Grooming like it’s 2005 in Queensland.

posted 5 August, 2025 – by retailcare

Trevor, Blue Wheelers Wynnum celebrates 20 years with Blue Wheelers

When Trevor bought his Blue Wheelers business back in 2005 he never thought for a minute that we’d be writing a blog about him 20 years later.

Trevor, You’ve literally just celebrated your 20 year anniversary as a Blue Wheelers Groomer. Did you think this would be a lifetime business for you? What has kept you happy throughout all these years?

Wow, 20 years—it’s hard to believe sometimes! When I first started as a Blue Wheeler Groomer, I honestly didn’t think I was signing up for a lifetime career. I just knew I loved animals and wanted to work with them every day. But here we are 20 years later, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

What’s kept me going? It’s simple: the dogs, the people, and the pure joy of it all. Every dog has a personality, every owner a story. I’ve watched puppies grow into seniors, and I’ve had customers stick with me from the very beginning. That trust, that loyalty—it means everything. Plus, working for myself, while doing something I genuinely love? That’s a pretty rare combo.

I know it’s hard to remember that far back, but do you remember starting out and what are the 3 top things you have learned from running this business?

Oh yes, I definitely remember those early days—nervous, excited, and probably brushing more hair off myself than the dogs.

Starting out was a big leap, but it taught me so much about myself and what it takes to run a successful business.

If I had to narrow it down, my top 3 lessons would be:

1. Consistency builds trust – Whether it’s turning up on time, doing a great groom, or just being friendly, showing up the same way every day builds loyalty that lasts.
2. People skills matter as much as dog skills – You’re not just grooming dogs; you’re connecting with people who love their dogs like family.
3. Adaptability is key – No two dogs (or days) are the same. Learning to roll with the punches and keep calm makes all the difference.

What does it feel like to be running a such a successful long term business? How do you feel about still being here 20 years on doing what you do?

Honestly, it feels incredible. When I first started, I never imagined I’d still be here 20 years later doing what I love, but I’m so glad I am. There’s a real sense of pride that comes with building something that’s lasted this long and still brings joy.

It’s not just a business anymore—it’s a part of who I am. The relationships I’ve built, the dogs I’ve watched grow up, the trust from my clients. It’s all been so

rewarding. I feel grateful, grounded, and still excited for what each new day brings. It’s a rare thing to love what you do for this long, and I don’t take that for granted.

After all these years of dog grooming and earning money with your Blue Wheelers business, what do you feel has changed within the industry since you started?

Wow, so much has changed since I started grooming dogs 20 years ago.

Firstly, Back then, dogs were loved, of course, but now they’re treated like royalty. People are way more invested in their pets’ care these days, and that means they want the very best for them, grooming included.

The second big thing is how much more educated pet owners are now. They know what their dogs need, ask great questions, and are super tuned in to things like coat health and skin care. It keeps me on my toes (in a good way).

Finally, Technology has made life a whole lot easier. From online bookings to better equipment and mobile setup, it’s helped streamline everything, so I get to spend more time actually doing what I love: grooming the dogs and connecting with their humans.

Do you have any funny stories from your many years as a dog groomer?

Oh, definitely—after 20 years, I’ve got plenty of stories

One that still cracks me up is when a little bull terrier that managed to slip out of the bath tether mid-wash jumped over my bath before I could blink and ran victory laps around the van with shampoo suds flying everywhere. The owners were in stitches.

And then there’s the dogs who think they’re the boss with cheeky dog talk until the clippers come out. Honestly, the personalities you meet every day are what keep the job fun.

There’s never a dull moment in dog grooming, that’s for sure.

Do you still feel supported by Blue Wheelers, despite being so experienced?

Yeah, for sure. Even after 20 years, I still feel like Blue Wheelers has my back.

They’re always there if I need advice or support, and it’s good to know I’m not doing this all by myself. They keep things simple and helpful, and I still get updates and tips that make a real difference.

It feels like being part of a team, no matter how long you’ve been around. That means a lot.

Franchising has ups and downs, across all industries. What are the ups and downs for you with your Blue Wheelers franchise?

Yes it has ups and downs, like anything really.

The best bit? Having Blue Wheelers watching my back. Makes things way easier knowing I’m not on my own. Plus, they sort out the training and marketing, so I get to spend more time with the dogs.

Granted, there rules to stick to, but honestly, it’s worth it for all the help I get.

All up, being with Blue Wheelers has made running the business way smoother than doing it on my own.

This is a tough one but we want an honest answer. If you were offered the opportunity today to join Blue Wheelers, would you do so? I.e.: If you had your time over would you make the same choice and why?

Honestly, if I had the chance to do it all over again, I’d still choose to join Blue Wheelers.

Starting out, having their support made a huge difference; it’s tough going into business on your own, and they made the whole journey a lot easier. Sure, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but that’s true of any business.

Being part of Blue Wheelers has given me a career I’m proud of, working with animals I love. So yeah, I’d definitely make the same choice again.

What advice would you give to someone else thinking about joining this business? In today’s World we see a lot of analysis paralysis, people who fear the change of working for themselves and don’t believe it’s possible to make a living from being a dog groomer. What would you say to them?

I’d say don’t let fear hold you back.

Starting your own business, especially in dog grooming, can seem scary at first, but it’s totally doable if you’re passionate and willing to put in the work. There will always be challenges, but the rewards of being your own boss and doing something you love makes it so worthwhile.

And with a support network like Blue Wheelers behind you, you’re not doing it alone. They help with training, marketing, and advice, so you can focus on building your skills and your client base.

If you really love dogs and want a career where every day feels meaningful, don’t overthink it, take that leap. You might just surprise yourself.