Table of contents
Introduction
Getting started
Regulations
Taxation
Financing
Other resources
Introduction
The pet care industry consists of businesses that provide products or services for pets and pet owners. If you are considering starting a doggy daycare, obedience training, pet grooming or other pet-related business, you will be part of this growing industry.
Other common types of pet care businesses include:
- Pet sitting or dog walking services
- Pet clean up service
- Kennel/boarding services
- Animal behavioural advice
- Pet supply store
Getting started
Regulations
Some common licences, permits and regulations that may apply to starting your pet care business include:
Pet foods
If you are making or selling pet food as part of your pet care business, you need to be aware of the different regulations.
- For information on manufacturing and importing pet foods, contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
1-800-442-2342
Animal health
- For information on labelling and advertising regulations for dog and cat food, contact the Competition Bureau:
Competition Bureau
1-800-348-5358
Guide for the Labelling and Advertising of Pet Foods
Importing or exporting wild plants or animals
If you plan on importing or exporting wild plants or animals, you may need an import or export permit.
Contact Environment and Climate Change Canada:
1-800-668-6767
Permits for trade in protected species
You may also wish to consult the following guides:
Taxation
Financing
Other resources
Industry-specific information
- Ontario SPCA and Humane Society: provides access to professional training and information about the SPCA Act.
- Humane Canada: stay up to date on information about animal-related research and laws.
- College of Veterinarians of Ontario: regulates veterinarians in Ontario.
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency: regulates the importation of pet food and related products.
- How to prevent and detect disease in small flocks and pet birds