The pet industry is booming, and if you love animals and want to turn that passion into a profitable career, starting a pet business might be the perfect venture for you. When I started my own pet business 17 years ago it was so much harder to set up a website, know where to go for tools and supplies as well as what to do to get a license. With the rise of pet ownership and an increasing desire for specialized services, there are endless opportunities for entrepreneurs in this field. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get your pet business off the ground, from choosing the right type of business to handling all the necessary paperwork and legalities.

What is a Pet Business?

A pet business is any company that provides products or services related to the care, wellbeing, or enjoyment of pets. This includes everything from grooming and boarding to more specialized services like pet sitting, pet training, and even pet therapy. The beauty of the pet industry is that it offers a wide variety of business types, allowing you to align your skills and passion with the services you provide. Whether you’re hands-on with animals or prefer to run a product-based business, there are endless possibilities in the pet world.

Top 10 Pet Businesses to Start in 2024:

1. Pet Sitting – With busy lifestyles, more pet owners need trustworthy pet sitters to care for their pets while they’re away.
2. Dog Walking – Especially in urban areas, dog walking services are in high demand.
3. Mobile Pet Grooming – Offering convenience by providing grooming services at a client’s home.
4. Pet Photography – Capturing special moments between pets and their owners is a growing niche.
5. Pet Food/Treats Bakery – Homemade, healthy treats for pets can be a big hit, especially with the trend toward healthier pet diets.
6. Pet Boarding/Kenneling – Providing overnight care for pets while their owners are away.
7. Pet Training/Behavior Consulting – Helping pet owners train their pets to behave appropriately.
8. Pet Supply E-Commerce Store – Selling pet products online, from toys to specialty items like custom collars or beds.
9. Pet Reiki and Healing Services – Providing energy work, aromatherapy, and therapeutic touch for animal wellness.
10. Pet Waste Removal Services – A less glamorous but highly in-demand business, especially for dog owners.

How to Create a Pet Business Plan

A solid business plan is essential for laying out your goals, strategies, and the steps you’ll take to get your pet business up and running. Your plan should cover the following key sections:

• Executive Summary: Overview of your business idea and what sets it apart.
• Market Research: Analysis of your target market, competitors, and pricing strategies.
• Services or Products: A detailed description of what you offer.
• Marketing Plan: How you plan to attract and retain customers.
• Financial Plan: A breakdown of your start-up costs, revenue projections, and operating expenses.

How to Select a Business Name

Choosing the right name for your pet business is important as it will represent your brand identity. Your name should be easy to remember and reflect the services you offer. Think about using keywords that make it clear what your business is about, such as “paws,” “tails,” “pets,” or more specific terms like “grooming” or “training.” Avoid overly complicated or generic names, and make sure it’s available as a domain name if you plan to create a website.

How to Structure Your Business: Sole Proprietorship, LLC, or S-Corp?

Choosing the right business structure depends on your goals, liability concerns, and how you plan to grow your company.

• Sole Proprietorship is the simplest structure but doesn’t protect your personal assets.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a popular option for small businesses because it separates personal and business liabilities while offering flexibility in taxes.
• S-Corporation (S-Corp) is more complex but could provide tax advantages if you plan to scale and add shareholders. Consult with a lawyer or financial advisor to determine the best option for your specific needs.

How to Create Your Paperwork and New Client Intake Forms

For a smooth operation, you’ll need standard forms like client contracts, intake forms, and service agreements. These documents should cover the basics of your services, pricing, and expectations. For example, a dog-walking business might require an intake form that asks about the pet’s behavior, health concerns, and emergency contact information. You can find templates online, but it’s a good idea to have your documents reviewed by a legal professional.

How to Write Internal Policies

Having clear internal policies helps maintain consistency in how your pet business operates. These policies might include how you handle customer complaints, cancellations, payment methods, and your approach to caring for pets in different situations (e.g., medical emergencies, aggressive behavior). Writing these down and sharing them with your staff, if applicable, ensures that everyone is on the same page.

How to Get Licenses (State, City, and County)

Licensing requirements vary depending on where you live and the type of pet business you’re running. You may need to obtain general business licenses, pet-specific permits (such as those for kenneling or grooming), and potentially even zoning permits if you’re operating from home. Check with your local city, county, or state government to find out what’s required. Some states also have specific rules for businesses dealing with pets, so be sure to do thorough research.

How to Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is a must for any pet business. At the minimum, you should look into general liability insurance, which covers accidents that could occur while caring for someone’s pet. Depending on your services, you may also need professional liability insurance (for trainers or pet therapists) or property insurance if you have a brick-and-mortar location. Pet-specific business insurance options are available and often offer specialized coverage for common risks in this industry.

How to Get a Tax ID Number and Open a Business Bank Account

Once your business is legally established, you’ll need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS. This number is used for tax purposes and is essential if you plan to hire employees. With your EIN, you can then open a business bank account, which helps you keep your personal and business finances separate. Many banks also offer additional business services such as credit lines or business credit cards, which can help you manage expenses.

How to Get Additional Licenses like American Red Cross Animal CPR Training

Offering extra credentials can set you apart in the competitive pet industry. Getting certifications such as Animal CPR and First Aid through the American Red Cross, for example, can boost your credibility and provide peace of mind to your clients. Other specialized training, such as in animal behavior or pet nutrition, can also help you expand your service offerings and attract a wider clientele.

If you need more help, 

Starting a pet business can be both rewarding and challenging. If you need help getting started, I invite you to check out my PET Business in a BOX: self-study course, which walks you through how to start a pet business in just 30 days! It’s perfect for local businesses looking to break into the pet industry. If you’re interested in a more holistic approach, my Animal Healer Certification Program and Mentorship offers everything you need to not only start your own pet business but also to master healing techniques like EFT, Reiki, Jin Shin, energy work, hands-on touch therapy, aromatherapy, and distance healing. Plus, you’ll get monthly workshops and live Q&A sessions with me, Sasha, a Reiki Master Teacher Trainer with 17 years of experience in the pet business world. Click [here] to learn more and take your passion for pets to the next level!

By following these steps, you can start a successful pet business in 2024, turning your love for animals into a profitable and fulfilling career. I absolutely love my little dog business and it was a total game changer for me and my family. I really believe that if you love animals then this is a great fit for you and I am here to help. Click the Image below to get started! 

xoxox Sasha