When George Cardinale discovered that the local franchise of Aussie Pet Mobile was shutting down, he took matters into his own hands and bought the portable pet grooming business.
My wife and I liked the quality and convenience of the service, Cardinale said. When I heard the franchise would be dropped, I called the corporate office and, to make a long story short, we took over the East Contra Costa franchise.
Cardinale has worked in estate for years, so pet grooming seems like a charming detour, but Cardinale was so impressed with Aussie that he wanted to keep the service close to home.
I wanted to share the quality service of Aussie Pet Mobile with others, Cardinale said. Pets are like children. We want to take care of them the best way we can.
Aussie Pet Mobile is unique because the pet grooming service comes to you. Dogs and cats of all breeds are welcome in a fully-loaded van that includes a climate controlled environment, a fresh water supply and an electricity generator that eliminates the need to plug in to the customer's grid during an appointment, which lasts from an hour to an hour and a half.
The average price for standard treatment is about $70, but prices vary based on size and breed. The fee also includes travel and fuel costs.
It may seem like a lot, but it's all about quality, Cardinale said. For example, you can wash your car in the driveway for very little money. You can take it to a basic car wash for about $5, but if you want the full service wash and detail, you'll pay $22 or more. It's the same concept with us. You'll pay more for the quality.
Aussie Pet Mobile is a one-stop shop for getting your pet pampered and primped. The basic treatment features a 15-step process that includes cleaning the ears and around the eyes, nail clipping, tooth brushing, and a hydro bath with a warm water massage. If cats cooperate, they can have a bath too, but it's not forced.
Aussie Pet Mobile also offers services such as haircuts and flea and tick treatment. The company is home to the exclusive service called the FURminator.
The FURminator is a process that removes the undercoat, the part that sheds. This process is an alternative to shaving the animal. After a few treatments every four to six weeks, shedding is reduced by 60 to 80 percent.
Cardinale said Aussie Pet Mobile is convenient for the owner and the pet. The van comes to the customer so the pet is close to a familiar environment, and the owner is welcome to stay with the pet if the animal shows any sign of stress.
The service is good for a dog or cat because it's just feet away from its home, and there is no waiting period, Cardinale said. They don't have to wait in a cage for hours. There is little to no stress on the animal.
The owners can relax, too. They can interact with the pet groomer. It's a more personal experience.
Cardinale calls his customers to discuss the quality of the service and he regularly visits grooming sites to ensure that clients are receiving the best value.
Appointments should be made at least a week in advance. Aussie Pet Mobile's vans visit all of far East County as well as Concord, Livermore, Rio Vista, Tracy, Mountain House and Clayton. For more information, call 925-516-1300 or 800-Pet-Mobile, or visit www.aussiepetmobile.com.


