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Any Tips On Buying A Dog Grooming Business?

Is a dog grooming business for you? Business broker Joe Ranieri ponders this question with BizBen viewers and answers this question along with other intermediaries and advisors. Some replies cover: brick and mortar vs. mobile, licenses & certifications, maintaining and growing a clientel, etc.


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To most Americans, dogs are a part of the family. Before dogs became domesticated, they descended from wolves, and so the bond between human and dog goes back a long time, they provide companionship, protection, and relieve stress, and in return we feed them, house them, and among other things, groom them (or hire someone to). Most everyone loves their dogs, and even loves other people's dogs, but before anyone decides to buy a dog grooming business, they must ask… Do I want to be surrounded by dogs, other people's dogs, all day long? Here are some tips to consider before turning your love of animals into a business.

1. Are you going to have a brick-and-mortar grooming business or are you going to be mobile, or both?

The difference between going mobile or having an established retail space is, which type of client base do you want to attract? Many dog loving clients may have schedules that make it more convenient for you to come to them outside of traditional business hours, while others may have specific breeds or really want to have their dogs pampered at a fixed location. The upside to being mobile is that it is a wonderful way to attract more clients, because your vehicle acts as a mini billboard parked along the street. If you have a vehicle, I also recommend you get one of the business card holders so you can affix it to your mobile spa.

2. Licenses and certifications.

Pet grooming is an unregulated industry that does not require specific education or certification, unlike cutting people’s hair. While certification is not required, it’s recommended, and one could learn more about that by contacting the National Dog Groomers Association of America to find out more. One should definitely investigate which proper liability insurance they must have; in case something happens to the dog or the dog bites, etc.

3. Decide how to maintain and grow your business by building a client base.

A pet grooming business owner should try to establish relationships with other pet-oriented businesses, such as dog walking, pet sitting, or nearby dog shelters or kennels that they can recommend their clients to you, and in return you can refer business to them. Many people do not feel comfortable leaving their pooch with someone they do not know, and so if you do purchase a dog grooming business, then make it a high priority to keep the same employees on staff who worked for the previous owner.



BizBen Blog Contributer Buying a Business


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