Why Pet Aftercare Businesses Are Vulnerable to Crises
Emotional Sensitivity of the Customers
Pet owners are often grieving. Even a small mistake can trigger large emotional and reputational consequences.
Strict Environmental & Legal Regulations
Effluent treatment and facility audits can be challenging. Failure to comply may result in heavy penalties or shutdowns.
Reliance on Skilled Human Resources
Untrained operators may cause machine errors, slowdowns, or even damage to the deceased pet, affecting both trust and operations.
Common Types of Crisis in the Pet Aquamation Industry
Reputation Crisis
Example: A dissatisfied customer shares their negative experience online → damaging public trust in your service.
Operational Disruptions
Example: Machine breakdowns, delayed pickups, or power outages → impact service delivery and brand promise.
Financial Crisis
Example: Rising costs with declining client volume → stress on your cash flow and employee salaries.
Legal or Compliance Failures
Example: Failing wastewater inspections or operating without updated permits → facility closure or public backlash.
Resilience Strategies: How to Survive and Grow After Crisis
1. Develop a Crisis SOP Before You Need It
Create response plans for every major risk: from machinery failure to media statements during PR crises.
2. Train Your Team in Both Technical & Emotional Skills
Operators need more than technical training—they also need to handle grieving clients with calm and empathy.
3. Allocate Emergency Business Reserves
Set aside 10–20% of your monthly profits for emergency use, so operations won’t stop during hard times.
4. Use Technology for Proactive Monitoring
Invest in CRM systems, remote sensor monitoring, and pickup tracking to catch problems before they escalate.
5. Be Transparent with Clients
If something goes wrong, inform your client truthfully and empathetically. People forgive problems more than dishonesty.
Case Studies: Real Stories of Resilient Aquamation Businesses
Thailand – Surviving Through the Pandemic
One business in Bangkok streamlined their operations and offered pickup-only services, thanks to prior investment in logistics automation.
Vietnam – Turning Crisis into Innovation
A facility in Ho Chi Minh City developed memorial products (paintings made with pet ash) when their aquamation bookings dropped.