Need a Pets Contract in Louisiana? AroundWire Can Help

In Louisiana, contracts for services in the "Pets" category—such as animal boarding, grooming, training, veterinary care, and pet transportation—are typically governed by a combination of state animal welfare statutes, municipal ordinances, and general contract law. Service providers must comply with the Louisiana Animal Welfare Act, which sets standards for humane treatment, facility cleanliness, and care, and may require facility inspections or specific permits from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. For veterinary services, licensed professionals must adhere to Louisiana Board of Veterinary Medicine regulations. Insurance requirements often include general liability and, where animals are boarded or transported, care, custody, and control coverage. Contracts usually specify clear service descriptions, animal health and vaccination requirements, limitations of liability for injury or illness, and protocols for emergencies. Payment terms favor upfront deposits with balance due upon service completion, and late payment penalties are common. Dispute resolution typically starts with mediation or negotiation, but contracts may refer disputes to local courts under Louisiana’s civil law system, which differs from common law states. Contractors should account for local ordinances, especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, which may impose additional licensing or operational constraints. Risk factors include animal injury, property damage, and zoonotic disease transmission, necessitating robust waivers and indemnification clauses.