PetSmart Considering New Business Model

PetSmart Inc., the largest U.S. pet- store chain, is considering expansion into in-home services including dog walking, backyard clean-up and aquarium set-up to distinguish itself from retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc. PetSmart currently offers grooming, training and kenneling at many of its 1,137 stores, he said. “In-home services are a big opportunity, but we have a lot of work to do before we determine how to make that work,” Moran said in a July 15 telephone interview. “It becomes a competitive advantage if we can break the code on how to provide that.” Wal-Mart is targeting the $45.4 billion market for pet goods, putting pressure on PetSmart as shoppers consolidate buying trips, according to David Strasser, an analyst with Janney Montgomery Scott LLC. Wal-Mart competes in about 20 percent of the items carried by PetSmart, he said in a report last month.

Interesting. But, I don't think they can make this strategy profitable. The article indicates, indirectly, that PetSmart is having trouble going head-to-head with Wal-Mart because consumers are increasingly cost conscious because of commuting costs. These things, like dog walking and backyard cleanup are low margin businesses. I have other ideas, but hey, no one is asking (or paying) for my advice.

Leonberger

The German breed has webbed feet. A Leonberg councilman gave the dogs to royalty in the 19th century to promote the town and his new breed. After World War I, 30 Leonbergers were tracked down and a breeding program was started with six males and six females.

If I was looking to get a giant breed of dog for a family situation, this is one of the first dogs I'd be looking at. This is the most amazing breed! Great with kids, natural guard but good with people, likes to swim, affectionate, etc. I was totally impressed with this breed the first time I saw them at a rare breed dog show about a decade ago. I don't praise breeds all that much, but this is one that made a very good impression. Obviously, you want to choose a good breeder, and at my web page, www.SamTheDogTrainer.com, I have suggestions on how to screen breeders. But, combine a good breeder with this breed, and you are going to be mighty happy!

All Pet Airline? Stay Tuned...

Binder and Wiesel used their consulting backgrounds and business savvy to start Pet Airways in 2005. The last four years have been spent designing their fleet of five planes according to new four-legged requirements, dealing with FAA regulations and setting up airport schedules. The two say they're overwhelmed with the response. Flights on Pet Airways are already booked up for the next two months. Pet Airways will fly a pet between five major cities—New York, Washington, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. The $250 one-way fare is comparable to pet fees at the largest U.S. airlines.

Keep an eye on this one. Airlines are typically meant to fly people not pets, and that's why I avoid flying dogs if at all possible. This new airline might just fit the bill. Do you have any experience with Pet Airways and what is your opinion of them (please be polite and factual).

Criminal Charges? That's Criminal!

Corky and Koo-Boosh are the convicted law breakers, but it's northeast Phoenix homeowner Renee Maurer who was criminally charged for her two vocal dogs. Maurer's predicament mirrors similar barking-dog conflicts across the Valley: Anxious or lonely dogs bark incessantly, causing tempers to flare and neighbors to use city noise ordinances.

This is another example of a silly, overkill dog law. Dog barking violations shouldn't be prosecuted criminally. Sorry. That's a miscarriage of justice and abuse of police powers. There are huge issues here, including Constitutional problems with this kind of thing. Someday, Phoenix will be the one sued... and they will lose... a LOT of money. In the meantime, control your barking dog and move out to the suburbs.