1. Research the Market and Your Competition – Find out who your competitors are, what services they offer, how much they charge, and how their customers rate them.
2. Choose a Legal Structure – Consider which legal structure is best for your business – sole proprietor, LLC, S-Corp, etc.
3. Develop a Business Plan – This will guide you in setting up your kennel business and help you attract investors and obtain financing.
4. Choose Your Kennel Location and Facility Design – Select a site that is accessible to clients and meets local zoning regulations.
5. Acquire Licenses and Permits – Obtain any necessary licenses and permits from your local government or professional organizations to operate your kennel business.
6. Purchase Business Insurance – Protect yourself, your staff, and customers with appropriate insurance policies such as general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
7. Hire Employees – Look for experienced staff who are knowledgeable about pet care and can provide excellent customer service.
8. Select Kennel Supplies and Equipment – Choose the right cages, runs, leashes, bowls, bedding, treats, toys and other supplies to ensure a safe environment for your furry clients.
9. Develop Policies and Procedures – Establish rules for handling pet waste and animal care to ensure the safety of your clients’ pets.
10. Market Your Business – Create a website, set up social media profiles, make use of local marketing activities, and more to get the word out about your kennel business.
11. Train Employees – Educate your staff on safety procedures, customer service, and handling of animals.
12. Develop a System for Scheduling and Billing – Have a system in place for reservations, billing, record-keeping and more to keep your business running smoothly.
13. Establish Quality Assurance Processes – Set up processes to ensure that you are meeting the highest standards of care for each pet in your kennel.
14. Monitor Performance – Track customer satisfaction and employee performance to ensure that your kennel is running at its best.
15. Set Prices – Establish competitive pricing, taking into account all costs associated with running a successful kennel business.
16. Maintain Your Kennel – To ensure the health and safety of all animals, keep your kennel in top condition through regular cleaning and maintenance.
17. Keep Up with Industry Trends – Stay informed on industry news to remain competitive in the pet care industry.
18. Network with Other Pet Businesses – Get connected with other pet-related businesses in your area and consider ways to collaborate.
19. Maintain Records – Keep accurate records of income, expenses, customer data and more for tax filing purposes and business analysis.
20. Stay Committed – Running a successful kennel requires dedication and hard work. Remain committed to providing excellent care to each and every pet that comes through your business.