POCATELLO – The pet industry is one that remained untouched by the economic crash, which is one of the reasons why Teresa Henderson says she ventured out on her own and opened Aussie Pet Mobile of Southeast Idaho in April 2013.

    “ This is one of the few industries that didn’t take a hit, I did my research,” she commented.

Henderson figured it was worth investing in the custom-built, Mercedes Sprinter van.

“It saves customers time, it’s more relaxing for the cat, or dog, without other animals around,” Henderson continued. “Plus, you can forgo any accidents that could occur in the car on the way to the groomer or vet.”

The van can be parked in the driveway or on the street. It does not need to be hooked up to an electrical unit.

Nonetheless, the rig  has a heated hydro bath, air conditioning, heat, its own electricity source, water source and a ramp. Solar panels are also incorporated into the electrical design.

 Henderson, a certified groomer, is trained to offer a 15-step spa treatment that includes a customized shampoo, massage, blow drying, brushing, and nail clipping, to name a few. Other services include “pawdicures,” aloe treatments for dry skin, nail grinding, flea/tick control and excess hair removal. The cost varies depending on the breed, size, coat condition and scope of services.

 “We find our typical customers are either very busy, have small children, have elderly pets or are elderly themselves,” Henderson said. “These are all reasons why people are calling me up after they see me driving through their neighborhood.”

 The largest dog Henderson has invited into her work space was 190 pounds. The smallest was five pounds. The biggest cat she worked with was 38 pounds.

 “We disinfect between each appointment and use biodegradable products that are earth-friendly,” Henderson added. “Some of the dogs grow accustomed to the pampering (getting their nails done). It usually takes them a few times to feel most comfortable.”

 The entrepreneur drives from Pocatello up to Rigby and into the Jackson Hole area, accordingly.

            She already has plans to purchase a Aussie Pet Mobile van to service upper valley customers.

  “It’s a valuable service to shut-ins,” Henderson said. “The dogs don’t have to hear any barking or have a ton of new smells to take in. It doesn’t take a big chunk of time out of your day.”

 Teresa Henderson has a background in marketing, event planning and customer service. She co-owns the franchise with her husband, Mike Henderson. He is a retired Marine Corps service member who currently works at ON Semiconductor. They have two yellow Labradors and a Manx cat.

For more information, dial 1-800-Pet-Mobile or visit www.aussiepetmobile.com.

It is recommended that appointments be made in advance during the summertime and around the holidays.