Today we’re diving into the impact of employee morale on pet resorts and how creating a positive work environment can lead to a better company culture, higher retention rates, and an overall thriving business. Our special guest, Laurie Yost from Playful Pups Retreat, shares her personal journey to boosting team morale by adding simple but heartfelt touches of appreciation that transformed her staff’s experience. Laurie’s approach began with handwritten notes to her team, acknowledging their efforts and the unique strengths they bring to the table. What started as an experiment quickly turned into a core element of her management style, helping her build a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated to give their best.

Laurie’s success with these personal notes inspired her to create her own pet industry-specific cards, making the practice of showing appreciation a regular and meaningful part of her company’s culture. Now, handwritten cards are a celebrated tradition at Playful Pups Retreat, where each card serves as a tangible reminder of gratitude and respect for each team member’s hard work. This thoughtful approach has not only helped Laurie retain great staff but also attracted like-minded individuals who appreciate the supportive and uplifting environment she’s fostered.