Soaring fuel costs are pressuring motorists and small businesses all across California. In Fresno, these costs have a mobile dog-grooming service operator reconsidering business operations to stay afloat.
Here’s what to know
With gas averaging $5.99 per gallon and diesel reaching $8.21, Aubrey and Derrick Alvarez, who operate Muddy Paws Mobile Pet Grooming, spend about $4,000 a month to fuel four vans, according to KSEE/KGPE.
“I pass the gas station, and I just say, ‘Oh, god,'” Derrick Alvarez said.
The business has scaled back its routes from the far edges of Fresno County and now focuses on jobs in Fresno and Clovis.
The owners also took over Fluffers Pet Grooming near First and Herndon, adding a physical location that they say can keep prices affordable as crude oil hit $105 a barrel Tuesday.
What can be done?
High fuel prices are pushing drivers toward electric vehicles despite infrastructure and charging concerns…