Owning a kennel requires functional space and good cleaning practices.
Owning a kennel is a rewarding venture for the animal lover. Like any business though, there are a lot of factors to consider for success. It is important to know such things as the laws related to owning a pet business, licenses and permits that are required, training and insurance for a staff, space requirements, office and accounting practices and general care, cleaning and maintenance. A tip for owning a boarding kennel is to treat people and pets the same way you would you and your pet to be treated.
Business
This is one of the most important components to running a business. It is essential to have all licenses and permits in place and to know, and keep up on, all the laws and regulations related to pet business. Hire a lawyer and accountant to handle all contracting and legal aspects. Create an office space, get a website and advertise. Advertising can include such things as running ads, word of mouth, and working with local shelters and veterinarians.
Space
The space must be functional, safe and escape proof. It needs to include such things as a office, indoor kennels, indoor and outdoor runs, play areas, storage and a sterile area for grooming and veterinary visits. The property needs to have adequate parking, easy access and volume traffic. The kennel needs to be stocked with fresh food and water, dog friendly toys, grooming supplies and cleaning products. It needs to be visually appealing and organized.
Staff
It is essential that the owner has had training or experience before training others so that things will run the way you want them to. Volunteer at a veterinarian's office or a shelter and take classes if needed. Training is necessary for the safety of pets and for those who work there. Training should include dealing with aggressive animals, handling episodes of dog fighting, sick dogs, different breeds and daily feeding, cleaning and grooming. In addition to training, health insurance and workers composition insurance will need to be provided to employees.
Prevention
Preventing things such as kennel cough, flea and tick outbreaks and other diseases needs to be your number one priority. Make sure to get proof of vaccines form pet owners and require them to treat animals for flea and ticks. Your priority is to keep things clean and sanitary in order to reduce odor and to minimize the potential for disease. Cleaning includes such things as washing bedding and towels, treating indoor and outdoor areas for fleas and ticks, scrubbing down kennels from top to bottom, wiping off dog toys and always having fresh water and food available.
Related posts
Boarding isn't just for dogs.Pet owners see their animal companions as members of their families. It can be difficult when your furry friend has to stay at home when you go on vacation, but depend...
Dogs gaze out from their dog kennel's exercise area.According to the American Pet Products Association's 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey, 45.6 million households have a dog. In 2008, $43.2 bi...
If you are a pet owner, you may decide to use a pet boarding kennel if you need to board your cat and dog and don't want to use a pet sitter. Knowing what to expect from a boarding kennel and tell...
All good boarding kennels have the same basic criteria: A clean and healthy safe place with enough space for the dogs to move around. Most kennels take in dogs that have been vaccinated and do not...
Bringing an animal to a boarding kennel when you need to travel involves an expense but can provide a good safe environment for your pet while you're away. Licensing kennels is done by the local m...
