Spread the word about your dog-boarding business.
Dog-boarding businesses, also known as kennels, cater to pet owners that need a place to leave their dogs when they travel for business or leisure. If you have one of these types of small companies, or plan on starting one, select a marketing plan comprised of several different strategies and planned advertising mediums. You'll be able to reach your target market more efficiently and effectively if you have a solid marketing plan.
Website
In the current marketplace, many potential customers look for services on the Internet. This means that your dog-boarding business needs to have an informative website that lets prospective clients know what you offer and find you. Some kennels even have online reservation systems to provide customers an easy, hassle-free way to book their dog's stay. If you aren't tech savvy or don't have time to create a website yourself, hire a local web services company to do it or find a short-term contract freelancer to do the work. Utilize search engine optimization (SEO) tools to ensure your future clients can find you easily.
Advertising
Reach the local market with different types of advertising materials. Start with attractive signage on and near your place of business. The signs should be simple, easy to read and clearly state your business name. Make sure your business name includes "dog boarding" or some other type of description that lets people know what services you offer. Plan a direct mail campaign, and send out coupons to local dog owners. Send a monthly newsletter to pet owners in the area. It can provide helpful training tips or dog nutrition information.
Merchandising
Merchandising will allow your customers to do your advertising for you. Brainstorm different items that can feature your business name. Common merchandising item examples include pens, travel coffee mugs, canvas bags and T-shirts. Some dog-specific items may include leashes or dog clothes that other pet owners (and prospective customers) may see at the local dog park.
Partner With Other Businesses
Look for other dog-related businesses in the area, and partner with them. For example, you could join forces with the local dog-grooming business or a gourmet pet treats boutique. Talk to local, small veterinarian offices that don't provide an overnight boarding service to their pet patients. Other partner ideas include local pet trainers, pet stores and travel agencies that book the pets' parents on their trips.
Related posts
A boarding and grooming business is ideal for animal lovers.According to the American Pet Products Association, there are nearly 74 million dogs and 90 million cats in the United States. A pet boa...
Boarding dogs can be a lucrative profession.Setting up a dog boarding and kennel business can be a lucrative way to turn your love of animals into a business. As many people who have pets cannot a...
At some point in time, every pet owner will need someone to care for his pets. When a pet is like a family member, finding the right boarding facility can be a difficult task. There is a need in m...
Dog lovers can profit from a boarding business.Dog owners often find themselves needing a place to board their pets. Some may use a boarding kennel every time they leave home, while others may use...
Write a Business Plan for a Doggy DaycareAs our pets become more and more like members of our family, doggy daycares are springing up all over the country where dogs can exercise, socialize and re...
