Expanding pet care business during lockdown

During uncertain times for business, the launch of a new venture might feel risky, but for Trowbridge branch owner, Jo Mumford, the timing couldn’t be better! After two very successful years as a We Love Pets franchisee, Jo has launched We Love Pets Dog Grooming at her branch, the first dog grooming salon to open in the WLP network.

“We’ve been thinking about expanding into the dog grooming market for a while. We Love Pets came through the last recession, so they know what it takes to survive these tough economic times. We are expecting huge demand for our dog grooming service coming out of lockdown, particularly as our customers return to work and can have their dog walked and groomed hassle free by people their dog already knows and trusts. It’s the perfect package for busy dog owners,” said Jo.

Getting the salon business at Trowbridge ready has been a family affair with husband Mark using his skills as a qualified electrician to convert the back garden into a purpose-built salon with all the latest equipment and Jo’s niece Cara training with City & Guilds to become a Level 3 qualified dog groomer.

Cara’s hairdressing background and love of dogs helped Jo realise her dream of owning a dog grooming salon, as she explains: “It definitely helps that my niece already has hairdressing skills. When we asked if she would be interested in a change of direction to work with us as a dog groomer, as a massive dog lover, she jumped at the chance. We knew it would be a dream combination of her creative and caring manner with our successful and established pet care business in the area.”

The salon offers a wide range of services for dogs of any breed, size, and coat. Pampered pooches can indulge in a Honey and Oatmeal Massage, Facial or Fresh Breath treatments. For those in need of a general tidy up, a Full Groom or Bath & Fluff Dry services are just the job. Puppies can make their first grooming experience a positive one with the expertly gentle Puppy Package or for dogs who use We Love Pets for regular walks, an exclusive VIP (Very Important Pooch) service is available where dogs can enjoy a walk, Full Groom, Facial, Pawdicure, Fresh Breath Treatment, personalised treats and photos of their special day to take home.

Like all businesses impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, We Love Pets has had to adapt to adhere to social distancing guidelines. With a strict hygiene policy and the appropriate PPE in place, the dog grooming salon is able to service dogs with minimal risk. Dogs are handed over outside and We Love Pets’ own leads and collars are put on for use during the treatments.

“We have clear policies for our staff to ensure risks are minimised and have PPE for as long as it’s needed. We already have a loyal customer base and we know they will support us and advocate that our team are professional and fantastic at their jobs. Myself and my husband are problem solvers and are incredibly determined, so if we want to achieve something, then we will. Grooming is also essential to a dog’s welfare, so it is important that these services continue at this time, albeit more safely,” Jo explains.

For customers with limited time or who would rather not make the trip, we offer a pick up and drop off service for a small fee.