BUBBLE BATHS PAMPER and relax. Microbubble baths do, too, but they also deep clean and help to treat a variety of skin problems in pets.
Danielle Wilson of Bath & Biscuits in Granville, OH, has been providing this type of hydrotherapy for more than three years.
THE IDEA
Provide relief, reduce costs and boost sales
Wilson learned of microbubble bathing systems at a pet industry trade show. Originating in Japan, they use bubbles greater than 2 and less than 25 micrometers to penetrate hair follicles and skin pores. These teeny tiny bubbles attract and bond with dirt as well as with bacteria, yeast and allergens, and lift them to the water’s surface. Oxygen from burst microbubbles also boosts skin metabolism and promotes healing.
“I really liked the idea,” she says. “I was a vet tech for many years and had seen never-ending battles with skin problems.”
Using microbubbles during a groom also reduces the amount of water, shampoo and conditioner needed. All this, combined with her ability to offer 15-minute treatments as an add-on, convinced Wilson to buy a system.
THE EXECUTION
Pick, promote & treat
Wilson researched manufacturers from around the world before choosing NatureBless in Singapore. Her first microbubble bathing system cost just $350, but a year later she upgraded to a $1,100 model. Its bubble-generating unit sits on the floor, connected to two nozzled hoses: One draws in water from a filled grooming tub, and the other returns microbubbly water to the tub. The second hose can also be used to apply bubbles to body areas not submerged.
“The microbubbles make the water this milky color, from the churning action. I tell customers that they’re scrubbing bubbles,” Wilson explains, adding that while effective, they are gentle on skin.
In addition to promoting the treatment for skin problems, she also recommends it for senior dogs.
“The bursting bubbles create heat, which helps with sore muscles and arthritis.”
And for those who encounter a skunk: “It has been tremendous for de-skunking dogs. It gets down in hair shafts and pores, helping us get rid of the smell so much quicker.”
THE RESULTS
Healthier dogs & higher revenue
Wilson points to late Sweetpea the Bulldog as one of her microbubble bathing successes. After years of struggling with skin allergies, the pup came in for a treatment and saw immediate relief.
“Sweetpea was such a happier dog, not having to stop every 2 feet to scratch,” she says. “It was devastating to lose her, but really cool to know that for the last year and a half of her life, she wasn’t miserable and itching.”
Wilson charges $10 to $15, depending on size of dog, for a microbubble bath. (She has yet to try it on cats.) Treatments bring in $1,000 in extra revenue a month, plus provide savings on utilities and bathing supplies.
Do It Yourself: Start Your Own Bubble Treatments
- Choose the right microbubble bathing system for your business. They can range greatly in cost, to upwards of $10,000.
- Start by offering the treatment for free. Wilson benefited from positive word of mouth when she did.
- Promote regular and seasonal benefits, from skin problems to allergies to skunkings.
- Sell local veterinarians benefits on the treatment. Wilson has one in particular who regularly sends her clients.
- Promote on social media with cute videos. See instagram.com/bathnbiscuits for Sweetpea bubbling in a tub.