Books and Resources to Start Strong
Starting an in-home pet boarding business requires knowledge across pet care, business operations, and customer management. These books will help you build a foundation and avoid common startup mistakes.
The Business of Dog Training by Verlag Judy
While focused on dog training, this book covers essential business structures, pricing strategies, and liability that apply directly to pet boarding. You’ll learn how to calculate your actual costs per pet and set rates that sustain your business rather than undercut it. The liability and insurance section is particularly valuable when you’re keeping other people’s pets in your home.
How to Start a Home-Based Pet Care Business by Eileen Barish
This book walks through the entire process of launching a pet care operation from your home, including licensing, insurance, client intake, and safety protocols. It addresses the specific challenges of running a pet business in a residential setting, which differs significantly from a commercial facility. You’ll find practical checklists for setup and operations.
Doggy Daycare and Boarding: Running a Successful Business by Debra Kenley
This is the most directly applicable resource for pet boarding specifically. It covers client screening, pet assessment, daily schedules, handling behavioral issues, and emergency protocols. The chapter on creating a safe boarding environment will inform every equipment decision you make.
The Handbook of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat by Mordecai Siegal
Boarding exposes you to pets with various behavioral issues. This reference guide helps you recognize when a pet’s behavior is normal stress versus a sign of a serious problem. Understanding these distinctions protects both the animals and your business from liability.
Equipment You Need
In-home pet boarding requires surprisingly little equipment compared to commercial boarding facilities, but what you do buy must be durable, safe, and appropriate for keeping multiple pets in a residential space. Your investment will typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on your starting capacity.
Sleeping and Crate Space
- Individual dog crates: Heavy-duty wire or plastic crates (sizes small, medium, large, extra-large) for overnight stays and separation. Most businesses need 4–6 crates initially.
- Crate covers: Reduce stress and create den-like spaces for anxious pets.
- Orthopedic or memory foam dog beds: Comfortable bedding for each crate or designated sleeping area.
- Washable blankets and towels: For lining crates, easy cleaning between guests.
- Cat carriers: If you board cats, you’ll need safe, secure carriers for transport and containment.
Food and Water Management
- Stainless steel food and water bowls: Durable, easy to sanitize, and won’t retain odors or bacteria like plastic.
- Elevated feeders: Reduce strain on joints and prevent bloat in larger breeds.
- Airtight food storage containers: Keep dry kibble fresh and organized by pet.
- Slow feeder bowls: For pets prone to eating too quickly.
- Water fountains: Encourage hydration, especially for long stays.
Shop elevated feeders on Amazon →
Safety and Containment
- Baby gates or pet gates: Separate pets by size or temperament within your home.
- Puppy pens or exercise playpens: Create safe, enclosed play areas for supervised time.
- Leashes and harnesses: Multiple sizes for walks and outdoor time.
- ID tags and collar backup system: Critical for preventing escapes and identifying pets.
- First aid kit for pets: Bandages, antiseptic, tweezers for splinters, and thermometer.
Shop first aid kits on Amazon →
Cleaning and Sanitation
- Pet-safe enzymatic cleaner: Breaks down urine and feces odors permanently.
- Vacuum with pet hair attachment: You’ll be cleaning hair daily.
- Washable pee pads and incontinence mats: For accidents and older pets.
- Laundry hamper for soiled bedding: Keep pet items separate from your household laundry.
- Disinfectant spray (pet-safe): For surfaces and shared items between boarders.
- Waste disposal bags and bin: Dedicated for pet waste management.
Shop enzymatic cleaner on Amazon →
Toys, Enrichment, and Comfort
- Variety of safe toys: Balls, ropes, plush toys without small parts, puzzle feeders.
- Kong toys or similar: Keep pets engaged and reduce stress during stays.
- Treat-dispensing toys: Mental stimulation and positive association with boarding.
- Calming aids: Anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil or Feliway), or calming supplements.
Documentation and Records
- Client intake forms and contracts: Print or digital system to collect pet medical history, behavior notes, and emergency contacts.
- Daily log notebook or tablet: Record each pet’s food intake, bathroom habits, behavior, and any incidents.
- Camera or pet monitor: Optional but helps anxious owners and allows you to document any behavioral issues.
What to Buy First vs Later
Prioritize equipment that directly impacts safety and pet comfort. Start lean and add as your business grows and you understand your specific needs.
- Buy first: Crates, beds, food bowls, leashes, pet-safe cleaner, and a first aid kit. These are non-negotiable for safe, sanitary boarding.
- Buy first: Good documentation systems (intake forms, daily logs). This protects you legally and helps you provide better care.
- Buy within first month: Gates, additional toys, and cleaning supplies. You’ll quickly identify which sizes and types work best.
- Buy as you grow: Pet cameras, water fountains, puzzle feeders, and calming aids. These improve the experience but aren’t essential for day one.
- Delay: Expensive enrichment or specialty items until you have consistent clients and cash flow to justify the investment.
New vs Used Equipment
Buy new crates, beds, and food bowls. Used items in these categories can harbor bacteria, parasites, or damage that you can’t see. The cost of a pet getting sick or injured far exceeds the savings on secondhand equipment. Crates especially should be checked for sharp edges and safety compliance.
You can buy used toys, gates, and storage items if they’re in good condition. Inspect carefully for damage, missing parts, or signs of wear that could be unsafe. Avoid used cleaning supplies or items that contact pet bedding directly. Always wash and disinfect used items before introducing them to your boarding space.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Convenient for crates, beds, toys, and supplies with fast delivery. Use the links above.
- Chewy.com: Specializes in pet supplies with good selection and frequently better prices on bulk items like food and litter.
- Petco or PetSmart: Local pickup available, good for last-minute supplies and trying out products before committing to larger quantities online.
- Local feed stores: Often carry quality pet products and may offer discounts for small business owners.
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist: For gently used gates, pens, and non-contact items only.
- Veterinary supply catalogs: Higher quality medical and sanitation products if you want premium options.
- Costco or Sam’s Club: Good for bulk cleaning supplies, towels, and trash bags if you have a membership.