Thursday, May 2, 2013

Begin A Boarding Kennel Business

If you love animals, consider opening a boarding kennel business.


From time to time, pet owners need someone to watch their furry friends. A reliable boarding kennel will succeed because pet owners desire a safe place for their pets to stay for days---or even weeks---at a time. If you have a passion for animals and the commitment to develop and market your business venture, then a boarding kennel business might be the career path for you.


Instructions


1. Find the right location. Your boarding kennel should be in a centrally located spot in your community; pet owners will be more likely to use your service if it is convenient. Make sure the building has a variety of rooms that you can use for offices, play areas and rest areas. Evaluate the outdoor space as well; you will need plenty of room for pets to run around.


2. Research licensing requirements in your state. Operating a kennel requires a license in most states, though the requirements for obtaining the license vary from state to state. For example, in Nebraska, you need to apply for a boarding kennel license, which you will renew annually. The application requires basic information about your business as well as the number of animals you intend to board and the name of the kennel's attending veterinarian.


3. Talk to local veterinarians about any pet health issues you should prepare for. Ask what vaccinations pets should have before they enter the kennel (for example, an annual rabies vaccine). Find a veterinarian who can be on call for any emergency pet health problems at your kennel.


4. Network with pet owners in your community. Take your own pets to the dog park and hand out fliers about your boarding kennel. Talk with neighbors and friends, and offer to watch their pets at a discounted rate. Ask them to help spread the word about your kennel.


5. Advertise in veterinary offices and pet stores. Often, these locations have community bulletin boards where you can post fliers or business cards for your boarding kennel business. Provide your address, phone number and website address (if applicable) on the flier so that customers can contact you easily.


6. Offer tours of your facility. Pet owners will be more comfortable leaving their pets with you if they see that your facility is well maintained. Train your staff members so that they can provide tours of the kennel, showing pet owners where their pets will eat, sleep and play. Answer any questions or concerns your customers have, and offer a discount if they make an appointment for their pet on the day of their tour.









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