Need a Pets Contract in Georgia? AroundWire Can Help

In Georgia, contracts for services in the "Pets" category—covering areas such as animal boarding, grooming, training, veterinary services, and animal control—typically include clear definitions of services, duration, and responsibilities for care and welfare of animals, reflecting state animal protection laws (O.C.G.A. Title 4). Providers may need specific licenses or permits, such as kennel or animal shelter licenses from the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and veterinary professionals must be licensed by the Georgia State Board of Veterinary Medicine. Contracts often require proof of insurance, including general liability and, where applicable, professional liability to mitigate risks related to animal injury, property damage, or zoonotic disease transmission. Indemnification clauses are common to allocate liability for animal loss, injury, or regulatory violations. Payment terms usually specify rates, deposit requirements, and refund policies, with prompt payment in 30 days a typical standard. Compliance with local ordinances—such as leash, vaccination, or noise regulations—should be expressly addressed. Dispute resolution provisions often favor mediation or arbitration before litigation, consistent with Georgia’s preference for alternative dispute resolution. Contractors should also address data privacy if handling client information and include force majeure clauses for events like disease outbreaks. Overall, contracts must align with both state and local regulations to ensure enforceability and reduce legal exposure.