How to Be a Good Kennel Manager

 

Working as a kennel manager is both challenging and rewarding. As a leader in a team of kennel technicians and dog care takers, it’s your responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of the dogs under your care. You also need to manage the staff, creating schedules, delegating responsibilities, and maintaining a clean and organized space. If you’re interested in becoming a kennel manager or are looking to improve your management skills, keep reading to find out tips and strategies for being a good kennel manager.

Create a Plan

As a kennel manager, it’s important to have an overall plan for how the kennel operates. This plan should include goals for customer service, staff training, dog care, and kennel maintenance. A clear plan will help your team stay focused and meet your expectations as their manager. It’s essential to communicate this plan with your staff so everyone is clear on what their roles and responsibilities are.

Train Your Staff

A well-trained staff is an essential part of running a successful kennel. Make sure your team is trained in proper dog care techniques, including feeding, grooming, and administering medication. You should also train your team in customer service skills, such as how to greet customers, answer questions, and handle complaints. Training should be ongoing, and you should regularly review techniques with your staff to ensure they’re up to date with the latest industry standards.

Set Clear Expectations

As a kennel manager, you need to set clear expectations for your staff. This includes everything from basic job duties to customer service expectations. You should also hold regular staff meetings to discuss any issues or concerns. Make sure your staff knows what you expect of them, and be sure to recognize and reward hard work and good performance.

Get Training

As a Kennel Manager, you should be prepared to answer any questions that come your way, whether that’s from your Kennel Technicians or a client of your kennel. The first avenue, of course, is to gain experience. If you want to manage a kennel, you’ll need to first gain experience working in the kennel, hands-on with dogs. Another option is to take a course. There are many avenues for taking courses, including Custom Canine Unlimited’s Kennel Manager course.

Be Organized

Maintaining a clean and organized kennel is essential for both the safety of the dogs and the efficiency of your staff. As a kennel manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the kennel is clean and well-maintained at all times. This includes cleaning and disinfecting kennels, feeding and watering dogs, and maintaining an organized inventory of supplies. Being organized will also help you manage your staff more effectively, delegating responsibilities and keeping track of schedules.

Communicate Effectively

Effective communication is crucial to being a successful kennel manager. You need to be able to communicate clearly with your staff and customers, and you need to be able to listen to their concerns and feedback. You should be approachable and open-minded, listening to your staff’s ideas and concerns. Good communication will help you build trust and respect with your team and create a positive work environment.

 

Being a good kennel manager takes hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the dogs in your care.

 

By creating a plan, training your staff, setting clear expectations, being organized, and communicating effectively, you can create a successful kennel operation that provides excellent care to its furry residents. Remember, as a kennel manager, you are responsible for leading your team and creating a positive work environment, so always strive to be the best you can be.