Kennel Management Training
As the number of households that have dogs increases annually, so does the amount of money that is channeled into the pet boarding industry. Operating a kennel takes a lot of time and skill, both in business and in animal behavior and disease control. Kennel managers can hone these skills via training programs designed to prepare them for any incident.
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Identification
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Working with animals in a kennel setting requires knowledge on how to handle and care for animals and also on how to run an efficient business. Training in kennel management may include instruction in basic business management, the use of specialized computer management software designed for kennels, basic Quickbooks instruction for daily recording of finances, facilities planning, care and upkeep, and basic dog training and pet grooming, according to the All Creatures Country Club website.
Benefits
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To be successful, a kennel needs to provide pet owners with the peace of mind that comes with knowing their pets will be well-cared for in their absence. Kennel managers who receive training in pet-specific areas, like canine nutrition and first aid for dogs, are better equipped to maintain the physical and mental health of their animal clients and to respond to any emergency situations that might arise during their stay.
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Considerations
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In addition to the practical experience they need to run a kennel, like maintaining client records and maintaining the cleanliness of the kennels, kennel managers need to understand the impetus for certain behaviors exhibited by the dogs. The Connecticut K-9 Education Center, for example, offers instruction on topics like canine psychology, the Identification and control of internal and external parasites, and how to help dogs that suffer emotional problems due to the stress of being kenneled.
Potential
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Corporations, including KennelSource, are developing computer software programs designed to help kennel managers handle their resources more effectively, achieve operational efficiencies and increase profits by distributing information via the Internet. Pawtracker software was created by the former owners of a large commercial dog boarding, dog daycare, dog training, dog grooming and agility center.
Expert Insight
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According to a survey conducted by Industry Insights for the Pet Care Services Association, the large majority of respondents were satisfied with their overall pet boarding experience. The friendliness and competence of the boarding facility staff, in addition to its adherence to policies and procedures, were the main catalysts for the high satisfaction levels of those surveyed. In addition, more than 96 percent of individuals felt that their pets were well taken care of and in good condition.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Homeless dog in Kennel image by dinahr from Fotolia.com
