i want to open a doggie wash in my town....where do i start?

Question

it would be similar to a car wash, except it's for dogs........

Answer 1

The most important thing you can do is get a business plan together to outline what your business is, who your clients are, where you will be located, how you will advertise, and what you expect to earn.

There are a lot of web resources available (as well as software) that you can use to help you with this process (http://www.planware.org/businessplan.htm). It doesn't need to be fancy, but you need to think about what you're after and it will help you should you need to get financing.

The other things you need to consider are:

1) Location
2) Location
3) Location

OK - maybe it's not that simple, but you need to find a high traffic area that is easy to get to and draws from a good population base. Your service needs to be convenient to get to, if you're out in the "sticks" and require a 20 minute ride back and forth folks are just going to look elsewhere.

See if you can find a nice strip mall close to a major road. Make sure it has plenty of well lit secure parking and that it's in an area that people feel comfortable going.

Now, I'm assuming you have some amount of money to invest into this venture but if you don't you need to have some startup money for equipment, permitting, and insurance.

Stop by your town and ask the Town Clerk what type of operating permits you'll need. Every town, city, state is a little different so there's no universal answer here. Your best bet is to call the folks in town and talk to them for a few minutes to find out exactly what you need.

Your location is going to be key and finding a spot that will have the proper water and electrical hookups is going to be a challenge.

You'll need wash tubs, dryers, pens, and grooming equipment (I'm assuming you have experience in grooming and know what you'll need).

Remember, you have to offer a compelling reason for your customers to come and use your facility. Most folks that will use this type of service are the "do-it-yourself" clients that are looking to save money over a typical grooming shop. Most professional groomers offer their services for $30-75 depending on the size of the dog, so you need to price accordingly.

Price is critical for this type of business. If you price too high most folks may think "heck I can wash Spot in the tub at home for a lot less" and not utilize your services.

This is a great opportunity to offer professional grooming products (soaps, shampoos, skin treatments) as well as other products that they may not find at their local pet store.

If you're an experienced groomer, you should plan on being there to offer grooming advice, maybe some obedience tips, or other pet friendly advice. Most importantly you need to have someone there to KEEP THE PLACE CLEAN.

Nothing will kill your business quicker than if you don't keep it clean and well stocked. No one wants to come into a messy shop with wet towels and dog hair all over the place.

GOOD LUCK!

Answer 2

There's actually this place in my city where you can have your car washed, pet washed and have lunch all at the same spot. I've never been there, but I sure thought it was interesting.

Answer 3

I'll add that I would do this if you advertised and I could find you easily, and your prices were reasonable.....

Answer 4

first you need the money! 2nd you need to find a location!