Earlier this month I wrote about other things to take into consideration with deaf and disabled pets after someone got in touch with me on behalf of Petside.com about their deaf and disabled pets series. In the process of checking it out, I found some other useful research tools on their site (like the Pet Vet section and the Breed selector, which is sort of fun).
Anyway, since this seems to be the month for interviews, I asked if anyone would care to answer some questions about Petside.com. I was referred to their Editorial Director, Kim Jack Riley, who graciously stole a few moments to honor my request. (They were knee deep in covering Westminster at the time. Thanks again, Kim, for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this!)
Courtney Mroch: What is Petside.com?
Kim Jack Riley: PetSide.com is the premier online source for pet owners and pet enthusiasts. Our number one priority is to deliver reliable information to keep cats and dogs happy and healthy.
CM: How long has it been around?
KJR: We launched Petside.com in November 2007.
CM: What will visitors to Petside.com find there? What do you feel the main draw is?
KJR: In our daily news articles, you’ll find up-to-date articles on topics ranging from safety to socialization. You’ll also find the latest in pet products, trends and fashion as well as a wide range of tips and advice.
For pet health, Petside.com has a unique symptom and condition finder called Pet Vet well as Q&As from our veterinarian, Dr. Lauren.
For entertainment, we have daily polls, Videos, photos and a Breed Match where you can discover which breed of cat or dog is best for you!
Petside.com also has a large collection of articles written by veterinarians, behaviorists and other pet specialists to give you helpful hints about everything pet related.
There is so much to do at Petside.com, but if you need more, there’s also a social network at my.Petside.com complete with Boards, photo galleries, and a place to register vital info about your pet for your records.
Our main draw is our interactive Pet Vet feature and also our original content.
CM: Do people have to register to use the site?
KJR: You do not have to register to browse the site, but in order to participate in discussion boards or load photos on my.Petside.com…yes.
CM: “It’s all in a name,” as they say. What does “Petside” mean, how was it derived…in general how did the name Petside come into being?
KJR: As a team, we examined a lot of names prior to deciding on Petside. We like to think that a “pet will always be by your side.”
CM: Any special tips you’d like to share for users to get the most out of their Petside.com experience?
KJR: The best way to experience Petside.com is “regularly,” as we refresh most areas of our content daily and so there is always a good reason to come back. Also, registering is a great idea because you can get more involved than being a passive viewer, and share your own opinions with other pet lovers. As editors, we take into great consideration the feedback and input from our registered visitors, so registering is a great way to have your own points direct our content.
Related Articles