Many pet shops also sell live animals, including hamsters, gerbils, rats, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rabbits and reptiles.

Pet shops that supply live animals must have a Pet Shop Licence and are subject to significant amounts of legislation relating to animal welfare and staff training.

As well as trading from traditional retail premises, many pet shops also trade online and supply items by mail order.

Some pet shops supply live fish and other aquatic animals and related care products. However, this is covered separately in our guide, Aquatics Retailer. Some pet shops sell equestrian supplies and equipment, which is covered in our guide, Tack Shop, and some provide dog grooming in-store, which is covered in our guide, Pet Grooming Service.

This profile provides information about starting up and running a pet shop. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.