Dog Grooming Business Help & Support

In this episode, Bill Betts sits down with Carl, the founder of Woodfarm Barns and Barges, to explore the fascinating journey of building a dog-friendly holiday accommodation business that truly goes beyond the basics.Carl shares how he left the corporate world behind to pursue a passion for hospitality and property renovation, ultimately creating a collection of high-end, dog-welcoming retreats in the Suffolk countryside and on the water. But as Carl points out, there’s a big difference between being dog-tolerant and genuinely dog-friendly.The conversation dives into the mindset shift required to serve pet owners well, how Carl learned to embrace dog culture, and why attention to detail and personal connection are key to customer loyalty in the hospitality industry.This is a great episode for groomers looking to unwind, business owners exploring diversification, or anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at turning passion into profit—with dogs at the heart of it all.💬 Key TakeawaysCarl transitioned from the corporate world into entrepreneurship via property renovation and holiday lettings.Woodfarm Barns and Barges offers luxury, dog-friendly stays designed with pet owners in mind—not just allowing dogs, but truly welcoming them.Creating the right atmosphere for both dogs and humans has been key to customer satisfaction and repeat bookings.Carl has developed a deeper understanding of dog ownership and its emotional connection, which informs his business model.He shares a special off-peak discount just for pet groomers, encouraging them to take time out for themselves.Customer service and personal connection remain at the heart of what makes Woodfarm a success.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this solo episode, Bill Betts encourages pet grooming business owners to take a step back and reflect on how December really went. After the hustle of the holiday season, now’s the time to ask: What worked? What didn’t? What would I do differently next time?Bill shares practical advice on how to learn from last year’s challenges – including weather issues, burnout, and overloaded booking schedules – and how to turn those lessons into better boundaries, clearer plans, and more professional systems moving forward.He also talks about the power of taking time off without guilt, the importance of setting up savings pots, and why defining what you want from your business is key to long-term happiness.Whether December went smoothly or left you feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you start the new year with clarity, confidence, and control.💬 Key TakeawaysReflecting on the past year helps you improve your business strategies going forward.Clear boundaries are essential for maintaining professionalism and avoiding burnout.Taking planned time off improves your energy, decision-making, and customer service.Setting up savings pots can help you create financial breathing space during quieter periods.Knowing exactly what you want from your business helps you make better decisions and build a business that fits your life.Learn from what didn’t go well – so you’re not repeating the same patterns next December!As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn! You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts is joined once again by Vicky from The Pet Accountants to reflect on the recent success of the Pet Pro Expo and share exciting updates about the upcoming 2026 event in Birmingham on October 3rd.Vicky gives us an insider’s look at what made this year’s event such a hit – from the overwhelmingly positive feedback (with 99.9% of attendees rating it as excellent!) to the practical suggestions they’ve already taken on board to improve next year’s experience.They discuss plans for longer networking breaks, fewer but more impactful speakers, and the possibility of turning the event into a two-day experience. Most importantly, the conversation reinforces why events like this are essential – they bridge the gap between grooming skills and business success, helping pet professionals grow not just as stylists, but as entrepreneurs.💬 Key TakeawaysPet Pro Expo 2026 takes place on October 3rd in Birmingham. It’s set to be the biggest and best yet.Feedback from the 2025 event was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the atmosphere, speakers, and organisation.Plans for 2026 include longer networking breaks and a streamlined speaker lineup to allow more time for valuable conversations.There’s talk of expanding to a two-day event in future based on attendee interest and logistics.The event is designed to help pet professionals improve their business knowledge, not just their grooming techniques.Tickets are already being snapped up – so if you’re thinking of attending, don’t hang around!As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn! You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill is joined by Poppy, owner of K9 Groom School, to talk all about training and apprenticeships in the pet grooming industry.Poppy shares her experience running a busy training school and explains why structured, high-quality training is so important for both new groomers and the businesses that employ them. She talks about the challenges that can come with apprenticeships – like setting clear expectations and making sure both the apprentice and the employer have a positive experience – as well as the huge rewards that come from getting it right.Bill and Poppy also explore how City & Guilds qualifications are now part of the apprenticeship system, and how this is helping to raise standards across the industry.This episode is a must-listen for any grooming business owner who wants to grow their team the right way – or anyone thinking about starting their career through an apprenticeship.💬 Key TakeawaysApprenticeships work best with clear communication. Both sides need to know what to expect.Training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Good training adapts to the needs of each individual apprentice.Growing your own team can solve staffing issues. Apprenticeships are a great way to build skilled, loyal employees.Qualifications matter. City & Guilds Level 2 is now part of the apprenticeship route – helping raise industry standards.Investing in people pays off. A well-trained apprentice can become a long-term asset to your business.The future of grooming depends on training. A strong workforce starts with proper education and support.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts is joined by Vicky Skinner, who shares the important work being done by the Animal Focused Alliance. This organisation supports pet businesses by providing clear, reliable advice on licensing, compliance, and best practices.Vicky explains how the Alliance was set up to help groomers, boarders, walkers, and other pet professionals raise their standards, understand their legal responsibilities, and access the right information, especially when the rules and guidance can feel confusing or unclear.Bill and Vicky talk about the power of community and collaboration, and how working together as an industry can help shape better animal welfare policies and protect responsible business owners.This episode is packed with practical insights into what it takes to stay compliant, improve your professionalism, and where to turn when you need trusted guidance.You can find out more about The Animal Focused Alliance on their website here: https://www.animalfocusedalliance.co.uk/💬 Key TakeawaysThe Animal Focused Alliance is here to help. It offers guidance on licensing, compliance, and ethical standards.Clear advice matters. Pet professionals need facts they can trust – especially when laws and rules change.Stay informed. Understanding your legal obligations helps you avoid issues before they arise.We’re stronger together. Collaboration and support within the industry help raise standards for everyone.Resources are available. The Alliance provides access to legal advice and tools tailored to the pet care sector.Speak up and get involved. Being part of a wider community helps influence change and protect animal welfare.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts chats with Dee Ann Allen, one of his amazing clients, about her inspiring journey from working in retail and food service to running her own pet grooming business.Dee shares what it was like to make such a big career change and how she discovered that her real passion was working with animals. The conversation covers everything from setting the right prices to managing time better, and building a business that actually fits around your life – not the other way around.They also discuss the lessons Dee learned from being part of the Pet Grooming Business Programme – including how to feel more confident in business decisions and how to create a better balance between work and home life.If you’re at a turning point in your own career or just need a boost of motivation, Dee’s story is full of honest advice and practical tips that can help you move forward.💬 Key TakeawaysIt’s never too late to change paths. Dee moved from retail into grooming – and found her passion.Pricing is key. Reviewing and updating your prices helps you stay profitable and avoid burnout.Time management matters. Knowing how to plan your day makes running a business less stressful.Support makes a difference. Being part of a grooming community helps you grow faster and feel less alone.You don’t have to do it all at once. Dee shows that steady progress and small changes add up over time.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts is joined by Jo Wallace, a passionate pet groomer, trainer, and advocate for lifelong learning in the grooming industry.Jo reflects on her time at the Pet Pro Expo, sharing why events like these are so valuable – not just for learning new business strategies like lead generation and storytelling, but also for the community and connection they provide. She speaks about how one speaker in particular – Fanny – really stood out, and how storytelling can play a powerful role in building a strong business.Jo also shares her personal journey – from volunteering at an animal rescue in Costa Rica, to leaving corporate life behind and retraining as a pet groomer. She explains how her background in HR and training now feeds into her grooming career, especially as she starts to offer more education and support to other groomers.She’s also diving deeper into the world of cat grooming, and shares some helpful advice around the differences between cats and dogs – including how understanding feline behaviour is key to successful (and safe) cat grooms.If you’ve ever felt unsure about the next steps in your business or are looking to get inspired, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and connected to the wider grooming world.💬 Key TakeawaysPet Pro Expo created real connection. Jo shares how networking with other professionals helped her grow.Understanding cats is essential. Grooming cats isn’t the same as dogs – you need to know feline behaviour.Industry events are more than talks. They give you the space to think about the future of your business.Jo’s journey is inspiring. From animal rescue work in Costa Rica to becoming a groomer and trainer, she brings a unique perspective.Keep learning. Jo reminds us that education, reflection, and peer support are key to long-term success.Community makes a difference. You don’t have to grow your business alone – sharing ideas helps everyone.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts is joined by grooming legend Colin Taylor for an honest and insightful chat about the realities of working in the grooming industry, from customer service to burnout and everything in between.Colin shares stories from his many years in the industry and talks about the biggest challenges groomers face today. While having great technical skills is important, he explains that how you treat your clients and communicate with them is just as vital. Grooming is about more than just a haircut. It’s about building trust, understanding people’s expectations, and creating a professional experience.Bill and Colin also talk about the importance of setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, and taking care of yourself as a business owner. They explore how networking with other groomers, attending events, and staying active in the grooming community can help build your confidence and spark new ideas.This episode is full of practical advice and encouragement, whether you’re just starting out or have been grooming for years.🔗 Find out more about Colin and his products at:https://www.colintaylorproducts.com💬 Key TakeawaysCustomer service is key. A great experience keeps clients coming back – not just the groom.Talk to your clients. Clear communication helps you meet expectations and avoid problems.Set boundaries. You can’t look after others if you don’t take care of yourself first.Community matters. Talking to other groomers can boost your confidence and help you grow.The industry is changing. We need to adapt – especially when it comes to shows, training, and client expectations.It’s more than grooming. Understanding the full pet care journey, including vets and behaviour, helps you stand out.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill Betts talks with Julie Goodall, whose story is all about adapting, growing, and finding a new path when life takes an unexpected turn.Julie started her career in the corporate world but found herself facing redundancy. That moment pushed her to follow a new passion – pet grooming. She built a strong, successful business and learned loads of valuable skills along the way. But after facing personal challenges, Julie knew it was time for another big change.She now works as a celebrant, creating meaningful ceremonies for people and families – and surprisingly, many of the skills she gained from grooming have helped her in this new role too.Bill and Julie chat about what it takes to start over, how important resilience and adaptability are, and how the support of a good community can make all the difference. Whether you’re thinking about changing direction or just looking for inspiration, this episode is a great listen.💬 Key TakeawaysJulie’s career journey shows how setbacks can open doors to new opportunities.Redundancy was the start of something better. It gave her the chance to explore pet grooming – and later, a new path entirely.Skills from grooming carry forward. Running a business teaches confidence, communication, and resilience.Networking and support matter. Mentorship and community helped Julie grow in both careers.It’s never too late to change. If you’re feeling stuck, there is a way forward – even if it looks different than expected.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/

In this episode, Bill talks to Phoebe Harris, a client, friend and pet groomer who shares her honest and inspiring journey from starting out as a mobile groomer to now running her own successful salon.Phoebe opens up about how little she knew about the grooming industry when she started – and how her love for animals and the desire to spend more time with her daughter Sophia, motivated her to take the leap. She talks about the challenges she faced, especially when it came to setting prices and the fear that comes with raising them.Together, Bill and Phoebe explore how self-belief, community support, and a willingness to learn have helped her grow both personally and professionally. Phoebe also shares how getting a better handle on her finances – through saving and budgeting – has made a big difference in her confidence and stability.This episode is full of real-life advice and encouraging words for any groomer thinking of making a big change or trying to level up their business.💬 Key TakeawaysPhoebe’s story shows that you don’t need to know everything to get started – but you do need to keep learning.Raising prices is scary – but necessary. Knowing your worth is key to growing your business.Community support matters. Talking to other groomers helps you feel less alone and more confident.Managing your money helps you feel in control. Saving and budgeting can change your business and your mindset.Work-life balance takes planning. But it’s possible – especially when you set clear expectations with clients.A positive mindset is powerful. Facing your fears can open up big opportunities.As always, I'd like to thank the podcast sponsor, Lopay, the low-cost payment platform that helps you keep more of the money you earn!You can find out more and sign up for Lopay here: https://merchant.lopay.app/ref/PETPASSION2500, where listeners of this podcast get £2500 of fee-free transactions!And of course, if you feel like you could benefit from Bill's business programs for the Pet Grooming industry, visit our website: https://petpassiontoprofit.com/