What Pet Store Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
Starting a pet store requires more than passion for animals—you need the right equipment to operate efficiently and provide a great customer experience. Choosing essential equipment upfront helps you manage costs and set up your store for success.
In this guide, we’ll cover the must-have equipment for a pet store and why each item matters.
Why Equipment Selection Matters
The right equipment ensures:
Organized product displays
Safe and comfortable spaces for animals
Smooth checkout and inventory management
Compliance with health and safety standards
Essential Equipment for Your Pet Store
1. Display Shelving and Racks
Shelving is critical for organizing pet food, toys, and accessories. Choose:
Heavy-duty racks for large bags of pet food
Adjustable shelving for different product sizes
Easy-to-clean materials to maintain hygiene
If you plan to sell live animals, you’ll need:
Cages and kennels for small pets like rabbits and hamsters
Aquariums for fish with proper filtration systems
Terrariums for reptiles with heating and lighting setups
3. Grooming Stations
If you offer grooming services, invest in:
Grooming tables with adjustable height for comfort
Professional clippers and dryers for efficient grooming
Safety restraints to keep pets secure during grooming
4. Refrigeration Units
Essential for storing perishable pet food, raw diets, and specialty items. Look for:
Energy-efficient models to reduce utility costs
Temperature control systems for consistent cooling
5. Point-of-Sale (POS) System
A modern POS system helps with:
Inventory tracking to prevent stockouts
Sales reporting for better business decisions
Customer loyalty programs to boost repeat sales
6. Safety and Sanitation Equipment
Include:
Cleaning supplies for cages, floors, and grooming areas
Air filtration systems to maintain a healthy environment
Protective gear for staff, such as gloves and aprons
Optional but Recommended Equipment
Pet scales for health checks
Training areas for obedience classes
Storage bins for bulk items
Insurance Considerations for Equipment
Your equipment is a major investment—protect it with:
Final Thoughts
Start with essential equipment like shelving, animal housing, grooming stations, and POS systems. As your business grows, you can add specialized tools and features. Don’t forget to protect your investment with the right insurance coverage from Wexford Insurance.
Contact us today.
