Ten reasons why you should be an award-winning pet business

Ten reasons why you should be an award-winning pet business

Author: Rachel Spencer March 26, 2024 Duration: 21:52

Would you love to be an award-winning pet business?

To gain recognition for the hard work you do and stand out from the competition?

Whether you own a grooming salon, a pet shop, training or dog walking service, or you make products that make a difference, being involved in industry awards will boost your credibility and attract new customers.

In this podcast episode, I'm sharing reasons you should aspire to be an award-winning pet business.

Plus tips on choosing the right award for you and using your win to secure media coverage.

Winning awards means you'll elevate your pet business, stand out from the crowd, and gain the recognition you deserve.

And you’ll hear from two pet businesses who have won awards to inspire you.

If this is something you'd like to work on, join my Pets Get Visible membership where the focus for April is awards and get 50% off your first month by clicking here.

Key topics and timings:

0.20 - Introduction

1.29 - What to expect from this episode

1.40 - Getting over the cringing feeling of looking for recognition

3.48 - How you can get support with your awards process and applications

5.50 - It's acceptable to self-nominate for awards

6.30 - Consider the purpose of winning an award

7.37 - Choose the right awards 

8.49 - How applying will refine your business messaging

9.42 - Recognition demonstrates professionalism

10.49 - Case study - Niki French

12.10 - Awards boost confidence

12.54 - Winning gives third party validation of business impact

13.51 - Stand out from competitors

15.42 - Social media buzz and engagement

16.00 - Case study - Louise Humphrey

17.54 - Opportunities for public relations

20.45 - What to do if you’d like to work on applying for awards - come and join my workshop!

Further reading on this topic

How winning the SBS award with Theo Paphitis can raise your profile

10 takeaways from Theo Paphitis’ SBS event 2024

Kirsty Skeates shares why you SHOULD be applying for awards for your pet business

How to feel more comfortable and confident promoting your pet business

Is my Pets Get Visible membership right for you


There's a persistent myth in the pet industry that success requires a rigid, one-size-fits-all formula. Your Pet Business, Your Way exists to dismantle that idea entirely. Hosted by Rachel Spencer, a journalist and accredited coach with deep roots in this world, this podcast is a conversation for pet professionals-groomers, trainers, walkers, product makers-who feel exhausted by generic marketing advice and industry trends that clash with their personal values and lifestyle. Rachel brings her background as a mentor and author to frank discussions about building a sustainable enterprise that doesn't demand you sacrifice your family time, your sanity, or your unique voice. Episodes delve into practical strategies for marketing, client relationships, and entrepreneurship, but always through the lens of your individual circumstances. You'll hear from Rachel directly, as well as insights from others navigating the same path, focusing on how to grow a business that genuinely fits around your life, whether that involves kids, other passions, or simply a desire for more autonomy. This isn't about following a rulebook; it's about writing your own. Tune in for a refreshingly realistic take on creating a pet business that thrives on your terms, making this podcast a trusted resource for anyone who believes their love for animals and their personal ambitions can truly coexist.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Your pet business, Your way
Podcast Episodes
How to create a pet business Social Media Calendar [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:10
As a pet business owner, showing up regularly and having a social media strategy is key for reaching and engaging with your target audience. One of the best ways to ensure you’re consistent and can make the sales you hop…
In the spotlight with Fiona Pedley The Canine VA [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:50
Fiona Pedley is known as The Canine VA, a virtual assistant specialising in supporting dog businesses.A former executive assistant working in corporate, Fiona began her self-employed journey in the 2020 lockdown, making…
Behind the scenes of the first year running Sunnyside Cottage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:00
In June 2023, I launched my first pet-related business, a dog-friendly holiday let called Sunnyside Cottage in Robin Hood’s Bay. In the first year, the bookings and takings have doubled compared to the previous year, and…
Do qualifications matter as a pet professional? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:27
Do qualifications matter when you’re working as a pet professional or running a pet business?This is a topic that comes up regularly on my coaching calls, and online, with a range of clients from different parts of the i…
In the spotlight with Helen King from Scotty's Cartoons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:19
Helen ‘Scotty’ King is a cartoonist and illustrator supporting business owners in the pet industry by bringing their messages to life.She works with all kinds of clients, including holiday cottage owners, product makers,…
20 takeaways from the PIF Business of Pets event 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:23
In this bonus episode, I'm sharing key takeaways from the Business of Pets event organised by the Pet Industry Federation. This covers range of topics including the importance of having a mentor, the value of a strong su…
Choosing the right pet business membership [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:52
Would you like support in growing your pet business and to feel part of a community by joining a membership?It can be lonely and overwhelming as a solo business owner, and there are always new skills and challenges to fi…