Get Started in a Dog Pet Care Business

The dog pet care business is a constantly growing industry. An increasing number of dog owners shell out a lot of cash to keep their pets healthy and happy. Dog pet care businesses comprise of dog grooming, dog kennel services, dog sitting, and pet care product retail. Dog groomers are hairstylists for dogs. Grooming is done to maximize the dog’s health in accordance to its breed. A dog kennel is a daycare center for dogs. It is where dog owners temporarily keep their pets when they go out of town. Kennels also serve as breeding houses for dogs. Dog sitters, like dog kennels, are people who are given the task of temporarily caring for a dog when the owner is unable to, usually because the owner has an out-of-town trip that cannot accommodate his/her pet.

The dog pet care industry is ideal for people who love dogs. This premise must be considered before getting started in it. A love of dogs facilitates utmost patience and care in dealing with anxious dogs.

An aspiring dog pet care entrepreneur must determine which side of the business to take—grooming, kennel services, sitting, or product retail. If desired, he/she could opt to combine all into one. A dog pet care specialist must also check county and state regulations on pet care services.

Dog Grooming

Dog grooming is an art. To be an effective dog groomer, a person should seek professional training from dog grooming schools accredited by the National Dog Groomers Association of America and the Better Business Bureau. They should also check their instructor’s experience and reputation. Dog groomers could then receive accreditation from their schools after training, while in some states, dog groomers have to be licensed first, before practicing.

Dog groomers could either purchase a dog grooming franchise or set up their own shop. The top dog grooming franchises are: Preppy Pet, Aussie Pet Mobile, Central Bark, and Pet Depot. These franchises provide the essentials of starting the business. Groomers who prefer to be on their own can start within their respective communities. They can set up a home shop or go from house to house. They could also start out-of-home by renting space in commercial buildings. Starting individually requires effective marketing to get a handful of clients. Starting rates for services should be low since experience still is insufficient. The groomer should start at the very bottom and work his/her way up.

Dog Kennel Services

A good dog kennel should be able to board a large number of dogs in one time. Sufficient funding is important. Services such as entertainment and interaction options must be provided for dogs in kennels. Also, the entrepreneur should produce appropriate liability and lease forms for the owner to sign since injury or death can happen at anytime. Written permissions of taking a dog to a veterinarian should also be obtained. If available, the contact number and location of the dog’s veterinarian should be listed. The owner’s contact numbers should also be obtained in cases of emergency. Insurance for the business must be obtained for protection.

Dog Sitters

Dog sitting is a relatively easy and fun task. A sitter simply has to have adequate knowledge in caring for dogs. However, he/she must be able to care for a small number of dogs for a specified time.

Retail of Dog Care Products

Retail businesses need adequate financing. Entrepreneurs have to be careful where every cent goes to have a smooth cash flow. Business permits have to be secured. Suppliers of products must be carefully chosen—their products have to be certified safe for dogs. Retailers should also know what products their market wants. The location of their store should be readily accessible to dog owners.