How to Repurpose an Industrial Space into a Dog Daycare or Boarding Kennel

Repurposing an industrial space into a dog daycare can be a cost-effective and innovative way to establish your business. Industrial spaces, such as warehouses or factories, offer large, open areas that can be adapted to meet the specific needs of a dog daycare. They tend to have relatively affordable rental prices as opposed to locations that are in downtown. If you're in an ex-industrial midwestern location (I'm looking at you Wisconsin!), I can almost guarantee that there are a plethora of available properties that would be happy to sell or rent to your business. In today's blog post, I'm going to go over some of the basic ideas to consider when buying or renting an industrial space for your dog daycare.

1. Plan Your Layout Carefully

One of the biggest advantages of an industrial space is its expansive floor plan. Start by creating a detailed layout plan that includes separate areas for different activities. Designate spaces for play areas, kennels, grooming stations, and rest areas. Consider including a reception area for check-ins and a dedicated space for staff operations. Ensure that your layout allows for smooth flow and accessibility. Dogs should have ample space to move around without feeling cramped, and staff should be able to efficiently navigate between areas. Additionally, think about creating a separate entrance and exit for dogs to minimize stress during drop-offs and pick-ups. You might think that you're the best architect in the world, but it might not be a bad idea, wait, it's a GREAT idea, for you to hire a professional when it comes to designing the inside. They're professionals when it comes to how people will flow in and out of your business. You might think it makes more sense to for everyone to come in and leave from the same door, but they might show you that having a separate entrance and exit makes the most sense. You never know until you ask!

2. Invest in Proper Flooring and Ventilation

Industrial spaces often come with concrete floors, which are durable but may not be ideal for dogs. Invest in pet-friendly flooring options such as rubber mats or non-porous vinyl that are easy to clean and provide comfort for the dogs. Proper flooring helps prevent injuries and facilitates easy maintenance. Ventilation is also crucial in an industrial space. Ensure that the area is well-ventilated to control odors and maintain a comfortable temperature. Install high-quality HVAC systems to regulate air quality and temperature. Proper ventilation helps create a healthier environment for the dogs and staff, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and overheating. As stated earlier, you want to make sure that the floors are easily cleanable. You're going to be washing them with a hose more often than you think, so make sure they can handle a lot of washes. As for the HVAC, once again, have a pro do the work so you know that you're getting it done properly.

3. Focus on Safety and Security

Safety should be a top priority when repurposing an industrial space. Inspect the building for any potential hazards such as sharp edges, exposed wires, or unstable structures. Address these issues by repairing or removing any unsafe elements. Install secure fencing or barriers to separate different areas and prevent dogs from wandering into restricted zones. Use non-toxic cleaning supplies and ensure that all materials used in the space are safe for pets. Additionally, consider adding surveillance cameras and secure entry points to monitor the facility and ensure the safety of the dogs and staff. The last thing you want is for one of your dogs to escape. This happens more often than you think. Someone thinks the fence is high enough and then they have a dog jump over a 5-foot fence and they're shocked. Better to install higher fences and have double doors so that if a pet escapes from one door, they can't get outside without getting through the second door.

4. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Transforming an industrial space into a dog daycare also involves making the environment welcoming for both dogs and their owners. Incorporate bright, cheerful colors and comfortable furnishings to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Decorate with dog-friendly themes and add personal touches such as photos of happy dogs in your care. Consider adding amenities for pet owners, such as a comfortable waiting area with seating and refreshments. Providing a pleasant experience for both pets and their owners helps build trust and encourages repeat business. It will cost you some extra money, but offering coffee and some simple snacks in the morning when people are dropping off their pets will go a LONG way. Buy one of those big church-basement type coffee makers and have it full every morning so that all your clients can drop off their dog, get a cup of coffee, maybe a little cookie or two, have a quick chat, and then be on their way. This is how you create long-lasting relationships, trust me!

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