How to Start Your Own Pet Care Business

With more families working long hours and taking extended vacations, there is a greater need for dog boarding Snohomish and daily pet care than ever before. But in order to make a venture into dog boarding Bellevue a successful one, there are many important things that must be considered before beginning an expensive undertaking as this. Here is a helpful guide that breaks down much of the information into useful categories.

It would be impossible to open any business without the appropriate insurance. It is necessary to find an insurance company that specializes in providing policies specifically designed to cover small pet businesses. Insurance will protect your business but also it will be required by the landlord if you lease a property for your business.

If building a brand new facility is your dream, then be prepared to part with most of your initial start-up funds. It is vital to check with the Better Business Bureau before signing any contracts. When it comes to choosing a contractor, you often get what you pay for so this is not an area where you want to be too thrifty.

Any business will require the basic office equipment such as desks, chairs, filing cabinets, phones, stationary, a computer and fax machine. It doesn’t have to be fancy to get the job done. If you are resourceful, you should be able to find gently used items from stores specializing in used office furniture and equipment.

Luckily there are many options available for office managing software that is designed specifically for pet daycare businesses. The computer software will allow you to manage customer accounts and track check-ins and check-outs. Although the software is a little expensive, you cannot expect the business to survive without it as there is too much activity happening on daily basis. You simply cannot afford to lose track of client information and payment records.

Some basic cleaning supplies that are needed to keep the facility presentable and sanitary are bleach, buckets, mops, window cleaner, rags, plastic bags, vacuum, broom and bags for doggy doo. Try to use cleaners that are as natural as possible and stay away from harsh chemicals that potentially could irritate some dogs.

A good way to start attracting customers and generating revenue is to offer grooming services to your daycare business. Lots of fairly inexpensive grooming equipment as dryers, tables and tubs can be found on popular online auction websites. Many groomers are happy to work part-time and split the commission.

Without advertising and signage, no one will know you are open for business. It is important to utilize all avenues to get the word out. Take advantage of free advertising like leaving fliers at pet stores and getting a story printed in a local magazine highlighting your new business. Advertising in the newspaper is the most economical and effective method of promoting your business. Set up an informative and completely functional website before your grand opening.

Even if you plan carefully and everything gets off to a great start, you need to have enough cash to be able to operate for at least six months without making a profit. Just keep at it to build a solid client base and before you know it you’ll be the proud owner of an outstanding dog daycare.