How do you start a mobile pet grooming business in 2027?
Startup costs: $35K-$95K is realistic. Conversion van or new build (Wag-N-Tails, Hanvey, LA Pet Mobile) runs $25K-$80K, plus tools (clippers, dryers, tubs already in van), generator/water tank, insurance, training/cert ($1K-$5K through NDGAA, IPG, or local academy). Permits/licenses/insurance: business license, mobile vendor permits (varies by city, $100-$1K), grooming-specific liability ($400-$1,200/yr through Governor Insurance or PSA), DOT if van >10K lbs GVWR, sales tax on retail. Customer acquisition: Google Local Service Ads convert well, plus Nextdoor, breed-club FB groups, vet referrals, and Yelp. Revenue model: $80-$180 per groom, 4-6 dogs/day max. Year-1: realistic gross $60K-$130K, profit thin year-1 due to van loan. Year-2 margins improve as schedule fills and route density tightens.