In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky and Teigan look back on the incredible success of the first-ever Pet Pro Expo, a pioneering event created to bring together pet professionals from across the UK to learn, connect, and grow.

They share the behind-the-scenes journey of organising the event, from their nerves about attendance (especially with Storm Claudia rolling in!) to their delight at seeing around 170 people attend in person and 50 more join online. The turnout proved just how much the pet industry values community and professional development.

Vicky and Teigan also celebrate the amazing mix of attendees, including groomers, trainers, and retailers, all coming together to share ideas and support each other. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many people already implementing new strategies they learned at the event.

While they touch on a few small logistical hiccups, such as heating and meal timings, both hosts agree the day was a huge success — and they’re already planning the next Pet Pro Expo for October 2026, promising even more inspiring speakers and interactive sessions.

💬 Key Takeaways

• The Pet Pro Expo drew around 170 in-person and 50 online attendees despite the bad weather.
• The event brought together pet professionals to learn, share, and build community.
• Attendees left with actionable insights to help their businesses grow.
• Feedback was overwhelmingly positive — the event’s impact was immediate and lasting.
• The next Pet Pro Expo is scheduled for 3rd October 2026, with exciting new plans in the works.

🎟️ The Next Pet Pro Expo – Coming 3rd October 2026

After the incredible success of the first event, the next Pet Pro Expo is already in the diary! Expect even more speakers, insights, and opportunities to connect with others in the pet industry.

👉 Stay tuned for updates and ticket announcements!

In this special episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky Clark shares exciting details about the upcoming Pet Pro Expo, a first-of-its-kind event for pet professionals across the UK.

Taking place this weekend, the expo brings together industry experts covering everything from mindset and goal setting to pricing, financial management, and long-term business security. It’s the ultimate event for anyone serious about growing their pet business, and this year, online tickets are still available, so you can join from wherever you are!

After discussing the expo, Vicky shifts gears to share valuable financial advice for pet business owners. She covers common tax questions, explains how to make the most of home-working deductions using the utilities calculator, and reminds listeners why getting your tax return done early is one of the best ways to avoid stress ahead of the January deadline.

Vicky also touches on the upcoming budget changes, explaining how they might affect small businesses and assuring listeners that The Pet Accountant team will share updates and analysis as soon as they’re available.

💬 Key Takeaways

• The Pet Pro Expo is happening next weekend (15th November) — online tickets are available now.
• Join The Pet Accountant Facebook group for expert, industry-specific tax advice.
• Use the utilities calculator to maximise deductions for home-based businesses.
• File your tax return early to avoid financial strain and last-minute pressure.

🎟️ Join the Pet Pro Expo – Online Tickets Available Now!

Don’t miss this groundbreaking UK event for pet professionals, happening this weekend. Learn from industry experts, connect with others in the pet sector, and gain insights to grow your business, all from the comfort of your home.

👉 Get your online ticket today!

In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky shares her expert advice on how to make your tax return process smoother, simpler, and far less stressful, especially if you’re doing it yourself.

Vicky explains why getting your tax return done early (ideally in April) is one of the smartest things you can do. Not only does it help you avoid the last-minute panic in January, but it also gives you plenty of time to plan and save for your tax bill.

She also breaks down key areas that often trip people up, from understanding payments on account to including all income sources, such as PAYE jobs or savings interest. With the upcoming Making Tax Digital changes on the horizon, this episode is full of simple, practical tips to help you stay organised and compliant.

💬 Key Takeaways

• Complete your tax return early (ideally in April) to reduce stress and plan ahead.
• Understand payments on account, especially if your income is increasing.
• Report all income sources, including PAYE and savings interest.
• Include all relevant expenses, but check what’s actually allowable.
• Keep accurate records; it’s vital for Making Tax Digital compliance.
• Working with an accountant can save time, money, and potential errors.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a fantastic business event designed 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 & Tegyn explore tips for new businesses.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for an inspiring business event covering the latest topics in the pet industry. 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, Vicky chats with Helen, a former teacher turned pet groomer, who now runs her own business, Love to Paws. Together, they explore why having a proper website isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore – it’s a must-have for today’s pet groomers.

Helen shares her journey, from starting with a basic website that didn’t really showcase her business, to realising that her site needed to reflect her personality, services, and what set her apart from other groomers.

Vicky and Helen explain how your website acts like your shop window online – working 24/7 to answer questions, build trust, and attract new clients. They also touch on the power of SEO (search engine optimisation), and how the right words on your site can help you show up in local Google searches.

Helen also talks through the website packages she offers for pet groomers, from simple starter options to more professional designs, depending on where you are in your business journey.

This episode is packed with practical advice if you’ve been putting off updating your website or don’t know where to start.

💬 Key Takeaways

• Your website is your digital shop front, working around the clock to attract new clients.
• A personal touch matters – showcasing your personality builds trust before the first call.
• SEO helps you appear in local search results and get found online.
• First impressions count – a professional, well-designed website builds credibility.
• There’s no one-size-fits-all website package that can grow with your grooming business.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a must-attend event covering the latest insights for pet professionals. Can’t be there 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 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.

In this episode of The Pet Accountant Podcast, Vicky and Lee discuss how their all-in-one accounting package helps pet business owners stay on top of their finances without the usual stress.

They explain how client feedback led to the creation of this streamlined service, combining everything into one easy-to-manage package. With Making Tax Digital just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to simplify your systems and get financially organised.

They also introduce performance packs, a new way to visualise how your business is doing financially, and share news about the team’s exciting growth with new staff and apprentices on board.

If managing your cash flow and understanding your business numbers has felt overwhelming, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• An all-in-one accounting package helps simplify finances and improve cash flow management.
• New staff and apprentices are joining the team, bringing additional support and expertise to clients.
• Making Tax Digital is coming, and using compliant software is now essential.
• Performance packs offer a visual way to track business performance and stay on top of obligations.
• Clients are encouraged to understand what's included in their package to make the most of it.
• Financial literacy is key; knowing your numbers is vital for long-term business growth.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a brilliant business event tailored to the pet industry. Can’t attend in person? Grab an online ticket and take part from anywhere!

🌐 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 are joined by Jodie, Payroll Manager at The Pet Accountant, to dive into the often-overlooked world of payroll—and why getting it right is crucial for your business.

From choosing the right software (spoiler: Brightpay beats HMRC’s tools) to avoiding costly mistakes, they explain the importance of using a professional service to manage payroll. Whether it’s handling sick pay or maternity leave, Jodie breaks down how even small payroll errors can create big problems for both employers and employees.

If you're running a team in the pet industry, this is a must-listen to help protect your staff and stay compliant with payroll legislation.

Key Takeaways:

• Hiring a professional accountant for payroll helps prevent costly errors that impact staff.
• Brightpay is the recommended software—it's easy to use and offers secure document Storage.
• Switching from HMRC to Brightpay? You'll need to provide accurate year-to-date figures.
• Statutory sick pay and maternity leave rules can be complex—understanding them is vital.
• Payroll mistakes can lead to legal issues and financial losses for business owners.
• Always use the correct payment references when paying HMRC to avoid issues with credits.

🎟️ Don’t miss the Pet Pro Expo!

Join us in Birmingham for a must-attend business event packed with expert talks and industry insights. 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.