Nikki Nordick started Airdrie Puppy Pals in 2014 as an online community to connect dog owners and organize playdates. Despite more than 10,000 licensed dogs in Airdrie and its surrounding region, off-leash parks were often empty and dog owners struggled to find reliable care. Nikki, a fourth-generation Canadian entrepreneur and dog-lover, began offering dog walking and in-home pet sitting. With a passion for dogs and continuing education, Nikki is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, and a Fear Free Professional. By 2015, she’d grown her side hustle into a full-service business, including a doggy daycare and a dog school with group and private classes. Her business has been awarded the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business Award and Greatest Impact Award. “Every milestone we’ve reached, from opening our facilities to being named a Western Finalist for Women of Inspiration, reflects the strong relationships we’ve built with our community,” says Nikki, a BMO Business Banking client. She attributes her business success to strong customer relationships, which is foundational to the Airdrie Puppy Pals team. “It’s not just about providing a service. We strive to understand each dog’s unique personality and create an environment where they can thrive. This approach fosters trust, loyalty, and a sense of community that continues to drive our growth and success.” Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Being a business owner will have highs and lows. Focus on your clients, support your team, take things day by day, and celebrate the wins along the way.” Looking to start or grow your business? Connect with a BMO banker: https://lnkd.in/e4uTzDHK
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🐾 **Calling All Pet Lovers!** 🐾 Are you passionate about animals and looking for a fulfilling way to earn extra income? 🌟 Consider launching a **Home-based Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Service!** 🐶🏡 As pet ownership continues to soar, many dedicated pet parents find themselves juggling work and responsibilities. They need reliable and personalized care for their furry companions. This is where YOU come in! By offering pet sitting and dog walking right from the comfort of their homes, you can bring peace of mind to pet owners while doing what you love. Not only does this startup idea cater to a growing market, but it also gives you the flexibility to balance work and passion. Imagine spending your days surrounded by wagging tails and purring friends, all while making a positive impact in your community! ❤️ The demand is there; all you need is the heart and dedication to take the leap. Let’s turn your passion for pets into a thriving business! Who's in? 🐾✨ #PetCare #StartupIdeas #Entrepreneurship #PetSitting #DogWalking #LoveWhatYouDo
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Welcome to DogCo Launch! 👋 We exist to help pet care businesses niche and scale their teams by providing education, resources, and coaching. Founder Michelle Kline spent six years growing an on-demand dog walking company to 600 clients and 25 staff before selling the company in 2023. Now, Michelle and the DogCo team offer Mastermind cohorts, business coaching, and online communities for pet care business owners. The offerings are designed to help streamline operations, optimize offerings, and attract ideal clients. Learn more at dogcolaunch.com. #DogCoLaunch #PetCare #PetCarePros #BusinessCoaching #DogWalking #BusinessCoach #OurStory
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🏠🐾 Support small business for Your Dog's Home Away from Home! 🐶❤️ When it comes to finding the perfect place for your dog to stay while you’re away, nothing beats the care and attention of Georgina at Hounds and Veterans who runs this small local business. Here’s why choosing a local dog boarding facility is the way to go: ✨ Personalized Care: Hounds and Veterans have the time and love to treat each dog like family, offering that extra attention our pets deserve. 🌟 Familiar Faces: With a Georgina, your dog is not just another booking! She really gets to know your dog’s unique quirks, routines, and needs, making it a less stressful experience for both you and your pup. 💬 Easy Communication: Small local business like Hounds and Veterans are all about relationships—they’re quick to respond and happy to share updates and photos to keep you in the loop. 💼 Supporting the Community: Every time you support a local business like Georgina's, you’re helping neighbours and fellow pet lovers thrive. 💪 Next time you need boarding, consider staying close to home by choosing small business like Hounds and Veterans! 🧡 #SupportLocal #DogBoarding #ShopSmall #PetLovers #HomeAwayFromHome #CommunityLove #PetCare #houndsandveterans #supportingsmallbusiness #keepingitlocal #dogsofemsworth #emsworthdogs #havantdogs
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There are additional responsibilities & considerations when you bring a dog into an apartment or condominium community. Much is considered "common sense" and takes a little extra effort. Unfortunately, not all dogs and owners are the same. Some need a little extra education and incentive. This is where PooPrints Canada’s programs thrive. As an added benefit to our programs, we've partnered with the professionals at Bark Busters Canada. Together we design some "Tips & Support" that we share with our clients to help all persons living and working in our managed, pet-friendly communities. As they say, "It Takes a Village". For more than 30 years, Bark Busters has been helping transform relationships between dogs and their families. From their research and experience of working with over one million families, Bark Buster professionals understand that every dog is unique and responds to life differently. Our partnership offers residents of PooPrints communities a $50 credit towards Bark Buster Dog Training Services. If you presently live in, or are planning to live in a PooPrints Program apartment or condominium community and want to reduce the stress of certain canine behaviors, we recommend Bark Busters "Personalized In-Home Training". Bark Busters one-on-one training sessions are conducted on-site, and in your home, where your dog feels most comfortable. You'll receive hands-on training uniquely tailored to your dog’s temperament and needs. To get started, take our quick Free "Dog Behavior Quiz" on our website: https://pooprints.ca/ Enjoy ❤️ 🐶 #pooprints #petfriendly #apartments #condos #landlords #propertymanagers #assetmanagers #developers #reits #leasingmanagers
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🐾 The Problem Every Pet Business Faces: How Do You Stand Out in a Crowded Market? 🐾 As dog lovers, we know the bond between dogs and their owners is one of a kind. 😍 But as a business serving pet owners—whether you're a vet, dog trainer, or pet product provider—you've probably faced these challenges: 👉 How do you keep your clients engaged beyond the first visit or purchase? Research shows that 38% of clients don't return to their service providers after their first visit. 👉 How do you reactivate lapsed customers who haven’t returned in months? using email still? 👉 How do you consistently attract new customers in an ultra-competitive space? These are big questions, and most pet businesses don’t have the time or tools to solve them. That’s why we created Woofya—a platform built to help dog-related businesses. 🐾 Engage dog owners through fun, gamified challenges tailored to their dog’s breed, age, and preferences. 🐾 Reactivate lapsed clients. At Woofya, we’re on a mission to build a world where dog parents feel supported, inspired, and connected—while empowering pet businesses to grow through smarter, more personalized marketing. Are you a pet business looking for fresh ways to engage and retain customers? I’d love to hear your insights, feedback, and invite you to a co-design process, so we’re building a platform that solves real problems for real businesses. Let’s connect or drop me a message if this resonates with you. #Woofya #DogLovers #PetBusiness #DogFriendlyAustralia #Retention #Startup
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Reasons Why You Shouldn't Own a Rottweiler as a First-Time Owner As much as Rottweilers are wonderful and loving dogs, they are not well suited for first-time dog owners. While it's possible for some first-time owners to successfully raise a Rottweiler, they are in the minority. Here are Marc Windgassen's critical points to consider about the Rottweiler breed for those considering choosing it: - High Socialization and Training Needs: Rottweilers require extensive early socialization and continuous training throughout their lives. In their first three years, their behavior can change significantly, making consistent training essential. - Strong Family Bonds: These dogs are highly social with their families and thrive on interaction. If you don't have the time to invest in them, a Rottweiler is not the right choice. They are not suited for being solely left alone in the yard for long periods for the sake of being a "guard dog". - Demanding Behavior: Rottweilers can be very headstrong and demanding in terms of behavior. They need an owner who understands how to handle and train large, powerful dogs. - Experience and Knowledge Required: Handling a Rottweiler in public can be challenging, especially around other dogs. They require an owner with experience in managing large breeds and the knowledge to train them effectively. - Exploiting Weaknesses: Rottweilers are known to exploit their owner's weaknesses. If they sense a lack of authority or consistency, they may take advantage, leading to potential behavioral issues. - Powerful and Headstrong: These dogs are very powerful. If you’re not accustomed to big breeds, controlling a Rottweiler can be difficult. Their size and strength require an experienced handler to manage them properly. - Global Temperament Differences: The temperament of Rottweilers in the USA can often be more docile compared to their counterparts globally. This should not be considered the standard for the breed, as Rottweilers can vary significantly in behavior and temperament in countries such as Italy, Germany, and Belgium. Rottweilers can be fantastic pets, but they require a knowledgeable, experienced owner who can commit to their high demands. If you’re considering a Rottweiler as your first dog, think carefully and do thorough research to ensure you’re prepared for the challenges and responsibilities. #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #rottweiler #DogOwnerAdvice
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I've had several new connections and followers recently so here's a little intro about me :-) Hi, I’m Fiona, the founder of The Canine VA. I set up my business for the love of dogs and the people who run their businesses dedicated to them. Many dog business owners find themselves frustrated and stretched to the limit. With only so many hours in the day, you often have to choose between working ridiculous hours to stay on top of everything or spending time with your human and doggy family! Why should you sacrifice your life for your business success? Without results – income, stability, and growth – your business won’t survive. If all your time is being taken up with administration, fiddly processes, and systems you don’t understand, there’s not much left for you at the end of the day. I've experienced the highs and lows of being a dog trainer and the exhaustive demands of executive assistance. That's why I created The Canine VA I knew I could use my 18+ years of experience as an executive assistant to bring my two passions together – to help you rediscover the joy in your business, cut through the chaos, and focus on what matters: your passion for dogs. As a result, you get to feel love again for the business you set up, reducing the chronic overwhelm and daily chaos. You get to do all the things you dreamed of doing, making more room to do what you love—building your business and income and enjoying more time with your family. Your business needs you. I understand how it feels to be juggling all the balls and working all the hours because I’ve been there. Your business needs someone who understands it and shares your passion. With a unique blend of professionalism and canine industry knowledge, I’m here to ease your admin burden and tech hell and help you build your business. In just one year, I've transformed my VA services into a dynamic and tailored level of support for the canine industry. From refining processes to building online courses, I help businesses like yours expand and thrive. And with my SBS (Small Business Sunday) recognition and as a finalist and runner-up in the UK VA Awards 2023, you're in award-winning hands. I bring more than just administrative expertise. As a fellow dog lover, I stay up to date with the latest in canine nutrition, health trends, and industry regulations. I'm your ally in understanding and expanding your services, saving you time explaining the intricacies of your work. Let's embark on this journey together, transforming how your canine business operates. We’ll craft a partnership that lets you focus on growth, success, and, most importantly, getting your life back. Get in touch today.
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Why should enterpreneurs be dog parents? The real question is Why NOT! A dog brings immense learnings and character to our personality. DOGS teach us what humans easily can’t. Patience: Imagine waking up in the middle of the night because your dog has to poop. Now imagine - they did not do it ‘cos- they don’t want to anymore. If that doesn’t teach you patience- I don’t know what can.. Resonsibility: Imagine Brainstorming through the nights since during the day there were 100s of fire-fights in the venture. Now Imagine- waking up at 5.30am to take them for a walk ‘cos the dog is awake Now. If that doesn’t teach you being responsible- I feel nothing else can.. Accountability: Imagine having a nice stroll with your dog and he unexpectedly poops in the middle of the park. As a responsible pet parent it is your duty to pick up after your dog and be accountable for their actions. A similar situation most often is encountered in our businesses- where we have to pick up our mess and MOVE FORWARD. Living in the present: Imagine your dog sleeping peacefully and dreaming all the wonderful things. Now imagine slightest smell of an omelette being cooked in the kitchen late at night. The next moment you will see them wagging their tail right outside the kitchen. While it is crucial to DREAM, it is equally important to LIVE IN THE PRESENT- a lesson your dog teaches you everyday! #dogsarefamily #dogparents #doglovers #dogmakeslifebetter
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Do we really need an OpenTable for dog owners? I’ve heard this question at least a thousand times...usually from non-dog owners. The logic behind it? "Why can’t we just adapt services and products made for humans and use them for dogs? It’s the humans making the decisions anyway!" Well, I’m afraid that’s just not good enough. Let me explain: Why do you need Gemma Glover to create furniture that works better for your dog? Because they have the expertise to design solutions that cater to your dog's unique needs, ensuring their comfort, safety and happiness. Why would you hire someone like Rachel Spencer to handle publicity specifically for your dog business? Because she knows how to craft stories that resonate with dog owners—and even to those who don’t “get it.” And why can’t we just use existing platforms to book dog-friendly places? Because those platforms often leave out the key details a dog owner needs to know. Trust me, we’ve tried—and we don’t trust them. Still not convinced? Let me give you a more relatable example: When my brother’s kids were young, he’d ask me to book a place that was child-friendly. But his idea of child-friendly wasn’t just “a place where kids are allowed.” He wanted to know: Do they have high chairs? A kids’ menu? Crayons to keep them entertained? Parents needed trusted platforms like Mumsnet because they understood the nuances of parenting. Dog parents need the same. That’s why I created WagIt—a booking platform designed specifically for dog owners, by dog owners. Because 1 in 3 adults in the UK have a dog, and we deserve businesses we can trust to truly understand our needs. Let’s stop asking, “Do we really need this?” Instead, let’s ask, “Why haven’t we had this all along?” #dogfriendly #startup #itsnotgoodenough
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"THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A BAD DOG...JUST BAD OWNERS" Magnificent information. Can easily be applied to ALL BIG DOGS. I have owned Mastiffs all my life. I learned very early if you display Alpha instincts and by that I mean: 1) NEVER YELL 2) NEVER, EVER HIT YOUR ANIMAL- WRONG MESSAGE 3) WHEN THEY PULL AT THE LEASH- STOP! YOU ARE IN FRONT OF THE DOG. STOPPING SENDS THE RIGHT MESSAGE. IF THEY LURCH- STOP!!! 4) ALL LESSONS MUST BEGIN AT A VERY EARLY AGE. 5) IF YOU TRAIN FOR YOUR DOG TO BE DEADLY- KNOW FULL WELL THIS ANIMAL CAN CHEW THROUGH A COW FEMUR IN ABOUT 30 MINUTES. YOU DO NOT HAVE A BONE OF THAT SIZE IN YOUR BODY. 6) ALWAYS REWARD WITH KINDNESS AND LOVE ONLY 7) THROUGH 1000 YEARS OF RELATIONS WITH HUMANS- A DOG IS THE ONE ANIMAL THAT WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU MORE THAN HIMSELF. THAT IS NOT A RELATIONSHIP TO BE TAKEN LIGHTLY. Pax tecum
Reasons Why You Shouldn't Own a Rottweiler as a First-Time Owner As much as Rottweilers are wonderful and loving dogs, they are not well suited for first-time dog owners. While it's possible for some first-time owners to successfully raise a Rottweiler, they are in the minority. Here are Marc Windgassen's critical points to consider about the Rottweiler breed for those considering choosing it: - High Socialization and Training Needs: Rottweilers require extensive early socialization and continuous training throughout their lives. In their first three years, their behavior can change significantly, making consistent training essential. - Strong Family Bonds: These dogs are highly social with their families and thrive on interaction. If you don't have the time to invest in them, a Rottweiler is not the right choice. They are not suited for being solely left alone in the yard for long periods for the sake of being a "guard dog". - Demanding Behavior: Rottweilers can be very headstrong and demanding in terms of behavior. They need an owner who understands how to handle and train large, powerful dogs. - Experience and Knowledge Required: Handling a Rottweiler in public can be challenging, especially around other dogs. They require an owner with experience in managing large breeds and the knowledge to train them effectively. - Exploiting Weaknesses: Rottweilers are known to exploit their owner's weaknesses. If they sense a lack of authority or consistency, they may take advantage, leading to potential behavioral issues. - Powerful and Headstrong: These dogs are very powerful. If you’re not accustomed to big breeds, controlling a Rottweiler can be difficult. Their size and strength require an experienced handler to manage them properly. - Global Temperament Differences: The temperament of Rottweilers in the USA can often be more docile compared to their counterparts globally. This should not be considered the standard for the breed, as Rottweilers can vary significantly in behavior and temperament in countries such as Italy, Germany, and Belgium. Rottweilers can be fantastic pets, but they require a knowledgeable, experienced owner who can commit to their high demands. If you’re considering a Rottweiler as your first dog, think carefully and do thorough research to ensure you’re prepared for the challenges and responsibilities. #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #rottweiler #DogOwnerAdvice
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🎓 Certified Dog Behavior Consultant 🐾 Owner of Airdrie Puppy Pals 👩💼 Director of Communications for the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
2moThank you BMO and (Corey Bélanger) for the feature and for your support over the past 10 years! #supportlocal ##smallbusiness