Women PetPreneurs

Episode 17: Avoiding Digital Disasters With Anjie CoatesWelcome back to another episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness In today’s show, host Mary  and co-host Kate are joined by special guest Angie, your go-to expert for all things security—especially when it comes to guarding your tech in the modern world. Sparked by a simple conversation that led Mary to drop $500 on new protective gear, the trio dives deep into personal and business security measures that every petpreneur should consider. From the potential risks associated with wireless devices and EMFs (electromagnetic fields), to practical tips for protecting your phone, laptop, and sensitive data, Angie gives us the rundown on staying safe in both our digital and physical environments. They discuss everything from why your everyday passwords might be putting you at risk, to how Faraday pouches can keep your devices secure at trade shows, airports, and beyond. Whether you’re concerned about hackers, EMF exposure, or just want to make sure your business and personal information stays protected, this episode is packed with actionable advice and a few fun stories along the way. So grab your notebook—this is one you’ll want to take notes on!

Welcome to another episode of Women Petprenuers Presents Family Readiness Podcast! In today’s episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen, dive into two important topics every pet professional should have on their radar: disaster preparedness and peer support in the grooming industry. First, Mary shares actionable steps for preparing your business for the unexpected—from setting up cloud-based folders for vital documents and photos, to building a simple (and, yes, laminated) checklist that can secure your insurance, receipts, and records before disaster ever strikes. If you’ve wondered how to be truly ready when things go sideways, you’ll want to grab a notepad for this one. Then, Kate introduces peer support for the pet professional community, drawing from her work with Bishop’s Mission and her experience as a first responder. They discuss why having a confidential, judgment-free support group matters, how these Zoom calls work, and how anyone struggling can reach out for help. With practical tips and heartfelt conversations, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to ensure their pet care business—and their mental health—is ready for whatever comes next. Grab your snacks (or, if you’re the hosts’ pets, try to snag a few extra treats), and settle in for a conversation full of insight, support, and that signature friendly banter.

Welcome back to Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness! In this episode, hosts Kate Klasen and Mary Oquendo dive into the seasonal challenges that pet owners face as spring transitions to summer. From navigating wildlife encounters in rural areas to dealing with venomous snakes, rising temperatures, and firework anxieties, Kate and Mary share personal stories and practical advice to help you keep your pets safe and comfortable.Listen in as they cover tips on handling heat waves, the do’s and don’ts of keeping water in your car, and how to spot the signs of heat stroke in both pets and people. The duo also discuss solutions for pets who fear fireworks, the truth behind screen doors as pet barriers, pool safety, and the dangers of household chemicals and fertilizers. Plus, they share a few humorous anecdotes about their own clever canines outsmarting childproof locks!If you’re a pet lover gearing up for summer—or just want to be prepared for anything your four-legged companions can throw at you—this episode is packed with practical tips, product recommendations, and plenty of laughs. Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join the conversation!

Welcome to another episode of Women Petpreneurs! In this week’s show, host Mary Oquendo and co-host Kate Klasen dive into the crucial topic of handling pet emergencies while traveling—timed perfectly for the busy season of grooming shows and vacations. Drawing from their personal stories and real-life scenarios, Mary and Kate discuss everything from region-specific pet health risks (like ticks on the East Coast or valley fever in Arizona) to navigating emergency veterinary care when you’re far from home. They offer practical tips on travel prep: keeping microchip info updated, carrying medical records and extra meds for pets with chronic conditions, and using handy apps like vet locators. You’ll also hear a wild tale of a runaway dachshund in Australia, and get advice on what to do if your pet gets lost in an unfamiliar place. Whether you’re a competitor on the road or just traveling with your furry companion, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt moments to help you keep your pets safe and sound on the go.

In the latest episode of Women Petpreneurs, we had quite an exciting discussion about the importance of having safety measures in place at home, particularly when it comes to pet safety. Mary shared her personal experience with a malfunctioning air fryer and highlighted the essential role of testing your home safety systems. We explored the value of having fire blankets and discussed whether pet masks and emergency plans are necessary in case of disasters like wildfires or volcanic eruptions. Kate emphasized the significance of being prepared for unforeseen situations and shared useful tools like fire blankets and the innovative Rescue Retriever device. Safety isn't just about humans; it's about our furry friends too! Don't miss out on this crucial and insightful conversation.

In this episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness  hosts Mary Oquendo and  Kate Klasen dive into an essential topic for pet business owners and anyone passionate about safety – flood preparedness and prevention. While it's challenging to prevent floods entirely, understanding the immense power of water is crucial. Mary and Kate share insights into assessing flood risks in your area, practical strategies like landscaping for flood diversion, and the importance of knowing your local emergency management resources. They also discuss the significance of having a well-prepared emergency plan, including essentials like go-bags and proper insurance coverage, to ensure both human and pet safety. Join the conversation as they emphasize the importance of awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness.! In this episode, our hosts, Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen delve into two critical topics for pet owners: pet identification and planning for our pets' futures. As pet identification becomes increasingly important, they discuss recent issues with microchip companies, like Save This Life, and the importance of regularly checking your pet's microchip functionality and information. They also explore alternative methods of identification, such as GPS collars and traditional collars, emphasizing the significance of keeping information up to date. Transitioning into the latter part of the episode, they tackle the tough yet necessary conversation about what happens to our beloved pets if something unfortunate happens to us. From legal considerations to having conversations with potential pet guardians, they provide valuable insights and suggestions to ensure our pets' welfare. Whether it's emergency planning or discussing long-term care, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt discussions that every pet owner needs to hear. Tune in and be prepared to take actionable steps for your pet's safety and your peace of mind.

In this episode of Women Petpreneurs, Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen delve into the sensitive and often heart-wrenching topic of knowing when it's time to say goodbye to a beloved pet. As experienced pet professionals, they explore the challenges of recognizing the signs of a pet's declining health and the emotional complexities involved in making end-of-life decisions. Mary shares personal anecdotes about her own pets, including the emotional rollercoaster of determining the right moment for their pets to cross over. The hosts discuss the different ways pet owners and professionals process grief and emphasize the importance of supporting one another through this difficult time. They also touch upon resources like grief counselors and the significance of acknowledging the deep bond between humans and their pets. Join Mary and Kate in this heartfelt conversation that offers support and understanding to anyone facing the inevitable decision of letting go of a cherished animal companion.

Welcome to another episode of Women PetpreneursPresents Family readiness. In today's episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen dive into a crucial topic for pet owners: toxicity and how to ensure the safety of our beloved pets. Mary shares her recent experience with her dog, Cecil, at the vet, highlighting the importance of proactive care and dealing with suspicious lumps. They delve into the rising concerns over marijuana toxicity, particularly with THC gummies, and the dangers of common household items like rat poison, medications, and certain foods. With insights from a veterinary professional, we'll learn about identifying signs of toxicity and how to properly prepare a first aid kit for pets. Get ready for an informative discussion that every pet owner needs to hear.

Welcome to "Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness," where we explore the essential topics impacting our lives and businesses. I'm your host, Mary Oquendo, joined by my co-host, Kate Klasen. In today's episode, we'll dive into the crucial subject of emergency preparedness. We'll discuss the importance of having accessible identification and documents, especially during times of crisis. With recent events highlighting vulnerabilities, we'll stress why keeping IDs like passports, military IDs, and even student IDs ready is more vital than ever. We'll also explore digital solutions for storing important documents and personal anecdotes emphasizing the need for communication within families about digital access. Additionally, we'll address mental health's role in disaster recovery, offering insights and resources to help you navigate these challenging times. Stay tuned for practical tips, inspiring stories, and more on how to safeguard yourself, your business, and your furry friends.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness, hosted by Kate Klasen and Mary Oquendo. In this episode, we delve into the essential topic of winter safety and preparedness, especially for those of us in regions that don't typically experience snow but recognize its impact elsewhere. We'll explore crucial advice for keeping your homes safe during the colder months, including tips on space heater usage and carbon monoxide precautions. Kate and Mary share personal anecdotes about their experiences with snow, offering practical preparedness tips for driving in winter conditions, such as keeping emergency supplies in your car. We also touch on the significant role of portable oxygen masks for pets, discussing their importance in emergency situations and exploring the legal gray areas non-veterinarians face when administering aid.Whether you're a pet professional or just looking for valuable safety insights, this episode has something for everyone.

Welcome to Episode 5 of Women Petpreneurs Podcast Presents Family Readiness, where your hosts Kate Klasen and Mary Oquendo delve into the essential topic of first aid preparedness, specifically tailored for pet owners. We'll guide you through key aspects of building a comprehensive and personalized first aid kit that caters to both human and animal emergency needs. Kate shares her meticulous approach to organizing supplies, ensuring her household is always prepared, while Mary reveals her expert insights into creating effective first aid solutions for pet care. From discussing the importance of avoiding scattered supplies to the advantages of custom-tailored kits, we'll explore the must-haves for anyone. We'll also touch upon innovative tools like the "quick litters" for emergencies, as well as the versatile items Mary includes in her advanced first aid kits. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and get ready to elevate your first aid preparedness with Kate And Mary.

Welcome to episode 4 of Women Petpreneurs Presents Family Readiness! Join hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen as they dive into a rich discussion on safety, preparedness, and support for our first responders and furry friends. This week, we highlight the potential hazards of frying a turkey and the significance of having a fire extinguisher handy. Mary shares her curiosity about fried turkey, yet cautiousness about safety, which extends into the wider conversation about personal preparedness and essential emergency supplies. We also spotlight Bishop's Mission, a nonprofit aiding first responders and veterans with service dogs. In this episode, discover practical tips for maintaining a well-stocked emergency kit for both humans and pets, the importance of document safety, and creative storage solutions. Plus, get a sneak peek into the contents of Mary’s expertly prepared pet evacuation kit. Stay tuned for next week's episode, where we'll explore the must-haves for a top-notch first aid kit!

Welcome to another episode of Women Petpreneurs, where we delve into topics that matter most for pet business owners. Today, join hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen as they explore the essential safety measures every petpreneur should have in place for their home and business. From discussing the indispensable smoke and gas detectors to sharing personal stories of how these devices have saved lives, Mary and Kate offer insights into keeping our environments safe. They also talk about the importance of fire extinguishers and fire blankets and introduce an innovative product, the Rescue Retriever, designed to protect our pets in emergencies. As part of our community awareness focus, learn about the nonprofit, Bishop's Mission, which supports first responders and veterans with service dogs. This episode is packed with vital information, heartfelt stories, and a call to action to ensure the safety of both humans and their beloved pets. Stay tuned for practical advice and tips that could make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Welcome to episode 2 “Navigating Holiday Emergencies.” Today we dive into vital family readiness topics just in time for the holiday season. Join hosts Mary Oquendo and Kate Klasen, a former 911 dispatcher, as they discuss navigating urgent care options for both humans and pets during the festive times. They share essential tips on when and when not to call 911, identifying the criticality of maintaining utility phone numbers, and preparing for potential medical emergencies. As family gatherings can sometimes turn volatile, this episode also touches on handling stress and disputes. Moreover, learn about the importance of having pet poison hotline information readily available, and how to manage emergency situations with your furry companions. Stay tuned as Mary and Kate provide practical advice and personal anecdotes to help you prepare for a safe and stress-free holiday season.

Welcome to the premiere episode of Family Readiness presented by Women Petpreneurs Podcast where we explore vital topics in emergency preparedness with a special focus on the safety and well-being of our furry family members. I'm your host, Mary Oquendo, joined by my co-host Kate Klasen.In this episode, we delve into the essential aspects of having an emergency plan, particularly when it comes to evacuating with pets. We discuss practical solutions to challenges like keeping medications cool during power outages and the importance of having a well-prepared "to-go" bag. We'll also explore the significance of knowing alternative evacuation routes, emphasizing paper maps' role amidst heavy reliance on GPS.Join us as we share personal anecdotes, emphasize electrical safety, and discuss ongoing plans for emergency disaster workshops happening across various locations. Stay tuned for an insightful discussion, and don't forget to check out our 67-page fillable emergency and disaster planning manual at pawsitiveed.com/books. We're here to help you be prepared and keep your family, both human and animal, safe.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Women Petpreneurs Podcast! Today, Mary Oquendo is joined by the remarkable Mia Overnas, a seasoned dog grooming professional who's transitioned from hands-on grooming to a thriving online educational enterprise with her platform, Dream Dogs. With over 30 years of experience, Mia has navigated international moves, cultural adjustments, and a pandemic-induced career shift, all while continuing to champion the art of pet grooming and education. Join us as we dive into Mia's inspiring journey from Sweden to Ireland, her innovative approach to grooming education, and her future aspirations to further expand her digital offerings. As we discuss challenges and triumphs, Mia shares her insights into maintaining a balance between professional commitments and personal passions. Plus, we touch on the intriguing cultural distinctions between Swedish and Irish grooming preferences, all delivered with Mia's warmth and wisdom. Stay tuned for this captivating conversation!

In today's episode of Women Petpreneurs, we dive into the inspiring journey of Rachel Corbett. From her roots in 4-H and college grooming gigs and a bouncer at heavy metal venues to leaving corporate life for the unpredictable world of mobile grooming, she's faced flooding, harsh winters, and van breakdowns. Rachel shares business wisdom and reminds us of the power of setting boundaries and being prepared for the unexpected and highlight the importance of support networks in the pet industry, and the joy found in pursuing a passion. Join us as we explore resilience and community, only on Women Petpreneurs.

Hey there, fellow petpreneurs, it's Mary Oquendo here! In our latest Women Petpreneurs episode, we sat down with Amanda McGrath, a passionate multi-business owner who knows the juggling act! Amanda shares her pioneering strategies for home-based grooming businesses and how structured planning fueled her business growth. We dove into authentic conversations about making time count and shared some laughs. Tune in for inspiration and insights to level up your pet business game!