Pet Shop Workers

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that little employment change is expected for retail sales workers (including pet store professionals) through 2033 due to competition from online sales and increasing automation in some retail settings.

The larger pet stores, which can afford to offer special pricing, inexpensive grooming facilities, and free training programs, are taking much of the business away from the smaller, traditional, "mom and pop" pet shops. This trend is likely to continue, but small stores will survive as they promote a more personalized and knowledgeable assistance not available from the larger stores. The pet retail industry, in some form, will grow along with the retail industry in general.

The puppies and kittens frolicking in the windows of corner pet shops are becoming a thing of the past as animal activists have made the public increasingly aware of "puppy mills" and other unregulated animal breeders. Groups such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals fight for better regulation of animal sales practices and animal care in pet shops.

Holistic pet care is also changing the industry—nonchemical remedies, natural foods, and vitamin supplements for animals are gaining more acceptance from store owners, animal breeders, and veterinarians. And, as with every industry, computers have influenced the way stores keep records of business, sales, and animal health. Pet shop managers will be expected to have some computer skills, and a basic understanding of bookkeeping software.