Pet care is a big business in the United States. According to the American Pet Products Association, average American pet owners spent more than $1,500 on their dogs in 2009, applying about $270 of that figure toward boarding costs. A dog daycare business has a reasonably good outlook; the Oregon Employment Department projects growth in the pet care field over the next decade.
Instructions
1. Contact your city or county government for information regarding local zoning and business laws to make sure your facility will be in compliance. Some Oregon cities, such as Hillsboro, do not allow new animal daycare facilities due to zoning laws. Your city may prohibit animal care facilities in residential zones, ruling out the option of a home-based dog daycare. These types of laws vary widely by locale, and obtaining zoning and business permits may require numerous forms, licensing and fees. If you plan to offer overnight boarding to your clients, your city or county may require you to get a kennel license.
2. Create a system for intake and filing of medical records, contracts, policies, legal and business documents and other important papers. Paws Dog Daycare Services' website offers a sample client release form. Keep vaccination and license records on file for each dog that enters your facility; the state of Oregon requires a county dog license for all dogs over the age of 6 months. If you hire employees, maintain current tax and certification documents for each person. Establish rates and policies for your services.
Consider hiring an attorney specializing in small business law to help ensure that your business and contracts are legally sound, and that you are aware of all laws that may affect you. For example, in Oregon you are liable for harm a dog in your care may cause to others, such as a bite or attack, if your negligence allowed the incident to occur. (See Resources)
3. Establish your facility, which may be subject to health inspections under your county's ordinances. Create clearly divided sections for intake, an indoor play area, feeding area, resting area, confinement area for behavioral problems and enclosed outdoor play and toileting areas. Establish a schedule for feeding and exercise times, and make sure all dogs have access to fresh drinking water. Determine procedures for health and sanitation issues such as waste disposal. Designating an on-call veterinarian is an excellent safety measure.
4. Market and advertise your business, allocating a budget for these expenses. Establish a business name, slogan and logo, ensuring that they are not already trademarked. Create and distribute marketing tools such as business cards and fliers. List your business in online and local directories and yellow pages. Consider a variety of advertising options such as billboards, newspaper ads and online ad space on web sites frequented by local dog owners.
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