Scrubby Doo Mobile Doggie Spa rolles into Schaumburg
An interview with owners Kristin and Chris Wiebel
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: We are a mobile doggy grooming spa. We drive our self contained shop on wheels to clients homes or businesses. We give dogs full one-on-one grooming service where they are most comfortable; at home. Because we are self contained, we have no need to hook up to the owner's home for water or electricity. The van has a tub, hot water, dryers, air conditioning, etc. We spend quality time with each dog. By not being exposed to other barking dogs and cages, the experience is more pleasant for the pet. Dogs are groomed in a timely manner, and because it's a one-on-one experience, a groom generally takes no longer than 1 to 1 1/2 hrs.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: Chris was laid off as a union asbestos abatement supervisor when the economy took a turn for the worse. After many months of job searching, he decided to switch gears and thought about a new career path. When working in a field that relies on bidding for contracts, there are many uncertainties. We wanted to start our own business so we could be in control of our own destiny. There are many dogs and owners in our community that can benefit from our service.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: After being unemployed for such a long time, finding creative means of obtaining finances to start the company was the most challenging.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: There is great satisfaction when you get doggy kisses after he's been groomed. Knowing that we're providing a service to the owner that offers them more free time is quite rewarding. Owners are excited when our van pulls up and even more excited when we hand them back their pet; that's a great feeling.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young?
A: Not in my wildest dreams did I see myself doing this. I became a union laborer at a young age and thought that would be my lifelong career path.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Trying to brainstorm ways of getting the word out to the community that our services are available.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Don't ever give up. Work hard and shoot for the stars. There are many people who may not “be in your corner” during the transition. Don't listen to them; follow your dreams. Network with successful people, listen and learn from them. Don't be afraid to ask questions; that's the only way to learn and succeed.
-Kim Mikus
Ÿ We would like to hear about your small business. Please contact us at kmikus@dailyherald.com.
Business: Scrubby Doo Mobile Doggie Spa Serve: Schaumburg and surrounding communities. Owners: Chris and Kristin Wiebel Business started: July, 2011
Phone: (847) 544-8120