Many dog grooming shops are small businesses, and many people who own these businesses haven't taken the appropriate steps to protect themselves. For example, you might be operating your shop without having a business lawyer who is on your side and who is ready to help you when you need them. However, even if you don't actually think it's necessary to have a business lawyer when you run this type of small business, you should know that it is a good idea to seek legal representation for these reasons and more.

Get Help With Leases and Contracts

First of all, there is a good chance that you will need to sign some type of contract when securing a leased building to operate your shop out of. A business lawyer can look over the lease to help ensure that it's legal and can inform you about your rights and responsibilities based on your contract. They can also help you with other contracts that you might need to sign; for example, you might have a vendor contract with the vendor that supplies your pet shampoo and other supplies.

Prepare for Potential Issues With Employees

Running a dog grooming shop yourself can be difficult and can be a whole lot of work. As your business grows, it can become even more difficult for you to handle phone calls and appointment setting, checking customers in and out, bathing dogs, grooming dogs, and more on your own. Therefore, if you haven't done so already, you might need to hire one or more employees to help you run your business. You may need help with employment contracts when hiring employees, and you might need legal guidance about things like minimum wage and working conditions. Additionally, if you face some type of lawsuit or accusation from one of your employees, you will need the help of a business lawyer.

Protect Yourself if Something Happens to a Customer's Dog

It's probably important to you to do everything that you can to take care of your customers' dogs when they are in your care. However, accidents do happen. A dog could jump from a grooming table and get hurt, for example, or you might accidentally cut their skin while clipping their hair. You could face a lawsuit or some other legal issue if this happens, and you'll need legal representation if this happens. Luckily, a business lawyer can help you if you find yourself in this type of situation.

Contact a local business lawyer to learn more about your options.