Pet Care Business Daily Operations Checklist — Opening, Mid-Day, and Closing Procedures

The difference between a chaotic day and a controlled one is almost always a checklist. Not because checklists are exciting — because they make the critical stuff automatic so your brain is free to handle the unexpected.

Opening Checklist

• Confirm today's schedule: check for any overnight cancellations or booking requests
• Walk the facility: check kennel latches, gate security, water levels, temperature in all areas
• Stock front desk: intake forms, receipts, leashes, any supplies needed for today's grooms
• Check voicemail and text messages from overnight
• Verify any first-time clients have completed their intake paperwork
• Brief staff on any special notes for today's pets (medical, behavioral, owner preferences)
• Turn on all equipment, verify dryers and tubs are functioning before first appointment
• Post daily task assignments for each staff member

Mid-Day Checks

• Confirm afternoon schedule: any cancellations or add-ons since morning?
• Check boarding/daycare pets: food, water, outdoor time logged
• Return any pending client calls or messages
• Verify any payment issues from morning checkouts
• Restock product stations if low (shampoo, conditioner, ear cleaner)
• Check camera feeds (if applicable)

Closing Checklist

• Confirm all day clients have been picked up; contact owners for any remaining
• Clean all grooming stations: tubs, tables, dryers wiped down
• Sweep and mop grooming area and lobby
• Kennel and run cleanup: bedding, waste, water refresh
• Lock all exterior doors, gates, and kennel runs
• Review tomorrow's schedule for any gaps or conflicts
• Any cash drawer reconciliation and deposit preparation
• Turn off equipment, adjust HVAC for overnight
• Set alarm

Weekly Tasks

• Deep clean grooming equipment (clipper blade cleaning, dryer filter cleaning)
• Check and reorder supplies before they run out
• Review revenue report: revenue vs. prior week, no-show rate, add-on attachment rate
• Follow up with lapsed clients who haven't booked in 60+ days
• Reply to any Google or Yelp reviews from the week