In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky Clark is joined by Vicky Skinner, founder of the Animal Focused Alliance, to discuss how the Alliance is helping pet professionals raise standards in animal welfare and stay compliant with ever-changing regulations.

They explore the challenges faced by sole traders in the pet industry, especially when it comes to understanding licensing, legal requirements, and best practices, and how the Alliance provides vital resources and a supportive community.

Vicky Skinner also shares why inspector training is so important for maintaining consistent animal welfare standards and how the Alliance acts as a central hub for pet professionals to stay informed and connected.

Key Takeaways:

• The Animal Focused Alliance was created to support pet professionals and promote animal welfare standards.
• Keeping up with legislative changes in the UK is crucial for anyone working in pet care.
• Training and qualifications for inspectors are vital to maintaining consistent welfare standards.
• Sole traders often struggle to access guidance, making a hub like the Alliance invaluable.
• The Alliance provides reliable resources, updates, and a community for pet professionals.
• Regulations in animal care continue to evolve—staying informed is key to protecting animal welfare.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a must-attend business event covering the latest topics for pet professionals. Can’t attend in person? Online tickets are available too!

🌐 Visit petaccountant.co.uk

To find out how Vicky, Lee, and the team can help your pet business grow.

In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky and Lee tackle one of the most confusing but important topics for pet business owners: VAT and pricing.

They explain the recent increase in the VAT registration threshold to £90,000, what that means for your business, and why keeping an eye on your VATable turnover is essential to avoid mistakes. They also share real-life examples of where business owners have misinterpreted VAT rules, and the costly problems that followed.

But VAT doesn’t have to be scary. Vicky and Lee show how the right VAT scheme and strong pricing strategies (like annual price reviews) can actually support growth and protect profitability.

Key Takeaways:

• The VAT registration threshold has increased to £90,000—know how this impacts your business.
• Always understand the difference between gross and net figures when calculating VAT.
• VAT registration can be a sign of growth and stability, not just a burden.
• Regular price increases are vital to maintain profitability as costs rise.
• Choosing the right VAT scheme (standard or flat rate) can improve cash flow.
• A qualified accountant can save you from costly VAT and pricing mistakes.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a business event packed with expert insights for pet professionals. Can’t make it in person? Online tickets are available too!

🌐 Visit petaccountant.co.uk

To find out how Vicky, Lee, and the team can help your pet business grow.

In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky is joined by Teigan to break down everything pet business owners need to know about Making Tax Digital, and why switching to the right accounting software isn’t just helpful, it’s going to be the law for many businesses by April 2026.

They compare popular software options, including Dext, FreeAgent, and Xero, explaining which one works best for different business needs. From simple compliance tools to feature-rich reporting systems, they share practical advice to help you choose the right fit for your business.

Vicky also explains why The Pet Accountant avoids QuickBooks, and why keeping a separate business bank account is essential for accurate bookkeeping. This episode is full of actionable tips to help you get compliant and stay financially organised.

Key Takeaways:

• Businesses earning over £50,000 will need to comply with Making Tax Digital by April 2026.
• Dext is a simple option for straightforward compliance.
• Free Agent and Xero offer more advanced features for detailed reporting.
• QuickBooks is avoided due to technical issues and data loss problems.
• Choose software based on your business needs, budget, and complexity.
• Always use a separate business bank account to keep finances clear.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a brilliant pet business event covering key industry topics. Can’t attend in person? Online tickets are available too!

🌐 Visit petaccountant.co.uk

To find out how Vicky, Lee, and the team can help your pet business grow.