Opening up our own shop

[PootLevato]

So my friend and I are hoping to open our own dog grooming shop in the next year, currently looking for premises.

What do you look for in a groomers? What keeps you going back to the same place?

Any ideas would be great, we really want the shop to be a part of the community and we're more than a bit excited about actually being happy at work!

[MaitlandGirl]

If I used a grooming service I'd look for one that could hand strip as well as use clippers, didn't leave dogs unattended under the dryers and had the time and patience for nervous dogs.

Also, I'd much rather use a groomer who used natural shampoos / conditioners for all dogs - not just those with known sensitive skin.

Good luck.

[BernardsarenotalwaysSaints]

If I used a grooming service I'd look for one that could hand strip as well as use clippers, didn't leave dogs unattended under the dryers and had the time and patience for nervous dogs. This, particularly someone who doesn't get the clippers out for every occasion & is willing to establish a bond with the dog (assuming it's a client who wants their dog groomed regularly, it's obviously hard to do if they only come 2x per year).

Also for me it's someone who underdstands the breed standard BUT who listens to what the owners want! I don't like having extras 'pushed' at me.
Someone who's love & knowledge of all breeds is apparent.
A well constructed website would attract me too!

[superbfairywren]

I would lool for someone who listens to what you actually want. I can't count the times my poor dog has come home looking like a poodle with a big French looking moustache even though we ask for short all over! In the winter we have him clipped really short all over because his fur just gets so muddy and soaks up everything. Makes it much easier for me(at home most of the time alone with him and one year old DD) if he's cut short then I have less of him to wash and dry! Most groomers haven't really taken that in and have done their version of short with long fur on the paws(exactly where he needs to be cut really short) and arounthe face/ears where he gets really mucky! If any of the groomers we've met paid attention and made some effort to get to know my nervy ridiculous dog I would definitely go back. As it is we seem to go to a different one every time!