The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast With Nathan Dunleavy

From Grief to Growth: Building a Purpose-Driven Pet Business with Claire Harris of Pets2Places

A powerful conversation about grief, resilience, community and building a meaningful pet business that genuinely changes lives. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan Dunleavy is joined by Claire Harris, founder of Pets2Places - the UK’s first pet taxi franchise. Claire shares the raw reality behind the business: losing her husband suddenly, navigating grief whilst raising three children, experiencing burnout and bullying within a franchise system and rebuilding her life from the ground up through purpose, pets and community connection. Together, Nathan and Claire explore the emotional realities of running a business, why human connection matters more than ever, the hidden loneliness many pet professionals face and how difficult experiences can shape who we become. They also dive into the world of pet transport safety, franchising ethically, protecting your energy in business and why success is rarely as “overnight” as social media makes it seem. This episode is honest, emotional, inspiring and packed with valuable insight for dog walkers, trainers, pet sitters, groomers and anyone building a pet business with heart. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: ✅ How Claire rebuilt her life and business after sudden personal tragedy ✅ Why human connection is one of the most overlooked parts of the pet industry ✅ The emotional realities of running a business whilst navigating grief and trauma ✅ What it really takes to build a successful franchise model ethically ✅ Why comparison and “competition” in business can become a distraction ✅ The importance of staying authentic and building a business aligned with your values ✅ Why older generations still have so much wisdom to offer pet professionals ✅ The hidden dangers of unsafe pet transport and why education matters ✅ How Pets2Places is working to improve pet travel safety across the UK ✅ Why difficult lessons often become the foundations of future success KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Success rarely happens overnight - most businesses are built quietly over years. * Human connection and community are becoming more valuable than ever. * You don’t need to copy others to succeed in business. * Your lived experiences can become your greatest strength. * Ethical franchising should focus on support, not pressure. * Protecting your wellbeing is essential when building a business. * Safe pet transport is a much bigger issue than many realise. * Authenticity and kindness are powerful business tools. * Hard seasons do not define your future. * You are your business’s “secret sauce.” LINKS & RESOURCES: 🌐 Nathan Dunleavy https://nathandunleavy.com/ [https://nathandunleavy.com/] 📩 Email Nathan hello@nathandunleavy.com 📘 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 🐾 Free Dog Walking Business Resource https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/] 🌿 Join The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle [https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle] 🚕 Pets2Places https://pets2places.co.uk/ [https://pets2places.co.uk/] 🚕 Pets2Places Franchise https://pets2placesfranchise.co.uk/ [https://pets2placesfranchise.co.uk/] 📘 Claire Harris LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-harris-80780512a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-harris-80780512a/] 📱 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pets2placesltd/ [https://www.facebook.com/pets2placesltd/]

Muzzled and Misunderstood: Breaking the Stigma Around Muzzle Dogs with Diane from Dogs in Focus Photography

A compassionate conversation about muzzle stigma, reactive dogs, responsible guardianship and the love behind every muzzle-trained dog. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan Dunleavy is joined by dog photographer and author Diane from Dogs in Focus Photography to talk about her beautiful book Muzzled and Misunderstood: A Love Letter to My Muzzled Dog. Together, they explore the realities of living with and loving a muzzle-trained dog, the stigma many guardians face and why muzzles can actually be a compassionate, responsible tool - not something to fear. Diane shares the story of her own dog DeeDee, how her journey inspired The Muzzle Project and why photographing muzzle dogs became a mission to educate, empower and change perceptions. This conversation is honest, emotional, insightful and packed with important reminders for dog guardians and pet professionals alike. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: ✅ Why muzzle training can actually improve a dog’s freedom and quality of life ✅ The real reasons dogs may wear muzzles - beyond aggression or bite history ✅ How Diane’s dog DeeDee inspired The Muzzle Project and her book ✅ Why education and understanding are so important in reducing muzzle stigma ✅ How responsible dog guardians often face judgement from the public ✅ The importance of well-fitted muzzles and positive muzzle training ✅ How photography and storytelling can help change perceptions around dogs ✅ What it was like creating a passion project alongside running a pet business ✅ Why “muzzle dogs are not bad dogs” is such an important message ✅ How pet professionals can better support guardians of reactive or challenging dogs KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Muzzles are management tools, not punishments * Muzzle-trained dogs can still play, pant, eat, drink and enjoy life * Responsible guardianship should be celebrated, not judged * Many dogs wear muzzles for reasons unrelated to aggression * Reactive and sensitive dogs deserve compassion and understanding * Photography and storytelling can be powerful educational tools * Passion projects can create huge personal and professional growth * There is still a significant need for public education around dog behaviour and muzzles 👇 DIANE’S LINKS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dogsinfocusphotography/ [https://www.facebook.com/dogsinfocusphotography/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_muzzle_project/ [https://www.instagram.com/the_muzzle_project/] Website & Book: https://www.dogsinfocusphotography.com/muzzled-and-misunderstood/ [https://www.dogsinfocusphotography.com/muzzled-and-misunderstood/] 👇 NATHAN’S LINKS: Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ [https://nathandunleavy.com/] Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/] Free 5 Steps Guide: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/] Free Facebook Group: The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/]

One Paw at a Time: Dog Rehabilitation, Trauma & Recovery After a Freak Accident with Jo Sellers

When Jo Sellers’ dog Reba suffered a devastating freak accident, their lives changed overnight and this episode explores the raw, real journey of trauma, rehabilitation, resilience and love. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this emotional episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, I’m joined by Jo Sellers, dog trainer, separation anxiety specialist and author of One Paw at a Time. Jo shares the story of her beloved dog Reba, who suffered a serious spinal injury after a freak accident in the garden and the long rehabilitation journey that followed. We talk about the reality of caring for a dog after trauma, the emotional and financial impact on the person behind the business and why Jo chose to write such an honest, raw account of their experience. This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every pet professional is a human being navigating life, love, grief, difficult decisions and deep care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Jo’s journey from dog walking to separation anxiety specialist ✅ How Reba’s separation anxiety shaped Jo’s career ✅ What happened during Reba’s freak accident ✅ The emotional reality of emergency veterinary care ✅ What rehabilitation after spinal trauma can really involve ✅ How caring for Reba affected Jo’s business and wellbeing ✅ Why Jo wrote One Paw at a Time ✅ The importance of support, honesty and not feeling alone ✅ Why dog guardians need to understand separation anxiety KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Freak accidents can change everything in a moment. * Rehabilitation is often far more demanding than people realise. * Pet professionals are still human beings with trauma, grief and limits. * Financial pressure, emotional strain and business disruption can all collide during a crisis. * Jo’s story is a reminder that difficult decisions are deeply personal. * You are not alone if you are supporting a dog through a hard chapter. * Separation anxiety can be hidden and guardians should check how their dogs cope alone. FIND JO SELLERS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pippinpets [https://www.facebook.com/pippinpets] Website: https://www.pippinpetsdogtraining.co.uk/ [https://www.pippinpetsdogtraining.co.uk/] FIND NATHAN: Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com [hello@nathandunleavy.com] Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ [https://nathandunleavy.com/] Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/] 5 Steps Freebie: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/] Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/]

Dog Training, Writing & Scent Detection: Melissa McCue-McGrath on Misadventures, Burnout & Invasive Species Detection

Melissa McCue-McGrath joins me to talk dog training stories, writing a book, compassion fatigue and the incredible world of invasive species detection dogs. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode, I’m joined by international guest Melissa McCue-McGrath - dog trainer, behaviour consultant, author and all-round brilliant human. We chat about her new book, Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer, the real behind-the-scenes stories of working with dogs and humans, compassion fatigue, writing as a pet professional and her fascinating work with dogs detecting invasive species. This is a warm, funny, honest and deeply insightful conversation about dog training, wellbeing and the unexpected places this work can take us. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: ✅ The story behind Melissa’s book Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer ✅ Why dog training is often as much about humans as it is about dogs ✅ How the dog training industry has changed over the years ✅ Why compassion fatigue can creep in before we realise it ✅ How writing can become a powerful reflective tool for pet professionals ✅ Why pet pros may have a book, blog or story inside them ✅ What invasive species detection work involves ✅ How pet dogs can be trained to help detect spotted lanternfly ✅ Why scent work can change how guardians see their dogs ✅ The importance of trusting your gut in animal welfare and training KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Dog training involves real-life moments no textbook can fully prepare you for. * Stories from the industry can help newer pet professionals feel less alone. * Compassion fatigue often becomes visible only once we step back. * Writing can be therapeutic, reflective and useful for others. * Pet dogs are capable of incredible scent detection work. * Behaviour cases can still thrive when given meaningful, confidence-building jobs. * The dog industry is changing and there are more supportive resources than ever. * If something feels wrong in training or welfare, it is okay to question it. SHOW NOTES LINKS: Host: Nathan Dunleavy Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com [hello@nathandunleavy.com] Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ [https://nathandunleavy.com/] Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/] 5 Steps to Start Your Dog Walking Business: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/] The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/] Guest: Melissa McCue-McGrath Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcmccue [https://www.facebook.com/mcmccue] Website: https://melissamccuemcgrath.com/ [https://melissamccuemcgrath.com/] Buy Melissa’s book in the UK: https://5mbooks.com/product/misadventures-of-the-worlds-okayest-dog-trainer [https://5mbooks.com/product/misadventures-of-the-worlds-okayest-dog-trainer] For the US and elsewhere, search Amazon for: Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer

Season 2 Begins: What’s Coming Up for Pet Professionals on The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast with Nathan Dunleavy

Season 2 is here - with inspiring guests, honest business journeys, wellbeing conversations and support for pet professionals who want to grow sustainably. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: Season 2 is officially here and there’s a lot to be excited about. In this opening episode, Nathan shares what’s ahead for the next chapter of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, including a fantastic line-up of guests from across the pet industry, returning favourites from Season 1 and a deeper focus on the person behind the pet business. This season will explore real journeys, honest challenges, business growth, wellbeing, resilience and the stories that shape the people behind the brands. Nathan also shares exciting behind-the-scenes updates on the upcoming Pet Business Wellbeing Circle+ membership, his sponsorship of the Canine Principles Inside Out Symposium and why Season 2 could be the most meaningful yet. If you run a dog walking, training, grooming, pet sitting or pet care business - this season is for you. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: ✅ What’s coming up in Season 2 of the podcast ✅ The exciting guest line-up already confirmed ✅ Why this season will focus more on the person behind the business ✅ How real business journeys can inspire other pet professionals ✅ Why wellbeing remains central to the podcast mission ✅ Nathan’s plans for a solo episode sharing his own business story ✅ What The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle+ membership will offer ✅ Why community, support and growth without pressure matters ✅ Details about sponsoring the Canine Principles Inside Out Symposium ✅ How you can support the podcast through follows, shares and reviews KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Season 2 will go deeper into the stories behind pet businesses. * Hearing real journeys can reduce isolation and inspire action. * Sustainable business growth must include wellbeing. * Community support matters more than many realise. * Nathan is expanding support through Circle+ group mentoring. * The podcast continues to champion honest, human conversations. * Exciting collaborations and guest experts are on the way. * The pet industry needs spaces where people feel seen and supported. SHOW NOTES LINKS: Host: Nathan Dunleavy 📧 Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com 🌐 Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ [https://nathandunleavy.com/] 🆓 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 🆓 5 Steps to Start Your Dog Walking Business: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ [https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/] 💬 Free Facebook Community – The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle [https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle]