About Pet Grooming Businesses
Pet groomers are hairstylists for pets. Some pet grooming jobs simply require that the pet be groomed in order to maximize his health. Other groomers are expected to groom dogs to the style of the breed. A bad pet grooming experience can ruin a pet's coat, traumatize the pet, and even injure the pet. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right pet grooming business.
Franchises
The four largest pet grooming franchises currently in the United States are Preppy Pet, Aussie Pet Mobile, Central Bark and Pet Depot. Preppy Pet, Central Bark and Pet Depot all have additional services, such as pet daycare and obedience training. The Aussie Pet Mobile Franchise will travel to any location in order to groom pets for clients.
Types
In addition to being a franchise, pet grooming businesses can be independently owned and operated or part of a larger pet store. Also, some veterinary clinics offer pet grooming services. For a higher price, reputable groomers will often come to your home in order to groom your pet.
Warning
Not all pet groomers are licensed. Anyone can become a groomer and even licensed groomers might lack the ability to work well with dogs. Also, even if a particular groomer is reputable, some dogs simply do not get along with some groomers. Therefore, you should keep searching until you find a groomer who gets along well with your pet.
Finding a Reputable Groomer
When choosing a pet groomer, begin by asking your neighbors and your vet about local groomers. Write down names and keep track of which groomers receive the best reviews. Try each groomer until you find a groomer that you and your pet are satisfied with.
Prevention/Solution
Ask for proof of certification or licensing. Ask if the groomer consistently learns new grooming techniques and is part of a trade organization. Ask your groomer if she is a member of the National Dog Groomers Association. Finally, ask the groomer how long she has been grooming pets.
Opening a Pet Grooming Business
Unless your state requires a pet grooming license, the minimum requirements for opening a pet grooming business is to simply market your services. Pet groomers can operate out of their home or even make house calls. But a pet groomer is more likely to get clients and referrals if the groomer has a certification from a pet grooming school. Also, pet groomers are more likely to get jobs at larger pet grooming businesses with a pet grooming certification.
