How to Start Your Own Pet Grooming Business

Congratulations! You have decided to start a pet grooming business, but you do not know where to start. Let us help you get started with some information on the first things you will need to do to get started in your own pet grooming business.

1. Make a business plan - Making a business plan has many steps. What is the name and logo of your business. What equipment do you have or need. How will you get customers? How much will you charge your customers? Will you be a mobile groomer or will you have a shop? These are a few questions you will need to answer before you get started.
   2. Form an Entity - LLC and Corporation are just two types of Business Structures. Make sure to do some research before choosing. There are many variables to consider when choosing your entity.
   3. Get an EIN and Register for Taxes - Before you can register for your taxes you will need an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. Once you have this you can go to your town hall and register your business for your taxes. Make sure that you plan out how this will be paid and when so you will not have an added surprise when it comes time to pay.
   4. Business Banking - It is never a good idea to use your personal bank account for your business. You will want to have asset protection so open a business account and credit card just for your business expenses. This will protect all of your personal assets in case of a lawsuit.
   5. Accounting - This is a very important step. You need to keep very detailed logs of everything you spend and receive. Sometimes it is best to hire an accountant to do this for you. When tax time comes around you will want to make sure you have all of your files in order.
   6. Permits and License - In order to run a business you must have the proper permits and/or license. Each state is different so check with your municipality to see what you will need.
   7. Get Online - Whether you choose to just start with just a Facebook business page or build a website, it is important to get your business out there. 
   8. Get a Mentor - Try contacting your Chamber of Commerce to see if they can connect you to a business mentor. They will be able to help you through this process. Also consider joining or creating a business network. Connecting with other business owners will help you grow your business.

Following these steps will help you start your own business. Make sure to take time and complete each step fully before going on to the next step. 

The Groomy Team - We hope this was helpful!