About Us

Pawsitively Squishy was started by Laurie Yost, a 14 veteran in the Pet Care industry. Laurie owns Playful Pups Retreat, a pet resort, offering premium overnight dog lodging, a variety of enrichment focused doggie daycare and dog training programs, bathing services, and much more, with two locations serving Central PA. Laurie is also an advocate of dog rescue and in 2012 founded a PA based non-profit, Pitties.Love.Peace.

Theaftereffects of the covid pandemic lead to major shifts in hiring and retention of pet care team members for the pet industry. As a result of the evolving needs of our workforce Laurie has recently been focusing on creating a positive culture in her facility, one that emphasizes care, compassion, and empathy. By designing an environment of appreciation, encouragement and support, Playful Pups Retreat has an outstanding team and improved retention rates.

The idea of creating her own line of products, especially for the pet industry grew over the past year and Pawsitively Squishy was born! As our new business continues to grow there are plans for many fun and innovative cards that will be specific to pet care workers…but if you have a specific request, please let us know!

Squishy's Story

At 5 months of age Squishy, aka Zelda, found herself at a NYC shelter along with 2 of her siblings. All three pups had eye issues and lucky for her she ended up catching the attention of our local PA rescue organization, Pitties.Love.Peace. A few days later Squishy was transported to PA and immediately taken to the veterinarian to have her eyes examined. Due to severe corneal abrasion from entropion her right eye was too damaged to save, so the next day she underwent surgery to remove her eye.

After surgery she joined my home, as a foster, but it took a matter of days to realize that she had already found her home. It was doggie love at first sight and Squishy has been part of our pack ever since. She is an ambassador for bully breeds everywhere.

Today, she is an 8-year-old pup who is smart, confident, enthusiastic, and filled with love and joy every day. I am inspired by her and strive to be a better person that is deserving of her endless dedication. Squishy is my muse and it only makes sense for her to be the face of Pawsitively Squishy.

Meet the Team

Smidgen
Chief Woof of Encouragement
The big Dane on campus leading the pack with tail wags, love sniffles, and a drool-worthy amount of slobbers for all.
Nubbin
HR Top Dog
Five-year-old Cane Corso. Nubbin is the alpha of hiring, tail-wagging training sessions, and guiding his pack to howling achievements.
Archie
Paw Enforcement Agent
Three-year-old dachshund, also known as the Fun Sergeant, making sure the pack stays on track, keeps their noses to the grindstone, and doesn't stray chasing after balls.
Mosha
Zoomies Ambassador
A one-year-old Great Dane specializing in stirring up excitement, keeping tails wagging with motivation, and ensuring everyone's bowl is full of wild enthusiasm.
Samson
Puplic Relations
A seasoned twelve-year-old Pointer mix, expert in tail-wagging diplomacy and maintaining a fur-tastic image for the business. Always on the scent trail of pawsitivity!
Tessa
Creative Barker
A 13-year-old Pit Bull mix with a knack for unleashing creativity and crafting designs that are nothing short of pawsome. Specializes in turning ruff ideas into design pawfection!