This episode is heavy, emotional and important. Today I talk about Arnie, the German Shepherd who was reported missing in Queensland, sparking fear, heartbreak and community concern. As more details unfolded, it became clear that Arnie’s disappearance was not what it first seemed. His life was taken by the person closest to him. Arnie deserved so much better than the end he met. His story is confronting and it forces us to look directly at the uncomfortable truth that not everyone who owns or cares for animals is capable of giving them the standard of care they need. And that is exactly why the pet care industry needs regulation, accountability, auditing and minimum standards.I talk about why people can do unexpected and unthinkable things, why this isn’t about blaming “one bad owner” but about fixing a broken system, and why unregulated industries breed risk for animals, pet sitters and the public.This episode also shares the emotional side that many in the industry feel right now. The sadness. The anger. The helplessness. The frustration of knowing this will not be the last time unless something changes.I also explore the movement for stronger laws, including the push behind Arnie’s Law, and why cases like this should be the catalyst for real reform in how animals are protected.If you’ve ever worked with animals, loved an animal, or felt the fear of “what if that happened to mine,” this episode will stay with you. It’s raw, honest and eye opening.Thank you for listening and for caring about animals enough to have these conversations with me.
In this episode, I sit down with Cam Barclay, a highly respected trainer and advocate for dog safety and education. We break down the subtle signals dogs give long before they bark, growl or snap. This conversation is all about prevention, awareness and building confidence around every dog you work with. Whether you’re a pet sitter, walker or dog owner, this episode will change the way you see and respond to canine behaviour.What We CoverWhy body language matters more than obedience cuesEarly signs of stress, discomfort and overwhelm that most people missHow dogs communicate consent and when they’re done with interactionThe difference between polite caution and real fearCommon situations where people misread behaviourHow to prevent conflict by adjusting your approachBuilding safer routines when entering homes or meeting dogs for the first timeWhy breed, background and environment all play a roleHow to teach clients what to look for without scaring themKey TakeawaysDogs never “snap out of nowhere”. There are always signs.Slowing down and observing keeps both you and the dog safe.Confidence comes from education, not guessing.Your calm energy sets the tone for every interaction.Connect with Camhttps://www.actofdog.com.auInstagram: @actofdog.com.au
In this episode, I unpack the key parts of Consumer Law that every pet care professional should understand, not just in Australia, but in other regions too.We talk about how these laws apply to things like deposits, refunds, cancellations, and fair trading, and what that means for the way you run your business.If you’ve ever had a client cancel last minute, ask for a refund after a completed booking, or question your policies, this episode will help you feel confident in how to respond.I’ve also included a blanket guide for listeners in the UK, US, and Canada to help you understand the general consumer rights framework where you operate.In This Episode We Cover:- What consumer law says about deposits, cancellations, and refunds- When a refund is required, and when it’s not- Why clear terms and conditions protect you from disputes- The difference between poor service, unmet expectations, and a simple change of mind- How to write policies that stay compliant and protect your business- Practical wording you can use in your own contracts and client communicationKey Takeaway:Understanding consumer law doesn’t just protect your income, it gives you peace of mind and helps you handle tricky situations calmly and professionally.Resources Mentioned:- Australian Consumer Law (ACCC)- Fair Trading NSW - Deposits and Refunds- General consumer law frameworks for the UK, US, and Canada- Example Cancellation & Refund Policy Template (available inside The Content Collective)Content Collective: https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596Email: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com TikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @petindustrymentor Website: www.petindustrymentor.com
In this episode, I open up about something that’s been on my mind for a long time - the lack of structure, standards, and accountability in the pet care industry. I’ve seen first hand how much good this industry is capable of, but I’ve also seen what can happen when the wrong people take shortcuts or when basic standards aren’t in place.This episode isn’t about tearing anyone down. It’s about building something better. I truly believe we can have an industry that’s safe, respected, and sustainable, one that protects not only the animals, but also the professionals who dedicate their lives to caring for them.I talk about:Why regulation doesn’t need to be scary, it’s about protecting pets, not limiting businesses.How raising the bar in professionalism can actually help your business grow.The steps we can take together to create real change and set a higher standard for everyone.This episode is part of my Protect Our Pets campaign, a national push to create basic standards across the pet care industry like insurance, pet first aid, and police checks. It’s something I’m deeply passionate about because I’ve lived this industry from every angle, as a pet sitter, a business owner, and now a mentor.If you care about animals and the future of our industry, this one’s worth a listen.
In this episode, I’m talking about all the common myths and misconceptions about what it’s really like to work in the pet industry. People love to say it’s the dream job, all sunshine, dogs, and flexible hours, but the truth is, it’s hard. It’s emotional. It’s unpredictable. And it takes a lot more grit than people realise.I dive into the comparisons, the judgments, and the things that make this industry both incredibly rewarding and incredibly tough. This one’s for every sitter, walker, groomer, and trainer who’s ever felt like no one outside the industry truly gets it.Find me on socials for even more advice and tips from someone who was in the industry for almost a decade and managed to thrive, scale, and sell Content Collective: https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596TikTok: @chenelleconquest Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter Website: www.petindustrymentor.com
A glimpse into the reality - and perhaps a bit of a reality check - regarding life after your pet care business. The hard truth is that no one can, or will work in this industry forever. At some point the party ends, and what are you going to have to show for it?This episode I dive into a small portion of what it was like to sell my business, and the gratitude I have for even being able to sell it and not walk away from nine years of hard work blood, sweat, and tears with nothing to show for it.This episode might hit home for a few of you, if you feel you need to talk after it please feel free to message me. As always the links to my socials are below as well as our new Content Collective or to work with me one on one.TikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_www.petindustrymentor.com Content Collective: https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the real, raw mistakes that cost me both money and peace over the years of building my pet care business. These are the lessons I learned the hard way, the ones I wish someone had told me when I started. From hiring too quickly to saying yes when I should’ve said no, every mistake shaped how I do business today. If you’re in the thick of growth or just starting out, this one will save you stress, time, and probably a few thousand dollars too.What You’ll Learn:- The biggest financial and emotional mistakes I made early on and how I recovered from them.- How poor boundaries and overcommitment drain both your profit and your joy.- The simple mindset shifts that helped me rebuild with structure and confidence.- Why “learning the hard way” doesn’t make you stronger, fixing the problem does.Who It’s For:Pet industry professionals, dog walkers, sitters, groomers, and any business owner who’s growing faster than their systems can keep up.Listen If You’re:-Struggling with burnout or second guessing your decisions- Feeling like you’re working harder but earning less-Ready to clean up your foundations and stop making the same costly mistakesLinks & Resources:Work with me 1:1 or join The Content Collectivehttps://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596www.petindustrymentor.comFollow along on Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_Or TikTok:@chenelleconquest Share this episode and tag me if something really hit home!
If I woke up tomorrow with no clients, no systems, and had to start all over again, this is exactly how I’d do it.After running and selling a multi six-figure pet sitting and dog walking business, I’ve made every mistake you can think of. In this episode, I’m sharing what I’d do differently from day one, the mindset I’d have, the systems I’d set up, and the boundaries I’d never skip again.We’ll talk about why most pet sitters fail (and how to make sure you’re not one of them), how to treat your business like a real operation from the start, and why the field work, the actual pet care, is only half the job.The other half? Systems, communication, and consistency. That’s what builds trust, keeps clients loyal, and separates a hobby from a long-term business.If you’re just starting out or even rebuilding after burnout, this one’s going to give you some real direction.Want more support or tips? Work with me! Book a free call at https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ0ptzcaX8iB2qXOBfcMe44j5PP8k3kbgxU0OaFWPuFa61AywXAp6XOYEYz_SNR2D2CjUn9sSYyv?gv=trueFollow me on TikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_Email: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com Content Collective https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596
It’s time to stop doing the same thing over and over and hoping for a different result Social media is not just a scrapbook - it’s a tool! Use it wisely. Stand out from the crowd, build relationships, connect! THAT is how we are getting booked in 2025 and into 2026This episode is short and sweet because I really do want the main point to get across that the same stuff you’re positing and getting no engagement from and no leads isn’t one day just going to start working Feeling uninspired? Join my content collective where I post 7 days a week of done-for-you content to help you create, inspire you, and take the stress of figuring out yourself day after day https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596Join me on socials, or if you’re really ready - book a free discovery call and let’s see where you can benefit from some support www.petindustrymentor.com/freediscoverycallTikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_Facebook: Chenelle : Professional Pet Sitter Mentor Content Collective https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596
Are you working hard in your pet sitting or dog walking business but still wondering where all the money goes? In this episode of The Professional Pet Sitter Podcast, I’m unpacking five hidden money leaks that silently drain your profits, and most owners don’t even realize they’re happening.I’ll walk you through:-The everyday habits that cost you thousands without you noticing-Why undercharging and “being nice” is keeping you stuck-How small inefficiencies in your systems eat into your bottom line-The hidden costs of time management and what to do about it-Practical steps you can take today to plug the leaks and finally see your hard work reflected in your bank accountIf you’ve ever looked at your revenue and thought, “Where is it all going?” this episode is for you.Resources & Next Steps- Like & follow the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Come hang out with me on socials: Instagram @theprofessionalpetsitter_ TikTok @chenelleconquestJoin my Content Collective: a supportive community where I share weekly done-for-you content specifically for the pet care industry. Inside you’ll get a 7-day content line-up every week, so you can save time and focus on growing your business. https://www.skool.com/conquest-content-collective/about?ref=77da1b5b02254b41897c1bebd90d6596
So many people wonder if pet sitting or dog walking can actually provide a real income, or if it’s just pocket money on the side. In this episode, I’m getting brutally honest about what it really takes to build a business that not only survives, but thrives.I’ll share:-Why hard work and persistence are the backbone of making real money in this industry-The importance of boundaries and valuing your time from day one-How strong willpower and resilience separate hobby sitters from business owners-The truth about revenue potential (and why you can make a living doing this)-My own experience of starting small and growing into a multiple-six-figure businessWhether you’re just starting out or you’ve been walking dogs for years, this conversation will remind you that yes, you can build a professional business, but it won’t happen overnight. It’s consistency, commitment, and refusing to give up when it feels tough.If you’ve ever doubted whether this path can support you, let this episode be your push to keep going.Follow The Professional Pet Sitter podcast so you never miss an episode, and if this resonated with you, please leave a review. Want more support? Join me in my mentoring community where I share resources, strategies, and behind-the-scenes lessons from my own business journey.Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_TikTok: @chenelleconquest
In this episode, I’m diving into the essential policies and procedures every pet business owner needs to put in place to create strong foundations and protect both your clients and your team. Having clear systems isn’t just about covering yourself legally, it also builds trust, professionalism, and consistency, which are the backbone of a successful business.I’ll walk you through the non-negotiables, from contracts and cancellation policies, to staff handbooks and emergency procedures. If you’ve been running your business on the fly, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to get your house in order and set yourself up for growth.What You’ll Learn in This Episode-Why policies are a non-negotiable for sustainable growth-The top procedures to have in place for client management and staff training-How strong systems protect your reputation and reduce stress-Simple steps to start implementing these policies todayIf you’re ready to put these strategies into action and want extra support, make sure you’re following the podcast and leave a review to let me know what you think. You can also connect with me on socials for more behind the scenes tips and resources.Connect with MeInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_TikTok: @chenelleconquest Website: www.petindustrymentor.com
In this episode, I’m breaking down the top five strategies you can use to turn casual inquiries into committed leads for your pet care business. It’s one thing to get attention, but it’s another to actually convert that interest into paying clients and that’s where the real growth happens.You’ll learn:-How to respond quickly and effectively so inquiries don’t go cold-The importance of having a clear process and structured communication-How to add personal touches that make potential clients feel valued-Why storytelling and showcasing social proof builds instant trustSimple systems you can set up to track and follow up on every inquiryWhether you’re just starting out or you’re already established and looking to grow, these practical tips will help you increase your conversion rate and book more of the right clients.If you found today’s episode helpful, make sure to follow the podcast and leave a review, it helps more pet business owners find this resource. And stay tuned for some exciting updates I’ll be sharing soon about the future of my own business journey.
Oh, so you expected there to come a time where business just became easy all the time and nothing ever went wrong? … well let me tell you, that’s just not how it works It doesn’t matter how successful someone is or how long they have been in business - there will never be a time where things don’t fall apart, need fixing, need reassessing, make you want to tear your hair out and question your life choices hahaIt does matter however the way you choose to handle this. Pity party or self-reassurance? Live in regret or live and learn? Having failures or making poor decisions doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for business, it’s how you handle those situations that determine that. Feeling lost or stuck? Why not reach out for a free discovery call to see how I can help you W: www.petindustrymentor.com E: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com TikTok: @chenelleconquest Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_
Join me this week while I give you the total low-down on swapping from working as a “contractor” on certain platforms - for legal reasons all names have been redacted and hilariously dubbed over haha.. I got asked on TikTok the best way to transition to working for yourself independently and I will ALWAYS support and push for this. I will always push for professionalism and fair pay and treatment of the dedicated workers in this industry and moving away from bigger platforms with bad reps is only going to do you good! I give you real actionable steps and advice to give you the best chance at becoming the biggest and best version of yourself you can be within your business, stepping out of the shadows and taking true control of your income and freedom! As always, DM me any time on socials for more advice, explanations, and to even work with me to help you move and scale to hit your goals TikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_Website: www.petindustrymentor.com Email: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com
This week I searched through several pet industry forums to find the most commonly asked questions or scenarios you all look for advice or guidance on and gave my take on each From charging for holiday rates, discounts, and what to do if you’re fully booked and something happens to you that means you can’t carry out your work for weeks (or worse - yikes) I have insight into the things I can see you’re having the most trouble with deciding on the most appropriate course of action and have plenty of real life examples of my own as well as offering different perspectives to help better illustrate my points As always please follow us if you aren’t already to keep up to date with episodes and you can access even more free info by signing up to our website or following my socials W: www.petindustrymentor.com E: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.comTikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_
In this episode, we’re clearing up one of the most misunderstood areas in the pet care industry, the difference between a contractor and an employee. I’ve seen so many business owners hire “contractors” when what they’ve really created is an employment situation… and trust me, the ATO won’t look the other way.We’ll break down what defines a contractor vs. an employee (it’s not just about an ABN!), the pros and cons of each, and when it’s appropriate to hire one over the other. I’m also sharing the legal and operational risks of misclassifying your team, plus how to future proof your hiring decisions as your business grows.Whether you’re scaling up, hiring your first team member, or wondering if you’ve got it right, this episode is your go to guide.What I cover:- The core differences between employees and contractors (hint: it’s not just about paperwork)- Why misclassifying can cost you more than you think- The situations where contractors can work well in pet care- When you absolutely need employees instead- Real world examples from the pet sitting and dog walking industryIf this episode gave you clarity, confidence, or even a little nudge to audit your current setup, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with a fellow business owner who needs to hear this! And if you’re still not sure what structure suits your business best, head to www.petindustrymentor.com to book a clarity session or check out my mentorship options.E: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.comTikTok: @chenelleconquestInstagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_
This episode is for the solo entrepreneurs. I had some amazing questions come in from one listener so this episode is pretty much dedicated to them haha. It features some common questions and scenarios you would all be facing and how to handle them. I explain how I’ve handled these situations myself, or exactly how I would manage it Enjoyed this episode? Please feel leave us a rating and review as it helps reach more pet business owners who would love to be receiving all this free value we put out week after week Want to learn more? You can work with me! Or follow my socials where I give away even more tips & tricks www.petindustrymentor.com TikTok: @chenelleconquest Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_
In this episode, we’re talking about how to protect your time and energy by getting really clear on who your ideal client actually is, and how to spot a mismatch early.I walk you through why it’s so important to vet new enquiries properly before you commit to a meet and greet. That means getting honest about your own deal breakers and asking the right questions up front, on the phone or via email, to figure out if this client is even worth meeting.You’ll hear real examples of red flags and how to trust your gut when something feels off. I also share how to handle it if you’ve already taken on a client and later realise they’re not aligned with your values or boundaries. Because yes, there is a professional way to step away from the wrong fit and I’ll show you how to do it without burning bridges.Whether you’re brand new or years into business, learning to be more intentional with who you work with is a game changer.Listen now to learn:• How to spot alignment (or misalignment) early• Communication examples • Why saying “yes” to the wrong fit costs more than time• What to say if you need to remove yourself from a bookingPlease follow our show to stay up to date with our episodes and check us out on social media TikTok: @chenelleconquest Instagram: @theprofessionalpetsitter_Want to work with me and level both you AND your business up? Website: www.petindustrymentor.comEmail: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: content copying.In this episode, I’m sharing my personal story of being relentlessly copied for 18 months straight. The wording, the offers, the ideas, all of it. It wasn’t flattering. It was exhausting. And honestly, it affected me more than I’d like to admit.If you’ve ever felt the sting of watching someone mimic your work, or felt stuck wondering whether to confront it, ignore it, or give up, this one’s for you.Here’s what I cover:How I found out my content was being copiedThe emotional and mental toll it tookThe exact way I handled it (and why I didn’t fight fire with fire)Where we both ended up and what the long game really looks likeAdvice for navigating this without losing your voice or momentumThis is a raw, honest one. I hope it gives you permission to keep showing up, because originality, consistency, and integrity always win in the end.🎧 Tune in and let me know what part hits home.Don’t forget to leave us a 5 star rating so we can continue to share our messages and advice with pet business owners 🤍 Find me on Insta: @theprofessionalpetsitter_TikTok: @chenelleconquestEmail: chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com Website: www.petindustrymentor.com