How do you take a pet sitting business from one city to two, grow a team of 30+, and develop a thriving brand? In this episode, Natalie Durack of Happy Hounds Pet Services shares how she expanded from the Gold Coast to Brisbane, navigating market differences and competition. She discusses the importance of client communication, onboarding team members, and building a recognizable brand. Natalie also explains how she introduced wedding pet attendance and proposal services, creating new ways for pet parents to include their furry friends in big life moments. Tune in to learn how she sets herself apart in an industry filled with hobby sitters and temporary dog walkers.

Main Topics:

• Expanding from Gold Coast to Brisbane – Challenges and market differences.

• Standing Out from Hobby Sitters – Competing with backpackers and low-cost providers.

• Wedding & Proposal Pet Services – How Happy Hounds includes pets in special events.

• Client Communication & Onboarding – Setting expectations and ensuring quality service.

• Hiring & Training a Team – Finding reliable staff and maintaining high standards.

Main Takeaway: It’s more than just a dog walk. It’s about communication, reliability, and making sure our team provides a truly professional service.

When you trust someone with your pets, you deserve more than just a warm body holding the leash. Professional pet sitters bring experience, training, and a commitment to high standards. At Happy Hounds, every dog walk, pet sit, or wedding service is handled with care, attention to detail, and a focus on your pet’s happiness. Because great pet care isn’t just about showing up—it’s about showing up the right way. 🐶💙 #HappyHounds #PetCarePros #ProfessionalPetSitting

About our guest: Natalie Durack is the owner of Happy Hounds Pet Services, a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business operating in both the Gold Coast and Brisbane, Australia. Since starting her business, she has grown her team to over 30 sitters and offers a range of services, from daily walks to wedding pet attendance. Natalie is passionate about professionalizing pet care and creating a trusted brand that pet parents can rely on. When she’s not managing Happy Hounds, she’s fostering strong community relationships and finding new ways to serve pet owners.

Links:

Previously on: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/community-with-natalie-durack

https://www.happyhoundspetservices.com/

https://www.facebook.com/happyhoundspetservices/

https://www.instagram.com/happyhoundspetservices_

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Full show notes and transcript

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