Many people choose to open either a grooming facility or pet spa after they gain some experience at grooming their own pets. If you are considering opening this type of business, keep in mind that grooming a dog does involve more than just using a pair of clippers to clip the dog’s air. Grooming can be hard work and it requires not only a love of working with animals but also sufficient professional training.
One of the best ways to find out if opening a grooming shop or pet spa is right for you is to attend a pet grooming seminar or workshop. These are frequently held in many communities around the country by experienced, qualified dog groomers. Not only do they offer advice but also demonstrations as well. This will help you to pick up on some new ideas and even professional hints regarding the running of a pet salon. These seminars are also a great way to learn about the latest in equipment and supplies while also seeing a variety of different demonstrations on trimming and styling.
It is also a good idea to join a professional groomer’s association. This will give your business a more professional appearance while also providing you with invaluable opportunities for networking.
Training to become a groomer is essential. There are many colleges which teach pet grooming. In addition, courses are often available at grooming establishments and kennels. Keep in mind that while you might find a short course on grooming that will give you an introduction this will not really provide you with the level of experience you need to open a professional salon. That type of experience can only be gained through time and often through an apprenticeship type program. Consider applying for a job with a grooming establishment which has a good reputation and spend at least several months gaining the experience you need before you actually set up your own pet spa or salon. You might start out as a bather and then work your way up to clipping and grooming. Avoid the temptation to rush as this can be disastrous to your future as a professional groomer.
Establishing your Grooming Business
Before you actually set up your own pet spa or grooming facility, you should first consider the costs that are involved in such an endeavor. Start with the location for your business. You may wish to first open your business in your home, perhaps even in a spare room. While this may not be ideal it could suffice until you build up your business. Long term, you should consider locating a business building or premise in another location or adding an extension to your home which will be not only more convenient but also more hygienic. You will need to take all different aspects of required expenses into consideration when planning your business.
Expenses and Supplies
The cost of setting up a pet spa or grooming facility will largely depend upon the scale you would like to achieve while starting out as well as the area in which you live. In a smaller community the cost will naturally be less than in a more metropolitan area or real estate or rent.
Some costs to consider include:
• Mortgage payment or monthly rent
• Telephone services
• Utilities
• Insurance for both the building and your business services
• Costs for sharpening scissors and blades-monthly
• Shampoos and any other necessary supplies
• Wages for employees as well as any benefits offered
• Advertising and marketing expenses
• Inventory costs for retail products you choose to offer
The amount of space you will need will depend up on whether you intend to start out as a one-person grooming operation or whether you plan to hire assistants to help you right away. For a one person grooming operation, you will need the following:
Bathing Area that includes:
• Bathtub that is equipped with a shower nozzle
• Shampoos (flea, medicated, tearless and moisturizing)
• Conditioners
• Flea and tick preparations
• Rubber gloves
Grooming Area that includes:
• Adjustable table with a grooming arm
• Mirror length table to view work from all sides
• Animal clippers
• Blades for clippers (#30, #15, #10, #3/8 poodle, #7F, #4F) You may also need a set of backup blades
• Various size slicker brushes
• Pin brushes
• Steel combs
• Mat splitters
• Good quality scissors 7-9″; straight and curved
• Conditioning and detangling sprays
• Ribbons and bows
• Dryers
Reception Area that includes:
• Chairs in the waiting area for customers
• Dog and pet related magazines
• Desk
• Appointment book
• Telephone
• Décor for the room
Cleaning Supplies that include:
• Blade wash fluid
• Disinfectants for cages, floors, etc.
Is This the Right Business for you?
While a dog grooming or pet spa business can be a good way to earn an income, you must first consider whether it is the right business for you? Ask yourself the following questions:
• Do you enjoy working with animals?
• Do you have the ability to work closely with animals?
• Do you enjoy interacting with people?
• Are you bothered by the sound of barking dogs?
• Do you have a sense of artistic expression?
• Are you able to handle and love dogs of different temperaments and sizes?
• Have you received instruction from a reputable grooming school or from an expert groomer?
• Do you have a good business sense?
• Do you have good communication skills?
These are all important questions to consider in determining whether this may be the right business opportunity for you.
Gaining Experience
If you have not attended a grooming school or some type of certification program you can also gain experience in pet grooming by applying for a job to work with animals in another facility or by volunteering at a shelter. Many animal care facilities and shelters desperately need volunteer assistance from people who are learning about pet care, including bathing, cleaning and the basics of grooming. Try asking your local veterinarian or local animal rescue group about opportunities that would allow you to work in this capacity.
Your Business
One of the important factors to consider in determining whether this is a good business opportunity for you is the location. This is critical for any business. Most people prefer having easy access when they bring in their dogs for grooming. Keep in mind that a large number of senior citizens have dogs for companions and may require a pick up and delivery service if they are not able to drive. It is essential to ensure that you have the potential clientele before you actually open your business.
• Does the area where you are considering starting your business already have a groomer?
• What is the competition like?
• Can the local area support your business as well as any other pet grooming businesses that may already be established?
