Things to keep in mind to avoid liablity issues:

Lock All Areas of the Building

Employees should be the only ones with access to the building, with either keys or a pin-pad. This will stop clients and outside people from entering areas of the building that may be unsafe for them or for pets. Having areas blocked off will also control where pets can go. There should, of course, be multiple exits in case of an emergency.

Overnight Security System with Motion Sensors

Security systems will help ensure all pets remain in private accommodation overnight. It will also alert police if there is a break-in.

All Staff Should Be Thoroughly Trained Prior to Starting

It’s extremely important to make sure all procedures are being followed and pets are being taken care of efficiently and safely.

Use Quality Cleaning Products to Spot Clean and Disinfect Building

Ensure all cleaning products are pet safe! Maintaining a clean environment cuts down the risk of infection and disease being spread. It’s important to have very detailed cleaning procedures and schedules in place, as well as cleaning staff trained in proper use of all products in the facility.

Non-refundable Deposit

Charging a deposit helps eliminate the rate of last minute cancelations and “no shows.” By doing so, accommodations will only be reserved by people who really need them, and spots won’t be left vacant last minute. In the event of a cancellation, consider issuing store credit, which increases profit and still allows clients to get their money’s worth.

Company Policies

Your policies should be clearly displayed on your website and given to clients during their first check-in. Policies will list out important information for clients including prices, required shots, the deposit, etc.

Signed Policy Sheet

A policy sheet should be signed prior to accepting a pet into the facility. This sheet should explain all the facility’s important policies and a waiver of liability to ensure you’re not responsible if anything does happen. Have the sheet written and reviewed by an attorney in your state. This helps to eliminate legal issues in the future if any clients claim “they were never informed” about a certain policy.

Confirm Pet’s Info Before the Client Leaves

To make everyone’s job easier, it’s important to double check all notes including the owner’s contact information, shot records, medication instructions, and special diet instructions.

K-9 Resorts was founded in 2005 by brothers Steven and Jason Parker in Fanwood, N.J. That business not only became a highly profitable enterprise that they sold for a six-figure sum in 2006, that revenue became the expansion fuel for their burgeoning K-9 Resorts business. The business, which is the only facility in New Jersey to have been rated number 1 by multiple major publications, is a luxury pet care franchise with locations throughout the East Coast of the U.S. K-9 Resorts has been featured on Fox News, CNN, CNBC, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. To learn more about K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotel and potential franchise opportunities, visit the company’s website www.k9resorts.com.

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