Running a dog kennel can be a rewarding experience.
If you're considering starting your own dog kennel, chances are you are already a dog lover, and know how much fun and companionship can be had with "man's best friend." Whether you want to start a small-scale operation out of your home---perhaps caring for a handful of dogs in addition to your own pets---or if you want to set up a larger dog care facility, the steps to follow are similar.
Instructions
1. Locate suitable premises for your dog kennel. These may be within your existing home or property, or separate premises to be purchased or leased. Consider starting small, and then expanding your dog kennel as business grows. Ensure that the location you choose is suitable for a dog kennel operation---set back from any busy roads, with exercise areas securely enclosed, and in an area where neighbors will not be bothered by dogs barking.
2. Obtain a license for the dog kennel if this is required by your state or local area. Many states in the United States, and many countries outside of the United States, require a kennel to carry a license. Ensure your premises comply with any and all applicable licensing requirements.
3. Obtain liability insurance for your dog kennel operation. This insurance will need to cover clients while on your premises, as well as the dogs themselves. Devise any liability waiver you plan to have clients sign, and have this document checked over by a legal professional.
4. Purchase equipment and supplies for the dog kennel. These may include outdoor exercise pens, indoor enclosures, dog beds, dog food (unless you will require clients to provide their own feed for their dogs), dog toys, water and feeding bowls, and washable dog blankets.
5. Compile a list of local veterinarians and animal clinics, and develop an emergency plan that you will put into action if a dog becomes ill or injured during a stay at your kennel. Have phone numbers for your local veterinarians easily on hand in the office of the dog kennel premises.
6. Hire any employees you will need to help run the dog kennel. Make sure that you have workers' compensation insurance to cover your employees, as required by national or state laws.
7. Get business cards for your dog kennel, and consider purchasing a sign to erect on the premises. Ensure that any sign placement complies with local zoning regulations.
8. Advertise your dog kennel by whichever methods suit your budget and market area---these could include local newspaper classifieds, word of mouth, free online advertisements or paid online advertisements, and local television and radio commercials. Ask local veterinarians and pet food retailers whether you can display your business cards or other advertisements on their premises.
9. Open your dog kennel for business! Consider running special promotional rates and discounts during the first week or month of operation, so that you can start building a client base.
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