A Story of Humble Beginnings, Excitement, and Constant Learning
By Hannes Roodt, Founder of Ultimate Pet Care
Thirteen years ago, after returning from a life-changing Global Mission Trip — “80 Days Around the World” — I found myself filled with a vision that would shape my future: to start a mobile dog grooming business. Travelling and experiencing new places had always ignited my creativity, and this time was no different. The concept was simple yet ambitious: Ultimate Pet Care (UPC) — bringing the best care to man’s best friend. Our mission was clear: to serve dog lovers who may not have the time or expertise to groom their pets themselves, and to elevate the dog grooming industry to a new level of excellence.
The Vision Comes to Life
I had to work abroad to raise the funds needed to build our first custom mobile trailer. When the dream finally took shape, Ultimate Pet Care was born in the heart of the well-known Serengeti Golf Estate on the East Rand. Our small dog fashion show launch attracted local pet lovers, some of whom still remain loyal clients to this day. Over time, we expanded our reach to cover the entire East Rand, including Kempton Park, Benoni, Boksburg, Germiston, and Edenvale.
Our custom-made fibreglass trailer, designed by me, was the foundation of our success. As a groomer, driver, manager, and eventually owner, I was deeply involved in every aspect of the business. Our dedicated team played an essential role in building what we now call the “UPC family” — a network of passionate entrepreneurs across the country who have helped elevate the grooming industry and create approximately 180 jobs, launch 60 trailers, and groom over 10,000 dogs per month across South Africa.
Growing Through Challenges and Opportunities
In 2015, we discovered the UPC Blueprint and decided to close one of our mobile trailers. Little did we know that this decision would mark the beginning of our franchise journey. Our concept was soon recognized by a client, and before long, our first franchise was sold — followed by another and another. It was clear that South Africans were hungry for new opportunities, extra income, and adventure in business.
Since launching in 2012, our journey has been filled with sacrifices, losses, betrayals, and incredible experiences. But every challenge taught us something valuable about business, life, people, and most importantly, ourselves.
A Celebration of Milestones and Future Growth
After 12 years in business, I’m excited to share the story of our brand and our franchisees across South Africa, who are bringing the best care to man’s best friend. Today, we celebrate over 400,000 dog washes (with more to come!) and a growing client base of 36,000 happy pet owners. Our first Doggy Daycare and Training School in Benoni now looks after 100 dogs daily, and we’re set to expand to Pretoria and Cape Town soon, with plans for Doggy Hotels and Kennels in the near future.
We’ve also launched our own UPC-brand shampoo, available online and through local franchises, and we receive daily inquiries about new franchise opportunities nationwide.
Looking Ahead to the Future
To every person who believed in and invested in our vision, and to our loyal clients across South Africa, I want to express my deepest gratitude. As we look ahead to the next 12 years of business and learning, we remain committed to setting a standard of excellence in the dog grooming world.
Thank you for being part of our journey, and here’s to many more years of growth, innovation, and — above all — bringing the best care to man’s best friend.
We truly love animals and are dedicated to creating a higher standard in the dog grooming world.
Ultimate Pet Care ensures the highest standard of service, grooming and care. We have expert, professionally trained groomers that will take care of your dogs, styling to breed standard or client’s personal requests.
