Member Code of Ethics

Upholding Integrity and Professionalism in the Pet Industry

As a member of PetBizNetwork, whether you are a pet business professional, supporting business, or non-profit, your commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and care is essential. By joining, you pledge to foster trust, safety, and respect within the pet care industry and the communities we serve.

1. Commitment to Animal Welfare

Members are dedicated to the health, safety, and well-being of all animals and homes entrusted to their care. Pets must always be treated with kindness, patience, and respect.

2. Honesty & Transparency

Members provide clear, accurate, and truthful information about their services, pricing, policies, and qualifications to both clients and PetBizNetwork. Misrepresentation or misleading claims are not tolerated.

3. Professionalism in Conduct

Members conduct themselves with integrity, courtesy, and respect toward clients, peers, and fellow professionals. Discrimination, harassment, doxxing, false reporting, or any other unethical behavior has no place in PetBizNetwork.

4. Accountability & Reliability

Members honor commitments, arrive on time, and deliver services as promised. Any emergencies or unavoidable changes must be communicated promptly and professionally.

5. Confidentiality & Privacy

Members respect client privacy, safeguard personal information, and protect sensitive details about other PetBizNetwork members. Member-only discounts, resources, or benefits may not be shared outside of their business without written permission from PetBizNetwork.

6. Compliance with Laws, Insurance & Safety Standards

Members comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, as well as industry-specific safety guidelines and regulations. They are also required to maintain active business insurance appropriate for their pet care niche.

7. Professional Business Presence

Members must maintain an active public website that reflects their services. Hobby or third-party platforms such as NextDoor, Rover, Wag, or Care are not acceptable substitutes for a professional business presence.

8. Continuing Education & Growth

Members commit to ongoing professional development, staying informed about best practices, industry trends, and innovations in pet care.

9. Ethical Marketing & Advertising

Members and advertisers commit to truthful, respectful, and inclusive marketing. Promotions must not exploit fear, mislead consumers, or disparage competitors.

10. Respect for the Pet Care Community

Members collaborate in the spirit of community over competition, recognizing that raising the standard of care benefits pets, pet parents, and professionals alike. Members aim to give more than they take and are open to respectful discourse about rules, policies, and professional practices.

11. Directory User Responsibilities

All users of the PetBizNetwork directory and professional search tools also agree to these same standards of respect and transparency. Contacting members is reserved only for those who are seriously considering their services. Any misuse of the directory or harassment of members will not be tolerated.

12. Consequences for Violation

Any member, advertiser, or user found in violation of this Code may face warnings, suspension, or removal from PetBizNetwork. This ensures our directory and community remain a trusted, safe, and ethical resource. Members and pet parents using our directory are encouraged to report concerns directly to PetBizNetwork. We will contact the business within approximately three business days to review the matter and determine appropriate next steps.

Thank You

By committing to this Code of Ethics, you contribute to the success and credibility of the U.S. pet industry. Your dedication helps raise standards, build trust, and ensure that pets, pet parents, and professionals alike thrive within a stronger, more connected community.