Thinking of Buying a Pet Care Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask
Australia’s pet care industry continues to grow strongly, supported by rising pet ownership, increased spending on premium products, and greater demand for professional services.
More than two thirds of Australian households now own at least one pet, and spending on grooming, daycare, walking, training, boarding, and health related services continues to increase each year.
This growth has created a diverse and stable environment for pet care businesses, especially those offering personalised services, high quality care, and trusted client relationships.
1. Does the Business Have Strong, Recurring Client Relationships?
Why It Matters:
Pet care businesses thrive on repeat customers who rely on consistent grooming schedules, daycare bookings, training plans, and ongoing pet support.
Businesses with long term relationships and high retention are far more stable and far less affected by seasonal fluctuations.
What to Check:
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The size and stability of the existing client base, including how many customers return regularly.
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Whether the business has pre booked appointments or subscription based services that secure predictable income.
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Customer satisfaction levels, reflected in reviews, referrals, and word of mouth activity.
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Diversity of services offered, for example grooming, walking, daycare, boarding, and training, which help attract different customer types.
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Local demographics, including pet ownership density and demand for premium or speciality care.
2. Is the Business Operationally Compliant, Safe, and Well Equipped?
Why It Matters:
Pet care businesses must follow strict safety, hygiene, and welfare standards.
Poor compliance risks fines, reputational damage, and loss of clients, while strong safety systems increase trust and professional credibility.
What to Check:
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Cleanliness, maintenance, and safety standards across grooming areas, daycare rooms, play zones, and boarding facilities.
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Proper handling procedures, vaccination requirements, and emergency response protocols.
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Staff training in animal behaviour, first aid, grooming techniques, and handling of nervous or reactive pets.
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Insurance coverage, including public liability, care custody and control, and professional indemnity.
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Equipment quality such as grooming tools, secure enclosures, climate control systems, and enrichment items for daycare.
3. Is the Business Positioned for Growth in an Expanding Pet Market?
Why It Matters:
Pet owners increasingly seek premium services, personalised care, and convenience.
Businesses that align with these trends can charge higher prices, attract loyal clients, and expand into new service lines.
What to Check:
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Opportunities to introduce new services such as mobile grooming, puppy socialisation classes, behavioural training, or in home pet sitting.
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Adoption of digital tools for bookings, reminders, customer communications, and payment management.
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Retail add ons, for example treats, toys, grooming products, or pet accessories, which boost average transaction value.
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Potential for partnerships with vets, breeders, pet stores, and dog trainers to increase referrals.
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Capacity for scaling, including space for more staff, expanded operating hours, or additional service categories.
Ready to Invest in a Thriving Pet Care Business?
With rising pet ownership, increased spending, and strong demand for trustworthy, high quality services, Australia’s pet care industry offers excellent long term opportunities.
Success will come from strong client relationships, reliable safety standards, and the ability to adapt to evolving customer expectations across grooming, daycare, walking, training, and in home care services.
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