Let’s face it: pets are cute. They always have been and they always will be. Due to this, owners will always be interested in having their pets groomed. Therefore, starting your own pet grooming business can be an extremely fun and profitable venture. However, establishing it the right way is critical to ensure success. Below, we break down how you can start your own pet grooming business.
Educational training
Becoming a qualified pet groomer, you generally have to complete some basic form of education in the matter. TAFE offer a Certificate III in Pet Grooming to establish all the relevant skills for the industry. Furthermore, TAFE also offers a Certificate IV in Pet Styling. Alternatively, you could shadow a professional or obtain your experience in some other method. There is no university degree for pet grooming.
Australian Business Number (ABN)
To legally run a business in Australia, you require an ABN. Registering an ABN is a straightforward process, and allows your business to be recognised as a seperate legal entity. As your pet grooming business is likely to be run as a small business, we recommend the ‘company’ option.
Location
Determining a location for your pet grooming business can be tricky due to the extensive options available. Below, we break down three prominent location options for your pet grooming business.
Your home
Running a pet grooming location out of your own home is a possibility. You would save on overhead costs, be able to keep your equipment stored safe and would be able to work in comfort on hours that suited you.
However, working from home also restricts your privacy. You may not be comfortable having people bring pets into your home, and you may be restricting your customer market by having a fixed location.
Running a store
A different location option for your pet grooming business is through running a store. This can provide you with greater advertising and customer possibilities, and allows you to easily seperate your home and work environment.
However, running a store can come with significant overhead costs. Including rent, you’ll have to ensure you have access to running water and electricity and likely incur the costs for these. Your customer list may similarly be restricted due to your fixed location, and you may be competing with rival companies.
Having a mobile location
A common option for a pet grooming business is running it out of a trailer or vehicle. This allows you the flexibility to come to your clients, likely expanding your client list. In addition, it allows ease with choosing your own hours and allows separation of your home and work life.
However, a mobile location comes with significant upfront costs. Whilst you might save long-term compared to running a store, the initial investment is likely to be significant. Similarly, accessing the necessary equipment and applying it in your job may prove difficult.
Bookkeeping
There are several aspects to manage when running a business. The financial aspect is arguably the most difficult. Understanding the different rules and can be difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, we recommend outsourcing your bookkeeping to a third party such as Xero. Through filing your receipts and utilising this resource, you can save on expenses and focus on doing what you love: pet grooming.
Acquire customers
Once your business is running, there is only one more thing you need: customers! To acquire customers, advertising will be necessary to get your name out there. Whilst your method of advertising will depend on your budget, we recommend the following methods to ensure you successfully reach your target audience:
- Social media.
- Google / Facebook ads.
- Flyers in the local neighbourhood.
- Local signs.
Through utilising these methods of advertising, you can ensure the public is aware of your company and what you’re offering.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, starting your own pet grooming business can be an extremely rewarding and profitable venture. It allows you the opportunity to create intimate relationships with clients, whilst handling their pets and ensuring their needs are met. For further enquiries or questions about running your own pet grooming business, a business lawyer may be able to assist.
