A dog's life ... on the road

A local dog groomer decided to take a chance by opening her own business after losing regular work because of COVID-19.

Vanessa Evans is the co-owner of Wag’in Wheels. She does mobile dog grooming out of a camper on the back of her truck.

“I get phone calls every day that so-and-so needs their toenails done or she can’t see, her hair is in her eyes,” Evans told Kelowna10.

“I’ve got to get this done so I can get to these people, and I’ve got to do it safely , too. I mean, I couldn’t go into people’s homes, COVID just restricted us so much, so this has helped out tons.”

Throughout the pandemic, she realized how important it was to help her clients and their dogs, even during these tough times.

“These poor dogs through COVID, for the six weeks that we were in lockdown, none of them saw any grooming whatsoever. We’re an essential service, we are the ones that maintain these dogs. We’re their health,” she said.

Starting a business can be difficult, but the passion Evans has for dogs kept her motivated.

“I’ve been grooming for 30 years. This is not just a hobby; it’s been my passion. I love animals. I think they deserve the best. I think they’re misunderstood a lot of times, they’re fun, they never argue back, I love my job. It’s not even a job, it’s just fun,” Evans said.

Evans didn’t want to set up a traditional grooming business, so she decided to think outside the box and go mobile. She soon found out that has its perks.

“I’ve seen places in Kelowna I never knew existed. I mean look where I am now, I’m in Gallagher’s Canyon, this beautiful area. It’s fantastic, I love it,” Evans explained.

The most rewarding part of her job is seeing how happy the dogs are after she is finished grooming them.

“I’m like the dentist to them. I’m doing their toenails, I’m squeezing their bum, I’m cleaning their ears. I’m not their favourite person, but when I’m done, I’m their favourite person and I love that,” she said.