Hey guys, so I just started offering dog boarding after 1.5 years of housesitting and feel pretty in the dark about the protocol. I'm looking to make my dog boarding/booking experience as smooth as possible. I have a few questions , if anyone is able to help I'd really appreciate it, thanks!

1. Do you remind clients to bring food, a leash, toys, etc? Do clients usually remember this stuff on their own?

2. I don't have any dog-care related stuff at home-- just tennis balls and some really basic milk bone treats. How well stocked do you keep your home? What essentials do you have on hand? In your experience, do clients care about these items or do you think it doesn't matter?

3. I don't own a crate. Do owners ever bring their own crate, if they prefer overnight crating? Do you guys own crates? And do you ask about crating beforehand? I don't want a client to be blindsided, but I'd rather not ask about crating in the initial texts if I can help it.

4. What questions/stuff to bring do you ask clients with young puppies? I assume puppies need some additional stuff like puppy pads, enclosures or crates for overnight, etc. How do you guys handle boarding puppy requests?

5. In general, are there any reminders/information/questions you ask clients over text before booking? Or anything about what to expect? I'm sure there are smart things to ask (although I'd cover most things at the drop-off itself), I just want the client to feel prepared and comfortable.