NarpsUK equips prospective home dog boarders and doggy day care providers with essential resources to meet licensing requirements effectively.
As the UK's largest association for pet sitters and dog walkers, NarpsUK represents a substantial network of professionals offering dog home boarding and day care services. Our members agree to adhere to our terms, conditions, and code of practice. This includes securing the necessary licenses, maintaining pet business insurance, and completing a basic disclosure criminal record check.
To aid our members in complying with local regulations, NarpsUK offers extensive support. We provide detailed guidance on applying for licenses from local authorities and supply essential documents and procedures required, such as risk assessments, operating procedures, and infection control protocols. Additionally, we offer service contracts, forms, information sheets, and training courses to help members establish and manage their businesses professionally. Our members also benefit from software designed to efficiently record their business activities.
Before diving into the business, conduct thorough research to understand the market demand for dog boarding services in your area. Consider the following:
Identify potential competitors, their pricing structures, and services offered.
Determine who your ideal customers are (e.g., busy professionals, families going on holiday).
Decide whether you will operate as a sole trader or set up a limited company.
In the UK, dog boarding businesses must comply with specific regulations:
You need to obtain a license from your local council if you board dogs for reward.
Contact your local council to apply for a license. This process may involve inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Obtain appropriate insurance coverage, including:
Protects against claims made by clients or third parties.
Covers legal costs if you are sued for negligence.
Ensure that your home is suitable for boarding dogs:
Provide enough space for dogs to move around comfortably. The number of dogs you can board will depend on your space and local regulations and your licence specification.
Install secure fencing and gates to prevent escapes. Ensure that hazardous materials are out of reach.
Consider providing amenities such as:
Implement health protocols to ensure the well-being of the dogs:
To attract clients, develop an effective marketing strategy
Create a professional website showcasing your services, prices, and testimonials from satisfied customers.
Create a professional website showcasing your services, prices, and testimonials from satisfied customers.
Create a professional website showcasing your services, prices, and testimonials from satisfied customers.
Determine how much you will charge for your services based on market research and operational costs:
Providing excellent customer service is crucial for repeat business:
Stay informed about best practices in pet care through ongoing education: