A Luxury Mobile Dog Groomer on the Go

Please introduce yourself and tell us what got you started as a luxury mobile dog groomer?

My name is Rhea Vanderwerf and I am the sole owner and operator of Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa. I have 22 years of grooming experience and opened my business in 2013. I’m originally from Nova Scotia, Canada where I went to college for photography and graphic design. My life took a completely different direction and I came to the USA in 2001. I adopted a dog from a shelter to cope with the stress and loneliness of moving to a new place. After doing a terrible job grooming her myself, I then researched professional grooming and the rest is history. That’s how I got started as a luxury mobile dog groomer.

What made you decide to become a luxury dog groomer on the go?

I’ve had so many opportunities to work in different settings in the grooming industry. From veterinary hospitals, to corporate salons, and private salons, and I noticed one thing in common. The dogs that were groomed from start to finish were the happiest. Especially puppies and senior dogs were less stressed. I knew a little bit about mobile grooming and always dreamed about being my own boss. I wanted to provide more luxury, and a less stressful experience for my clients. 

What problems do you seek to solve for your mobile dog grooming clients?

I understand grooming can be stressful to some pets; so I hope to eliminate that stress and anxiety on the pets and clients. I usually see a lack of communication as one of the biggest struggles. Whether it’s instructions not relayed or the client doesn’t understand professional grooming terminology to express their needs. Since it’s always me providing the one on one service; nothing gets missed during consultation. I also try to see things through the lens of the client to make the process simple and efficient. 

What is your mission as a luxury dog groomer on the go?

To provide a luxury and consistent service for the dogs. Their comfort before style is always my top concern.

What has been your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

With my business I have been able to afford a home and to take vacations with my family to see places I never thought would be possible. Also, connecting with fellow dog groomers all over the world through social media.

What has been your biggest struggle as a business owner?

The grooming industry isn’t regulated. This means that anyone can decide they want to become a groomer and start a business. Unfortunately, this devalues those of us who have been formally trained and still further our education.

Luxe Paws Luxury dog groomer on the go Rhea Vanderwerf pictured here seated wearing a teal blouse and black trousers
Black Pomeranian Uboo owned by Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa owner Rhea Vanderwerf photographed by Dallas Pet Photographer Mod L Photography

What would you tell people about the dog grooming industry?

Dogs that are kept on a regular grooming schedule do so much better than when they are just groomed “as needed.” Since grooming is essential for a dogs’ overall health and well being they really need this routine in their lives. Plus as groomers we typically see your pet more than a vet does. This means we can spot abnormalities and help to prevent illness and disease if we see something that wasn’t there on the previous visit. Of course that is only really possible if you stick with the same groomer. Consistency is ultimately the most beneficial thing for your pet.

 

Can you tell us a bit more about yourself?

I love what I do. I love to find the most beautiful style to showcase the personality of each dog client. My goal is to continue in this industry for as long as I am physically able. I’d love to pass on my knowledge and skills to new groomers in the future as an educator. When I’m not working I love to travel and explore new places, cultures, cooking, interior design, and connecting with friends and family. I also love to spend time with my best friend and co-pilot – my dog Uboo.

Luxe Paws mobile pet spa owner and operator Rhea Vanderwerf pictured on black background in white blouse photographed by Dallas headshot photographer Laura Levitan

How can we get in touch?

Follow Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa on Instagram

Visit Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa on the web at www.luxepawsmobilepetspa.com

Give them a call at: 469-408-5893

Check out this awesome behind the scenes footage of our headshot session with Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa owner Rhea Vanderwerf

@modlphotography @LuxePaws came to the studio for headshots with her sweet sidekick! Check out Luxe Paws for a luxurious at home dog grooming experience. They come to you! @Natalie Fernandez443 #doggroomer #photographystudio #headshots #hmua #custombranding #brandingheadshots #brandingheadshot #professionalheadshot #dogphotographer #dogfriendly #doglover ♬ Swear By It - Chris Alan Lee
Graphic pinterest pin says luxury mobile dog groomer with pictures of Luxe Paws Mobile pet spa owner Rhea Vanderwerf and her dog Uboo

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16 Responses

  1. Love this! Love the idea of the dog grooming environment being as stress free as possible as one of my dogs really isn’t keen on busy/different environments. I wish I was closer as this whole experience sounds perfect for my dogs!

    1. I agree. One of my dogs can’t go anywhere in the car. He gets sick within minutes. The benefits of a mobile dog groomer are huge. He doesn’t have to leave home which makes everyone happy!

    1. It’s so cool that she’s mobile too! What a convenience to have a dog groomer come to you and one with so much experience! Thanks for the comment 🙂

  2. WOW, thats lovely. its a kind of headache for me grooming my pets at home. wish am closer it will be much easier for me.

    1. I love it when I hear about business owners who have developed a cool niche. Glad you liked reading about this luxury experience for dogs!

  3. As a pet parent – I love this! It’s great to take into consideration that the dogs groomed from start to finish were the happiest – and you’re making that work.

  4. Very interesting concept! This is a great thing for people who have pets who get stressed out. Thanks for sharing!

  5. A pet is such an important part of the family, having someone that will take care of them with heart and care is so important. I appreciate you sharing this transparently and wish you the best.

  6. This is such a great idea, not putting your pets through the trauma of a car ride, a strange office, etc. And your photos of Rhea are excellent!

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