Setting Your New Pet Business Up For Success
There’s nothing more rewarding than building a career around your love for animals. Whether you’re dreaming of opening a dog grooming salon, launching a pet-sitting service, or starting an animal encounters business, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s where the Animal Focused Alliance comes in — helping pet professionals take confident steps, from idea to action.
Why Start a Pet Business?
The UK is a nation of animal lovers - and the demand for trusted pet care has never been higher. From behaviour support and training to grooming, walking, and boarding, pet businesses play a vital role in animal welfare.
But passion alone isn’t enough. To succeed, you need the right knowledge, clear support, and the confidence that you’re working to professional standards from day one.
Meet the Animal Focused Alliance
The Animal Focused Alliance is a friendly and forward-thinking organisation dedicated to helping people like you start their pet-focused ventures. As a professional body for pet businesses or all sizes we are here to make starting (and running) a business easier — with practical tools, real-world advice, and support that grows with you.
We don’t just hand out checklists — we provide personalised, accessible guidance so you can build a business that’s both rewarding and responsible.
What You’ll Get as a Member
· Guidance and support on starting your business legally and professionally, especially for businesses licensed under the Animal Activities Regulations.
· Discounted CPD and training from trusted providers
Exclusive supplier discounts and member perks, from business tools to supplier savings, you’ll save money from the moment you sign up.
· Templates and toolkits — policies, checklists, and forms ready to use
· Business support and updates on everything licensing, legislation, and welfare from across the devolved nations.
Starting Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
When you’re doing something new, especially something that matters to you, it's easy to get overwhelmed. There are so many little decisions, unexpected costs and odd bits of red tape. That’s why working with Animal Focused Alliance can save you time, money and a whole lot of headaches.
Joining the Alliance gives you a trusted place to turn. We’ll help you meet your legal obligations, raise your standards, and feel confident every step of the way.
Real People, Real Support
One of the things people love most about AFA is the human side of it. There’s no cold call centre or faceless advice. You’ll be talking to people who understand your vision and the sector and want to see it succeed.
Whether you're thinking about dog walking, training, grooming, breeding or something entirely unique, there's someone in your corner cheering you on and offering help every step of the way.
Ready to Begin?
Starting a pet business doesn’t have to be stressful. With the Animal Focused Alliance, you’ll get the tools, knowledge, and confidence to build a business you’re proud of — and one that truly puts animal welfare first. If you’re ready to take the leap, discover everything they offer by visiting Animal Focused Alliance’s member benefits page.
Make your passion your purpose — and let AFA show you the way forward.
