My husband and I have owned and operated our own business in the past, so I know that self-employment is usually a matter of feast or famine when it comes to money and spare time. Having more time at home with my dogs was the main reason that I decided to open the boarding kennel last year. The problem is that when I have spare time, it’s because the kennel isn’t busy, and when I actually have money, my time is gone. Sure wish there was a way to coordinate the two better, but I don’t think there is. LOL Hindsight is 20/20.
In the meantime, November and December are probably the two of our busiest months for boarding dogs because people are traveling for the holidays. So, that’s good, but now I’m ready for things to slow back down a bit. I’m pretty tired of spending hours chiseling poop out of the snow, and then even worse is trying to chisel it out of the ice that we’ve had when the snow melted down and then refroze. It’s really a chore, and I personally can’t wait for warmer weather and easier clean up around here. On the other hand, I’m grateful that business was good this year, and it looks like it’s definitely picked up from last years baseline.
Intereting!! We are moving to Colorado next year and one of the things we are considering is opening a boarding kennel. I’m also considering boarding birds, but that’s another story. It’s interesting to hear what’s it’s like from someone who’s doing it.
Flos last blog post..Bully Dogs
It’s always good for business to be busy! I am sure it will be nice during the slower months to hang out with those dogs.
Christys last blog post..Finally some pics from NY
its nice to know you are growing your business, especially in this economic environment. Congrats
Saint Lovers last blog post..Wordless Wednesday – New Years Eve Edition
Flo,
I don’t know what part of CO you will be moving to, but my husband and I lived in Grand Junction for just over a year when we were first married. I loved it! I really thought that the people in general were much more “dog friendly” than here in UT and so I think that you might have a great opportunity for a business there!
Christy,
It is nice to have the business going well. I’m very grateful!
Yeah I wonder about a business but then it seems like too much work! And chiseling poop out of snow for 6 dogs is poop enough!
I’m glad this year was better!
Cynthias last blog post..Calm Down, Muffit.
Your statement “I’m pretty tired of spending hours chiseling poop out of the snow, and then even worse is trying to chisel it out of the ice that we’ve had when the snow melted down and then refroze.” really resonates with me and Barbara! Some days, I go out for an hour or two and get only the top layer chiseled out
But I am not so enthusiastic about the warm weather bit — it’s going to be messy as all get out, ’cause there’s no way I can chisel it all out during the winter. Ugh!
And you think 6 dogs is a lot? Try 13 to 21! (Of course, Cynthia’s got weight on her side — no, no, I didn’t mean it that way! I just meant that 6 collies probably weight as much as a dozen or so shelties!)
SheltieJims last blog post..An Angel On The Mend
OMG Jim,
That comment cracked me up!!! I’m pretty sure that Cyn has us both beat in the weight of her dogs.
As for sheer numbers, you’re right about the relatively small number of 7 dogs in our house, (I can hear the audible gasp from some people). However, don’t forget I’ve had anywhere from 7 to 10 more in the boarding kennel that have added to contribution to the daily chiseling. LOL So, for the last couple of months, I’ve been almost up to SRU’s numbers, but don’t get me wrong…I’m thrilled to be chiseling poop for only my crew today.
I don’t know how you and Barbara do it day in and day out! It’s really amazing!!! My hat’s off to you.
Well poop is no fun for sure! And LOL yeah I do have very heavy collies! They are heavy, not me!
Gus, though, I swear he’s got the coat of 20 shelties. He’s gorgeous and I love his coat, but there sure is a lot of it!
Cynthias last blog post..Gus The Sable Headed White Rough Collie Boy