Groomer to Groomer May 2022 by Barkleigh Productions

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 41 ED.5 • MAY 2022

WWW.GROOMERTOGROOMER.COM

GREAT GROOMING

DOESN’T JUST

HAPPEN

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CONTENTS | MAY 2022

Stop Comparing and Start Growing, Grooming is YOUR Journey!

Summer Meadows P E T S PA: rural & relaxed by Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

Dr. Faver: To Achieve Success, it Pays to Invest

Oquendo: Are You Ready to Make Big Changes?

Conner: These are a Few of Daryl's

Favorite Things David: Great Grooming Doesn't Just Happen

Hansen: What I Wish I Knew Before I

Groomed Cats

the

Invaluable Advice for Greenhorn Groomers

by Kathy Hosler

Hernandez: Perfect Poodle Tail Poof

Northwest Grooming Show 2022 Contest Results

New Products

Classifieds

Show Schedule

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 41 ED.5 • MAY 2022

EDITOR/PRESIDENT Todd Shelly todd@barkleigh.com

ART DIRECTOR Laura Pennington laura@barkleigh.com

MARKETING CONSULTANT Alex Hammersla alex@barkleigh.com

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Adam Lohr adam@barkleigh.com

SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brandi Aurelio brandi@barkleigh.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Cassidy Ryman cassidy@barkleigh.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Gwen Shelly gwen@barkleigh.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS James Severs james@barkleigh.com WEB MASTER Luke Dumberth luke@barkleigh.com

DIGITAL MEDIA Evan Gummo evan@barkleigh.com

MANAGING EDITOR Rebecca Shipman rebecca@barkleigh.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER/ EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Karin Grottola karin@barkleigh.com

Kathy Hosler

Mary Oquendo

Deborah Hansen

Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

Daryl Conner

Jonathan David

Dr. Cliff Faver

Blake Hernandez

Copyright May 2022. Groomer to Groomer is published monthly by Barkleigh Productions, Inc, 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Postmaster: Send change of address to Groomer to Groomer c/o Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Annual U.S. subscription rate $25. Outside U.S. $79. year, surface rates. Groomer to Groomer is free to current Barkleigh Productions, Inc. customers. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Editorial offices: 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. (717) 691–3388 FAX: (717) 691–3381 Email: info@barkleigh.com

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GREAT GROOMING

DOESN’T JUST

HAPPEN

ALYSSA KASIBA WINNER OF GROOM EXPO WEST 2022 CREATIVE PEOPLE’S CHOICE BY ANDIS

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE BIG CHANGES

STOP COMPARING &

START GROWING, GROOMING IS YOUR JOURNEY!

ON THE COVER Alyssa Kasiba Winner of Groom Expo West 2022 Creative People’s Choice sponsored by Andis Cover photo by Animal Photography www.AnimalPhotography.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Sto p C o m pa ri ng a n d S ta rt Growi ng, Groom i ng is by Kelsey Ann Sexton

Pet grooming is an amazing career, but as artists we struggle to consistently appreciate our own art. As a result, we simultaneously become our biggest fans and our own worst critics.

am still on my journey of becom-

round face and stick a bow on her. You

ple write the same and no two groomers

ing a Master Groomer, and every

then post a photo to your Facebook

groom identically. You can train yourself

day I have moments of glory that

page, which gets 52 likes! You are so

to learn breed standards, but each dog

make me proud of myself, as well as

happy in that moment where Fluffy’s

has its own unique structure and it takes

moments where I realize how much I

owner shares your picture and tells all

so much time to master those angles and

still do not know.

her Facebook friends that her groomer

bevels. We are pet grooming, and in a

is the BEST!

world of designer dogs, each dog is a new

We are all on our own journey, and I believe a lot of us self-sabotage along the

work of art. Back to comparing yourself to

way. However, each day in the salon is an

through your newsfeed and you see

opportunity for us to grow.

another groomer’s photo of their own

the other Fluffy…Take a moment to

“Fluffy.” You portray this groomer

get back in your own lane. Go back

Fluffy. Fluffy is a regular client, and

as someone more skilled than you

through your old photos and see how

every four weeks she comes in and re-

(#groomergoals) and immediately com-

far you’ve come; how much you’ve

ceives her routine grooming. Her own-

pare their Fluffy to your Fluffy.

grown. Write down your goals and

For instance, here is a story about

what you want to work on. Maybe that

er is extremely grateful and loves your

Let me stop you there. Grooming is

work. In her eyes, you are the greatest

art; it’s subjective. You have been trained

other Fluffy has a straighter ear so,

groomer in the world.

to clean and groom that dog like a pro—

you need to work on your stretch-dry-

and a pro you are! Your skill set is yours,

ing. Maybe that other Fluffy has a

just like your handwriting. No two peo-

cuter face so, you need to study up

While you are grooming Fluffy, you feel proud as you snip away at that cute

You continue to scroll, scroll, scroll

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Grooming is art;

on round faces or bathing techniques. Or, maybe that Fluffy has a neater

rience and skill, you will have waves of

it’s subjective. You

finish so, you need to strengthen your

confidence and waves of insecurities.

skills by practicing your scissoring

We are all in this together, on our own

have been trained

technique. Lastly, your Fluffy and their

journey to become better groomers as an

Fluffy aren’t the same dog. You and

industry. Never stop learning and keep

to clean and

that other groomer aren’t the same and

up the good work. Take those moments

are on two different journeys.

of victory with your “Fluffy” and let them

groom that dog like a pro—and a pro you are! Your skill set is yours.

Comparing yourself to other groomers can help you realize that you

Remember, as you gain more expe-

fuel you with assurance that you are on the right path. &

still have goals to reach. But comparing yourself to you is where you’ll be able to focus solely on your needs and stay motivated to achieve those goals.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Derm Connection

earching for a career is never an easy task, and grooming is no different. However, there are definite steps you need to take to achieve success. It is easy to simply state that you are a groomer or veterinarian, but can you say that you are at the top of your game? In order to be a veterinarian, I had to have eight years of college and pass two eight-hour national exams followed by hour-long to half-day tests in every state I wanted to apply. Does passing the tests make me a great veterinarian? The answer is “no,” it just proves I can pass a test. To excel in a career, it takes drive, motivation and of course common sense. There was a statement that floated around veterinary school: The students achieving A’s and B’s will work for the C students. Why? Because often we get so wrapped up in the grades, we forget about how to use common sense to achieve a goal. Let’s look at a few examples… Typically groomers go through a school or an internship with one teacher. Do they have all the answers? Are they the best teacher available? Too often we find someone close or inexpensive because it is easy. This is a career choice that may direct the rest of your life. Is choosing cheap the best way to make that decision? Make sure you seek out education from the people that are the best at what they do. Research their background for what you want to accomplish. Not all of us may have the same goals; some may want to be competitive groomers, some may want to solve skin issues, while others may want to open up five salons. Whatever your goal is, seek out what you are looking for and make sure you pick the best individual to fit your needs.

by Dr. Cliff Faver

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

To excel in a career, it takes drive, motivation and of course common sense.

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

The other important factor in education is to never stop learning! Always keep current with new information and techniques or your knowledge in the field will become antiquated. Don’t wake up one day to realize the profession has passed you by. Personally, I take 20-30 hours a year of continuing education and it still never seems to be enough. To stay current and relevant, you should be attending trade shows, virtual seminars or local seminars. Even hiring a professional to give you private tutorship would be a strong move. These are great investments for your career. Another area of significance is the products and equipment that you utilize. What you choose will have consequences in your future. This is an area where you get what you pay for. If you buy cheap shampoo and

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conditioner, you get less than ideal results. Often, your client doesn’t notice until someone down the street decides to invest in a quality product producing better results. These clients don’t often return, even if the other salon doesn’t meet their needs, because they labeled you as the salon that uses cheap products. Some have found their businesses rapidly decline and they don’t even realize the cause. A good statement to remember is, “You can’t save your way into prosperity.” The best way to succeed is offering consistent quality. Buying cheap scissors or tools also has consequences. If you buy scissors that don’t fit in your hand or are not balanced, you will put more strain on your hand and eventually arthritis will be the price you pay. So, make sure you do your research, turn to experts and invest well in products. Again, this is a big purchase that should be considered a long-term investment— not a place to put cost as the only deciding factor. How about things like our dryers, tables, mobile vans, etc.? These are all things that are good to research in order to get the best value you can. But if you end up paying for costly repairs on an inferior-quality product, have you really saved that much? Always investigate how reliable the equipment is before you make the decision to purchase. On a physical level, the techniques we use in grooming can have a significant effect on career longevity. This can include everything from how you hold your scissors to the flooring you stand on (fatigue), and the way you contort your body for those hard-togroom areas. When we are young and invincible, these are not things we worry about. If you listen to mature groomers (sometimes even middle-aged groomers), you will hear lot of “I wish I had taken care of my body

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Philip Schafmayer NCMG - Champion Groomer, Judge and Pet Salon Owner

TOP GROOMERS DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS THAN THE BEST.

better when I was young” statements. You will also hear a lot of groomers that now only do small dogs or are fighting “groomers lung” and can hardly walk across the room without struggling to breath. Thinking about your health and doing things accordingly is a huge investment in yourself and will result in a strong, extended career. So, what should you think about as a young groomer? Investing in your future! Don’t compromise what you do and your health for a cheap price. Make a long-term plan and don’t be so quick to jump on the easiest route. Make sure your chosen path is in line with your goals. How you approach this is strictly based on what you want to accomplish. Don’t be afraid to make changes along the way and don’t be so discouraged by the thought of failure that you fail to succeed. My favorite quote is, “The man [or woman] who succeeds is the one that may fall down 99 times but gets up 100 times.” Never give up, never stop trying and never stop learning. The more you learn (and apply), the better you will be at your chosen pathway. & Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in

In fact, Philip has used one of his Air Force Commanders for nearly 20 years.

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Salon Spotlight

Summer Meadows P E T S PA: rural & relaxed by Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

fter working for other

was able to buy her own farmhouse

grooming businesses,

and property with an unfinished

Katie Soistman’s goal for

outbuilding which she began con-

many years had been building and

verting to the pet spa of her dreams.

running her own grooming salon.

Peaceful, quiet, immaculate, safe and

Eventually, her pride in her hard

picturesque, Summer Meadows Pet

work and devotion paid off. Summer

Spa is already at capacity with a full

Meadows Pet Spa has been operat-

schedule of regular clients that she

ing successfully for over 10 years in

just loves—and they love her.

beautiful rural Hampstead, Maryland as the first pet “spa” and only cage-

started out bathing as a teenager.

free experience in her county.

When she was 11 years old, she got

Katie started by renting a farm-

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

her own toy Poodle. She would work

house that she could also groom

off her dog’s grooming costs by bath-

out of, but she quickly outgrew the

ing for the groomers for 10 years

space. She then moved to a Main

while she completed her schooling.

Street retail space in town and Photo by Sarah Wokenfuss Photography

Diligently self-taught, Katie

Katie’s commitment to hard work

business boomed. A few more years

and saving enabled her to steadily

of hard work and saving, and she

move towards her goal. She worked to

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convert her new home’s outbuilding to a grooming salon, one room at a time, starting with the lobby. The formerly-unfinished building became the Summer Meadows Pet Spa, which she named for her beloved Newfoundland, Summer. Now, at 33 years old, Katie grooms solo with no other staff. She cherishes her clientele which she describes as “truly amazing.” There is a waiting list for others in her area hoping for an opening. Everyone comes on a sixweek or less schedule. “Having everyone on a schedule is so wonderful,” Katie says, as it frees her to focus on the pets and her work.

Cat grooming in a separate part of the building is one special feature of Summer Meadows Pet Spa. Katie regularly reserves cat-exclusive days in her schedule. GBhonor-2022-May-GroomersBest.pdf 1 4/18/2022 11:49:57 AM

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Peaceful, quiet, immaculate,

proudly,” Katie continues. “Just this

wrist issues that plague many groom-

safe and picturesque,

year, my newest project was adding

ers. She offers “After Hours” service for

a courtyard for my clients to relax in

those unable to wait, but charges time

and wait for their pets if they’d like.

and a half for her overtime.

Summer Meadows Pet Spa is already at capacity with a full schedule of regular clients that she just loves— and they love her.

My work room is spacious and filled

Cat grooming in a separate part

with natural light and I really try to

of the building is one special feature

focus on the wellbeing of the pets in

of Summer Meadows Pet Spa. Katie

my care by offering a personal hour

regularly reserves cat-exclusive days

dedicated to only them.”

in her schedule. She had groomed cats

Katie calls herself a “small dog spe-

before, but finally went to school to

cialist” and stopped taking any doodles

master the craft. Katie graduated from

years ago, necessitated by the same

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stitute) in March 2020, and became a

Katie’s favorite aspect of her work

loves groomer education and usually

proud CFMG (Certified Feline Master

is her commitment to one-on-one

attends three trade shows a year,

Groomer). She reports that her clients

service for every client. In true spa-like

including Groom Expo in Hershey,

tell her how hard it is to find a good

fashion, each pet client gets a warm

PA—close enough that she can stay

cat groomer. Her cat-owning clients

towel from her towel warmer and has

at home.

are kind, grateful, flexible, pleasant

her full attention for the entire time

and good tippers.

they are together. She has no cages and

groomer has many rewards, including a

has her clients “well trained” for imme-

beautiful place to work and live, great

farmhouse on the same property as the

diate pickup upon completion of each

clients and a more relaxed lifestyle. &

pet spa looks a lot like her shop, com-

groom. She keeps to a six-hour day,

plete with thoughtful décor and only

grooming five to eight dogs maximum.

select pieces of furniture. Katie loves

Katie’s dedication to better her

Katie takes design seriously. Her

high-quality antiques and is saving to

own craft includes plans to become

open another business, this time again

CPR and First Aid certified. She

on Main Street—an Antique Shop. She

maintains a great rapport with fellow

works one weekend a month towards

groomers in her area by hosting

building out that space, which she has

grooming get-togethers at her house

already begun work on. Attending yard

where they enjoy parties by her pool.

sales and flea markets are among her

Local groomers come over to swim,

favorite pastimes.

get education and hold classes. Katie

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Katie expresses that being a rural

Do you want YOUR salon featured in Groomer to Groomer magazine? Tell us why you should be the next Salon Spotlight! Email Rebecca@barkleigh.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Mary’s Musings

U R O EAD Y E AR TO MAKE Y

Then come the “coulds.” I’ve established the need, now could this happen… • Could I make a living going cat exclusive? This area has a large retirement community that comes to Sequim from large urban areas such as California and Seattle. They are used to paying higher prices. • Could I set my pricing to be profitable? As mobile cat grooming is non-existent here, I can set the pricing. • Could I reach my target audience for higher-end cat grooming?

CHANGES?

by Mary Oquendo

ment communities in the area that already target to the higherincome demographic. • Could I drive my mobile grooming van

ou know you need to make some big changes...maybe change the way you or-

across the country?

ganize your time, raise prices, take better care of yourself, niche down, and so

Of course!

forth. But change is scary and our subconscious prefers to keep us “safe.” How-

Just as important as the “whys” and

ever, the unknown is not safe. This is why it is so hard to make any sort of meaningful

the “coulds” are the “why nots.” Just be-

changes, because our subconscious is sabotaging us “in our best interest.” Obtaining

cause something sounds good and is do-

clarity on why a change will be of benefit is key to making it work.

able, it is really something you want to do?

To start, you must figure out your “whys.” I prefer pen and paper when doing this

• Why not go cat exclusive?

exercise as writing is a motor skill that lights up the creative parts of our brain. Your

What if I can’t fill a schedule with

“whys” will help you communicate the need for your plans.

just cats and all my marketing is now

I’m going to illustrate this method with the decision-making process I used when deciding to move out to Washington with the thought of going cat exclusive:

cat-exclusive? • Why not fill a schedule? I really don’t want to work a full week

• Why should I go cat exclusive? There aren’t any real options out here for pet owners to get cats groomed.

grooming, I have other irons in the fire. Will working one or two days a

• Why aren’t there any options to get cats groomed? Based on my research, the only mobile groomer does not groom cats and there is just one shop that does. Most cats are sedation grooms at the vet. • Why are most cats being sedated to groom?

week cover my business expenses? Ultimately, it was my “why nots” that made the decision to choose another path.

Groomers are afraid to groom cats. (Hmmm, maybe I could also offer cat grooming classes for the area groomers?)

Once you can establish clarity, the next step is to make a plan which starts

• Why would cat owners opt for regular grooming?

with figuring out what steps you need

Owners are unaware of how regular sedation grooming may not be healthy for

to take. Grab another piece of paper and

their cat or may not realize it would be cheaper to do regular grooming (some own-

spend a couple of days brainstorming

er education may be an answer.)

all the things you need to do and then

The deeper you go with your “whys,” the more clarity you’ll have.

There are several over-50 and retire-

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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organize them into steps.

INDUSTRY SPEAKERS GROOMING EVENTS

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Had I decided to go the

1. The “Whys”

These help you to fully communticate the need for your plans.

2. The “Coulds”

Plan out if the elements of your plans are possible.

3. The “Why Nots”

Make sure your plans are what you want to do!

(and this is very important) schedule

cat-grooming route, those steps

the time in my planner to get them

would have included what I would

done. Scheduling tasks in your planner

need to do to move a business

increases the likelihood it will actually

across the country, set up in a new

get done—especially if you schedule at

state and start marketing. Each of

the same day and/or time each week.

those three categories would have a

It’s why so many of us schedule our

separate brainstorming page. Again,

own dogs to get groomed. Doing spe-

I prefer pen (color-coded glitter pens

cific tasks at specific times trains the

to be specific) and paper to outline

brain to anticipate the task, making it

the steps. Each category would be

more likely to keep you on track.

a different color to make it easy to

This is my method for getting

see what type of tasks needed to be

things done. At the moment, I am

done. There are also many online

working on seven different projects

planning tools which can be used,

which will all get done because I have

such as Asana, Trello, Click Up, Airt-

established the “whys” and “coulds,”

able and Notions, and they all have

invalidated the “why nots,” created

free versions.

plans and checklists, and added them to my planner! &

Once I had my steps written out, I would create a checklist and then

SOCIA L MEDIA RELEASE FORM Pet Name

Your Pet is IMPO

No longer struggle with the dilemma of posting your latest & greatest groom that just so happened to be on your client’s dog!

Date

RTANT to Us!

I hereby authorize the use of photos and/or information relate d to my pet’s expe rience at this establishment. I understand my pet may be used in publications inclu ding electronic, audio visual, promotion al literature, adve rtising, community prese ntations, letters to area legislators, med ia and/or in simil ar ways. My consent is freel y given as a publ ic service without expe cting payment.

I release this estab lishment and their respective employee and agents from s, any and all liabil ity which may arise news media storie from the use of such s, promotional mate rials, written articl photographic imag es, videos and/or es. I grant permission

to use: (Please chec k one below) My pet’s name(s)/im ages My pet’s and my last name/images My pet’s and my and last name/ima ges Establishment Name Owner Name Owner Signature

Barkleigh Produ

ctions, Inc. • 717.6

91.3388 • www .barkleigh.com

This simple form with space for client’s pet name, client’s name and signature is designed to make it clear to the pet parent their pet’s photo will be shared on social media.

www.barkleighstore.com 24

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Grooming Matters

THESE ARE A FEW OF

THINGS by Daryl Conner

Sometimes the most practical tools we have are unlikely, simple or put to work in ways the designer never intended.

s I go about my daily work making dogs and cats

bathing dogs. If you’ve never tried them, you’ll be glad

more beautiful and comfortable, I utilize all the

you did.

typical tools you would expect a groomer to use.

But I also have some favorite things that make my work easier which are not “regulation” grooming tools or products, but essential just the same. So, here is a list of some of my favorite workplace tools and prod-

help absorb water and provide a soft spot for pets to rest. Vinegar. It’s not just for salad anymore! Because of its acidic qualities, vinegar has antibacterial proper

ties and can be used as a non-toxic cleaner. We use it

ucts that you won’t find at a grooming supply store:

in our bathing system, add it to floor cleaner, use it to

wipe down surfaces and even as a window cleaner. In

Baby Wipes. We always keep a package of baby wipes handy and it’s incredible how often we reach

for one. They are great to wipe nose folds on Pugs or get that little bit of ear wax that the dog shook out after you cleaned its ears. Also, they often get used for cleaning up after an anal gland surprise or uncas-

trated dogs that are a little drippy. These inexpensive wipes are something we’d hate to live without.

Hair Scrunchies. Soft, colorful and oh-so-handy to hold long ears up out of the way while working on faces or buffing nails, human hair scrunchies are an essential in my salon.

3 26

4 5

Dollar Store Bathmats. Pop these in your crates to

addition, many groomers dilute it and use it as a final rinse. When added to the laundry, it can also help squelch pet odors.

Designer Anti-fatigue Mats. I think these mats are a must for groomers, but I only recently realized

they come in pretty colors and patterns. We have some that look like vintage oriental rugs and are so much nicer than the old black or gray ones I used to buy.

Self-Cleaning Mop. I’ll confess right now; I am not a big fan of mopping. I bought a self-cleaning mop

Exfoliating Gloves. These hard-working gloves are

about a year ago, and now I dislike this chore much

great for getting eye crusties and beard funk out while

less. The mop has fiber pads that Velcro tightly to the

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Going mobile empowers pet groomers to better serve pets, pet parents, and themselves. A mobile pet grooming salon leads to reduced stress and anxiety for pets, more convenience and time for pet parents, and greater earnings potential and scheduling flexibility for pet groomers. As a pet groomer or business owner, how are you positioning yourself or your business for future growth and success? Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022 Call 800-513-0304 or visit wagntails.com GroomertoGroomer.com

head and a bucket with clean water/

handy if a customer wants a pop

floor cleaner on one side, and the

of temporary color on their dog’s

other side squeezes out the dirty

ears or tail. Just wet a toothbrush,

water and keeps it separate from the

brush it over the chalk and then

clean side. The pads get tossed in

apply it to pet fur. It works best on

the washing machine when the job is done. It all seems so much more sanitary and civilized than my old sponge mops.

light-colored coats. I spritz a little pet hairspray on to help it last.

Bar Keepers Friend. This household scouring powder got a seal of

Simple Human Trash Can. My

approval from the manufacturer

grooming studio décor is all vin

of my expensive grooming tub.

tage, and for years I used a pretty

It makes cleaning a breeze and

wicker hamper for a trash can. It

leaves it sparkling and looking like

looked good but was a pain. The bags

new. Although I tried many other

would slip down inside, and if they

products first, this one has earned

got overfilled, they would snag on

its keep the best.

the wicker when I tried to remove them, often tearing. So, I finally broke down and bought a very mod-

Box fan. This versatile tool is a must-have for me. Not only does

it cool me down in warm weather,

ern Simple Human trash can. It is the

but it also quickly dries fresh-

most beautifully-designed thing, and

ly-mopped floors and pinch-hits

I am grateful for it every time I take

as a safe, heat-free cage dryer. I

the trash out. The bags fit snugly,

groom pets straight through and

never sliding, and replacement bags

rarely cage-dry, but if a dog just

are ingeniously stored right in the

can’t handle being table-dried, my

can. The bags even notify me when I

trusty box fan does a great job.

am running low to order more. I love this can so much that I bought one for my kitchen.

Think Sport Water Bottle. Keeping well hydrated is important, but

keeping my water fur-free has often been a challenge. So finally, after trying more water bottles than I care to

Computer Paper. If you have trouble seeing dark-coated dogs’

feet well enough to scissor them neatly, try placing each paw on a sheet of white paper. It’s like magic.

admit, I have found the perfect one.

a doodle with the other. It keeps my water cold all day, does not sweat on my furniture and looks nice if it shows

bling with lids!

Hogwash. A cat groomer introduced me to this magic spray. It’s made in the US, is organic, unscented, and safe for people

might take.

and pets. It takes out pet odors

for kids to play with comes in

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

thumb makes a nifty holder for

up in the background of a pet picture I Chalk. Non-toxic chalk designed

that flips up with a flick of your styptic powder. No more fum-

It is called Think Sport, and the lid is easy to use with one hand while I hold

Contact Lens Case. The kind

GroomertoGroomer.com

like a dream. You know that dog that is all bathed and dried and then expresses its anal glands?

GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

This stuff will make it seem like

your arms when you are cutting

it never happened. Or that dog

nails or working on their face.

whose owner does not want cologne, but you are on autopi-

SUBSCRIBE TO TEXT ALERTS

Sometimes the most practical tools

lot and give it a spritz anyway?

we have are unlikely, simple or put

Hogwash to the rescue!

to work in ways the designer never

Heavy-duty Kitchen Gloves.

intended. However, pet groomers are

Cut the fingers off so you can

creative thinkers; finding ways to make

still use tools, but put these on

their work more efficient seems to go

for those dogs that like to shred

with the territory. &

TEXT BARKLEIGH

TO 94253

In an ever-changing digital world, we know the importance of information being easily accessible. Due to popular demand, we have developed an SMS alert system which provides you periodic text messages* each month.

Be the FIRST to hear about: • • • • • • •

Upcoming Events Scheduling Changes Discounts Special Offers Flash Sales Promotions At Physical Events Opening of Show & Contest Registration

Shed Control PET SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Reduces Shedding Refreshing Scent Deep Clean & Condition Soap, Paraben & Dye Free

Barkleigh will text you up to 4 messages per month &* only when we deem it helpful & important.

10:1 Dilution 1 Gallon Concentrate Makes 10 Gallons TROPICLEANPET

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Grooming Gab

, will sprays that make brushing easier time a enable you to make grooming yo for ience home an enjoyable exper and for your pet.

How Often Should

between professional The duration of time same tly between dogs of the groomings can vary grea climate , hair type, density, and ition cond t Coa d. bree how bles. A lot depends on are just some of the varia to g you are willing to offer much home groomin g your pet. s suggested by groomin Here are some guideline be more essional groomer can b authorities. Your prof com If you don’t brush and specific about your pet. earlier time frame. regularly, choose the

the

Afghan Airedale Bedlington Terrier Bichon Frise Bouvier Brittany Spaniel Cairn Terrier Cocker Spaniel Collie ier Dandie Dinmont Terr Golden Retriever r Sette Irish Kerry Blue Terrier Lakeland Terrier Lhasa Apso Maltese Old English Sheepdog Pekingese Pomeranian Poodle e Schnauzer - Miniatur Standard t Gian Scottish Terrier Shih Tzu Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Terrier West Highland White Wire Fox Terrier ier Terr shire York

Invaluable Advice for Greenhorn Groomers by Kathy Hosler

Your Pet Pet Care Professiona

The Big Payoff…a Happy

ed?

My Pet Be Groom

3-6 weeks 6 weeks 4-6 weeks 4 weeks 8-10 weeks 8-12 weeks 6-10 weeks 4-8 weeks 6 weeks 6-8 weeks 8-12 weeks 8-10 weeks 4-8 weeks 6-8 weeks 3-4 weeks 4 weeks 4-6 weeks 6-12 weeks 12-16 weeks 4-6 weeks 6-8 weeks 8 weeks 10 weeks 6-10 weeks 3-4 weeks 6-8 weeks 4-8 weeks 6-8 weeks 6 weeks 4 weeks

One of the most wonderful, cari is to s things you can do for your pet a spe time together. Make grooming your bonding time between you and If you begin brushing while his be m will is short and not tangled, he shor accepting of it. Start with very en the sessions and gradually length groom your pet learns to enjoy daily to r praise of Use treats and plenty . ience exper ing groom a positive Be sure to use the brushing tec ed to that your groomer demonstrat to Br also see the pamphlet Learning ugh b Pet. The importance of thoro ing c followed by a complete comb be overemphasized. This small investment of your bene can pay off with tremendous bein your pet’s happiness and well . rance appea mention his Working together with your g for to obtain the proper products use pet’s care and to learn how to pe correctly, will ensure that your and feels his best at all times.

If you have a friend benefit from this pu please pass it

ctions • Me #PS-2 Barkleigh Produ barkleigh.co (717) 691-3388 • info@

Once It Is Removed, What Should I Do?

hen you begin your career in grooming, you are passionate, optimistic and full of enthusiasm. But no matter how much training you have, there is still a lot that you don't know.

I recently reached out and asked some fellow groomers to share

their early career experiences and their advice for new (and not so new) groomers. Their responses confirmed that to have a successful career in the pet grooming industry, you need a lot more than just grooming skills…and there are some things that you only learn through experience. Canadian groomer Debbie Adey shares her career experiences and powerful advice on some of the most important things that new groomers need to know: "When I started grooming, I used up every last ounce of strength I had on each day to fit as many dogs as possible into as short a time as possible. I enjoyed beating my speed as I believe my skills vastly improved during those time trials. I cannot groom at that pace anymore. Nor should I have to, nor should anyone want to. It isn't wrong to take your time with each dog and be able to charge enough to cover that reasonable extra time. Yes, I can groom dogs quickly and efficiently, but when I do, I miss out on opportu-

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

GroomertoGroomer.com

Cleanse the area around the bite thoroughly and apply an antiseptic to it. If you wish to have the tick examined by your pet’s veterinarian or your doctor, wrap the tick in a damp paper towel to protect it from dehydration (which could make it very difficult or impossible to identify) and seal it in a plastic bag.

Is There Any Way to Know How Long the Tick Has Been on My Pet?

If the tick looks flat, it has probably attached recently. If the tick is engorged, it may mean that it has been feeding for an extended time. The longer a tick has been feeding on your pet (or you) before being discovered, the greater chance that it will transfer disease. In many cases a ‘bullseye rash’ will appear at the site of a tick bite.

Proper Disposal of a Tick

Once the tick has been removed, place it in a sealed container or a small sealable plastic bag. You can add a squirt of tick spray to kill it, or simply seal the bag or container and place it in the trash. Ticks need humidity to survive and will perish without it. Do not flush ticks down the toilet. They can survive in the water.

We Are Here to Help You

Ticks are far too dangerous to ignore. Just one bite from these tiny terrors could affect you or your pet for the rest of your lives. Your best defense against ticks and the diseases they carry is prevention. We can recommend tick removal tools and a wide range of the products you may need to protect your pets and their environment. Please ask for product recommendations that will safely protect you and your pet from these tiny, treacherous predators.

Your Pet Care Professional Taking

Your Pet Care Professional

When Your Pet Needs a Smoothie

care of your Puppy at home…

Lear ning to Br ush Your Pet

Mission Accomplished – a Happy Puppy!

chnique o you, rush Your brushing cannot

Because you and your professional groomer took the time to introduce your puppy to grooming in a step-by-step, gentle, loving way, you made your puppy’s all-imp ortant ﬁrst visit to the grooming salon a wonder ful experience that will help him enjoy being groomed throughout his life.

Askhave Youra friend Groomwho If you er could this publication, froma Copy beneﬁt for pleaseofpass it on.

Learning to Brush Your Pet Pamphlet

d who could ublication, t on.

• Mechanicsburg PA #PS-3 Barkleigh Productions h.com • www.barkleigh.com (717) 691-3388 • info@barkleig

Fleas have to come in contact with the product to be killed. That means that fleas actually have to get on, and could possibly bite your pet, before they die. There is also a possibility of skin irrita tion at the site of application.

If you have a friend who could

beneﬁt from this publication, Sweet Succes s

Tiny fleas can crea please on.. te hugepass probitlems By working with your pet care professional and following their reco mmendations about products and their corr ect usage, and by diligently treating and protecting your pets and their surroundings, you and your pets can kiss the ferocious flea goodb ye.

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#PS-4 Barkleigh Productions • Mechanic sburg PA (717) 691-3388 • info@barkleigh.co m • www.barkleigh.com

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Puppy’s First Visit to the Grooming Salon

The Ferocious Flea

If you have a friend who could benefit from this publication , please pass it on.

uto

groomer your e them et looks

Your Pet Care Professional

Are there any disadv antages to these products?

Photo by: Sherri Regalb

r time eﬁts in ng, not to

Flea Free

In many areas of the country, flea control is a year round necessity. In conjunction with cont inuing premise control, many pet own ers have great success with oral or topical prod ucts that are administered once a month to their pet. The y come in a variety of brands like - Advantage ®, Frontline®, Revolution®, and Program®. There are specific form ulations for dogs and cats, and most are approved to use on puppies and kittens six to eight weeks and olde r. Read and follow the instructions, making sure to use the product that is specified for your pet. These products are extremely popular because of their once a month convenience, ease of application, and effectiveness. Most are waterproof, allowing your pet to be bathed, or to swim, without decr easing the product’s effectiveness. Also, keeping your pet flea free with this continuous protectio n, is far less costly than trying to eliminate an infestation on your pet and in your home.

Between professional groomings, you may need to brush and bathe your puppy at home. Your groomer can recommend and supply the equipment and coat care products that you will need. She will also be happy to demonstrate the correct brushing and combing techniq ues that you need to learn to properly care for your puppy.

ing spend ecial r pet. hair more rt em as ming. reinforce

Keeping your Pet

cause any irritation to himself. Remem ber that his freshly clipped nails may be sharp and can easily irritate his puppy skin. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your groomer immediately.

l at ou

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barkleigh.com •Groomer barkleighstore.com •Ed (717) 691-3388 to Groomer • Vol 41 5 • May 2022 GroomertoGroomer.com

nities for more joy within the profession.

and get every last bit of undercoat out, I

I miss out on special moments with the

shouldn't and I don't.

dog, whether while on the table or a few minutes of playtime afterwards. I miss out on really getting to know my

I wish I had a better understanding back then of how personal finances work and how to really plan for the future. I

clients, to understand what is happening

have had various mentors over the years

in their lives and be able to have a mean-

from many different areas in the world

ingful, unrushed conversation with them

and have learned different things from

when it is needed.

each of them. I had a great foundation,

Build your business so that you have

but it was short and I had to learn a

this time for people. A lot of people choose

lot on my own. Now my entire future

this profession to work with animals, and

depends on what I have built and how it

and do NOT overwork

I get that, but dogs don't walk in on their

can run."

yourself due to poor

relations are paramount to building not

had to learn a lot on her own. Groomers

just a successful business, but also a

from all over shared their early career

rewarding one.

experiences as they tell about the mis-

"Set personal boundaries

planning on any client’s

own, nor do they pay your bills. Client

I wish I had known in the beginning

part. No guilt!" -Amber Leigh Rinker

Debbie Adey is not the only one that

takes they made and some of the things

that I would still be doing this job in my

that they did not know when they

fifties. My body hurts, and while I can still

started grooming.

power-groom, demat those ears and tails,

At the beginning of her career, lacking confidence in her skills and abilities hindered Dawn Kinney from pursuing her dream:

First-Ever Edge Reﬁning Device

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be our own biggest critic. I wish I had the moxie to just jump right in and open my own shop instead of always having worked for others."

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Groomer Jess Adorno was not happy Reduces hand fatigue and injury due to dull shear usage

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with a “strictly business” approach to grooming. Now, she has found her niche and couldn't be happier: "I wish I had known the power of energy transfer between myself and the animal on my table. When I first began grooming,

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I was taught to view my clients, both twoand four-legged, 'like an assembly line' with no passion behind the groom. It's the main reason I became a mobile groomer. I was looking for a one-on-one connection. It makes a huge difference when a groomer takes his or her time

GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

getting to know each pet. This makes for

"As your skill grows so will your pocket book and clientele." -Brittany Joscak

a better grooming experience, and once a bond is created, it's for life." When I asked about mistakes they made early on in their careers, Lori Craig shared this: "Pleasing my clients. I used to go above and beyond dematting coats because owners didn't want them shaved— and I really didn't charge for it like I should have. And, in all honesty, I should have cared more about the dog than trying to appease the owners. Now don't get me wrong; I still make my clients happy, but I am brutally honest, and if they won't do the maintenance, I won't do the fancy trims." Carol Fellbaum agrees with Lori on dematting: "My biggest mistake was to demat most every dog that I thought I could, whether it should have been or not. My body took so much wear and tear over the years. When I started, I did not have a lot of people to give me advice, I just had to learn things the hard way. I lived for my monthly issues of Groomer to Groomer to teach me things and give me a sense of community." Dawn Kinney shared an “oopsie” that she made as a novice groomer: "I would just set my clippers down between tasks without removing the blade first, and then it happened. I picked up my clippers thinking I had changed to my body blade (spoiler alert...I hadn't) and proceeded to swipe a path down the spinal cord from withers to croup with a #30 blade. Of course, the dog on my table at the time was a white Schnauzer." Unfortunately, some accidents are more serious in nature. Just ask Christein Pearson: "One of my worst rookie mistakes was using the wrong shears for the job. Using long scissors on the face caused me to cut

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

GroomertoGroomer.com

You’re Gonna Need Them

Matted Pet Release Forms Severely tangled or matted pets are at a greater risk of injury,

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

a dog’s eyelid and tongue. If I had been

and health. If I had a do-over, I would not

using shorter shears I would’ve had more

have worked Saturdays.

control at the tip, especially on small areas like the face and around the feet."

"Love what you do and the animals you work on. Work hard and never stop learning. Never be satisfied with being mediocre." -Jackie Boulton

Financial issues were a big topic

Now I am older and my body is more broken than it should be at this age. And what memories did I make? So many

of discussion when it came to early

missed memories for the sake of ‘squeez-

mistakes, and grooming business guru

ing in just one more.’ Don't be afraid to

Joey Villani shares his:

charge your worth. Price yourself happy

"The biggest mistake I made was not

and have a life!"

pricing my work properly. I think it's what

Janelle Duncan-Wookey agreed on

hurts groomers the most, by not charging

the importance of self-care, and had this

what it is worth and struggling to make

to share in hopes it would help others:

ends meet when there is really no excuse."

"In the beginning, I didn't wear ear

Multitudes of groomers regret that

protection—what a mistake. Thinking

they put themselves and their needs

I was super groomer, I picked up all the

last. Dawn Omboy shared this about

big dogs alone. Now, my back has four

taking care of yourself:

compressed discs."

"One thing I really regret as an older groomer is that I worked away my youth

If you want to put yourself on the path to success, just listen to the advice Delise Knight received early in her career:

Ergonomic. Durable. Adjustable.

"When I first started grooming, I did not encourage my customers to rebook their next appointment. I attended a seminar where someone told me, ‘Do not let your customers leave without booking their next appointment.’ That was some of

Make bathing easier with the Elite Grooming Tub.

the best advice I ever got.

See it in action

what my days would be like. No more days

From that point on I knew what my income was going to be. I never had to second-guess. And, I also was in control of of every dog being huge, and no more days of just bath dogs. I was in control of how my day went which made me in control of my attitude. It was just perfect." Whether you are deciding the best way to groom a dog on your table or how to structure your entire business, Melissa Mitchner gives this advice: "Start with the end in mind. It is important to have a clear understanding of your overall goal or vision, whether you're starting a groom or scaling a company.

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

GroomertoGroomer.com

A Practical Guide for Pet Health Professionals

antibiotics. It has been a tough journey, but the nourishment Leah receives and the bond we share is so worth it. There is something so special about knowing that your whole body is pouring out the love for your baby that you have in your heart.

Have you experienced any bias because of breastfeeding? I think the public is gradually becoming more accepting of breastfeeding, but there is still work that needs to be done. Breasts are so over-sexualized in our culture that many people still think of breastfeeding as something that needs to be hidden away, either under a nursing cover or in a special nursing room, like the one at church I am expected to go to every time my baby gets hungry during a church service. In many other cultures, no one looks at you twice when you LIFESTYLE use your breasts for the very purpose they were designed for—feeding babies! How great would it LIFE KS FOR THE be if our culture could get to this HAC point, too?

There is something so special about knowing that your whole body is pouring out the love for your baby that you have in your heart. – Dr. Sara Pilgrim

Y PA R EN T

S2 pump hat Ifor work! didn’t find? Life hacks for the working veterinary mom. So here are my top 5 lifepadshacks for Nursing I would the working veterin parent (and yes, ary constantlythis leakapplie through s to you dads, too.)

my clothes without them!

DON ’T

UNSWAD DLE AT NIGH

Plesser

B r e a s t fe e d i n g P ro d u c t s

WORK IN VET ER INAR G

Do you have advice for those considering breastfeeding?

Read as much as you can about breastfeeding before you have the baby! I spent a lot of time learning about giving By Justin birth,ebut Lee,I naively DACV thought that breastfeeding would "just come ECC, DABT As a hyper–effi naturally," andcient I wasveter not very well informed inarian, I was tryin aboutg the problems we ended up having. to prep are as much as I could prior Also, find a good lactation consultant! I was to my one–and–only lucky enough to give birth at achild For those . where hospital of you guys who know Myers– Briggs perso continued on page 24 nality scori ng, I’m a prett high “J” (e.g., y anal retentive), so I wanted to be as orga nized as poss ible for this baby thing. Boy, was I in for a surprise. I love my Spectra

I prepared as much as I could by reading all parenting and the baby books early. But there are lies in the books some that no one fills you in on—a I’ll shareMAGAZINE PETVET the two bigges nd t right now. First, skin.” Really? IT'S OK TO INTR “skin to You don’t think ODUCE THE PACIF your baby is going naturally bond IER BEFORE to to you? You don’t 30 DAYS need to strip baby out of his the PJ’s and unswa Ah, the pacifie ddle at night breastfeeding. r. All the books while That’s what I say that babies nipple confusion was doing; maxim get the skin to skin and not to give izing by unswaddling them a pacifie for one month. I learne r , breastfeedin changing the d all my mom g, diaper, and re–swa had introduced friends ddling a pacifier I had a totally …and now awake baby. After after day two… my sixth week while in the doing this, the of teacher of my hospital. I’m mom’s group so rule–abiding our whole group yelled at , of new moms for one month NEW PETI waited . “NO,” she replied “Slather a ton CARE . of baby diaper —but regret not rash cream on, with the lights startfeed COMM off, and let him UNITY ing sooner! All sleep those coma.” You don’t off the milk read that in any long nights…why RESOU baby books RCE didn’t ! someone tell me it was ok to start WORKS TO earlier?!

INDUSTRY NEWS

PHOTO BY Leslie

D r . S a ra ’ s

Must-Have

A n t i m i c ro b i a l R esi sta n ce

ADDRESS HEALTH RISKS

PETVET MAGAZI

By Gwyn Donohue

wo million people are infected with resistant strains of bacteria and 23,000 deaths result from antibiotic resistance in the U.S. each year, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates. What makes this troubling statistic important to the veterinary community, other pet care profession als and pet owners is that two relatively common bacteria species that have resistant strains, Campylobacter and Salmonell a, are also common in many pets. While these are not classified by the CDC as urgent threats of greatest concern to human health, they are considered a serious threat. One example is a 2016 outbreak of antibioticresistant campylobacteriosis that involved 113 patients in 17 states, and was determined to be linked to puppies. Instances like this, along with the fact that resistant strains of bacteria are developing at increasingly rapid rates and outpacing the introduction of new antibiotics , has caused public health officials and the pet care community to actively address the issue of responsible use of antibiotics in companio n animals. “Recognizing that antibiotic resistant germs are a growing and serious health risk to both humans and animals, last year PIJAC committed to work with the pet care community to create best management practices to combat AMR as part of our participation in the

26 PETVET MAGAZINE

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GroomertoGroomer.com PET BOARDING & DAYCARE

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Dream with a magic wand (aka your pen) when planning your career. Write

of your time, Christein Pearson suggests

down what you plan to accomplish in

you look at grooming in a new way:

the next three years. Then, focus on the

"Don’t bite off more than you can chew. If you can only groom six dogs well, don’t try to do 10 poorly." -Nancy Butterfield

new groomer is to make the effort with

what it will take for you to reach those

each and every pet to see the grooming

goals. What do you already have? What

experience through the pet's eyes. Empa-

do you need? And remember, one step in

thy cannot be taught like other grooming

front of the other."

skills can. But if you possess it and can

New groomers often struggle with

nurture it, that is the link to becom-

the amount of time it takes them to

ing one of the best groomers. Mindful

groom a pet but, “speed kills,” according

empathy is also the key to time efficiency

to Jess Adorno:

and cultivating a roster of dogs who love

"Living in such a multi-task-focused society, moving through tasks quickly

coming in for grooming." Of course, everyone wants to be the

in our industry does not always yield

best they can. But what if you have diffi-

great results. For example, not prepping

cult pets? Nancy Butterfield shared this:

a coat well will affect your entire groom.

" Never lie to customers about a dog’s

Following a consistent process will bring

temperament. If the dog is not good for

efficiency and then speed."

grooming, you must let them know.

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You’re going to form a relationship with not only the client, but the dog as well, so you should be truthful when giving

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it where you don't insult the client, making

your best while accepting that it still won't

them not want to come back."

please everyone brings a whole lot of peace." burnout—and burnout is a subject that

have enough business. There are more

a lot of groomers have experienced first-

than 185 million dogs and cats in the

hand. Leslie Waldrep shared this advice

United States, and that number is grow-

on the subject:

"The best advice I was ever given

"Don't overbook yourself. It only leads to stress and frustration. The pets pick up on your mood which can make grooming

was from my mentor, who said, ‘There

more difficult. Try to provide a calm, relax-

are always more than enough dogs to go

ing and organized environment for you and

around. As long as you're doing your job

your pet clients."

well you will always have plenty. There's

In addition to keeping your stress

no need to worry about what everyone

level down, Lori Craig made this recom-

else is doing.'"

mendation to avoid burnout:

On the subject of not being able

"The best way to avoid burnout is to

to serve every client, Amanda Pollard

keep educating yourself. There are tons of

shared this:

videos, webinars and articles, as well as

"I was advised to adopt the mantra, ‘I'm not for everyone, and that's ok!’ In my personal and business life, this has saved me from a lot of heartache, stress

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Having that peace can help you avoid

they refuse to groom a pet, they won't

that common concern:

It doesn't mean I don't care about what I offer, it means I can't please everyone. Doing

ing daily. Oliva Glynn shared this about

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employees, etc. that just aren't a good fit.

feedback. But there’s a way in which to do

Many new groomers worry that if

ave h e w too s c i fabr

and unnecessary worrying about clients,

GroomertoGroomer.com

tradeshows. Then, try those new techniques you learn. It can be a game changer." Dawn Kinney agrees with the importance of learning new techniques and

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Aurquic hom k rub embe thei y ed must learn and oving, va ily ’s him some treats appointm star eet, anhim Praise to new people, be m new experiences. and give places, and stylisthim them in uses e stressPets can help Our salo of yo sh d tip-top shap ents to keep as m een fam tothaccept .When you are drying at ca le n canfor ar e floo other animals. The earlier you start being everything l or toa corner that happens take e. In addi if you have caregood. of all your betw uation n peop renalin e of smel tion, in a special working with him, the better – but, your own hair, during sit Wthem let your pet the grooming look he process, at of even y you ns ad t plan ned, will be or se . an al ’s through ress suchtoashold e od allgof it. it’s never too late to be effective. and hear your hair dryer when it sure to get the to st onesand anim still time slot ize th volvin An Preparing your pet for his ‘big day is on. Soon the noise and blowing cogn your pet to have a n in horm dies. 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or “s

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

PetRef Kards Did You Find a Medical Problem?

staying abreast of the latest trends, and

really lucky, they may specialize in those

had this to say about it:

nasty biters that you don't want to do.

"Learning is an investment in your career. Much like the fashion industry, we are

alone. You are not on an island. The inter-

a constantly trending and evolving trade.

net is full of experience, ideas, creativity

Get certified in canine CPR, learn canine massage, watch videos or study books the classes offered; basically anything you

to be easy. Teri DiMarino shared three

can to improve and build confidence in your

lessons that she learned early on as a

skills. Knowledge is power."

business owner: "1. When you have employees, you can

you will find other groomers, and there

be a friend or you can be a boss, but you

is power, comfort and strength when

cannot be both. And there will always be

you know you are not alone in this

that one employee who will teach you that

journey. Allison Murphy agrees and had

more than anything.

"Other groomers are not competition.

note your medical

If your plan is to become a business owner, you already know it isn't going

this to share:

cards are used to

and a shoulder to cry on. You got this!"

on grooming, attend trade shows and go to

Where you find grooming education,

Attractive 3” x 5”

Even if you work alone, you are never

2. Good record-keeping is a must! 3. When you need expert advice, pay

Whether in your salon or the ones across

the pro! The accountant. The attorney. The

the street, they can be incredible friends

plumber. The electrician. They know their

and allies. And sometimes, if you're

job and do it well, just like we do ours. I

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Most of all, take what you’ve learned and build on it. Find your niche and become the best at what you do. -Lesa Laster don’t fix my computer and my computer guy doesn’t groom his dog." Justine Cosley echoed similar advice about owning your business: "Keep your business and personal life

"Take care of your body. Eat right. Take lunch breaks. Charge accordingly so you can make ends meet without killing yourself. Open a 401k or a Roth IRA account with your first paycheck!"

as separate as possible. I used to use my

Building a successful career in

personal cell phone number to text cus-

grooming can be challenging. Justine

tomers. Now I have a separate number

Cosley shared this final piece of advice

exclusively for customers so that they

to encourage and uplift all groomers:

don't think that I need to be available to them 24/7." Don't forget to take care of yourself

"Just be you. A groomer that can safely and gently groom an elderly, frightened or pelted pet with skill and patience is

and secure your financial future as part

just as worthy of merit as someone who

of running a business. Janet Rowell had

grooms a perfect dog to perfect breed

this to say:

standard in the ring." &

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

But Why?

F Great Grooming Doesn’t Just

rom the time I was a small child, I always knew that I’d work with animals in some capacity. I remem-

ber when I was maybe eight or nine, as I played in the pool all summer, I would imagine I was a dolphin trainer like the ones I saw on our family vacation to Sea World. As I got a little older, my aspirations shifted to being a dog trainer, and I would spend countless hours teaching our family Labrador Retriever to do silly tricks and jump over makeshift hurdles constructed from lawn chairs and broom sticks. And as I reached my teens, I had my eye on a career in the veterinary field. The one snafu was that I have a really hard time seeing animals that are suffering. But never in any of my career fantasies did I imagine that I would become a pet groomer; yet, here I am! I started pursuing grooming right out of high school, but the pet grooming field has newbies that start their journey anywhere from a first job as a teen or a second or third career for someone near retirement age. No matter when you start your career in pet grooming, the key to success is a diverse and well-rounded education. But why is that so important? The world of pet grooming is certainly a diverse field. There are many types of pet groomers, and many specialties. Some groomers declare themselves experts at handling the large, smooth-coated dogs, while others deem themselves

by Jonathan David

more of a stylist, preferring to snip and fluff the curly locks of a Poodle. Some are breed specialists, focusing on terrier or sporting coats and the associated

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

GroomertoGroomer.com

• Hilarious Dog Photos • Perfect for the Shop • Jess’ Grooming Playlist ON SALE NOW AT

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For today’s groomers hitting the industry with fresh eyes and an eager spirit to conquer the world one groom at a time, there are so many sources to develop and hone your grooming skills. techniques, and others take a do-it-all

new products are developed to assist us,

many changes is the tools. When I start-

approach. No matter what type of pet

styles change and new ideas emerge.

ed pet grooming, corded clippers were all

groomer you imagine yourself to be, the

If you look at some of the popular breeds we know today, such as the

clippers. I remember during my first

solid education.

Poodle for example, their styles have

year in the industry, a company came

changed through the years. If you look

out with a cordless clipper. I couldn’t

school or you were an apprentice under

at how Poodles were styled 100 years

wait to use it…until I did. The battery

a seasoned groomer, the learning should

ago compared to 50 years ago and then

pack weighed nearly as much as a brick!

never stop there. If there is one industry

compared to the styles of today, the

Eventually, lighter and smaller batteries

that truly requires continuing education,

differences are apparent. The styles have

hit the market, and the new clippers that

it’s the pet grooming industry. I’ve been

evolved, and the same goes for many of

were developed with those batteries were

grooming for 33 years and I still learn new

our favorite breeds.

a game changer.

Whether you’ve attended a grooming

things. We are an industry that continues to grow, and as we grow as an industry,

Another part of grooming that I have personally witnessed go through so

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

The same can be said for the variety of scissors, thinning shears, brushes,

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we had—heavy, noisy, high-maintenance

key to achieving that goal is through a

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HAVE YOUR CLIENTS BEEN rd a w A l e g n Little Agel Award Little An at

rtifies th

This Ce

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Holistic PET

GROOMING

THE ART OF

Helping AS GREAT AS THEY LOOK

combs and all the other amazing tools

demonstrate and share their secrets, and

that have helped to make the groom-

see some examples of well-bred dogs in

er life go a little smoother. What I’m

breed profile trims.

getting at here is that if you want to be part of an industry that goes through so

perhaps you’d like one of the many

much evolution, as a groomer, you need

streaming platforms at your disposal.

to evolve as well.

Online education is an amazing resource

So, how can you do that?

for groomers of any level to quench

The answer is education—and a

their thirst for knowledge. There are live

diverse one at that. For today’s groom-

webinars you can view right from your

ers hitting the industry with fresh

own personal device without ever leaving

eyes and an eager spirit to conquer the

your sofa. Or there are membership

world one groom at a time, there are

platforms where you can view videos

so many sources to develop and hone

endlessly for a monthly fee. There are

your grooming skills. Let’s start with

also grooming demonstrations, business

in-person grooming shows. There are

seminars, technique videos, and inspira-

approximately a dozen or more grooming

tional discussions to help you keep your

shows per year, put on by various orga-

fire lit and your passion for grooming as

nizations. Some are rather large, offering

strong as the day you started.

educational seminars, hands-on classes,

ularly beneficial for me when I was

from, and industry parties where you can

seeking further education was private

mix and mingle with other dog fanatics.

and small group lessons. Training

Others are smaller but still offer many

lessons are an excellent way to develop

of the things larger shows do. In-per-

your grooming skills in an up-close and

son shows are an excellent place to see

personal setting with more one-on-one

new products, watch top stylists as they

interaction. Having a seasoned groomer

practice into one that reduces stress and promotes the feeling of comfort and security for pets, clients and yourself! AVAILABLE NOW AT

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Another resource that was partic-

lectures, competitions, vendors to shop

Transform your grooming

If in-person shows aren’t your thing,

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give you hands-on training, either in a private lesson or small group, gives the student the ability to be immersed in the lesson and get specific help with areas where they lack skill or knowl-

BOARDING KENNELS:

THE DESIGN PROCESS

edge. Sometimes seeing something up close makes a greater impression on you and allows you to retain more of the information being relayed. Some groomers will even apprentice under dog show handlers and accompany them to dog shows to learn specialized techniques used for a specific coat type or breed. This can be especially beneficial to those who may wish to enter the competition ring or groomers who have aspirations of making GroomTeam. Now, you might be thinking that competitions and dog shows aren’t your thing; you just love dogs and want to make people’s pets look cute and feel their best. The education still doesn’t stop there—especially in today’s world of doodle this and doodle that. In some cases, nearly all the pets

Dog spaces, cat spaces and even human spaces. Everything you need and insights on things you may NOT have considered. Features color photos, helpful diagrams, blueprints, glossary and more!

a groomer sees are mixed breeds. Having a well-rounded and diverse education about coat types and trim styles can assist you in your everyday salon grooming to create cute and manageable styles for those pets. By pulling from your treasure trove of knowledge, you can take elements of various breed styles and create a unique look that your customers will love. The point that I’m driving home is that great grooming doesn’t just happen. Great grooming is a skill that is studied and developed and perfected over time. Learning and growing within

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your craft never really ends. With time and dedication, you can be the groomer you strive to be. And remember, everyone was a beginner when they started their career. &

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Kitty’s Corner

What I Wish I Knew Before I Groomed Cats... by Deborah Hansen

Feline grooming can be a beautiful and rewarding career choice, but there are many things new cat groomers need to know.

hile I can talk about how to groom a cat, I am going to take a different approach and share with you the things that no one told me before I began grooming. I believe the things that surprised me the most about feline grooming can be much more helpful to a new groomer. While they are very ugly, knowing they exist will help you be ready for them when they come. I entered the grooming field a little differently than most. Cat grooming was my second career after teaching elementary school for almost 20 years. I began by attending a feline-exclusive grooming program before I opened my cat grooming business. The knowledge and experience I received by attending a feline-exclusive school was invaluable and I would recommend it for everyone as their first step in their journey of feline grooming. When I started grooming, I naïvely believed everyone loved and cherished their cat at least as much as I did. I was always very attentive to my pets, seeking medical care if anything

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

didn’t seem quite right. When I opened my house-call cat grooming business, I was quickly awakened to the harshness of the world of pet ownership. I never saw myself as spoiling my pets, and I surely never treated them as if they were human. I honestly thought I was a moderate when it came to caring for and respecting felines. I quickly learned that few cats have as good of a life as I give my own cat. This is the harsh reality new groomers need to be aware of. Almost daily, we will be called on to resolve cases of neglect; cats with coats that are as thick and hard as a turtle’s shell due to pelting, ingrown nails that are so bad they have grown out the top of the paw, cats that have urine burn on their skin and fecal matter caked into their coats. The cold hard truth is that the cats you will groom need your help. Helping that cat on that day sometimes is all we can do for that specific animal. For your mental wellbeing, you must have a strategy in place to help you navigate how others choose to care for their cats. Occasionally you can turn a stinky, pelted kitty into a regular grooming client with a luscious, full coat. These are the fabulous success stories we experience. While not common, they do happen. When they occur, it makes all the heartache worth the mental anguish we experience during a pelt removal. Sometimes you discover that the neglect the cat experienced was ignorance on the owner’s part and the owner is willing to learn and help their cat. Another thing I did not know is that feline grooming is very

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MEOW WOW!

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

I am a firm believer in having the grooming skills I need to prevent bites, while also using protection to prevent a bite from puncturing my skin when dealing with difficult cats.

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

physically demanding. If you groom on a grooming table, in your lap or on the floor, the demand on your body may vary slightly, but overall, cat grooming requires a lot of upper body strength. Using your combs, brushes, clippers, water nozzles and dryers require a lot of repetitive movements with your hands. Your upper body and hands will also be used for holding and possibly restraining felines. In addition to the actual grooming, you will need the physical strength to carry the cat in the carrier between the check-in area to your work area and back to the check-out area. A squirmy cat in a carrier can be quite difficult to carry. To end each groom, you will need your hands to clean and sanitize your work area and tools. Grooming is hard on your hands, elbows and shoulders. If you are standing to groom, it can also be hard on your knees and hips.

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Before I began grooming, I would giggle at little fluffy, angry cats. If you do not have a lot of cat experience, you will be very surprised at the strength a cat has. A six-pound angry Persian has much more pure physical strength than most people expect. When you have an aggressive 12-to-18-pound kitty, you will need to use every ounce of strength you have to keep the feline and yourself safe during the grooming process. Grooming multiple cats a day will require a good level of physical endurance. The most important advice I can give a new feline groomer is that cat bites are very dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Never underestimate a cat bite. Over the years I have experienced many bites. I have also had emergency surgery for a bite. The problem with cat bites is that they enter your body as a puncture wound and leave bacteria at the depth of the puncture. Many times basic first aid will be enough, but sometimes oral antibiotics are needed—and occasionally emergency surgery is required. Most cat bites occur on the hands where there are many tendons. A pierced tendon is another possible complication of a cat bite. The best strategy for avoiding cat bites is a sound feline grooming education that includes instruction on using barriers such as Kevlar sleeves and hard-sided muzzles. I am a firm believer in having the grooming skills I need to prevent bites, while also using protection to prevent a bite from puncturing my skin when dealing with difficult cats. Another tip for avoiding cat bites is accurately assessing the temperament of the cat before agreeing to the grooming session and walking away if the feline becomes more than you can handle. Feline grooming can be a fulfilling and profitable career choice. Knowing the ugly truths can help you better prepare for your journey into cat grooming. In my opinion, there is no substitute for a formal education in feline grooming by a reputable feline-exclusive organization. Cat groomers see many neglected cats, but each cat we help makes the world a better place. &

for grooming July 22-24 2022

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TXGROOM.COM Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

Elevate Your Grooming

AFTER by Blake Hernandez

This month’s tutorial is a step-by-step, stroke-for-stroke, comb-by-comb demonstration of how to get a crispy and delightful Poodle tail poof. FIG 2

FIG 1

Fig 1) Place the spine of your comb at the bot-

Fig 2) Use a short blade of your choice to clip

tom of the dog’s sphincter and hold the dog’s

down from your tail shave line into the dog’s body.

tail down over the comb. This will show you where your shave line is for your tail.

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

FIG 3

FIG 4

FIG 5

FIG 6 Fig 3) This image shows where the “wings” are from that shave work. Fig 4) Next place the edge of your blade on one “wing,” then turn your blade 90 degrees towards the center and repeat on the other side. Fig 5) This will show you the direction your shave line should go. Fig 6) This image shows what it looks like when complete (the body has not yet been groomed.)

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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Fig 7) To continue, comb all the hair up, place your hand around the bottom

FIG 7

of the tail and slide it up until you can cut at a length that is lower than the highest point of topknot. Fig 8) When you release, it will look like this. Fig 9) After having combed everything down, you will etch in a line around your shave work to remove any hair hanging past that line. Fig 10) Then, using a large curved shear, build a strong starting place that helps push your image inward.

FIG 8

FIG 10

FIG 9

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

FIG 11

FIG 12

FIG 13

FIG 14

Fig 11) At this point, your tail should look like this image. Fig 12) With the tail parallel to

RIBE TO SS SC ST UB

the ground, split the hair down the

LEARNING HAS NEVER BEEN THIS FUN. SERIOUSLY.

middle and comb outward. Fig 13) Use the strong line that you

n e b in g in a rs

a f or os e vid

created with your shears to bring

c an ces ai d f s fo 1 0 s of tro w re e 0 0 o n t a d missi

that shape around the sides.

’S ER

M W PO

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

ER ED

EXPERIENCE ON DEMAND VIDEO CONTENT FROM JAY SCRUGGS AND SUE ZECCO

toward the topknot, use your large curved shear to complete the rounded image.

ER ’S

Fig 14) After combing everything

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And voilà, the perfect Poodle tail poof! &

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 41 Ed 5 • May 2022

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