Pet Grooming – Equipment Needs
Are you thinking about starting your own pet grooming business? You know that you love animals, you know how to perform grooming services and you even have a space available for you to do your work. What else will you need or should consider?
- Have you thought about the number of pets that you hope to groom each day?
- Will you work alone or will you have an assistance or maybe add an assistant in the near future? You can definitely perform more grooming services if you had an assistant, but you may also need a little larger working space. If your space is already large enough, you might want to consider setting up two work stations even if you plan on working alone at first. During the busy periods, you could always hire an assistant on a part-time basis such as weekends. You’ll already have the 2nd work station available, so you’re all ready to go.
- What equipment and tools will you need?
Grooming Tools Needed
There are a lot of grooming tools that you’ll need to get if you’re serious about your business, but you don’t have to get everything at once. If you have the monetary means to obtain all of the equipment, that’s great! There are always ways to work around equipment or tools that you may not have. Just be creative, but also keep in mind that whatever temporary solution that you decide to use, the safety of your client’s pet always comes first. You are going to need many different types of brushes, combs and clippers. Having nail clippers and nail files in different sizes are also essential grooming tools. Here’s an excellent video of a pet groomer explaining some of the basic tools that he uses and why he likes particular tools or brands.
Equipment Needs
One primary pet grooming equipment that you will need is a tub that has a spray attachment. Considering that you will probably be grooming some big dogs, it would be beneficial if you can afford to purchase a tub that has a built in ramp. This will make it much easier to get those larger dogs into the tub for bathing and your back will thank you every day. If you are considering a converted bathtub, you can find doggy steps for a reasonable price. These will help get the large dogs into the tub. You’re also going to need some type of rings so that you can attach restraints to the dog. You definitely don’t want any of the dogs jumping out of the tub. This is a safety precaution that is very important. Not only is there a possibility of injury to the dog, smooth, wet floors can also injure you. Another safety precaution is to install non-slip mats both inside and outside the tub. You might even consider using non-slip mats that have some cushion outside the bath. After standing for a long time, these cushioned mats will be much appreciated by your feet and back.
You will need a rolling shelving unit or caddy to keep shampoos and hair products organized and within reach. Having your grooming supplies on wheels will help make your life much easier. Bathing mitts that are textured not only cleans the coat, they provide the dog with a nice massage. Several of the rolling shelving units or caddies have hooks so that you can hang bath accessories and aprons. Aprons are a must unless you want to get soaked at each bathing. Of course, you’re still going to get a little wet, but nothing like you would have if you didn’t use an apron. Dogs love to shake when you drape a towel over them. Being prepared and having your caddy or shelves nearby and stocked with dry towels will prevent mad dashes through your work area.
Grooming tables are a must and are available at several price levels. Most of them are equipped with a grooming arm to help restrain the pet while on the table. The hydraulic grooming tables are fantastic. No need to lift those large dogs, such as the Great Pyrenees, onto the table. These tables are kind of pricey so if this is a bit much for you, use the doggy steps from the converted tub to help a bigger dog onto the grooming table. If you will be grooming a lot of little dogs, you can get lazy susan devices. These devices are pretty neat. Just place the little pooch on the lazy susan device and turn the pooch around without you having to move. Watch the video below for a good explanation about grooming tables and the typical straps used. A stand dryer is nice to have and should be positioned near the grooming table. These dryers are convenient when combing and finishing the hair-do. A vacuum, such as a shop vac is essential for a hair free work area, or as hair free as possible. Using a vacuum is much more effective than a broom when it comes to lots of hair.
Accessories for That Added Touch
After you’re done with the haircut and the dog has been dried and the coat combed out, you may need to accessorize. Some clients like fancy hair bands or bows on their lady pooches after grooming. Maybe add some matching nail polish, spritz of cologne and they’re all set to go. For the macho males, a bandana is a nice accessory. These accessories are inexpensive when purchased in bulk and the available patterns usually change with the season. Everyone loves to get something that is free. Adding these simple accessories for free as part of their grooming will make many pet owners very happy. A happy client will come back again and refer friends. Isn’t that worth the small cost of bows and bandannas?
