How to Start a Doggy Day Care Business

If your ideal job includes spending your day with dogs, consider opening your own doggy day care. Today, pets are considered to be a part of the family. Because of this, many pets are treated to some of the best care services available. Businesses now cater to man's best friend. If you've always dreamed of having your own business, here's your chance to open up a business for other dog lovers like you.

Things You'll Need

• Business plan
• Building to host day care
• Marketing materials

Instructions

Learn the business and its rules

1. Study the current trends of the doggy day care business and read about successful dog care businesses. Learn which services are offered in your area and interview pet owners who have utilized a doggy day care business. Ask dog care business owners about their experience.

2. Research your state and county laws concerning dog care to determine whether you need a license.

3. Learn everything there is to know about caring for a dog. You must understand how to handle a variety of dog behaviors. For example, you need to be able to practice CPR on dogs.

Starting the Business

1. Determine which services you will offer. Many doggy day cares offer grooming, training and overnight boarding. Create a business plan including an executive summary, company description, market analysis, strategy, web plan summary and financial analysis. Ask a professional business owner to review your plan.

2. Secure a location with enough room for the dogs to feel comfortable. If you plan on offering multiple services, you'll need a separate room. It's also important to have a fenced-in yard for the dogs to enjoy.

3. Obtain funding. You might also ask friends and family if they would be willing to contribute. You will need your business plan to request a bank loan.

Spread the Word

1. Create doggy-themed fliers, business cards and brochures to distribute around the neighborhood. Leave your information with local businesses since you could create partnerships that will benefit both companies.

2. Network with local veterinarians, humane societies and groomers to let them know about your services. Offer their customers a flier or business card that provides their customers with a discount.

3. Attend local pet meet-ups to inform them of your business and stay current with the needs of pet owners. Stay in touch with the trends of the pet community.

Tips & Warnings

• Offer dog toys, collars and treats to customers as they pay for your services. Offer a service that competitors do not provide.

• Be prepared with liability insurance to pay for any damages that may occur to your property.

References

• Is a Doggie Day Care Business Right for You?
• Dog Day Care & General Dog Information
• Doggy Daycare Guide

Resources

• It's a Doggie Dog World