Believe it or not, one of the most recession-proof industries in the U.S. is the Pet Grooming and Supplies Industry. Research shows that despite the recent economic meltdown, the pet industry gained a slight increase in 2009 on pet-related sales. According to American Pet Products Association (APPA) a total of $3.4 billion was spent on animal grooming supplies and services in 2008. APPA believes that the industry will continue to grow in the coming years by 6% or more.
These facts show that the U.S. is a pet loving country. Pet parents have included their pets in their lifestyles. Dedicated pet owners bring their pets to spas, restaurants, gyms and jewelers. While many love to beautify their dogs and cats in pet salons, a few prefer the “do-it-yourself” grooming. Several pet owners believe that home pet grooming means extra bonding time and great savings. But in order to do the “do-it-yourself” home grooming of your pets, you must have these grooming “must-haves”.
Basic Tools
Pet grooming professionals require the following basic tools in order to achieve the fresh off the pet salon look:
- Brush
- Comb
- Clippers / Scissors
- Pet Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels / Dryer
- Nail Trimmers
Caution: Don’t use tools made for humans. Stick to pet or animal grooming tools to achieve desired professional look
Proper Set-up
In order to make the grooming experience calm and relaxing, be prepared each time you groom your pet. Make it a habit to be organized and prepared. Make sure that you keep your pet tools in a box separate from your other stuffs. Keep them clean and put them in a convenient place. Place it on an elevated shelf to keep it away from children’s reach.
Optional Pet Tools
Instead of traditional bath tubs and sink, you can invest in a dog bath tub. The dog bath tub is quickly gaining popularity amongst pet owners. Such bath tubs are scaled down to meet your pet’s needs. It comes in different sizes and shapes. Some are collapsible, portable, and stationary. Many have soap, brush and shampoo holders. Usually, dog tubs have rubber soles to keep the tub from slipping. A few even have belt straps to keep your wiggly dog in place. Some dog bath tubes have the feature of a faucet adapter.
For meticulous pet owners, a complete set grooming table is much more recommended. A grooming table has all the convenience for you and your pet. It will cost you more but the comfort and control you and your pet can get from it is priceless.