The year 2020 was at the very least historical. With businesses closing right and left, you would think the pet industry would face the same situation.
But in a country where the late Leona Helmsley,
hotel heir, left her dog Trouble $12 million dollars,
we've proven how dedicated we are to our furry loved ones.
Common sense (which can fly out the window when it comes to our animals) would tell us that since businesses were closing, dog walkers, veterinarians, and groomers would fall through the cracks, too.
On the contrary. In 2020, Americans spent $99 billion (with a "B") dollars on their pets.
Eye-opening!
Scooby-Doo and Felix are considered family members. And we've had more time in the last year to take care of them and that has made pet guardians even more attentive to their animals.
Groomers are near the top of the "You can't touch this" jobs. Although they did take a hit in 2020, as they needed to comply with government guidelines, they were also among the most fortunate in the pet industry.
The powers-that-be at the two conglomerates Petco and PetSmart decided groomers should be considered "essential" as in necessary for the health of pets.
According to PetSmart's website, regular grooming is a "vital part of keeping pets healthy." The company also pointed to the American Veterinary Medical Association, saying the organization "has advised pet parents to continue to ensure their pet is well-groomed during the COVID-19 pandemic."
www.cbsnews.com - "Pet Store Chains Argue Dog Grooming is Essential in Pandemic" by Kate GIbson
(A spokesperson for the AVMA later waffled about the mention that they were behind any initiative where groomers would be seen as "essential" workers.)
Whatever they're considered, they're important. And they do more than just give Tinkerbell bouffants. Here's a list of services of one standard of grooming:
A. Bath
B. Haircut
C. Brush out
D. Ear cleaning
E. Nail clipping
F. Express anal glands
G. Removing external parasites
Experts see nothing stopping the continued success of the profession. And as long as our 4-legged companions have an entire vocation dedicated to waiting on them hand and paw, I'm good with that.
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P.S. If you need blogs that will grab your customers' attention, gimme a shout! Contact me at jenflattosborn@writeawaycreations.com or here.
1. www.cnbc.com - "The Pet Business is Booming as Americans Spend More on Their Animals While They Work From Home" by Emily DeCiccio
2. www.rover.com - "5 of the Most Pampered Pets in the World" by Hannah Gilman
3. https://petpedia.co/pet-industry-statistics/