House-call grooming is not easy. It can be very challenging physically and mentally, but also very rewarding. If you think you have what it takes, how do you get started?

First you decide the size and weight limit of the dogs you will accept, and if you want to groom cats. Next you’ll map out where your service area will be. It’s best to start with a small area before you branch out.

You’ll also need to get business insurance from a company that deals with professional groomers. They can write a policy that will cover everything from a pet injury to a scuff on a client’s wall that happens when you are bringing your equipment in. And, since you will be carrying most of your equipment with you in your vehicle, you want to make sure you have adequate coverage for the vehicle and everything that is in it, should it get totaled or stolen.

When it comes to tools and styling products that you’ll use in your house-call business, try to keep it simple. Remember, you have to carry all of your equipment into the client’s house and then back out to your vehicle.

“I looked into a durable rolling bag,” Leticia Ybarra shares. “The one I decided on not only fits everything I need, but it has cup holders and seconds as a seat for me during the groom, which is a must! I put all my tools including shampoos and conditioners inside. I attach my high-velocity dryer on top and secure my table arms in the pockets. Then I can make one trip (table in one arm and rolly dragged by the other).”

“When you set up in someone’s home, try not to be near fragile knick-knacks or papers on a desk—anything that your dryer could blow off,” Chris Anthony warns. “And, when you choose your dryer, be conscious of how many amps it uses. Some are so powerful they will trip the circuit breaker in your client’s home.”

“I least like the cleanup,” Alysse Bowman says. “But I use equipment that makes it easier on me, like my 2-in-1 dryer and vacuum cleaner. Now I have less stuff to carry and a quicker clean up.”

“It’s perfectly acceptable to say to a client, ‘If you leave out your vacuum, I will clean up after myself,’” Chris Anthony adds. “You can also say, ‘I try to clean up very well, but there might be some hair left over.’ Some of my clients schedule their pet’s grooming the day before their cleaning lady comes.”

“I’m in Florida and groom big dogs, which clients prefer to do outside,” says Leticia Ybarra. “So for me, the heat is the hardest. I’ve started to find little ways to make it more tolerable for myself and the pups with multiple fans and even a cooling pad for the dog to be on during the groom.”

Another advantage of having your own house-call business is that you can set your own rules and policies.

“I don’t wash dogs in people’s homes,” says Christine Pasieka. “My policy is that the client bathes their dog the day before the appointment. I’m strictly haircut, nails, and ears.”

With house-call grooming being a female-dominated profession, going by yourself into people’s homes can be scary, but you can do things to protect yourself.

“Most of my clients are by referral,” says Molly Dunham. “When someone reaches out to me through social media, I will usually look into their profiles and see if I can get a feel for what kind of person I may be dealing with. I trust my gut. If something feels off, it’s a no go.”

“One of the least appealing things about house-call to me is the initial anxiety of new clients and having to vet them before going to their home,” Erika Tesnow shares. “I screen my clients by doing a deep Google search. I’m checking all the socials and their family’s social media accounts as well to make sure the person is legit. My state also allows for open records on arrests so I’m able to check if a person has any criminal record.”

“I’ve been lucky enough to keep most of my old salon clients, so I feel really safe and confident,” Alysse Bowman says. “For new clients, I do a $20 consultation where I travel to the home, meet the dog and owner, and discuss grooming details, etc. My significant other has my location on these occasions and if I do not feel it’s a good fit, I will not book an appointment and refer them elsewhere.”

“Your safety is paramount,” Chris Anthony adds. “Always let someone know where you are. It’s a good idea to make the call or text right in front of the client, such as, ‘I have arrived at Mary Perkins’ at 123 Main Street. I will be here for approximately one and a half hours. I’ll call you when I’m on my way to the next client.’”

“If there’s any piece of advice I could give, it would be to know your worth,” advises Autumn Onopiuk. “Surprisingly, my least favorite part of house-call isn’t cleaning up, packing, etc. I would say my least favorite is dealing with clients who don’t value my time.”

“House-call is the most convenient for the customer and the most inconvenient for the groomer. A lot of people don’t realize that you need way more ‘people skills’ when you are house-call,” shares Chris Anthony emphatically. “In a salon, you may have a receptionist and you never even speak with the client. In mobile, you talk with the client at pick-up and drop-off. The rest of the time you are alone in your van. With house-call, you are right there in their kitchen, etc. If you are not comfortable making small talk as you work, that might be a problem.

“Oftentimes, clients want to talk and talk—especially those that are homebound. You can factor in the chat time when you are pricing your services,” Chris continues. “Depending on the client and circumstances, they can pay me for the extra ‘chat time’ with money, or with cookies and a hug.”

In this day and age, the house- call groomer is no longer “alone.” There are many Facebook groups, podcasts and groomers associations to keep you connected.

“House-call grooming is so worth it,” Savana Everett says. “You have a closer relationship with dogs and their owners than you ever would in a salon. I get to see new things everyday. And, I get mental breaks between the grooms.”

“What I enjoy most is assisting animals who are afraid to be groomed in unfamiliar environments,” shares Hannah Gibson. “I’ve had numerous dogs who can’t be groomed at commercial salons, but when I’m set up in their house, I have no problems at all. After realizing how many dogs I am really helping, and seeing how happy their owners are, I don’t think I could go any other path.”

House-call grooming—are you ready to get in on the next big thing?

’ve always been known for my patience, but since I’ve gone mobile, I try to focus on keeping the experience as low-stress as possible,” says McKenna Rimmer, owner of Pawsitively Elegant Dog & Cat Grooming.

“I have clients with a level five heart murmur, and I keep them safe, clean, and calm. They may have a less gorgeous haircut, but they’re happy and comfortable. That’s why ‘Pawsitive’ is in my name,” she adds.

McKenna just celebrated her second year in business on July 6, 2023. “For years, people have told me I should have my own business, but once I had a one-and-a-half-year-old and my husband started an LLC for me, I had the push I needed. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

In the Spring of 2021, McKenna started shopping for mobile grooming vans. “I got in right before the pandemic-related van shortages and expenses increased. I was originally told my van would be a six-to-eight week wait, then it was pushed to a 10-12 week wait. Once I had it, I cut back to part-time at the salon where I worked to build my business on the side. I was up to full-time with my van within three months. I was lucky my boss was kind enough to be generous in that way.

McKenna’s mobile spa serves the Gainesville, Virginia area. “We’re about an hour from Washington, DC; it’s one of the last major suburban areas before Front Royal, Virginia, with plenty of shopping and golf communities. I was lucky to set myself apart right away because I do cats and hand-stripping, and I have a knack for those aging pets who may not be able to go to their previous groomer anymore,” she adds.

McKenna got her start in grooming at very young age. “I always say I grew up tableside. My mom was a groomer, and I spent my earliest years in the playpen next to the grooming table. I started as mommy’s little helper/bather from the age of nine. I’ve always been comfortable with animals.

“Later,” McKenna continues, “I went to college and considered becoming a veterinarian. I was a Biology major. Then my parents got divorced, and things were tough financially. I took a semester off and worked as a baby groomer with my mom in a veterinarian’s office. I’d bathe the dogs, and at the end of the day, I’d groom any dogs left. Then I got a job working for a Master Groomer in Tampa, and I decided if I was going to do this, I was going to do this right. I’ve always worked in the nicer salons in the nicer parts of town.”

Many long-time groomers suffer repetitive stress injuries as they get older. Additionally, because mobile pet grooming vans tend to be smaller and a one-person operation, it makes sense to limit pet size. McKenna only grooms pets under 45 pounds.

“There aren’t that many mobile groomers who take dogs up to 45 lbs. in my area. Many of them only take 25 lbs. There’s no assistant in the van, and as the dogs get older, it can be harder for them to get in and out of the van. And the tubs and tables are a bit smaller in the van. I want to prolong my career, and I have physical limitations,” she says.

“With cats, I groom in my lap a lot or against my body somehow,” she shares. “I really have to read body language and pay attention to cues. I stay calm, and that seems to help. Some cats are nine years old, have never been groomed, and are matted. I find a big part of it is keeping them in contact with me. After the bath, I can wrap them in a towel and cradle them in my lap so I can get every cat dry, and they don’t freak out.”

McKenna usually grooms six to eight pets in an eight-hour day, which can include as many as four cats in one day.

Keeping with the customized experience theme, she uses different types of dryers according to the pet she is working with. “I have four or five different dryers in my van depending on what I need for the day, including one that’s quieter than a human dryer. I have also different tools and tricks. It really depends on the cat.”

She says she’s glad cat owners are overcoming the stigma that cats groom themselves. “If they see the bath water, they know that’s untrue. Now there’s more awareness and programs devoted towards teaching pet owners about the importance of cat grooming.”

McKenna says her favorite part of pet grooming is making a difference. “I like it when the pet is excited to see me. I like the response and surprise from the owners when their dog is happy and smells clean. I can take a pet who’s nervous, and because I’m calm, they can relax and maybe even enjoy it,” she concludes.

Let’s take Brownie for example. Brownie was a sweet, lovely Shih Tzu. I could do anything to this boy. On one occasion, he was snappy. Very snappy. I called the owners to come pick him up and reschedule him. Brownie’s owners informed me that their home was burglarized the day before, and the intruders terrorized Brownie. The owners thought a change of scenery with someone he loved would be better than staying home. Brownie was suffering from PTSD. We stopped grooming and let him hang out with us while the owners cleaned up the mess at home. The following grooming, he was back to his usual self.

Brownie’s behavior change had to do with stress outside of the grooming facility. Other examples of outside stress could include events in the pet’s home such as death, divorce, medical issues, problematic children or the addition of a new pet.

An opposite example of Brownie is MacBeth. MacBeth, a Miniature Schnauzer, hated grooming. He always let me know how distasteful the entire process was…except for the day I came to groom him while all the grandchildren were visiting. Just imagine, one six-year-old girl who was dressing him up and five boys ranging in age from 7-10 running around the house, as only young boys can. MacBeth jumped in my arms, begging me to get him away and to take my time. He was in no rush to get back to those kids.

Any medical problem can cause a behavior change. Medical changes in behavior could also include incontinence and aggression. Conditions such as epilepsy, brain tumors, infections, and immune and degenerative diseases can all directly affect a dog or cat’s nervous system and, therefore, its behavior. In older pets, aging can directly affect the brain, leading to cognitive dysfunction and senility.

I loved grooming Casey. He was such a good boy for grooming. He was a large Golden Retriever and, typical of goldens, a total goofball who eagerly looked forward to my arrival, as it was another human to pet him. When he looked a little withdrawn and cautious around his legs, I told the owners that it wasn’t like Casey not to be wagging his tail the entire time he was here. The owners took Casey to the veterinarian, who started him on joint supplements, and by the next groom, he was better.

Owners don’t always make the connection between teeth in bad condition and the fact that this pet’s mouth hurts. I’ll ask the owners if they have ever had a toothache to make it relatable. After they nod their head, I ask how they would feel if they took an electric toothbrush to their painful tooth. They will generally grimace, and then I add that our clippers vibrate in the same manner as an electric toothbrush does. And that the pet in question knows it hurts and is anticipating pain, so they will want to protect themselves. I usually can see the light bulb go off over their heads, and now we can discuss what we can and cannot do.

Just because you can pinpoint a reason behind a change in behavior does not mean you have to continue this groom. It may not be safe for you or the pet, for that matter. Knowing when to stop a groom is in everyone’s best interest.

It is imperative to pay attention to subtle changes in the behavior of the pets we groom. The owners I mentioned in this article noticed no changes in any of their pets. And the longer a health issue goes undiagnosed, the less likely there is to be a full recovery.

Franchises are tried-and-tested business models. Unlike mom-and-pop shops, they have existing practices in place franchisees can benefit from. Franchises often provide the best tools to ensure their franchisees’ success, including elevated training sessions, networking opportunities, established marketing tactics, up-to-date equipment and supplies, advanced technology, safety protocols for the groomer and pets in their care, proper insurance and ongoing support.

Additionally, franchising leverages the buying power of a larger franchise system, which helps reduce expenses for franchisees who may be unable to secure preferred pricing on their own. All these factors can prove beneficial for groomers new to pet care, business ownership or franchising in general.

In working with an established brand, a groomer may also have lower risk when it comes to investing. A proven concept and business system offer reduced risk compared to starting an independent business from scratch. As part of a franchise, groomers can learn how to hire the right people and grow both the business and team with proper guidance. Franchises also have a cohesive strategy to scale and manage their businesses. Once a common goal and vision are established, eventually franchisees have the option to take a backseat in the business and can be set up for long-term success.

In many cases, starting a mobile grooming business can be more cost effective compared to buying a franchise, which typically involves higher upfront fees and ongoing royalties. Mobile grooming vans allow lower initial investments, ideal for groomers just starting out in the industry. Unlike franchises, independent groomers are also not tied down to franchise-wide offerings or promotions.

While there are many benefits for groomers to own their own mobile vans, there are a few challenges to keep in mind. Working independently typically does not allow businesses to scale as quickly or cost-effectively compared to franchising. When starting a business from scratch, the groomer is solely responsible for everything involving the business, which can be intimidating. This includes, but is not limited to, finances, insurance, payroll, scheduling and van maintenance. That is why it is common for startups to go through a much slower process of setting up and receiving profit than franchises.

When working independently, there is also a lack of company culture. Grooming is a physically demanding job as it is, so being the only person to run an entire company can be tiresome.

This method of bathing was time-consuming, challenging and sometimes ineffective. In addition, it invited groomers to waste both water and expensive shampoo. Another problem was that if too much shampoo or conditioner was diluted and left unused overnight or over a weekend, bacteria (most commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa) could grow in the bottles, potentially causing skin problems in pets when it was used later.

Thankfully, professional pet bathing systems were developed. There are currently three basic types of bathing systems available to groomers: recirculating systems, siphon systems and freshwater pressurized systems.

There is a misconception among some groomers about this type of system. They believe pets cannot get clean because they are being washed in “dirty” water. However, this is untrue, as fresh water is used on every animal. This cleaning method can be compared to washing clothes in a washing machine or dishes in a dishwasher. The cleaning product and water work together to clean pets, clothes and dishes similarly. It must work, or we’d be walking around in grimy clothes and eating from dirty dishes. This type of system works well for people who do not have good water pressure. And it conserves both water and products.

Because siphon systems use the force of water from the tap to operate, it is best used in places with good water flow. For example, if your faucet can fill a gallon container with water in under 12 seconds, this type of system could work well for you.

Some of the benefits of professional bathing systems include:

• They eliminate the need for scrubbing, making the bathing process more ergonomically friendly. (Hands, wrists, arms and shoulders get a break!)
• There is no need to pre-wet the pet.
• Groomers can clean heavily soiled areas without getting their hands dirty.
• Dogs and cats both seem to enjoy the massaging action of the water as it pulsates on their skin.
• Getting pets clean takes dramatically less time, reducing labor costs and leaving more time for styling pets.
• Water usage is reduced.
• Less product is needed per pet, which is a saving that visibly adds up.

Perhaps best of all is that bathing system technology produces superiorly clean pets. As one of my regular customers quips, “My dog hasn’t been bathed until he’s been bathed by a professional.” But, of course, this professional relies on her bathing system.

mbarking on the journey of opening a new cat grooming business or adding cats to an existing grooming business can be exciting, but also a daunting task! As the demand for professional cat grooming services continues to soar, creating a space that is safe, efficient and pleasant to work in is essential for both cats and groomers. This comprehensive guide outlines the must-have necessities for starting your very own cat grooming business, setting you on the path to not only meet but exceed the grooming needs of your feline clientele.

• Grooming table or surface with smooth top
  I prefer a fixed-height table with a smooth or stainless steel top, positioned in a corner in order to prevent cats from jumping off the table away from me.
• Two sets of clippers and chargers
  Invest in one primary set of clippers, but plan to purchase a second set to use as backup or for heavy-duty clipper work.
• Several sets of #10 blades (or 5-in-1 if using that style clipper)
• Comb attachments for your style of clippers
• Combs for body and detail work
• Nail trimmers
• Styptic powder
  Use only for quicked nails. Cornstarch can also be used in a pinch.
• Organizer for nail caps, applicator tips and glue (if offering this service)
• Elizabethan collar and/or muzzle as appropriate
  I keep any handling tools, towels, restraints or gloves within arm’s reach from my grooming station so that they can be grabbed quickly for protection. I typically start with no additional equipment or only an e-collar unless the cat has demonstrated any aggressive behaviors.

• Grooming tub with grate and/or mat
  I like to have my cats in a smaller tub, slightly elevated from the bottom with a mat on top for their comfort.
• Degreasing or deep-cleansing shampoo for excess oiliness
• Clarifying/regular cleansing shampoo
• Face wash
• Hypoallergenic shampoo (for cats with any known allergies or sensitivities)
• Ear cleaner
• Washcloths and/or microfiber cloths
• Eye cleaner
• Towels

• Cat carriers
  In order to prevent tripping over carriers on the floor, have a space dedicated for storing carriers to stay out of the way. This is especially important if multiple cats are arriving at the same time or if the next appointment arrives before the previous has picked up. Small carriers can easily fit into open cube storage, and small and medium-sized carriers can fit into shelving, but large or oddly shaped carriers will need floor space out of the way.
• Puppy pads
  Small disposable puppy pads or litter box replacement pads can be used in the bottom of cat carriers in case of any potty accidents while the cats are waiting for pick-up or while driving home.
• Cleaning and disinfecting products
  Cat-safe cleaning, deodorizing and disinfecting products should be kept at each station, while extras are stored in a closed cabinet or closet. Many professional products are highly concentrated and need to be diluted into spray bottles or other containers for use.
• Paper towels, cleaning cloths and trash bags
• Vacuum, dust pan and brush
• Basic tools like screwdrivers, scissors, tape, zip ties, etc.
• Tools and parts for servicing equipment like your dryers, clippers, etc.
• Extra batteries, chargers and extension cords
• First Aid kit and supplies (for pets and people)

• Computer, tablet and/or appointment book
• Phone
• Notepad and pens
• Business cards, appointment reminder cards, information hand-outs, brochures, etc.

Once all the basics are covered, any additional décor, storage and backup items can be incorporated into the space to make it fit your branding and overall vision. A well-equipped grooming area, a comfortable and hygienic bathing and drying space, and a welcoming client check-in area will not only enhance your efficiency but also leave a lasting impression on your kitty clients and their human companions.

By adhering to this comprehensive checklist, you are well on your way to creating a haven of feline care where your expertise and passion for cats will shine, making your grooming business the go-to destination for all things cat!