Dog Boarder & Day care provider

[Ruth68]

Hi , I’m Ruth & and I run a doggie boarding & doggie daycare - home from home

Are there any other people on this forum that do the same as looking for advice on something

 

[Tinytom]

Hello Ruth I used to take in homeboarders and foster dogs....i also did dogwalking for a year but the money was consistent enough for me ...i used cliverton insurance ...my local council put the license up so high for a home boarding that i stopped doing it as so many people were offering the same service around here ..Kara ..

 

[Ruth68]

Hiya , thanks for your reply . Yes it is annoying that there are other people are doing the same thing & don’t have a dog licence!! They are supposed to be cracking down on it ……….. Mmmmm

I have been doing for over 6 months now & getting very booked up - can’t cope with the demand .
I was wondering if other boarders out there charge extra for grooming etc ? I’ve had a couple of dogs recently that need grooming every day - takes at least 40 mins each - I’ve got a cockapoo that doesn’t moult or need that much brushing so hadn’t thought about charging extra for this , but now in two minds whether should be £2 a day. Also thinking about offering a wash shampoo & conditioner to doggies before returning home after their stay & charging for this - £7
Wondered what peoples thoughts are on the above ? Thanks Ruth

 

[JudyN]

I've never boarded my dog or used a groomer, but my thoughts are that if I did need both services, I'd be more than happy to pay extra for the grooming. After all, it means extra work for you, possibly even meaning you couldn't care for as many dogs. From the dog's point of view, they'd be getting groomed by someone they knew well, in a place that they know well and hopefully are relaxed and confident in. You would also be better able to take breaks if the dog didn't appreciate being washed, groomed, clipped or whatever all in one go.

 

[EricDogLover7]

Hi , I’m Ruth & and I run a doggie boarding & doggie daycare - home from home

Are there any other people on this forum that do the same as looking for advice on something

 

[robin1]

I don’t do any doggie daycare/boarding stuff but I own a dog and if she went to one I’d definitely be prepared to pay more for grooming. I think you should give it a go, I’m sure people would want it!

 

[Flobo]

Hi @Ruth68, I do one to one home boarding( licenced!) and walking and yes I agree with the aboves in that you should charge for extras. If you stipulate the options and charges when someone is booking in with you then they are aware and can choose. I would also check with your insurance though to make sure you are covered in case a dog reacts to the shampoo or a client isn't happy with what you've done etc...and get the client to sign a permission form also detailing any allergies etc. As you must know being licenced you have to cover all the bases!

 

[Hemlock]

Ref. the grooming: if a dog is presented with a very neglected coat, remember to take photos before and during the groom in case people get awkward about what you've had to do for welfare reasons. Similarly it might be wise to photograph boarding dogs on arrival if you feel there is a welfare concern. It's only a small amount of clients that might make a fuss, but nobody ever regretted having their back covered.