations, this discussion is packed with actionable strategies for success. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of how to build cohesive teams, reduce stress for staff, and tackle common challenges like noise and overstimulation. 

As the pet care industry evolves, staying ahead requires more than just growth—it’s about adapting to change and building a strong foundation. In this episode, we explore the trends shaping the industry, the challenges businesses face, and the opportunities to stand out in a competitive market. Whether it’s refining your goals or focusing on what truly matters, this discussion sets the stage for success in 2025.

We also dive into strategies for navigating the shifting landscape, from improving internal operations to embracing new tools and technologies. With insights on how to differentiate your services and create...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern welcomes Candace D’Agnolo, founder of Pet Boss Nation, for an engaging discussion about how pet business owners can evaluate and optimize their operations. Candace shares her journey from running multiple brick-and-mortar pet businesses to becoming a dedicated business coach. Together, they explore strategies for auditing business practices, addressing pain points, and streamlining operations to build sustainable growth. From employee drama to financial challenges, Candace offers actionable insights drawn from her real-world experience.

Gain valuable takeaways on the importance of systems, employee handbooks, and core values in creating a th...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, Fern invites Krista Lofquist, owner of Wagging Tails in Connecticut, to discuss her unique journey and the exciting addition of dock diving as a service at her facilities. Krista shares her evolution from starting as a solo dog walker to managing three thriving pet resort locations. This service not only enhances the experience for boarding and daycare clients but also draws competitive dock diving enthusiasts from across the region.

Krista delves into the logistics and challenges of establishing and maintaining dock diving pools, including indoor and outdoor setups, while highlighting...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we dive into how pet businesses can make 2025 their best year yet. We’ll talk about how to evaluate the past year—assessing everything from key performance indicators to customer and staff feedback—to identify strengths and opportunities for growth. From setting SMART goals to creating a motivating vision for your business, this episode is all about giving pet care providers the tools and mindset needed to thrive.

We also touch on the importance of consistent marketing and exploring new revenue streams, like premium services or enrichment programs, while sharing tips f...

No matter what stage your business is in, it’s always a good idea to begin with the end in mind—which, in the pet industry, often means the eventual sale of your business. Even if you don’t plan on selling anytime soon, it’s important to understand what you need to do to maintain an appealing business that someone would want to buy—because you never know.

Eyal Cohen from the Pet Resort Hospitality Group joins us today to explain how to set up your business so you’ll be able to sell it one day. You’ll...

Running a dog daycare or boarding business can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with unique stresses—long hours, emotional demands, and the constant pressure to grow and succeed. In this episode, we’re diving into why taking care of your mental health isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for your business. From the impact of stress on decision-making and relationships to the physical toll it can take, we’ll explore why self-care should be at the top of your priority list.

You’ll also walk away with actionable strategies to manage stress, set boundaries...

Today we’re diving into the impact of employee morale on pet resorts and how creating a positive work environment can lead to a better company culture, higher retention rates, and an overall thriving business. Our special guest, Laurie Yost from Playful Pups Retreat, shares her personal journey to boosting team morale by adding simple but heartfelt touches of appreciation that transformed her staff’s experience. Laurie’s approach began with handwritten notes to her team, acknowledging their efforts and the unique strengths they bring to the table. What started as an experiment quickly turned into a core element of her...

In this episode of the Overdog Podcast, we’re joined by Jeff Adney from TWC, a leading expert in designing and building pet care facilities. We dive deep into the essential best practices for creating a functional and attractive space that meets the unique needs of dog daycare and boarding businesses. Whether you’re launching a new facility or expanding an existing one, Jeff shares insights on zoning requirements, architectural planning, and securing the right funding to bring your vision to life.

Tune in as we discuss everything from the foundational steps of construction to the finer deta...

Discover how to organize your pet care facility for maximum effectiveness. Alex Varney, VP of Operations at Pinnacle Pets walks you through how to identify and resolve the inefficiencies in your daily operations that hinder your team's performance and those that lead to chaos and customer dissatisfaction. In addition, you’ll gain insights into creative problem-solving techniques to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and improve clarity for your team.

In this episode, we dive into the ins and outs of adding a transportation service to your pet resort or daycare. Joined by Katrin “Kay” Green from The Dog Patch, we explore how a simple idea—using a minivan to shuttle dogs during COVID—grew into a full-scale operation with multiple buses. Kay shares her journey from that initial minivan setup to running three shuttles daily, discussing the costs, logistics, and unexpected perks of providing transportation for clients. She also offers practical tips on safety, organization, and handling challenges like finding qualified drivers and dealing with inevitable messes on the road...

In this episode we dive into the world of luxury branding and explore how positioning your pet care business as a premium service can set you apart in a competitive market. From fostering unmatched customer loyalty to enabling higher profit margins, creating a high-end brand experience offers significant benefits for businesses willing to go the extra mile.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your existing services, this episode offers actionable insights for creating a premium client experience that resonates with pet owners who prioritize quality. You’ll gain tips for enhancing service standards, over...

In this episode, we’ll explore the potential pitfalls that pet business owners face after reaching success. Achieving your business goals is an incredible milestone, but what happens next? We’ll dive into the dangers that can arise from complacency, missed opportunities, or simply not knowing how to leverage success to reach even greater heights. Plus, we’ll offer actionable strategies for staying on top and continuously growing your pet business.

The big buzz in the dog daycare industry is enrichment. Everyone seems to be talking about it, and many businesses have been rolling out different enrichment programs with great success. It’s exciting but also a bit overwhelming.

Today, I’ve brought Dominic Hodgson back on the show to tell us all about his recent Enrichment Summit, share some of the key takeaways from the event, and help us understand how we can make enrichment work.

You and your business will always be limited by the knowledge you don’t have. The good news is that there’s no shortage of places to learn and expand your skills. To truly reach your full potential, you need a lifelong commitment to continued learning and education. The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be, and the fewer mistakes you’ll make.

In this episode, Fern shares his five favorite books that will not only help you take your business to exciting new heights, but also enable you to grow and improve as a person

In this episode, we’re diving into why employee wellness is not just a corporate buzzword but something that can make a huge difference in your dog daycare or boarding facility. We’ll talk about simple, practical ways to keep your team happy, healthy, and energized (because let’s face it, taking care of dogs can get hectic!).

Imagine fewer sick days, more productive shifts, and a team that actually looks forward to coming to work. Wellness isn’t just a perk, it’s a game changer for both your staff and your business!

Dog parks are great in theory but often flawed in reality. Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could start your own private indoor dog park, creating a safe, fun environment for dogs while adding a new revenue stream to your business?

If you’re thinking “yes,” but feeling overwhelmed by everything that needs to be considered and set up, this episode is for you. We’ve invited Raechel MacQueen from The Pack Dog Park to share how she’s built a thriving business around her private dog park.