How to Open a Pet Shop

Opening a pet shop can be a rewarding opportunity that involves above-average customer service and responsibility. There are many decisions to consider before opening a pet shop, more than other small retail outlets. As with any small business venture, learn everything you can about the business you are thinking of entering.

Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      Hire an attorney specializing in small business. The attorney you choose needs to be highly knowledgeable about state agricultural laws and licensing.

    • 2

      Hire an accountant who specializes in small business accounts.

    • 3

      Find a good location. If you are meeting with a landlord for a building lease, make sure he understands that this will be a pet shop location. Ask for a written list of animals that are not allowed on the premises. Have your attorney approve all lease or purchase papers prior to signing a contract or depositing money.

    Setting Up the Shop

    • 4

      Choosing to sell livestock as pets gives you the rewarding feeling of uniting pet and human for a lifelong experience. It also presents more decisions and licensing. Have your attorney handle all licensing and city ordinance issues. If this is a new location for a pet shop, check with the city council prior to leasing/buying.
      Specialize as much as possible to separate you from other pet stores. It also makes cleaning and socializing easier, because similar species are housed similarly and play together.

    • 5

      Hire people to help with cleaning and animal handling.

    • 6

      Find a reputable animal distributor or breeder for the species you have chosen. Check the references and tour the facility. Get a guarantee.

    • 7

      Hire a veterinarian to check the animals before sale and provide a health certificate.

    • 8

      Have your attorney draw up a contract of sale and health guarantee.

    Opening the Shop

    • 9

      Set up the merchandising layout.

    • 10

      Order racks and merchandise from a reputable distributor. Comparison-shop for pet-supply distributors.

    • 11

      Train your employees on paperwork and the importance of cleanliness. Remind them that the most important thing is that they are caring for a very young animal to be adopted by a family.