10 Smart Moves to Prepare Your Dog Daycare Business for Holiday Season

In the world of business, few ventures evoke as much warmth and enthusiasm as dog daycare establishments. These bustling hubs of canine camaraderie have become increasingly popular in recent years, with pet owners recognizing the invaluable service they provide. While the image of happy dogs frolicking together in a safe and supervised environment is heartwarming, the success of dog daycare businesses is not just a matter of wagging tails and furry faces.

Take this into account: as of 2025, the U.S. pet care industry is on a steady climb, with market size estimates now surpassing $130 billion. Within that, dog daycare has emerged as a standout service, especially as more households seek quality care during workdays or travel. According to recent data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) over 65 million U.S. households now include at least one dog—a sharp rise from previous years. With pet parents prioritizing mental stimulation and socialization for their dogs, the demand for reliable daycare options continues to grow.

In this article, we’ll dig into what makes dog daycare such a thriving industry—from effective preparation strategies to modern-day tools and tips. Whether you’re gearing up for the busy holiday season or fine-tuning your year-round operations, we’ve gathered 10 essential ways to elevate your dog daycare business—complete with helpful apps, real-world advice, and actionable takeaways. Get ready to build not just a business, but a trusted second home for dogs in your community.

How to Prepare Your Dog Daycare for the Holiday Season

Plan for Increased Capacity

Tip: Use a booking management app to keep track of reservations and ensure efficient use of your facility's space.
Takeaway: Anticipate and accommodate the holiday rush with a clear plan for increased capacity.

Hire Seasonal Staff

Tip: Consider using a hiring app or platform to quickly find and onboard temporary seasonal staff.
Takeaway: Supplement your team with trained seasonal staff to maintain a high level of care during the holiday season.

Extend Operating Hours

Tip: Utilize scheduling apps to manage staff shifts and extended hours seamlessly.

Takeaway: Extend your operating hours to cater to pet owners' holiday schedules and offer overnight boarding options.

Extend Operating Hours

Tip: Utilize scheduling apps to manage staff shifts and extended hours seamlessly.
Takeaway: Extend your operating hours to cater to pet owners' holiday schedules and offer overnight boarding options.

Decorate for the Occasion

Tip: Use pet-safe and non-toxic decorations to create a festive atmosphere.
Takeaway: Create a warm and welcoming holiday ambiance with pet-friendly decorations.

Offer Holiday-Themed Activities

Tip: Use social media and your website to promote special holiday-themed activities.
Takeaway: Enhance your services with holiday-themed games and treats to add extra fun for the dogs.

Update Vaccination Policies

Tip: Use a reminder app to notify pet owners about vaccination requirements before their visit.
Takeaway: Maintain strict vaccination policies to ensure the health and safety of all dogs in your care.

Stock Up on Supplies

Tip: Inventory management apps can help you track and restock essential supplies efficiently.
Takeaway: Ensure you have an ample supply of food, bedding, and cleaning materials to avoid running out during peak times.

Promote Holiday Packages

Tip: Use email marketing and social media to promote holiday packages and discounts.
Takeaway: Create enticing holiday packages that bundle services to meet the needs of pet owners.

Train for Safety and Handling

Tip: Use training apps or resources to refresh staff on dog behavior and safety protocols.
Takeaway: Prioritize safety by ensuring that all staff members are well-trained in handling and understanding dog behavior.

Communicate with Pet Owners

Tip: Implement a customer relationship management (CRM) system to streamline communication with pet owners.
Takeaway: Maintain open and responsive communication with clients, keeping them informed about their dogs' well-being and activities.

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Best Mobile Apps for Dog Daycare Business Owners

Mobile apps can be a valuable resource for dog daycare owners looking to streamline their operations and enhance customer experience. Here are some mobile apps that could prove useful for managing a dog daycare business during the holidays:

Booking and Scheduling Apps

Booker – A comprehensive scheduling app that allows customers to book appointments and helps you manage your staff's schedules efficiently.

Staff Management Apps

Deputy – An app that assists with employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication, making it easier to manage seasonal staff.

Inventory Management Apps

Sortly – Useful for tracking inventory, this app helps you manage supplies and keep stock levels up during busy holiday periods.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Apps

HubSpot CRM – A powerful CRM tool that allows you to manage customer relationships, keep notes on customer preferences, and send targeted email campaigns.

Reminder Apps

Google Calendar – Use this app to set up vaccination reminder events for each dog in your care, ensuring they are up-to-date on their shots.

Marketing and Social Media Apps

Hootsuite – Schedule and manage your social media posts and promotions across various platforms to promote holiday-themed activities and packages.

Inventory and Supply Ordering Apps

Amazon Business – Simplify ordering supplies by using the Amazon Business app to purchase food, cleaning supplies, and other essentials.

Training and Resource Apps

American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine College – Access dog training resources and videos to refresh staff on dog behavior and safety.

Email Marketing Apps

Mailchimp – Create and send email marketing campaigns to promote your holiday packages and keep clients informed.

Point of Sale (POS) Apps

Square – If you offer retail products or merchandise, use Square to process transactions securely.

Pet Health Record Apps

PetDesk – Keep digital health records for each pet, including vaccination history, to ensure compliance with your policies.

Communication Apps

Slack – Streamline communication within your team and ensure everyone is on the same page, especially during busy holiday hours.

Review Management Apps

Yelp for Business Owners – Monitor and respond to customer reviews, both positive and negative, to maintain your reputation.

Safety and First Aid Apps

Pet First Aid by American Red Cross – Have this app handy for quick reference in case of emergencies.

Financial and Accounting Apps

QuickBooks – Manage your business finances, track expenses, and generate financial reports to assess your profitability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I start preparing for the holiday season in my dog daycare business?‍

It’s best to begin preparations at least two to three months before the holiday season. This gives you ample time to hire seasonal staff, organize festive activities, and make any necessary updates to your facility so you're ready for the increased demand.

How can I accommodate the increased demand during the holidays?

To handle the holiday rush, consider extending your hours, hiring additional staff, and making sure your space and inventory can support a higher volume of dogs. Keep your clients informed early about your availability and any schedule adjustments.

What should I do to ensure the safety of the dogs in my care during the holiday season?

Safety should always come first. Make sure your team is properly trained in dog behavior and emergency procedures. Maintain up-to-date vaccination requirements, and have a clear protocol in place for handling any unexpected incidents.

Are there any holiday-themed activities I can offer to make the dogs' stay more enjoyable?

Absolutely! Get creative with festive games and treats, such as Christmas-themed puzzles, Hanukkah hide-and-seek, or even a holiday costume contest. These little extras make the stay more fun for the dogs—and more memorable for their owners.

How can I effectively communicate with pet owners during the holidays?

Use a mix of email newsletters, social media, and website updates to keep pet owners in the loop about special offers, hours of operation, and holiday events. A CRM system can help manage and automate this communication efficiently.

‍ What should I do if I run out of supplies during the holiday rush?

Avoid last-minute scrambles by stocking up early on essentials like food, toys, bedding, and cleaning supplies. Inventory tracking apps can help monitor stock levels and alert you when it’s time to reorder.

Are there any special marketing strategies I can use to promote my dog daycare during the holidays?

Yes—offer seasonal packages or discounts, and promote them through email campaigns, social media, and festive visuals. Encourage clients to book early and highlight what makes your daycare special during the holidays.

How can I ensure a warm and festive atmosphere in my dog daycare during the holidays?

Decorate your space with non-toxic, pet-safe decorations, and consider using themed bedding, toys, or treats. A festive environment enhances the client experience and creates a cheerful vibe for both pets and staff.

Should I consider offering overnight boarding services during the holidays?

Yes—overnight boarding is in high demand during the holiday season, as many pet owners travel. Make sure you have the proper space, staff, and safety protocols in place before expanding this service.