Practical Pet Chat

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dig into a deceptively simple question: who’s actually responsible for our pets’ feeding habits? While it’s easy to blame picky eaters, treat obsession, or those irresistible “puppy dog eyes,” the reality is a bit more grounded—and a lot more human. They break down the common myths that drive overfeeding and inconsistent routines, including the...

Ever feel like your pet group is more drama than diamonds? You're not alone! In this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive headfirst into the wild world of pet group dynamics. Is your online pet community a supportive haven or a hotbed of unsolicited advice? We're unpacking everything from identifying helpful tips to dodging harmful opinions that could actually hurt your furry, scaly,...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive into some of the most head-scratching “WTH” moments they’ve witnessed, experienced, and heard from others in the pet world. You know the ones—the situations that instantly make you stop and think, what… and why? From dogs running off-leash at crowded kids’ playgrounds, to pets being tied up unattended outside stores, to everyday scenarios t...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin take a deep dive into the dynamic and ever-evolving world of pet events—ranging from local community gatherings and adoption days to large-scale industry trade shows and national expos. They explore the many roles these events have played over the years, not only as hubs for connection and community-building, but also as critical platforms for d...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore the idea of “Hey Pup, You Be You.” It’s a simple phrase, but it opens up a thoughtful conversation about the expectations we place on our pets and how those expectations can shape the way we interact with them. As pet parents, we often approach our time with our animals with a goal in mind—how they should behave, how quickly they should...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive into one of the most fascinating parts of living with animals—the habits of our pets. From the behaviors we see every day to the unusual and sometimes downright quirky things our pets do, this episode explores how much of what we experience with our pets is actually the result of an ongoing two-way conversation. Pets are incredible observer...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin open wide and dive deep into one of the most underestimated — yet critically important — pillars of pet health: dental care. It’s easy to dismiss “doggy breath” as normal or assume a little tartar isn’t a big deal. But in this episode, they unpack the real consequences of neglected oral health — and why what’s happening in your pet’s mouth doesn...

On this heartfelt (and hilarious) episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin explore one of the most meaningful parts of sharing life with animals — the many ways our pets show love, affection, and unwavering devotion. Lorin proudly reports that she receives full-on hugs from her pups (clearly living her best life), while Rob points out that although he may not get the dramatic embrace, he absol...

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and on this episode, Lorin and Rob dive into what the holiday really means when your greatest loves have four legs, fur, and zero concept of personal space. The conversation starts lighthearted—and quickly escalates—when Rob learns that Lorin doesn’t just spoil her dogs… she elevates them. Pearls? Yes. Filet mignon? Also yes. Rob is left questioning his entire...

On this episode of Practical Pet, Lorin and Rob tackle a topic many pet parents quietly worry about but don’t always know how to approach: our beloved Chunky Monkeys. 🐾 With humor, honesty, and zero judgment, they explore why pets gain weight, how to spot the signs early, and how to thoughtfully assess what’s really going on beneath the fluff. The conversation digs into food choices, portion size...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob hilariously take on one of the most emotionally complex tasks in any pet-centric household: cleaning out the toy box. With their pups providing constant and judgmental supervision, they sort through woobies, chews, half-destroyed favorites, and those toys no one remembers buying but somehow can never throw away. The conversation quickly turns in...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob ease into the new year with a thoughtful conversation about starting fresh—for your sake and for your pets’ well-being. Before jumping into resolutions or feeling pressure to “do more,” they encourage listeners to pause, take a deep breath, and ground themselves in the present moment. The discussion centers on recognizing what has changed over t...

On this edition of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin kick off 2026 by reflecting on the close of another year and sharing what’s ahead in the months to come. They dive into key updates and announcements for the show, outline what listeners can expect in the new year, and discuss emerging themes shaping the pet industry—from evolving pet parent expectations to changes impacting care, services, and...

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take pet business owners through a comprehensive and practical year-end review designed to turn reflection into forward momentum. As the year comes to a close, they break down what to look at across your business—from timelines and key events to sales performance, seasonal trends, and the initiatives that delivered results (or didn’t). They...

In this year-end episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob invite pet parents to slow down and reflect on the year that was—through the lens of their pets’ lives. From shifts in daily routines and household dynamics to new experiences, challenges, and milestones, they explore how your pet’s world has changed and evolved over the past year. Lorin and Rob encourage listeners to revisit the highli...

In this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob tackle one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics for pet professionals as we head into a new year: budgeting and planning for the 2026 pet industry landscape, with a special focus on local events, expos, shows, and community gatherings. As the pet industry continues to grow and evolve, so do the expectations placed on business ow...

Winter is here, the days are shorter, and both people and pets are spending more time indoors. On this heartfelt and insightful episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore what that seasonal shift really means for our animals — and how we can turn it into something positive, enriching, and memorable. As activity levels change and outdoor adventures become less frequent, our pets’ routines...

On this thought-provoking episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take a candid look at the evolving world of pet industry organizations, associations, and trade groups — and what their shifts mean for today’s pet professionals. As the industry continues to grow, so do the expectations placed on business owners. Associations revise their missions, events change formats, leadership shifts...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Rob and Lorin explore the often-overlooked impact that changing seasons have on our pets—and on us as their caregivers. As temperatures drop, daylight shifts, and our calendars fill with seasonal activities and celebrations, our pets experience these changes right alongside us. Rob and Lorin break down how to adjust your daily routines, expectations, and over...

On this fun and festive Holiday episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob unwrap the many ways pet parents can celebrate Thanksgiving safely, joyfully, and with far less chaos. As families gather, kitchens buzz, and plates overflow, our pets are right there in the mix—curious, excited, and very interested in the smells (and opportunities) that come with the season. Lorin and Rob walk listeners...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob dive deep into the true meaning of pet — and especially dog — socialization, breaking apart the common myths and misunderstandings that so many pet parents unknowingly rely on. While many believe socialization simply means taking your dog to the dog park, sending them to daycare, or making sure they can tolerate the vet, the reality is far more...

On this edition of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take a deep dive into one of the most common — and complicated — topics for pet business owners: discounts, incentives, expectations, and frustrations. Pet parents love a good deal, and in today’s competitive market, it can feel like you have to offer discounts just to stay in the game. But when every sale, service, or product comes with a m...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore the essential role of moderation in your pet’s daily life—and why “more” is not always better. From nutrition and supplements to exercise, enrichment, training, and even affection, they break down how thoughtful balance can support long-term health and prevent many common issues before they begin. They discuss how easy it is, with the be...

On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob tackle an all-too-common challenge in the pet industry: handling moody, frustrated, or emotionally overwhelmed customers. In pet care, emotions run high—people deeply love their animals, and that love can show up as anxiety, fear, guilt, or stress. Sometimes, the tension has nothing to do with your business at all. A customer may already be...

On this episode of Practical Pet Chat, Lorin and Rob explore what it really takes to set you, your pet, and your groomer up for a smooth, successful, and stress-free grooming experience. Grooming isn’t just about a great haircut — it’s about communication, trust, and teamwork between pet parent, pet, and professional. They discuss how being your pet’s voice starts long before you arrive at the gro...