How to Start a Pet Boarding Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
Starting a pet boarding business is a great opportunity for animal lovers to turn their passion into a thriving enterprise. Whether you're planning to open a dog kennel, cat boarding facility, or a full-service pet care center.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps—and how to protect your business with the right insurance coverage.
Step 1: Research Your Market and Services
Begin by understanding the demand for pet boarding services in your area. Are pet owners looking for overnight stays, doggy daycare, grooming, or training? Knowing what services are in demand will help you tailor your offerings and pricing.
According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2025 State of the Industry Report, pet ownership continues to grow, with 94 million U.S. households owning at least one pet. This trend signals strong demand for pet care services.
Step 2: Choose a Location and Facility Type
Your facility should be safe, clean, and comfortable for pets. Depending on your budget and local zoning laws, you can operate from a commercial space or your home (with proper licensing). Key features include:
Secure kennels or suites
Outdoor play areas
Climate control
Sanitation systems
Make sure your location complies with local zoning and licensing rules. For example, Trailside Structures outlines zoning and kennel license requirements for pet boarding businesses.
Step 3: Register Your Business and Get Licensed
Check with your state and local authorities to determine what licenses or permits are required. You may need:
A business license
Zoning approval
A kennel license
Animal care certifications
For a deeper understanding of licensing risks and compliance, Attorney Aaron Hall’s guide offers insights into state licensing for pet services.
Step 4: Hire Qualified Staff
Staff should be trained in animal behavior, first aid, and customer service. Depending on your size, you may need kennel attendants, groomers, trainers, and administrative support.
Step 5: Invest in Equipment and Supplies
Essential items include:
Kennels or crates
Food and water bowls
Cleaning supplies
Grooming tools
Toys and bedding
Step 6: Market Your Pet Boarding Business
Build a website, create social media profiles, and list your business on pet care directories. Offer promotions to attract first-time customers and encourage reviews to build trust.
Need help growing your business?
Contractor Back Office offers website design, SEO, social media, bookkeeping, CRM, and estimates to help you attract more clients and stay organized.
Let us handle the backend—so you can focus on what you do best.
Step 7: Get Pet Business Insurance
Protecting your business with the right insurance is critical. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in coverage for pet care providers. We help you find policies tailored to your needs, including:
Types of Insurance You May Need
General Liability Insurance: Covers injuries or property damage caused by your business.
Commercial Property Insurance: Protects your building, equipment, and supplies.
Commercial Auto Insurance: If you transport pets, this covers your vehicles.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required if you have employees.
Professional Liability Insurance: Covers claims of negligence or errors in services like grooming or training.
Equipment Insurance: this protects your boarding facility’s essential tools—kennels, grooming tables, cleaning systems—from damage, theft, or loss.
Final Thoughts
Starting a pet boarding business takes planning, passion, and protection. With the right facility, staff, and insurance coverage, you can build a trusted brand that pet owners rely on. Wexford Insurance is here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about our specialized insurance programs for pet care providers.
