$10k for animals & supplies...water on a hot skillet.

What about rent? Advertising? Insurance? Maintenance supplies? Waste removal? Utilities? Payroll? Taxes? Store fixtures? Phones? Signs? Security system (yes, you will need one)...

How big of a city are you in & what is your local competition from other pet stores? How much is it going to cost you to secure a space that will work for this application? Sure, you can check it out in the summer, but will you need to make adjustments in the winter to protect your animals? Wyoming isn't exactly warm in some months. If you find a good space, is it A) affordable, and B) in close proximity to other retailers that can beat you on dry good pricing due to their corporate ability to buy in bulk? If you're just going to do reptiles, how are you going to create a name for yourself in your local area, and will there be enough of a demand to support such a niche market?

All stuff to think about...I can hit you with more if you'd like.



K~