623: Helping Pet Birds Thrive with Dr. Jennifer Graham
Release Date: 08/20/2025
632: Strong at the Broken Places: Building Resilience in Pet Care
Pet Sitter Confessional
What do we do when our business feels broken? In this episode, we share practical ways we as pet sitters and dog walkers can turn setbacks—client complaints, burnout, or sudden revenue dips—into lessons that build resilience. We outline three pillars: extract one lesson from each setback, lean on a support network, and redefine success on our own terms. By scheduling true rest, strengthening policies, and setting aside emergency funds, we can recover with intention. Ultimately, healing is a process, and where we’re “broken” can become the strongest part of our business. Main topics: ...
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631: Building a Business that Feeds Your Soul with Sam Erbaugh
Pet Sitter Confessional
What does it look like to run a pet care business with heart? Sam Erbaugh, owner of Paw Beach Pet Care, shares her journey from interior designer to pet care entrepreneur. Sam shares how she rebuilt her life in Florida around joy, service, and sunshine—and how her business is a direct reflection of her personal values. Together, they discuss how to create a culture of genuine customer care, why team communication is critical, and how to grow a business without losing your soul. Sam’s story is a reminder that growth isn’t always about numbers—it’s about purpose, balance, and people....
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630: Legal Landscape for Pet Sitters
Pet Sitter Confessional
What do new laws mean for your pet care business? Across the U.S., states are passing legislation that raises the standards for how pets are cared for—and the consequences for falling short. From licensing and inspections to criminal negligence and felony charges, the bar is getting higher for sitters, walkers, and boarders alike. These changes can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to catch you off guard. In this episode, we talk through the most recent laws, what they mean for you, and how you can prepare your business to thrive in this new legal landscape. Main topics: Criminal...
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629: Shaping Industry Standards with Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC
Pet Sitter Confessional
What does it really mean to be a professional in the pet care industry? In this episode, Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC, joins to explore the importance of third-party certification in setting industry standards. She shares how PACCC was founded to support experienced pet care providers with recognition, ethics, and continuing education. The conversation dives into the rising pressure from legislation, public expectations, and why certification helps build trust with clients and lawmakers alike. Jenn also offers practical steps for those ready to elevate their professionalism. Main topics: ...
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628: Recovering from a Bad Hire
Pet Sitter Confessional
What happens when the excitement of growing your team turns into the disappointment of a bad hire? In this episode, we explore why failed hires sting so deeply, from the personal investment of time and trust to the disruption it causes clients, pets, and team morale. We share how rushing to replace too quickly can compound mistakes, while ignoring red flags or skipping feedback loops leaves you vulnerable to repeat issues. While every bad hire feels discouraging, it doesn’t have to define your business or your leadership. By giving yourself space to grieve, reviewing the clues left behind,...
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627: Profit Isn’t Just About Money with Morgan Weber
Pet Sitter Confessional
What does it really mean to grow your business? In this episode, Morgan Weber of Lucky Pup shares why growth isn’t always the answer and how defining success on your own terms is crucial for long-term sustainability. She unpacks the danger of chasing vanity metrics, the importance of budgeting your time like your finances, and why business owners must avoid resentment and burnout. Morgan also explains how to build a “filter system” based on values and goals to guide decision-making. Whether you’re solo or scaling, this is an honest look at staying aligned in a world pushing constant...
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626: The Ho-Hum Pet Sitter
Pet Sitter Confessional
What happens when the joy of pet sitting starts to fade into monotony? In this episode, we explore why the “ho-hum” feeling creeps in, from repetitive routines and emotional fatigue to physical exhaustion, isolation, and the comparison game on social media. We share how staying stuck in this flat season can impact client experience, dull attention to detail, and accelerate burnout. While monotony is a natural byproduct of sustained work, it doesn’t have to define your business. By shifting perspective, setting micro-goals, refreshing routines, learning something new, and prioritizing...
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625: Pet First Aid Essentials Every Sitter Should Know with Arden Moore
Pet Sitter Confessional
What should you do when a pet emergency happens on your watch? In this episode, Arden Moore returns to share practical, life-saving advice for pet sitters and dog walkers. From subtle signs of stress to new research on treating heatstroke, Arden emphasizes the importance of preparedness, adaptability, and calm communication. She also discusses the mental mindset needed to respond effectively and the benefits of her new self-paced CPR and first aid courses. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode will help you handle emergencies with confidence. Main topics: ...
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624: When the Pivot Hurts
Pet Sitter Confessional
What happens when your business no longer fits the market—or the law? In this episode, we explore the challenges of pivoting, from labor law changes to zoning regulations to personal burnout. We share stories of sitters who had to shift away from overnights, navigate the shift from independent contractors to W2 employees, or give up in-home boarding due to city requirements. While pivots can feel like rejection of our original vision, they also open doors to resilience, creativity, and new opportunities. Ultimately, give yourself grace, communicate with clients, and stay grounded in your...
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623: Helping Pet Birds Thrive with Dr. Jennifer Graham
Pet Sitter Confessional
How can we make sure we’re providing the best care possible for pet birds? Dr. Jennifer Graham, President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, joins the show to discuss the crucial partnership between avian vets and pet sitters. From common health issues and behavioral cues to transport tips and nutrition red flags, Jennifer shares decades of wisdom to help pet sitters level up their bird care. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, observation, and cleaning routines, especially when dealing with exotic species. With practical resources and a collaborative mindset, pet sitters...
info_outlineHow can we make sure we’re providing the best care possible for pet birds? Dr. Jennifer Graham, President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, joins the show to discuss the crucial partnership between avian vets and pet sitters. From common health issues and behavioral cues to transport tips and nutrition red flags, Jennifer shares decades of wisdom to help pet sitters level up their bird care. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, observation, and cleaning routines, especially when dealing with exotic species. With practical resources and a collaborative mindset, pet sitters can confidently expand their services to feathered clients.
Main Topics
- Understanding avian behavior and health
- Nutrition and feeding red flags
- Emergency signs and first aid prep
- Importance of cleaning and routines
- Vet-sitter collaboration tips
Main takeaway: “The more you know about birds, the better you’ll be at picking up subtle things.”
🐦 Pet sitters, don’t let your first bird client be your first time learning about avian care. From their subtle signs of illness to their specific dietary needs, birds require observant, informed caregivers. Whether it’s checking that seed hulls aren’t mistaken for food or knowing when fluffing means trouble, every detail matters. Take time to learn, ask questions, and work closely with avian vets. Your bird clients—and their humans—will thank you.
About our guest:
Dr. Jennifer Graham is the President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians and a leading voice in exotic animal medicine. With a veterinary degree from Auburn University and specialty training from UC Davis and the University of Georgia, Dr. Graham has spent her career advancing the care of birds and exotic pets. She’s taught at Tufts University, worked in emergency and specialty practices, and now consults with veterinarians while practicing part-time in Alabama. A lifelong bird lover, she also shares her home with an Amazon parrot, a budgie, and some chickens.
Links:
- Association of Avian Veterinarians: https://www.aav.org
- Find an Avian Vet: https://www.aav.org/page/find-a-vet
- Avian Owner Resources & PDFs: https://www.aav.org/page/pet-owners
- Lafeber Bird Care Education: https://lafeber.com/pet-birds/
- Harrison’s Bird Foods (Care Guides): https://www.harrisonsbirdfoods.com/
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Full show notes and transcript
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest.
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