A dog is a member of the modern family, and considering that Americans are spending more than $60 billion this year on pet food, pet toys, veterinary care and specialty pet products, it isn't too surprising that many consumers treat their furry critters as their own children.

One of the biggest trends in the pet industry is the creation of doggie spas. This is where pet owners treat their dogs to an hour (or a day) of pampering: wash, shampoo, groom and much more. Because most dog owners are trying to make a living and already have limited time to clean their dogs, a mobile pet grooming service is the best and most convenient alternative for them.

For pet spas, launching a mobile pet grooming service is one way to stay ahead of the competition. Dog salon services have become a huge industry and there seems to be one or more popping up in every town across America. At the same time, mobile grooming service startups are also being established on a regular basis, something that could hinder well-known groomers.

This is why the average doggie spa needs to do something different in order to maintain the present clientele, attract new customers, and generate revenues to stay in business and grow.

Here are five things to consider when moving forward with a mobile dog salon service.

Equipment

Whether you're starting out or you've already been in the pet services industry for a few years now, you'll need a brand new set of grooming tools (comb, shampoo products, blowdryer, clippers, scissors, etc.). This will be primarily used for the mobile aspect of your business, and you could very well find discounts on these products.

Vehicle

Purchasing a vehicle will be the biggest cost in this business endeavor. Every mobile company should look at a spacious van, bread or box truck, or even an RV. Be sure to find something reliable and long lasting.

Furthermore, each vehicle should have an array of furniture to properly perform the task at hand, including a grooming table, tub and either a power generator or outdoor cords that are long enough to gain access to an exterior power supply.  Consider an enclosed trailer with a 40-gallon water tank for those jobs where you will not have access to water supply.

In addition, turn the vehicle into a full time advertisement with a vehicle wrap.

Service Prices

Akin to any other business, you must consider a wide variety of factors when determining the cost for your services. There a number of things to examine when coming with an exact price for your services: labor, fuel, equipment, insurance, power, advertising, revenues and profits. Of course, you also have to investigate what your competitors are charging because in this competitive business you can't immensely overcharge customers.

A general surcharge as well as premium costs for certain times of the day are also competitive measures to institute into your pricing scheme.

Advertising

If you already own a pet grooming business then the advertising element is quite simple: inform existing customers of your new mobile service. If you're just starting out then create flyers and post around the neighborhood, employ social media tools and take advantage of word of mouth, especially if you already know pet owners.

Business Cost

Although startup costs may vary from business to business, it is estimated that an entrepreneur could expect to spend between $10,000 and $50,000. This may seem daunting at first, but over time this will be viewed as a worthwhile investment.

Starting a mobile dog salon can be difficult to do, but it's one important way to remain competitive in this pet services market. With millions of Americans returning to work, they will lack the time and energy to properly care for an animal so this is where these businesses come in. The consumer saves time, the animal is well taken care of and the business earns money.

Not every business has the resources to spend $10,000 to $50,000 on equipment, vehicles and advertising within a year. However, a fast and flexible merchant cash advance from Quikstone Capital Solutions could be the answer to your business funding needs. With easy approval and repayment options, Quikstone Capital Solutions can help provide the capital necessary to push ahead with a mobile pet grooming company or expansion.

Check it out today, and it's likely you'll be raising the woof.