Hi butterfly1frogs,
Thank you for your interesting question. What fun! :)
"The most important first steps you need to take are to check with
your local government offices concerning zoning laws to make sure you
can have a kennel on your property."
http://dog.lifetips.com/subcat/68648/working-with-dogs/kennel-owner/
The guiding principle of Doggie DayCare/Doggie B&B/Doggie Boarding is
simple - provide a safe and healthy atmosphere with lots of
interaction, both with other dogs and with people. Since dogs are
social animals and enjoy being part of the pack, a social setting with
other dogs is ideal for them. They can gnaw on a favorite toy, hang
out with the humans, or just lounge on a couch and watch TV.
Daycare for Dogs: Keeping Yuppy Puppies Happy
http://www.washingtonian.com/etc/shopping/daycarefordogs.html
"Today?s daycare centers are cageless, have scheduled activities
(including naptime), and boast playgrounds complete with jungle gyms
and toys to keep dogs entertained. Moreover, they require interviews
and vaccinations - only friendly, healthy dogs are allowed.
The idea behind full-time daycare is that dogs are social animals.
Most important, a happy, pooped pooch won?t need tons of exercise and
attention when its owner gets home."
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The Layout and Basics
=========
Dogs should have access to a completely fenced in play yard with a 6
foot high fence at the very least - 8 feet height would guarantee no
dogs jumping over the fence. If there's anything the dogs can climb on
that's near the fence like a dog house, trash can, or benches they'll
use that for their private launching pad. An 8 foot fence eliminates
any need to worry.
A very simple set up can be seen at this website:
http://www.bedandbone.com/
Your outdoor amenities should include plenty of balls, sticks,
frisbees, rope toys for tug-o-war games, etc. You'll want equipment
in the yard for fun and exercise such as playground doggie jungle gym
equipment, durable toys, a challenging agility course, kiddie or
wading pools filled with fresh water for splashing (in the summer), a
doggy 'loo' fire hydrant, fun tractor tires for the dogs to run and
play on, A-frame to walk up and down on, sand boxes for digging, etc.
Some centers provide furniture for dogs to climb on, and many have
tunnels, and other equipment for dogs to hide in, run through, or
climb on. A tired dog is a happy dog!
Doggy care isn't just fun and games, although it's definitely a
priority. Dogs days are also structured around naptime and dog
protocol: playtime will always be supervised and time-outs given when
necessary for those who don't comply with the rules.
Provide shade or covered shelters outside so the dogs are protected
from heat and rain.
The outdoor yard is asphalt, isn't that hard on their paws?
http://www.tails-a-wagging.com/main.php?navarea=FAQ+Doggie+Daycare
"The larger area is asphalt, although this is a hard ground it is
actually a recommended ground for outdoor yards in Doggie Day Care's
because it can be cleaned and sanitized. Grass would turn to mud and
be impossible to clean if internal or external parasites were brought
in. The outdoor yard is fully fenced with 6 foot chain link fence that
is secured to steel poles embedded into the asphalt ground. Our
indoor play area is covered with wall to wall rubber mats for
cushion."
I doubt if sod would be a wise investment. Be sure to water down the
grass on a daily to keep it clean. Indoor and outdoor surfaces are
kept sanitary using disinfectants regularly used by kennels. Kennels
ideally should be disinfected every day with any waste that happens
cleaned up immediately. All bowls and utensils washed prior to every
mealtime and bedding checked at every opportunity. Primarily the
challenge to catching disease is taken care of by vaccination. But
you'll need to make sure you have no infection by stringent cleaning
and disinfection. Use only veterinarian approved disinfectants in
kennels and in the right quantities.
Many facilities have a section of grass, section of pea gravel
(walkway for staff or dogs), and a section of asphalt.
Fresh water is always made available to the animals.
=========
Inside and Outside
=========
When it rains, snows, or gets too hot or cold, your dogs should have
access to an indoor area that's climate-controlled.
Many small dogs may think they are a big dog, but any doggy facility
should have separate rooms for both small and big dogs as they might
need to be separated for different play games. You might want to
segregate by size, temperament and social skill into groups that will
be rotated throughout the day in different play areas.
Two Dog Lodge
http://www.twodoglodge.com/level.itml/icOid/13
"The Romper Rooms are brightly painted and filled with toys of all
sizes and shapes, jungle gyms, special dog beds, water bowls and their
favorite TV show... Animal Planet!"
Animal House & Company, Inc - DOGGIE DAYCARE
http://web.mawebcenters.com/animalhouseco/daycare.ivnu
"Dogs accepted into the program will be segregated by size,
temperament, and social skills into groups that will be rotated
through several play areas in a day's time. One of those areas will be
an outside play area, another will be a naptime area, and another an
area where they can watch the cars go by, lounge on beds, play with
their favorite toy, or watch Animal Planet on TV."
"Dogs will have access to a fenced play yard with 6 and 8 foot fencing
around the entire yard. The yard is divided into separate play areas
and all exterior perimeter gates to the fence are locked at all times.
Also, the yard is mulched with wood carpet (the same mulch used in
children's play grounds) and is suspended off the ground by several
inches of stone for drainage."
Tails-a-wagging - Frequently Asked Questions about Doggie Day Care
http://www.tails-a-wagging.com/main.php?navarea=FAQ+Doggie+Daycare
"The outdoor yard is asphalt, isn't that hard on their paws?
Our outdoor yard has several play areas. There is an area covered with
rubber mats with big, fun tractor tires for the dogs to run and play
on. We also have a smaller pen area, we use this for time-outs or when
the smaller dogs are outside with the big dogs. The larger area is
asphalt, although this is a hard ground it is actually a recommended
ground for outdoor yards in Doggie Day Care's because it can be
cleaned and sanitized. Grass would turn to mud and be impossible to
clean if internal or external parasites were brought in. The outdoor
yard is fully fenced with 6 foot chain link fence that is secured to
steel poles embedded into the asphalt ground. Our indoor play area is
covered with wall to wall rubber mats for cushion."
=========
Fencing
=========
PAWS: Resources and Fact Sheets - The best situation - a fenced yard
http://www.paws.org/cas/resources/fact_sheets_dogs/confiningdog.php
"A securely fenced yard is the best way to provide a healthful and
safe environment for your dog while allowing her the freedom to
exercise and be outdoors."
[...]
"When deciding on the type of fence to construct, first check local
ordinances for any restrictions and also check with neighbors along
the boundary lines as to the type and height of fence to be
constructed. Probably the best fence for a dog (although the most
expensive) is six feet of solid wood. Wood looks attractive, prevents
excess barking at distractions, is difficult to climb over and serves
as a barrier to sound and wind. You do need to be cautious regarding
the type of preservatives used on the wood, as some can be toxic to
dogs if ingested. Chain link fencing is durable and strong, although
it can be scaled by some dogs who find the holes just right for
climbing and does encourage barking at passing distractions. When
choosing a type of chain link, pick one that has holes small enough
that a nose or paw an not become stuck. In addition, round or diamond
shaped holes are better than square ones at discouraging climbing.
Securing your yard
To ensure that your fenced yard is secure for your dog, special
attention needs to be paid to gates and the bottom and tops of fences.
Gates should be checked on all sides for gaps that a dog can squeeze
through or become stuck in. Latches on gates should be higher than the
dog can reach, and are even more secure if fitted with a lock. Some
dogs will attempt to jump over a fence, especially one under five feet
in height. While small areas can be covered with chain link or plastic
panels, large yards can be secured by installing extender panels at a
45 degree angle on the top of the fence. If the dog is using a corner
of the fence to get over, sometimes this can be stopped merely by
securing a piece of wood over the top of the corner. Since more dogs
dig out under fences than jump over them its a good idea to install
the bottom of the fencing in a shallow trench, then fill in the trench
with cinder blocks, large stones, railroad ties or concrete. This
should discourage even the most enthusiastic digger."
More information on fencing can be found at the following links:
FENCING
http://www.purina.com/dogs/breeders.asp?article=74
Gates & Latches:
http://www.northernterritories.com/gates_%26_latches.htm
(WOOD GATES, CHAIN LINK, WROUGHT IRON GATES, CLIPS & LOCKS)
Wood Yard Fencing Design
http://www.northernterritories.com/wood_fencing.htm
Block Wall Yard Fencing Design
http://www.northernterritories.com/block_walls.htm
=========
Kennels and Runs
=========
Runs can be either inside or outside. The most important feature of
kennel runs is shape, not size. Long and narrow is preferable to
square as square encourages the dog to walk in a circle and this leads
to quick frustration.
You'll want to sanitize the area with a veterinarian approved doggy
safe chemical. Messes should be cleaned up as soon as possible. Hose
down the area on a daily basis, and make sure the runs are dry before
allowing dogs to go into the area.
Kennel Design Minimum standards:
http://www.kenneldesign.com/blueprints/standards.htm#us
[Standards: - Adequate ventilation & temperature, Sufficient shade from
sun & shelter from inclement weather, Protection from injury,
Veterinary treatment when required, water resistant.
Space/Size: - Allow freedom of movement or Calculation by size of dog,
structurally sound & in good repair, humanely clean, construction
materials]
OUTSIDE RUNS
http://www.purina.com/dogs/breeders.asp?article=73
A terrific website with tons of information can be found at Kennel
Design - Blueprints for Kennel Buildings:
http://www.kenneldesign.com/blueprints/single10/building/
Walk around the kennel movie:
http://www.kenneldesign.com/blueprints/single10/movies/movie.htm
(Click on the various links throughout the site for more information.)
Small area kennel
http://www.northernterritories.com/diagrams.htm
Large kennel Area
http://www.northernterritories.com/large_kennel.htm
Kennel Construction: General Information on waste disposal and drainage
http://www.purina.com/dogs/breeders.asp?article=156
Kennel Design
http://www.northernterritories.com/SafetySecurity.htm
(On left side of page see links for Earthqukes Fire, Flood, and Snow)
Before Installation
http://www.northernterritories.com/before_installation.htm
BUILDING A KENNEL MODEL
http://www.blacklab.com.br/CONSTRUINDOUMCANIL1.htm
Pea Gravel Kennel Runs:
http://www.northernterritories.com/pea_gravel_runs.htm
Concrete Gravel Kennel Runs:
http://www.northernterritories.com/concrete_runs.htm
A FEW WORDS ON SANITATION:
http://www.northernterritories.com/sanitation.htm
Ralston Purina Company lists six important components that make
up a properly built and kept kennel:
- The plan and the design
- The exterior kennel construction
- The interior kennel construction
- The grooming and washing area
- The kennel temperature
- The waste disposal system
Read more here:
http://www.coondogs.net/Library/Tips/how%20to/howto.htm
Excellent information can be found at Kennel Plans:
http://www.masonco.com/kenplan.html
"To help with your preliminary planning, this group of kennel plans
will give you some idea of the different shapes of buildings now being
used for commercial kennels."
Click on links for Plans 1 - 11:
Plan 1: Capacity for 100 animals with separate wards
for small, medium and large size breeds.
Plan 2: Compact plan that keeps distance to service runs to a minimum.
Plan 3: Would fit nicely on a corner of your building site.
Plan 4: Separate wards that can be closed during off-season periods.
Plan 5: Capacity of 96 runs featuring different sizes of runs.
Distance to service runs kept to a minimum.
Plan 6: All inside facility for areas where zoning prohibits outside runs.
Plan 7: For possible use on an odd-shaped building site.
Plan 8: A good basic starter plan that allows for future expansion.
Plan 9: Features outside exercise runs in addition to cage rooms.
Plan 10: Excellent for a gun dog training kennel,
or other facilities that handle outside-type dogs.
Plan 11: Another all-inside facility suitable for areas where zoning
prohibits outside runs.
Planning a Kennel
http://www.purina.com/dogs/breeders.asp
Click on the links for [Planning a Kennel]
Facility Planning
Kennel Construction
Food Preparation Area
Gates and Guard Fence
Grooming & Washing Area
Hallway
Interior Pens
Kennel Design
Kennel Doors
Kennel Interior
Kennel Lighting
Kennel Sanitation
Kennel Temperature
Outside Runs
Fencing
Sanitation Equipment
Storage Area
Waste Disposal
Click on the links for [Kennel Operation]
General Operation
Computers & Management
Key Factors
Parasite Control
Personnel
Preventive Medicine Program
Procedures
Rodent Control
Safety Precautions
Vaccination Program
Purina Website:
http://www.purina.com/dogs/breeders.asp?article=67
"To obtain a full copy of our suggested kennel plans to share with
your architect, call our toll free number 1-800-778-7462 (Monday
through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM CT) and speak to our Internet reps."
========
Consulting Service
=========
Fran Kiesling
Owner
Dirty Dog Landscape (DDL) Consulting & Design Services Inc. Minneapolis, MN
Phone: 612-722-7596
=========
General Information
=========
Frequently Asked Questions about Doggie Day Care
http://www.tails-a-wagging.com/main.php?navarea=FAQ+Doggie+Daycare
What do the dogs do all day?
"The dogs day is very structured. Most dogs are dropped off between 7
and 9 am. We provide free play for a few hours, usually with minimal
toys so the dogs can meet and greet. After that we break off into
groups where some of the dogs may come inside and play a specific game
or toy with a pet care provider, while another is outside with a
different group. Our goal here, besides giving you a completely
tired-out dog at the end of the day is for your dog to experience new
things. Interactive games, grooming time, clicker training time- are
just some of our activities. Often times young dogs need to take a nap
around noon, this also is time for us to give any food or medications
to dogs who need it. (dogs are always taken aside a fed alone).
Around 1:00 pm its free play again, usually with all the toys - they
can pick and choose what they like. All the dogs get a nap time as
well as a snack in the middle of the day. We have special napping
rooms for this, we do not use any crating systems. If weather is nice
we may bring out the sprinklers or water pool, running and jumping in
the play ground area is always a fun activity too."
HOW DOES YOUR DOG SLEEP WHEN YOU ARE AWAY?
http://www.poochieplayhouse.com/grooming.htm
"Dogs spending the night have a full day of fun activities and then
retire to a comfortable living room environment in the evening. We
provide comfortable doggie beds, sofas, futons and some very lucky
dogs may be able to spend the night cuddling with our staff member who
spends the night with them.
It is truly the stress-free alternative for both you and your dog.
All dogs attending the overnight must go through our daycare
enrollment process to be eligible."
A Place for Paws - What do dogs do at Doggy Daycare?
http://aplaceforpaws.com/doggydaycare.html
"Lots of running around
Some barking (particularly at the telephone pole man)
As much fetch as the humans can stand
A little agility if they are so inclined
A bit of training(Sit, Down,Off,Some tricks)
Lots of sniffing and exploring
Socializing with dogs and people,
Some hide and seek
Our daycare is fully interactive, with all the dogs playing together.
They are always monitored and never crated or isolated(except for an
occasional time-out for over-exuberance)."
Run 'em Ragged Doggie Daycare
http://www.runemragged.com/daycare.php
We do our best to make sure that your dog is dry for pickup.
Lots of petting and attention from caring Run 'em Ragged staff
Reinforcement of basic commands
Special attention for dogs that are shy or suffering from separation anxiety
Sound-absorbing material and rubberized flooring inside compounds
reduces echoes from barking, creating a peaceful and anxiety-free play
area
Web-cam viewing so you can check on your dog at your leisure
Mid-day nap with soft music and treats (if you provide)
Intermittent activity and behavioral report card so you know how your
boy or girl is doing and feeling
Chicago Dog Day Care - Things to consider:
http://www.animalark.us/dog_day_care.htm
- Are the dogs merely supervised or do staff members intervene when
play gets too rough?
- Is the dog required to follow basic obedience commands given by staff members?
- What type of training do staff members get? (At Strictly Dogs, for
example, prospective employees must volunteer for four hours so Ball
can assess their working style with the dogs. "This is not a
piece-of-cake job," Ball said.)
Does the facility seem overcrowded?
- What are the provisions for time outs? Under what circumstances is
a dog confined to the time-out area?
- Does the facility have a security fence around the outdoor area and
sufficient protection inside so that dogs cannot reach the outside
door? Some facilities have double gates with a buffer area between the
dog area and the rest of the building; others may use portable gate
panels to prevent escape.
- Will the staff feed dogs that get a midday meal? Give medications?
- Is there an outdoor play area? If not, do staff members walk the
dogs on a leash?
- What is the staff to dog ratio? One staff member for every 10-15
dogs is optimum.
- Does the facility have an emergency plan? Will your dog be taken to
his own veterinarian or to a vet used by the facility?
- Do staff members seem to enjoy the dogs? Show affection to them?
- What is the specific procedure for introducing new dogs?
- Do all staff members have access to and read the information
provided about your dog?
- Is there a discount for two or more dogs?
=========
Additional Information
=========
Get all required licenses and permits first. Contact the Planning
Department of the city for businesses in incorporated areas, or the
County Planning Department for businesses in unincorporated areas, to
make certain that your business location is zoned for your particular
type of business.
- Have someone around all the time when dogs are there.
- Your policy should be that all dogs must show proof of current
vaccinations, *no exceptions*. Ask your local vet what is advised.
- You might require half-payment up front; kennels are an easy way to
get rid of a dog that is unwanted; they just never show up for it.
- Get a contract written up that addresses all contingencies - vets;
vet bills; unclaimed dogs; list of required medication, ailments,
feeding program, etc.
- Design your building so each dog can go in and out at will through
a swinging door.
The American Boarding Kennels Association
http://www.abka.com/abka/
Pet Services Expo if you are interested in how to start up a boarding
facility, dog daycare business, dog training center, grooming shop, or
retail service center.
http://petservicesexpo.com/
September 26 - October 2, 2005
Embassy Suites Hotel Airport -
Convention Center
N. Charleston, SC
https://secure.bluehost.com/~choicegr/petservicesexpo/secure/products.php
DogsbyDay Online Tour
http://dogsbyday.com/page/19-410.htm
(Take note of murals on the wall)
Bed and Bone Bed and Breakfast for Dogs - Advice From the Pros
http://www.bedandbone.com/advice.html
Bed and Bone Bed and Breakfast for Dogs - What to Bring
http://www.bedandbone.com/packing.html
CitizenCanine Bed & Breakfast for dogs
http://www.citizencaninechicago.com/index.htm
Playground structures
http://www.anasark.com/images/=April%20and%20Shadow%20play.jpg
Some facilities have installed web cameras for doggy viewing.
http://www.runemragged.com/webcam.php
Lastly, decide whether you'll offer Pick-up and Delivery of Dogs.
=========
Keyword search:
dog day care B&B business
Bed and Breakfast kennel for dogs
doggy bed & breakfast overnight care
opening a dog kennel
dog daycare
dog kennel
dog runs
dog fencing
dog play yard
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==============
Best regards,
tlspiegel |
