Clinic center: Rover launches credentialed dog training service, new pet retail location opens in Florida, and more

In Altamonte Springs, Florida, a new Pet Supplies Plus location has opened. Additionally, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California unveiled Elephant Valley, an immersive habitat designed to educate visitors about elephants and their conservation. Meanwhile, Rover launched a dog training service connecting pet owners with credentialed trainers nationwide. Continue reading to learn more.

Pet Supplies Plus opens in Altamonte Springs, Florida

Pet Supplies Plus has opened a new location at 990 N State Rd 434. The store carries a range of pet foods and products for cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, fish, and small animals. It also offers grooming services, self–pet wash stations, and carryout assistance for heavier items. The new location is operated by local residents Danielle Kerner and Mike Kerner, who moved from Pennsylvania and were previously customers of the brand. According to Pet Supplies Plus, Danielle was a cyber school teacher for more than a decade while volunteering with animal shelters.

With a shared love for animals, the Kerners have also emphasized support for local animal rescue organizations, including Candy's Cats, Husky Haven Kennels, Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid Florida, A Better Life–Pet Rescue, Pet Alliance, and Seminole County Parrot Rescue and Sanctuary. The couple said they view the store as a way to serve the local community while maintaining ties to animal welfare initiatives.

"Pet Supplies Plus has always felt like home to us," Danielle said in a news announcement.¹ "Opening this store gives us the chance to support the rescues we care so deeply about and become a trusted resource for our new neighbors."

San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California opens Elephant Valley

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park officially opened Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, an exhibit designed to give visitors closer access to the park’s herd of 8 African savanna elephants. The habitat allows guests to observe the animals’ social behaviors, see naturalistic enclosures, and learn about the species’ role in ecosystems. Elephant Valley includes curated plant life intended to replicate African savanna environments and incorporates educational features such as wildlife underpasses and cultural markers from local Kenyan communities.

The exhibit is part of the park’s broader conservation efforts, linking on-site education with international elephant protection initiatives. The park said the project aims to increase public understanding of elephant biology and behavior, as well as the challenges elephants face in the wild.

"Elephant Valley not only mirrors the African grasslands—it represents the vital role San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance plays in international conservation," Shawn Dixon, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, said in a news release.²

Rover launches dog training service

Rover Group, Inc, the world’s largest online marketplace for pet care services, has introduced a dog training platform connecting pet owners with credentialed trainers across the US. Trainers listed on Rover provide rewards-based training, have verified credentials, and pass third-party background checks. Since a pilot program launched in October 2024, more than 6000 training sessions have been booked and 1600 trainers have joined the platform, according to Rover.³

The service allows pet owners to compare trainers by experience, reviews, price, and specialty areas. Trainers manage their own schedules and pricing, enabling a range of private, in-person sessions tailored to dogs of all ages and skill levels.

"Rover is always looking for new ways to better serve the unique needs of pets and their people," Brent Turner, CEO of Rover, said in a company announcement.³ “Our new training service does just that by prioritizing the well-being of pets and bringing to market an offering that meets pet parents where they are. It’s been very well received by pet parents and trainers alike.”

References

1. Local couple opens Pet Supplies Plus in Altamonte Springs; powered by passion for pets and rescue work. News release. Pet Supplies Plus. March 5, 2026. Accessed March 18, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/local-couple-opens-pet-supplies-plus-in-altamonte-springs-powered-by-passion-for-pets-and-rescue-work-302705971.html
2. San Diego Zoo Safari Park celebrates official opening of Elephant Valley. News release. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. March 5, 2026. Accessed March 18, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/san-diego-zoo-safari-park-celebrates-official-opening-of-elephant-valley-302706114.html
3. Rover launches dog training. News release. Rover. March 5, 2026. Accessed March 18, 2026. https://www.rover.com/blog/press-release/rover-launches-dog-training/