The Pet Industry Distributors Association (Bel Air, Md.) will launch Pet Store Pro, a new Web-based training resource for independent pet retailers, at Global Pet Expo, Feb. 14-16 at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego.

Pet Store Pro, available free to qualified pet retailers at www.petstorepro.com, will provide consistent information to help employees learn about animal care, pet products and basic business skills, according to the trade association.

Created in a modular format, the training resource covers a variety of topics, including selling and customer service, merchandising, and caring for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, small animals and fresh- and saltwater fish. The brand-neutral content applies to a wide array of product lines available in individual stores.

Designed for ease of use, the resource can be used to implement a training program in stores or as part of an existing program.

Scores from online tests are e-mailed to students and managers for rapid feedback. Study guides and chapter tests can be printed for offline use.

For more information, call PIDA at (443) 640-1060 or visit www.petstorepro.com. [February 2008 PET AGE]