How much does it cost to open a pet store? What would I need ?
I was thinking about opening a pet shop.
Not a normal one though, just a small one with mainly cats and dogs.
And ALL rescue animals.
Like pets that are about to be put down or ones that are not wanted.
I would sort of work with the SPCA.
Have mainly dogs in nice living conditions and a few small rescue animals.
Also some basic pet supplies like the stuff you can get from the dollar store and charge like $4 instead of $1
Could it work?
What would I need?
Don’t open a pet store. Open a shelter. People who know about puppy mills and kitten mills will protest your store because they automatically know the dogs and cats there come from mills. Open a shelter and rescue dogs there. So, some basic supplies you need is food but get these dog food brands:
http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/showcat.php/cat/8
http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/showcat.php/cat/11
And these cat food brands:
http://www.consumersearch.com/cat-food
Also get:
Leashes
Litter box
Treats
Beds and Blankets
Training Books
Crates
Bowls
Anti-Flea and Tick Spray
Brushes
Tags
Toys
Scratch Posts and climbers
December 17th, 2010 at 11:47 am
u will need some money. considiring advertising, supplies, rent, and maintenence.
References :
December 17th, 2010 at 12:00 pm
i would recommend that you get a job at a pet store, like a pet smart, etc., so that you can get some experience in management and retail. you will also develop contacts with rescue groups.
pet stores, especially the larger chains, do charity work with local groups, and that would be good experience for you as well. you can also do volunteer work with the SPCA, etc., so that you can see what goes in to that kind of operation.
References :
December 17th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
A pet store is a very poor investment. Most lose money and close in a few months. Those that stay afloat barely make ends meet. To actually make money, you would need to open a chain of stores and try to compete with the large chains.
I realize that this is what you want and probably have your heart set on, so if you do decide to do it, I wish you the best of luck, but be prepared to devote your entire waking life just to make it work. Don’t expect to make much money though.
References :
I have investigated the possibility, watched dozens of shops open and close within a few months, and have talked to owners of small pet shops and they have all told me that it’s a BAD IDEA.
December 17th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
THe reality of the cost to start a pet store can be misleading, a lot depends upon the size of the operation, the location how much liability you want to take and many other factors. if you want to start a pet business you should start by volunteering at the local animal shelter. then you could help spread the news about adoptable dogs, and cats this would help build a reputation within the animal community. shelters, rescues, and you could learn what are good toys for dogs and cats,
may of the cheap toys the dollar tree sells for dogs are made of rubber and pose a threat to the safety of dogs this would be a liability if your store sold one to a dog owner who did not know and the dog got injured or even died from the item you sold. the cost of insurance for liability would increase the more items you sold.
here are some suggestions for pet related businesses which will be easier to start. Pet sitting and walking service, Pet waste removal service, Pet grooming, Pet training or behavior modification. each of these require a background in animal care yet are not expensive to start. yet any business has liabilities which must be considered.
THe services a pet shop provides are the sales which will bring in the money, the sale of pet related items is limited to the quality of the item and the mark up you must have to be successful. thus if a customer can get the item for $1. Why would they pay $4 for it from you?
Your idea just needs to be thought out a little more. if you need to get some experience in a service and a better understanding of the risks involved. to find the money you need contact The Small Business Administration for more information on business start up costs.
References :
Animal Care Specialist
Small Business Education and research over the last 20+ years
December 17th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
Don’t open a pet store. Open a shelter. People who know about puppy mills and kitten mills will protest your store because they automatically know the dogs and cats there come from mills. Open a shelter and rescue dogs there. So, some basic supplies you need is food but get these dog food brands:
http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/showcat.php/cat/8
http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/showcat.php/cat/11
And these cat food brands:
http://www.consumersearch.com/cat-food
Also get:
Leashes
Litter box
Treats
Beds and Blankets
Training Books
Crates
Bowls
Anti-Flea and Tick Spray
Brushes
Tags
Toys
Scratch Posts and climbers
References :