How to Start a Kennel

By eHow Business Editor

Rate: (29 Ratings)

To keep your kennel business from going to the dogs, follow these helpful steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Boxes For Dog Supplies
  • Canvas Dog Toys
  • Dog Balls
  • Dog Biscuits
  • Dog Chew Toys
  • Dog Dishes

Step1
Make sure you really love dogs. Keeping a kennel can be tough. To make it through the barks, growls and smells of the business, it's best that you enjoy keeping company with man's best friend.
Step2
Select a location that will allow a kennel. A place with lots of room for dog runs and kennels will be needed and most likely will be found outside the hub of a city.
Step3
Get permission to build the kennel facility. Depending on local building laws, you may have to get a variance (special permission) to build.
Step4
Consult a veterinarian as to the design of the facility for maximum function and comfort for the animals.
Step5
Build the facility.
Step6
Talk to your friends, family and co-workers who have animals and let them know your service is available.
Step7
Advertise the kennel. Promote the business by offering discounts for first-time customers, coupons for special doggy treats, or frequent-visitor discounts, or provide additional services for free, such as grooming.
Step8
Love your job. Working with animals is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time.

Tips & Warnings

  • Get experience working with dogs of all types. Learn how to manage difficult dogs. Work at other kennels or take care of other people's dogs to learn as much as you can.
  • Build a canine reference library with books on dog health, first aid and different breeds.
  • Have a veterinarian's name and telephone number posted and easily accessible in case of emergency.
  • Have each client sign a release form giving you consent to have his or her dog treated by a veterinarian if there is an accident and the owner cannot be reached.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 design a "boarding agreement" noting what owners can expect from your facility and what the kennel expects from owners. Explaining what will benefit their pet at your facility also what their pet "needs" to baord.

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eHow Article:  How to Start a Kennel

eHow Business Editor

eHow Business Editor

Category: Business

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