How to Start a Pet Cemetery
As with any other business, there are rules and regulations that you need to follow in order to start your own business. There aren’t many pet cemeteries around so opening one in your area maybe a good idea. Pets are considered to be part of the family, and for many, proper burial is important.
- Check state and local laws regarding running a pet cemetery. Speak with the right representatives before buying land because the authorities have the last say as to where you can have your business built. Many pet cemeteries house both the cemetery plus a crematorium.
- Draft and finalize a business plan for the pet cemetery. A business plan lays out immediate and future plans for building your business. It should detail your mission statement, key players, risks involved, financial plan and plan for future growth. Check out Bullet Proof Business Plans and Bplans to find sample business plans and forms.
- Think about how you want the layout of the cemetery to look like. Adding fountains, a gazebo and a chapel can add a special touch. Determine how much space you will need for each animal. A large plot would be needed for a horse, but you would only need a small one for a hamster.
- Locate memorial suppliers. These companies supply headstones, urns and grave markers. You can purchase something they have in stock or you can have something custom made.
- Tell everyone and anyone about your new business, as word-of-mouth is an excellent form of advertising. Take ad space out in the local newspaper. Make flyers and post them in places that attract animal traffic such as animals fairs, parks, kennels, pet stores and veterinarian offices.
- Join professional clubs and organizations such as the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories.