We are a few months into this new venture, and so far, it’s been an absolute dream. I’m fully convinced that dog people are some of the best people, and the dogs and their owners that we’ve met over the last months have just been wonderful.
Here are my takeaways so far:
- I love all the dogs. I wasn’t sure how it would feel to take care of someone else’s dog. I love my own dogs like family and am now able to say that I love all the dogs who’ve come to Barkansas. I find myself calling them nicknames, much like I do my own, and telling them I love them. I’m not sure if they know what I’m saying, but I feel sure they can feel that they’re in a safe place with someone who cares about them.
- I wasn’t prepared for just how much poop there would be. We are a small kennel. 15-20 dogs would be absolutely maximum and yet…there’s so much poop!
- Most dogs do very well in a social/kennel situation. Some do not. (I’ll be creating a post about this soon)
- I’m surprised how many dogs don’t want bedding!
- I’ve been surprised at how few accidents have been had in the kennel. I’ve had one senior dog who had an accident and a couple who pee a little almost every single time they get excited–and one who I think was just nervous. But compared to how many dogs have been in the kennel, I’ve been pleasantly surprised at just how well potty trained they all are! Granted, we go out a lot and I think that helps, but still . . . I don’t have to clean TOO many accidents inside the building.
- Speaking of cleaning: I think cleaning might be the most time-consuming thing I do! It’s a constant battle to keep the kennel floor swept, mopped, and sanitized. Same goes for the outdoor turf! I pressure wash it and keep the leaves blown off and it’s a never-ending chore. And I pretty much always have a load of bedding/towels to do, and a set of dog bowls to clean.
- I get attached to any dog who stays more than a few days. I recently had one here for 10 days and after she left, I wondered if it would be weird if I sent her owner a text to check on her! Ha! (I decided it would definitely be weird, so I didn’t do it, but I sure was tempted!)
- I’m constantly learning. Opening and operating a small business wasn’t anything I ever expected to do. I’m still learning the best ways to do things–so don’t be surprised if I occasionally change up things like drop off/pick up, paperwork, or reservations until I find the best process.
Overall, I’m so very thankful to have the opportunity to take care of dogs and give owners peace of mind while they’re out of town!
Barkansas Dog Boarding 