Becoming A Dog Hairdresser: With These 7 Tips To Success
Pampering pets is all the rage these days, as evidenced by the growing popularity of dog baths. For its part, the dog hairdresser offers services ranging from high-fashion haircuts to pedicures, massage treatments and aromatherapy.
Even facials and pet tattoos are not excluded!
Dog hairdresser as a profession
But in practice , many pets only require a simple bath, haircut, nail clipping, and other traditional dog grooming services. However, a dog groomer needs to really love animals, be patient, and be on good terms with pets and people.
For those looking to become a dog groomer, below are some basic tips.
1. Start by researching the market near you
Think about how much you want to earn and how much you need to charge accordingly for your services. At first, it can be a little difficult to find a suitable pricing strategy. You can start by analyzing the competition and evaluating potential customers.
It’s also important to assess the area’s market in terms of potential competition and your location. You also have to check whether you have enough funds to cover the initial costs, because a lot of expenses can be expected at the beginning.
2. Assess your physical health and strength
Since this is a very physically demanding job that involves lifting pets and performing other tasks that require strength and endurance, you need to know if you can do it first.
Also, remember to consider other health factors. If you have asthma, arthritis, or pet allergies, this may not be the job for you.
3. Your space available
Does your room have enough space to accommodate a dog grooming facility? You should also have adequate equipment, preferably tiled or other waterproof floors, suitable sanitary facilities, easy access to bathrooms and, among other things, securely placed electrical outlets.
Above all, cleanliness and safety are of crucial importance.
4. General and vocational training to become a dog groomer
Of course, you first need appropriate training in order to actually be able to provide professional service. There are a variety of training options available, so do your research before making a choice.
The training should definitely include the following areas:
- Animal behavior and control
- Security Practices
- Characteristics of different breeds and species of animals
- Identify pet health conditions that should be reported to the veterinarian.
- How to recognize skin diseases in animals.
- Specific knowledge about parasites, for example ticks and fleas
- Processes while bathing
- Brushing and combing
- Drying and cutting hair
- How to use the care products correctly and where to get them.
5. Necessary equipment and tools for the dog hairdresser
Before you begin, you will need to get some tools and equipment to do your job. Inquire about the following articles and their associated costs:
- At least one care table
- Bathtub with shower accessories
- Manual scissors and trimmers
- Electric clippers
- Claw cutter
- Hairdryer
- Cages or boxes
- Pet shampoos and conditioners
- Brushes and combs
- Leashes and collars
- Muzzles
- Animal stairs or ramp
- Shelves for storage
- Ribbons and bows
6. Inquiring about business licenses and permits
First, find out about the licenses and permits required in your state. Contact the responsible city or local authority to find out which formalities you have to complete. Another good source of information is the local Chamber of Commerce.
7. Take out insurance
Insurance is indispensable, because even a competent and responsible dog hairdresser is not immune to unintentional injuries to animals through work-related accidents.
Insurance also includes possible allergic reactions from animals to products and other potentially dangerous incidents.
This is why you should find out in advance what type of small business insurance is required. Since this is a very specialized company with a potential percentage of accidents and injuries, it is important to find the right insurance coverage.
