Looking for advice- owning a pet shop

[Sambo]

We are looking into either buying or starting up a pet shop. Would like lots of advice and tips please on owning a shop (especially pet shop) and also buying an empty shop to turn into a pet shop. Info on doing both, and what the law requires etc much appreciated
Thank you

[Corabar Entertainment]

When you say a 'pet shop', are you talking about pet accessories, or are you looking to sell pets?

If the latter, you will have a lot more hoops to jump through. Many local authorities do not permit animals to be kept on the premises and will not grant you 'change of use' for a pet shop. Even if they do allow it, they will tkae into consideration the other shops nearby (eg I know of one who could not get permission because the shop was next door to a restaurant)

Then you have also got to look at the fact that some manufacturers will not permit you to stock their product if you sell animals - Hills is a perfect example of this.

What are your plans?

[Sambo]

I meant pet accessories

[Sambo]

How do I go about finding somewhere online for people who own pet shops? I really need the advice

[Corabar Entertainment]

Why don't you just search on-line? (eg 'Pet Shops' on Yell.com) Many will give email addresses as well as phsical address and postcode. You could then email them direct, or even telephone them (although personally, I wouldn't like to telephone them - it is more intrusive)

There are a lot of decent people out there who may be able to answer your questions. (so long as you are not setting up in direct competition!)

[Sambo]

I thought of that but saw this forum so thought I would ask here, with this being for small businesses