What do I have to do to open a pet store?
Full Question:
Answer:
Go to the following link regarding general information needed for starting any small business: http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html
In Arkansas, a retail pet store is defined as any room, run, cage, compartment, exhibition pen, or tether, any part of which is in the State, where any animal is sold or kept, displayed, or offered for sale, to the public. (ARK. STAT. ANN. B' 4-97-103)
Retail pet stores must provide to purchasers a signed, written notice of consumers' rights that also describes the animal being sold. (ARK. STAT. ANN. B' 4-97-105)
Retail pet stores must post a sign stating that complaints regarding animal care can be made to state health board or law enforcement. (ARK. STAT. ANN. B' 4-97-108)
While a state license is not required, a license from the city, town or county where the store is located will be required and the store must meet zoning laws, building codes and similar regulations. Business Licenses and information can normally be obtained from the city's main offices, such as city hall. Cost is about $25.
Requires retail pet store operators must annually register the store name and location of each animal housing facility. (ARK. STAT. ANN. B' 4-97-104) Retail pet store premises and records can be inspected at reasonable hours. Records are a permanent record of each animal's health and vaccination history, and a permanent journal of a sequential listing of animals kept at the retail pet store for 30 days or longer, which must include the animal's ID number, arrival date, exit date, and disposition. (ARK. STAT. ANN. B'B' 4-97-108, -103)