From Pup Walks to Pet Empires: Jill Nelson’s Journey with Wunder Petz & Hot Diggity

Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Jill Nelson, pet care entrepreneur, systems strategist, and founder of WunderPetz. As the Director of Operations at Hot Diggity Pet Care, Jill shares her unexpected journey from business coaching to running and scaling a multi-location dog walking and pet sitting franchise.

Jill opens up about acquiring her first Hot Diggity location, surviving COVID-era challenges, and how she used downtime to build out robust systems and SOPs that became the foundation for franchising. From leash handling and emergency protocols to building client trust and training staff, Jill's work proves that pet care is both a heart-driven service and a smart, scalable business.

This episode also explores the emotional side of the industry—from long-term client bonds to the heartbreak and honor of end-of-life care. And yes, Jill’s senior pup Lucky gets some love too, with Rooted Owl supplements and CBD oils sent his way for comfort and joint support.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

When Business Strategy Meets Pet Passion:

Jill shares how her coaching background helped her transition into pet care entrepreneurship with the tools to build, streamline, and eventually scale.

Caring for Pets in a Virtual-First World:

Explore how Hot Diggity operates fully in-home and tech-enabled, with safety, communication, and client trust at the forefront.

Scaling with Systems, Not Stress:

Jill explains how proper documentation, clear workflows, and strong hiring values made franchising not only possible, but sustainable.

The Emotional Realities of Pet Care Work:

From walking reactive dogs to sitting with aging pets in their final days, Jill gets real about the depth of connection—and emotional labor—behind professional pet sitting.

Safety is Sacred:

Hiring for values, handling dogs safely on leash, and building emergency protocols are just some of the topics Jill and Jeffrey unpack to show the serious side of daily walks.

Rooted Owl Support in Action:

Jeffrey introduces Rooted Owl supplements and CBD to help Jill’s dog Lucky manage aging and joint issues—with positive, calming results.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Pet care is a real profession—and deserves real systems

✅ Safety, values, and compassion are the cornerstones of great service

✅ Long-term pet care means deep bonds—and deep responsibility

✅ Thoughtful franchising can help scale ethical, high-touch care

✅ Holistic supplements and calming tools like CBD can enhance quality of life for aging pets

Listen Now:

Whether you’re in the pet industry or just love a great founder story, Jill’s journey is a masterclass in scaling with heart. From system-building to soul-serving, this episode will leave you inspired.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Jill Nelson & Wunder Petz:

• Profile: wunderpetz.com
• Jill’s Profile linkedin.com/in/jilllnelsonwunderpetz
• Website HotDiggitypetsitting.com (Company)

Know someone growing a pet business—or working in professional pet care? Share this episode and spotlight the power of combining systems with soul in the animal care world.