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Hello readers!
It’s getting to the coldest part of the year, but it’ll be over before we know it! Spring will be here soon, and it’ll be time to start preparing for the upcoming pet grooming shows!
That being said, let’s break down our February issue for you. We’re taking a look at how you can prepare your grooming salon for the upcoming shows, as well as the business add-ons that you may want to consider during the start of 2025.
We also look at some brand new treatments, as well as catch up with Rachel Bean and Katie Gwilt, as usual, to bring the issue together!
From myself, and everyone here at TGM, have a great month and we’ll see you in March!
In this issue:
19 Show Preparation: As many shows are unveiling their plans for 2025, let’s talk prep.
Business Add-ons: Small improvements can make everything better!
Katie’s Kat Column: Katie Gwilt shares some news paired with some insightful tips.
Groomers of the Month: Karen Fisher takes the spotlight this month. 35 New Treatments: We revisit this year’s treatment trends! 38 Rachel Bean Monthly: The latest from Team Bean.
Editor
Connor Jenkins connor@tgmpublishing.co.uk
Commercial Director Mike Smith mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk 01795 509110
Design and Production
Grant Waters, James Taylor 01795 509110
Credit Facilities Manager
Gwen Lee
creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk 01795 509103 Digital & Web Developer Matt Coppard
Pet “MOT”
DOG owners are being urged to start the new year with a health MOT for their pets.
Scarlett Betts, who is an in-house pet specialist at WCF Pet & Equestrian which has eight stores across the North of England and south-west Scotland, says keeping an eye on your pet’s weight, nutrition and general appearance can help prevent long-term issues in the future.
According to a recent survey, 32% of dog owners do not know their pet’s
current weight and only 56% know what their dog’s ideal weight should be. The Animal Wellbeing Report by vet charity PDSA, found that, on average, veterinary professionals estimate that 46% of dogs are overweight or obese.
Scarlett says taking simple steps now would help ensure your dog stays healthy and happy for the coming year.
“This is a great time to do some simple checks to make sure that your dog is fit and healthy,” she said. “Many of us start the new year with resolutions to walk more, eat healthier and generally be more active and it’s no different for our pets. Carrying out regular health checks on your dog can avoid health issues in the future by identifying potential problems before they become more serious.”
Scarlett’s top tips for healthy pets include:
Scarlett Betts, Business Development Manager at WCF Pet & Equestrian
Weight Check
Feel your dog’s ribs - you should be able to feel them easily without pressing. If possible, get your dog weighed and find out their ideal weight. Adjust food intake or activity levels if necessary, and make sure they are on the correct diet. Always get expert advice from your vet or a nutritional expert.
Dental Health
Brush your dog’s teeth regularly with petsafe toothpaste or provide dental chews to prevent plaque build-up.
Nail and Paw Care
Check for cracked pads, overgrown nails, or signs of infection between the toes.
Parasite prevention
Ensure regular flea, tick, and worm treatments.
Mental Stimulation
Use different types of toys or training sessions to keep their mind sharp.
Overall Health
Consider supplements like glucosamine and omega 3 and 6 to make sure they are in the best shape possible.
Scarlett, who is Business Development Manager at WCF Pet & Equestrian and has nearly a decade’s experience working in the veterinary industry, added: “If you are worried about your pet’s health for any reason, then always get advice from your vet. It’s worth scheduling an annual health check-up for your pet to catch any early signs of health issues and ensure their well-being for the coming year.”
WCF Pet & Equestrian offers a free in-store weighing service for dogs and its team can also offer advice on the best food for your pet’s nutritional needs.
The business offers a range of products and advice for pet owners and the rural community from its eight stores across Cumbria, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and Dumfries & Galloway. A selection of its own brand products is also available online and via Amazon.
WCF Pet & Equestrian is part of the WCF family of businesses which operates across the UK in the retail, leisure and logistics sectors. WCF has its headquarters in Brampton, near Carlisle.
A New Year health check for your pet can help prevent long-term issues in the future.
Loss and Grief –The Best Goodbye
I make no claim to have all the answers to pet loss and grief, but I do know that I have a lot of experience. By Donna Wills RVN, PgCert A Phys, MIRVAP(VP).
Ihave had a long career as a veterinary nurse and animal physiotherapist. As a nurse, I worked in a small vet clinic, a larger hospital, emergency and critical care, and in a rescue home.
As an animal physiotherapist, I have formed close bonds with many caregivers and their loved ones. All of this gave me a huge experience in supporting others through their grief in many respects. For some, I had no previous bond with a caregiver or their loved ones.
For others, I felt like I was one of the family and that hit me hard, but it also meant I knew how hard this loss was likely to be for them. This gave me a special role in their grief recovery. It also helped me to help them prepare for their goodbye and help them find ways to talk
about it.
Not everyone wants to talk about it. It’s a very hard subject. I had my hardest lesson when I lost my boy, Logan. Even I had wanted to deny that this day was coming and deny acknowledging my pre-grief.
I lost my boy on a very cold night in January 2021. I will never forget that night and the snow that fell as he left his earthly shell, will always remain a trigger for a flood of emotion.
Two years after losing my boy I was still being triggered, usually by the weather. After another tearful moment, I had a fire in my belly and it was only settled by writing. I wrote my whole journey of my life with my boy, why we were so bonded right through to our final moments, his beautiful goodbye and the days that followed.
I had him for 16 years so it was nearly half of my life, and certainly the most important half! My heart flooded out and it was cathartic to recognise the emotions I was having on my journey to being prepared and giving him the best goodbye.
I feel fortunate to have my background. It meant I did know what was needed to make it the best goodbye. I knew where to turn to for help. I knew what I needed to achieve the dearest gift I could give Logan. But even I was worried I would not be able to give him what he deserved as there were challenges.
I am proud to have written my memoir. In doing so I share a list that can help others plan for their best goodbye. Of course, it’s not an exhaustive list. There will always be others with wonderful
ideas. You don’t need to do all of these ideas either. But it can be reassuring to know what ideas you may want to put in place. I also share some help so you can find counsellors and get other levels of more professional help if needed. There is no shame in needing help to cope with all grief.
I also discuss my pre-grief. Sometimes it’s called anticipatory grief. This is a difficult one to recognise. You know something isn’t quite right. You are anxious about something but you are not sure what. Largely because you don’t really want to acknowledge that the grey years are setting in.
Your brain subconsciously knows but won’t tell the conscious part of your brain. So there is conflict in the mind. That is the only way I can describe it. I do know that it is super hard to recognise in yourself.
When I have suggested it to people around me, they often hear me with shock and then realisation… This was right… This was it… And then there is some calm as they recognise they are already grieving for something that has not even happened yet, but they fear it coming.
I understand this only too well. I also felt this.
Grief and pet loss are things we are not good at talking about as a nation. We need to get talking and make it ok to have a weep, no matter what gender we are. There are often thoughts that we need to have a stiff upper lip. But that is not true. We need to be as kind to ourselves in these moments as we are to our pets. They aren’t really pets. They are our closest family.
For all my fellow veterinary professionals, I strongly suggest doing bereavement courses to help you help your caregivers. It will help you feel better in those moments.
If we do have to talk business at this moment, we are taught that making that goodbye special and kind is the only way to retain that family as future clients. But most importantly, handling it well helps you feel at peace in your day too.
The Best Goodbye – A True Story of Love and Farewell, By Donna Wills is available direct on www. animalphysiotherapy.org.uk/thebest-goodbye or from Amazon and Waterstones online.
Crufts
Dogs from all walks of life are preparing to put their best paws forward, as tickets are on sale now for Crufts 2025, which is returning to the NEC in Birmingham, from 6 – 9 March.
Organised by The Kennel Club, the four-day event, which is expected to welcome over 20,000 dogs, is the world’s greatest celebration of ‘all things dog’ and will showcase over 200 diverse breeds, alongside an actionpacked schedule featuring competitions such as agility, flyball, heelwork to music and obedience.
All of the four days will conclude with a dog from each group earning their place in the prestigious Best in Show final – the pinnacle of the show, taking place on Sunday evening – with the Hound and Terrier groups on Thursday 6 March, Utility and Toy groups on Friday 7 March, the Gundog group on Saturday 8 March and the Working and Pastoral groups on Sunday 9 March.
Also taking place on the Sunday evening, ahead of the Best in Show final,
one of five very special and courageous companions will be crowned as the winner of The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award supported by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which recognises unsung canine heroes, while some of the nation’s top crossbreeds will be vying for the top spot in the Scruffts final on Saturday.
Elsewhere around the show, the popular Discover Dogs area will be hosting over 200 different breeds, of all shapes, sizes and personalities. From the lesser-known breeds such as the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, to the popular family favourite, Labrador Retriever, visitors have the unique opportunity to find out more about the variety of our four-legged friends from breed experts and what it means to take on a canine companion.
For those hoping to rehome a rescue
dog, The Kennel Club Breed Rescue organisations will also be on hand to provide visitors with everything they need to know about rehoming, joined by some of the dogs that are under their care.
The Stand Up to Cancer Crufts Walkies Challenge will also return in 2025, which has seen dogs and their owners raise over £2 million over the last couple of years. The challenge will be returning again- encouraging two and four-legged friends to walk 60 miles in April to support life-saving cancer research.
The Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Dog Training scheme will be running displays and demonstrations in dedicated rings throughout the four days, while there is a Dog Activities ring for those interested in learning more about getting started in activities such as agility, heelwork to music and obedience with a chance
Image by Kat Smith on Pexels
for visitors to have a go themselves with well-trained dogs from the show on the Thursday. Youngsters who feel inspired by all the action going on in the rings and arena can find out more about joining the Young Kennel Club, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary, and has a dedicated ring where members, aged between six-24 years old, show off their skills in a range of activities, from handling, agility, grooming, and much more.
Visitors can find out more about The Kennel Club on the main Kennel Club stand and the work being done to improve canine health and welfare while displays from Medical Detection Dogs and West Midlands Police Dogs will demonstrate just a few of the many ways that dogs help and enrich our lives.
Beyond the competitions, displays and dogs to meet, the 25 acres and five halls of the NEC are also filled with over 500 stands selling all sorts of doggy delights to meet you, and your furry friend’s needs, plus showcasing a range of dogfocussed charities and organisations.
Catherine Guiver, Head of Events at The Kennel Club, which organises Crufts, said: “It’s nearly that time of year again, and we are so excited to be welcoming thousands of dogs and their owners to the Midlands, once more.
“We have an action-packed schedule across all four days, with something for everyone – from fast-paced agility and flyball competitions to meeting your favourite breed in the Discover Dogs area - so dog lovers are guaranteed a great day out.
“Crufts is a true celebration of dogs – of all shapes, sizes and breeds – from pedigree dogs, crossbreeds, rescue dogs, service and heroic dogs – proving that every dog has its day.”
Over the four days, Crufts welcomes over 20,000 dogs, 150,000 people and sees over 8 million TV viewers tune into the Channel 4, More4 and All4 broadcast. All the action is also livestreamed on the official Crufts YouTube channel.
More information and tickets for the event are available on the Crufts website. Tickets are free for under 8s, and advance tickets start at £15 for children (aged 9-15) and concessions, and £22 for adults (fees apply). Please note that tickets are only available through the official ticketing partner AXS.
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Emmi-Pet
With February being pet dental health month, we speak to Anastasia, The Dog Tooth Fairy, who is a UK-based Emmi-Pet distributor and pet dental expert who offers five-star rated online training courses to help pet professionals get the very best out of this fantastic tooth cleaning system.
Anastasia discusses some of the frequently asked questions she comes across when people are considering adding Emmi-Pet to their pet business and answers them for us.
Does the toothbrush hurt or damage the dog’s teeth and gums?
No, it’s completely painless. The EmmiPet toothbrush is non-invasive and uses ultrasonic waves to heal the gums on a cellular level whilst reducing bacteria in the mouth and plaque and tartar. It’s silent and completely safe to use on cats, dogs, puppies and kittens.
Are there any clients that would be unsuitable for this service?
Yes. If a dog or cat is too aggressive or stressed, this could put both the groomer and animal in danger. Also, great results can’t be achieved with dogs and cats with behavioural issues.
Dogs with deteriorating dental and gum health such as periodontal disease, receding gums wobbly teeth and gum infections are not suitable for Emmi-Pet and should be advised to seek veterinary treatment.
Is Emmi-Pet teeth cleaning the same as a veterinary dental?
No. During a veterinary dental, the animal is fully anaesthetised. Sharp instruments and sub-gingival scalers will be used to remove calculus from the pet’s mouth. Some extractions may be made where necessary. The animal will be given antibiotics to help reduce any post-operative infections.
Emmi-Pet requires no anaesthetic and involves gentle progressive teeth cleaning over a number of sessions to achieve clean teeth and healthy gums using ultrasonic nanobubble technology. Sharp instruments and scalers are
not used during this process. Instead, wooden rosewood sticks are used to tease away any loose tartar from the dogs’ teeth, and the tartar eraser pumice rubs away any plaque staining.
How often should a dog come to have this done?
When a client is first presented and has a build-up of plaque and tartar, the client should ideally be visiting for a teeth clean a minimum of once weekly. Once the desired results are achieved the client must attend regular maintenance teeth cleans to keep the teeth and gums looking healthy. These should be every four to six weeks.
How much can I expect to earn if I were to offer this service in my pet business?
With the Emmi-Pet tooth cleaning system, you can expect to typically earn £50-100 per hour. Sessions cost from £50 for intro sessions and from £30 for follow-ups. You can also rapidly increase your client base by offering this service, so it’s fantastic for new groomers looking to grow their customer base.
To find out more about Emmi-Pet and how it could benefit your business during Pet Dental Health Month and beyond, you can contact the Dog Tooth Fairy on Facebook and Instagram at @thedogtoothfairy or by emailing thedogtoothfairy@gmail.com.
The better the efficacy the quicker you see results! 1
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standards. Leucillin is used by Veterinary practices as it achieves a class leading 99.99999% (Log7), meaning Leucillin works 10’000 better to kill harmful pathogens than a standard 99.9%.
For Every Single Client Leucillin is for use on all breeds and ages, it can be safely used on all skin types and also your feline clients. Leucillin soothes clipper rash, cleanses gunky eyes, irritated ears, flushes cuts, nicks and scratches, is great for allergies and paw chewing, and can be used as a daily cleaner for brachycephalic breeds, keeping those wrinkles and delicate tissue around eyes, clean, clear, smell and germ free.
Easy add on sale Leucillin is also an excellent additional sale after a groom as an easy-to-use tool for your customers to care for the skin, ears and eyes of their pet between grooms. Leucillin is cost effective, has great margins, comes in a range of sizes, has small minimum orders and free promotional literature. 3
Available in all good pet stores, grooming salons & trusted healthcare providers For trade accounts, pricing and more information please contact us today.
Show Preparation
Not out of the ordinary within the dog grooming industry, this year is chock-full of shows to prepare for!
Let’s take a look. Image by Dmitry Ovsyannikov on Pexels.
Going live!
Getting ready for a dog grooming show isn’t something to take lightly. It’s something that you will be remembered for, for a long time! Let’s chat about some key things to consider when getting ready for a show in 2025.
As we’re getting into the midst of 2025, more and more shows have been announcing their dates! As a groomer, you’re going to want a solid strategy when approaching this, as it can really have a lasting effect on the rest of your year! First up, you’ll want to ensure that you’re on the ball and have a solid base knowledge of what you can demonstrate at a grooming show. Whether you’re performing or not, be sure to be up to date on the latest talks and trends to make sure that you’re coming across as knowledgeable to your peers and potential new clientele!
Don’t forget that you can also stay ahead of the curve by attending some workshops or seminars to freshen up your grooming skills. Whether there is a big show or not, you can always find something local to check out or even revisit some older seminars online to freshen up on those skills.
Coming prepared with something to offer is the key thing that we want to emphasise here. Consider creating a step-by-step process that you can
explain to people with ease if they come to you with any questions. Having these answers prepped and ready to go will not only make you seem knowledgeable about your field but also demonstrate to people that you’re the one to speak with if they want any top tips or advice. Neat!
Don’t forget that, as always, you
should still be investing in the best quality tools and products if you’re doing any demonstrations. Knowing your stuff, and what to avoid, is some of the best advice that we can give here at TGM, and will take you so far in your grooming journey. It will also demonstrate your commitment to perfection when
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SHOW PREPARATION
performing a groom.
Something that comes simply to some, but is more difficult to others, is learning the art of presentation. Grooming isn’t 100% about the technical parts, especially when it comes to shows. You’re going to want to be showing off all of the best parts of what you offer, to make everything as appealing as you can. This shows your peers what you’re capable of, and may even drum up some extra business.
Practice dealing with stressful situations. You’re going to be on show, so ensure that you’re choosing reliable clientele for the demonstration and that you’re staying relaxed and steadyhanded throughout any demonstrations or live grooms that you might be doing. You don’t want people thinking that you can’t handle yourself in a hectic work environment!
Make sure that you’re actually up to date on what to expect at the show. Imagine showing up with the wrong equipment, wrong attire or even on the wrong day of a show! Research beforehand is vital. This sounds silly, but it does happen. Consider that last-minute checklist and extra research before you head on your way, just in case!
It never hurts to have a portfolio, also! Live demonstrations are fantastic, but have a show book just in case. It’s a great idea to show off your best work, or even advertise it on socials and send people there with a handy QR code or link!
Finally, come prepared with advice for your clients! If anyone comes to you, as a fellow groomer or prospective new client, you’re going to want to show them that you actually know what you’re talking about. Think back to when you were learning, and what burning questions you may have had at the time.
Everyone has to start somewhere, so be ready to answer those simple questions that could potentially jumpstart someone’s career or education as a new dog groomer!
Overall, we want to emphasise the importance of grooming shows. Do your research, come prepared and show the world what you’re made of. We are genuinely so excited to meet you all, see your grooms and connect. Feel free to come say hi to us at any shows you see us at, too! We’re always on the hunt for a new Groomer of the Month!
Image by Jane Thomson on Pexels
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In addition…
When it comes to dog grooming in 2025, you’re going to want to ensure that you’re doing more than just giving your clientele a great groom. There are so many other things that you can add to your offerings, so let’s dive into what they may be!
To help yourself stand out from the crowd and not just blend in, you’re going to want to go above and beyond to actually offer more than just a standard groom. It’s absolutely fine if you don’t want to go the extra mile, but if you want to give something extra then there are avenues for you to explore!
Now that the second quarter of the century has officially started, we should immediately highlight that you’ll be seeing a huge rise in more of an online presence within the dog grooming industry. We’ve been saying this for a while but the fact that it is now 2025 really does emphasise this a lot more!
Sharing engaging content has never been more important, and adding a customer’s fresh groom to this is no exception. Share your clientele’s fresh cuts to your page, and they will love it! Don’t forget to hang out in the comments section regularly to discuss, and engage, with your clientele. That being said, promoting your grooming business is easier than ever with the use of social media. The more you engage, the more traction you should be gaining.
Then, you can lead people to our next
talking point, which is a booking app for your business. Professional-looking shots can really make a difference these days, so ensure that you’re posting the best that you can with a link to your services somewhere on your profile and people will be asking how quickly you have an open spot in no time!
Utilising these pro-shots will convince people that you’re the go-to person for the job when considering who they want to talk with for their pet grooming needs. But, how can you encourage return clientele, and how can you entice people
and show them more of what you can offer them?
You can encourage customer loyalty by bringing in a rewards program. When a customer is a regular, there can be discounts that you provide to ensure that they leave a little happier after each groom. We’ve even seen subscription models, where clientele can pay a fee for a set amount of grooming sessions, guaranteeing return income for your business.
In this realm of grooming, you can also bring packages and specialised
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BUSINESS ADD-ONS
offerings to the attention of your clientele. From whole care-themed days to specific grooming packages for special occasions, providing specialised options is a way to not only reach out to a broader audience but also cater to the needs of any clients who are currently set up with your grooming salon.
As always, convenience is key. Consider expanding your offerings to include mobile grooming options, as there are so many clients these days who can’t bring their pups to you due to transportation constraints. Bringing your business to your clientele is just one of the many convenient ways that you can demonstrate that you care, as well as bring in an extra revenue stream that you previously were locked out of.
Lastly, you can always strengthen your business by discussing add-ons with other local groomers within your area. If you’re feeling like you want to expand further, then reach out to groomers who are in the spotlight a little further out and try to find out what extra they offer to make their business really pop within the dog grooming world.
Overall, it’s important to understand what you can offer your clientele that goes above and beyond that little bit further. Showing that you care has so many benefits to your grooming business, and adding a few extra services to your offering will do nothing but see extra attention from clients old and new.
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Preparing for cold
Hello, and a happy 2025 to you! As pet business owners the new year can be a really positive time, but that seasonal lull after the Christmas rush can also be a challenge too. I’m here to tell you that it’s all going to be just fine, and 2025 is going to be a smasher! By Katie Gwilt - The Kay Lady
In Liverpool, we have had the snow, so getting out and about to grooming sessions has been a challenge for apprentice Chloe and me, but we have wrapped up warm, de-iced the cat mobile, and done it anyway. Nothing like a bit of freezing cold resilience to start off the year!
I’ve also had some devastating news in January, which derailed my last week entirely. After a week of nursing my soul cat Eris after her health rapidly deteriorated I said goodbye to her.
As well as being blind, deaf, hyperthyroid, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and suffering with two heart murmurs and low potassium the vet found a large mass in her abdomen which was the final straw for her.
I had to make the right decision for her rather than me and she passed in
my arms against my heart and with me telling her how much I love her.
I have loved many cats and have three more with me, but there was always something special about Eris and the bond we shared.
She was my shadow and my life feels so empty without her. She slept on my pillow every night for over 15 years and was never far from my side. This column is in tribute to her.
So this month for my tips I’m going to have a winter theme.
Cats are commonly seen as very selfsufficient, and many enjoy going out and roaming their territory of gardens close to where you live.
The recent cold snap has reminded me how important it is to make sure that our cats have some cosy warm spots to curl up in.
“This is especially important for older cats (any over 10 counts as a senior) and any with health conditions where warmth can help those sore joints and boost their immune system.
Heat Pads
These are so good for our cats (as well as us humans). There are so many varieties to choose from now as well.
I have a couple of electric heat pads that I keep on a low setting for my cats. There are also electric blankets that cover a much bigger area that you can leave on low.
For those not comfortable leaving something plugged in when you are out, there are lots of microwave options too. There is the classic hot water bottle as well as wheat packs.
I use something called the All Nighter
that retains heat for around 8-10 hours and comes with a cover. Make sure you put a blanket or cover over anything just to protect your cat’s thin skin and let your cat decide when they want a break by being able to move away from it as needed.
Outdoor Shelters
A lot of cats still enjoy being able to go outside despite the drop in temperature.
You may also have local strays and feral cats you help look after. Outdoor shelters are commonplace now and again there are lots of types to choose from.
There are wooden and plastic ones or you can fashion something homemade.
Remember not to put blankets in outdoor housing for animals as they can freeze when they get damp. Straw (not hay) makes for excellent padding and insulation and can be used to help retain heat for any outdoor cats.
Radiator Beds
These are a lovely addition if your cats love to curl up near radiators.
Mine love to sleep on the windowsill above mine as I can’t fit a bed. If you have the space though do give these a try. Check the top of your radiator as there are different options for those with one or two rungs along the top.
If your cat prefers floor level then you can try a clothing rail with a blanket draped over it the cat can sit on or underneath if they prefer cover.
Enclosed Beds
Any bed that the cat has the option to climb into (health permitting) is a great way to help them stay warm. That way they have warmth on three sides plus above and below.
Igloo type beds are a great choice or even a blanket or cloth draped over a table your cat can snooze underneath (how many people’s cats love sleeping on a chair pushed under a table!).
You can even make your own cat bed from a cardboard box and an old t-shirt. The possibilities are endless if you use your imagination.
It is important to give your cat options and let them regulate their temperature themselves so make sure they can move away from any heat source as needed.
To find out more about Katie Gwilt go to www.thekatlady.co.uk
Karen Fisher, Appleton Dog Grooming
Karen Fisher is the owner and sole groomer at Appleton Dog Grooming in Cheshire. We spoke with Karen, and she told us her story.
After originally completing my City & Guilds in 2009, I was lucky enough to spend the first 18 months of my grooming career working for my amazing mentor and friend to this day, Wendy Payton, now known as “Wendy the Pet Groomer” on YouTube.
The hands-on experience and support given by Wendy and her mum, also a groomer at the time), definitely helped to shape the groomer and stylist I became and meant that when the time came to set up my own business, my styling skills were already at a fairly adequate level.
I realise not all new groomers are this lucky, as they have to build their skills and business at the same time. Respect!
My first “salon”, if you could call it that, was a porta cabin on an industrial estate/farm around eight miles from my home in Cheshire. Frozen pipes were a regular occurrence and “dingy” was an understatement, however, I loved it and was so proud to call it my own.
Within six months the landlord of the farm had a vacancy in an empty unit attached to a barn, on the same site, just a few hundred metres away and twice the size of my portacabin.
During this move to my new, slightly less dingy, salon, I discovered I was expecting my son, who’s now 13 years old.
Despite juggling life as a new mum, the business took off quickly. There were around 12 other businesses at the farm, from MOT garages to fishing tackle suppliers. Each one became a customer and every single one of their customers would also pass my salon and signage… business was booming! I took on a bather and had a lady renting a table part-time.
Fast forward two years and we moved
to a salon in a local shopping parade next door to a local vet’s. This is where I started heading for burnout. The increased bills, plus the fact I was now managing staff, still in my early thirties and with a preschooler at home, took its toll.
So when we finally became pregnant again, I decided to have a few years off. I wasn’t entirely sure I would return if I’m honest.
However, the grooming itch returned and now as a mum of two, I work from a salon attached to my house, built from the ground up by my partner and his best friend. I’ve been here for four years. No staff, just me.
I did miss the daily banter of colleagues but I’m incredibly lucky to
have amazing local grooming friends. Our WhatsApp group keeps me laughing and going every day.
I now market myself as a “one-to-one bespoke” groomer.
When I originally opened from home I focused all my marketing towards doodle owners. I love grooming all breeds, but I enjoy every part of grooming doodles, from the prep to the scissoring. I learned so many lessons from my salon days and figured this time around I’d be more selective in my choice of customers.
I specifically attended seminars on doodles when I returned to grooming as I thought I might be a bit rusty. I also attend what competitions I can, simply to watch from the sidelines sometimes. This would be my biggest tip to any new groomers starting out, or anyone feeling they want to improve.
Forget the stalls and shopping for an hour. Watch the angles she scissors, watch the shape she puts on the dog, watch her handling.
There is always something to learn. And if you feel up to it, go up to her after judging and chat. Not everyone will chat, but most will be flattered!
Around two years ago, I started posting tips and hints on my business Instagram page and they were getting a bit of attention. Realising that my salon business page should be for my owners and customers, not other groomers, I started a second Instagram page specifically for my groomer tips (@ thegrooming_goddessacademy).
The account was always a bit of fun and I had no intentions or plan, when first starting it, except to make other female groomers feel less alone. I realised with my experience in customer service, plus higher education in mathematics and pricing, I had value to offer.
I really believe the women of our industry don’t receive the professional respect they deserve sometimes from customers or the business tools and advice they need to make the most of their businesses.
I realise how lucky I was to be able to focus on my business and use my qualifications and past work experience when I first started. Therefore, I reduced my salon days back in September and now balance my grooming with The Grooming Goddess Academy which launched on January 7th this year.
I could never give up on grooming.
Fluff drying a well-behaved
will always be like therapy to me. I love my salon days. However, I can’t deny, I’m
also loving the new variety and the ability to help other women.
cockapoo
Are you our next Head Stylist?
Our Head Stylists are critical to the success of our Pets Grooming salons and we are on the lookout for you to join us in various locations across the UK.
Lead the way as Head Stylist: set high standards, inspire your team, inject fun, and create an amazing workplace and world-class customer experience.
Offering a great range of benefits, a competitive salary, and the opportunity to earn an annual bonus.
To apply
New Treatments
There are always new treatments popping up in the world of grooming. Let’s take a look at what’s been going on! Image by Anna Shvets on Pexels.
In with the new
As the years go by, and 2025 is now in full swing, one thing that is constantly changing is the way groomers are offering treatments within their grooming salons. So, from health benefits all the way through to helping a pet feel more comfortable in your salon, let’s talk about treatments in 2025.
To start, it’s important to highlight the importance of fostering a strong bond with an animal that comes in for a groom within your salon. Before you know it, excited and waggy tails will be something to expect from any time that a dog walks through your doors!
But dog grooming as a whole isn’t solely about putting a smile on an owner’s face. It’s about the quality of care, going the extra mile and developing a strong bond between not just you and the dog, but you and your clients too.
Dog grooming plays such a key role in maintaining the overall health and hygiene of a pet, and regular grooming sessions can really prevent health issues, and things such as matted fur or any unwanted guests that may want to live on a pet. Because of this, focusing on some new treatments for your grooming business might do you some serious wonders.
There are so many things to consider when adding a new treatment to your business, from ear cleaning, dental care and even simply specialised nail trimming for a pet who needs it, so let’s
dive in!
Often overlooked when a client is considering a groom is that these small treatments can really make or break a dog’s mood. Owners are realising the importance of making a dog feel good as well as looking the part. Specialised trims can be utilised to help regulate a dog’s temperature, for instance, with a long-haired pet.
Image by Blanco Studio on Pexels
Image by Sean Brannon on Pexels
Specialised seasonal grooming treatments are available year-round to accommodate the weather, rain or shine! You won’t always need the same type of cut or groom, depending on the weather, so it’s important to communicate with your clientele to see what they might need specifically.
We’ve also seen a rise in socialisation aspects in dog grooming visits. Creating a positive and friendly environment for dogs and people to bond is crucial for the dog grooming experience. Not only can a regular appointment boost the trust that a dog may have for its groomer, but adding in some quality downtime for scratches and rubs can also really ease a pet into the whole grooming routine!
Let’s talk for a moment about the largest organ for dogs. Simply put, it’s a dog’s skin. Just like us humans, dogs can suffer from various skin issues that can play a huge role in an animal’s overall health. As people are becoming more conscious about what chemicals people are using in their grooms, it’s important to do some of your own research also, especially when it comes to a dog’s skin.
Skin-friendly grooming practices are something to look out for in 2025, and because of the higher demand for more holistic and sustainable grooming solutions, we encourage each and every one of you to consider adding more skin treatments to your grooming offerings. Even doing some research to pass on to your clientele can demonstrate that you care about them and can vastly help out with business if done correctly.
Lastly, it’s not uncommon to see a dog stressed or anxious, especially when it’s grooming time. By looking into modern grooming solutions for your grooming business, you can help alleviate the stress that may be experienced in a dog’s brain during their appointment. Offering extra spa-day-like treatments and add-ons can help to grow not only your revenue stream but also your portfolio of fun things to offer alongside grooms.
Overall, we want to emphasise that the most important thing is the happiness of the pet during the groom. Whether it’s the regular trim to make them more comfortable during their day-to-day, or you’re really going above and beyond to ensure that a pet’s health is taken care of, adding a new treatment into your wheelhouse can really make a huge impact on your grooming business.
Image by Gabriel Silva on Pexels
Image by Hunter Schroeder on Pexels
IAWPC
Happy February to you all from Team Bean, and what an exciting year it’s going to be, I’m determined to make it count!
It has all got off to a flying start, as earlier this week I travelled to the iPET Network iAwards and Pow Wow event in Cheshire for two days of fun and learning with industry colleagues and pet professionals.
The dog grooming community was very well represented, and I loved meeting all the fabulous groomers at the Pow Wow event. I also gave a first aid update presentation, where I shared the latest updates in best practice, and hammered home the importance of first aid skills in dog grooming.
Just this month in practice I have seen two emergencies come in from groomers where CPR wasn’t started,
this could have saved the dog’s life. So work continues to spread the word and make sure everyone has their skills and confidence in place.
As part of my presentation, I also shared some slides from my recent trip to Kenya, where I trained the Action for Cheetahs Team. The team uses dogs to help with anti-poaching and conservation efforts, and I was on hand to give the rangers the skills that they needed to react in a canine emergency and take good care of the dogs around the clock.
It was also amazing to be presented with a Special Recognition Award by iPET Network Founders Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty. I have worked with
them for more than ten years, designing the canine first aid qualifications and as a training provider. It was amazing to be surprised with this wonderful accolade certificate, and a huge tin of baked beans too. Very appropriate given my name!
This month I am also working with the International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition (IAWPC) on their World Cup Morocco Dogs Campaign.
Three million street dogs in Morocco are set to be inhumanely slaughtered before the World Cup 2030, and the campaign, which is a group of highprofile global charities including the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, PETA and Soi Dog,
are working hard to stop the killing.
Conservationists Chris Packham and Dr Jane Goodall and animal activist and Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan are also on the team, so I am in good company!
My job in the campaign is consulting on first aid, and I have put together a guide for Moroccan Campaigners to hand out, which helps members of the public understand how to interact with street dogs.
I will also be taking part in a live video session with Morocco, showing campaigners how to administer first aid to injured dogs that are being left in the streets fighting for their lives.
The hope is that Morocco will introduce a humane dog reduction programme, which charities are ready and willing to help administer. This includes vaccinating and neutering existing dogs so that the numbers naturally reduce dramatically in time for the World Cup.
If you would like to help the IAWPC campaign you can take part in the Day of the Morocco Dog sponsored walk, which is taking place globally on March 1. To find out more go to the news section at www.iawpc.org
Animal Talent & Casting Agency
Urban Paws UK
Urban Paws UK are the leading and award-winning animal talent and casting agency. We have a team of knowledgeable and experienced bookers with over 40 year’s experience in the pet industry who work with film producers, TV studios, PR agencies and in-house marketing companies to provide the perfect animal talent for any media brief. We are always looking for well-groomed pets for media briefs so get in touch today.
London: 020 8161 6556
Manchester: 0161 808 1667
E: info@urbanpawsuk.com
W: www.urbanpawsuk.com
Grooming Supplies
Artero
Artero has specialized in dog grooming and hairdressing products since 1909. With 113 years of experience, Artero has become a reference in both the Grooming and the Hairdressing worlds, Artero is now present in over 72 countries all over the world.
W: www.artero.co.uk/dog-grooming
Facebook: artero.grooming.uk
Instagram: @artero.grooming.uk
Petcetera
Petcetera have been supplying the nation’s professional dog people with new and innovative products for over 50 years! We pride ourselves on being a one-stopshop for all your pet, showing, grooming & breeding requirements. Request your FREE catalogue today!
T: 01948 668100
E: info@petcetera.co.uk
W: www.petcetera.co.uk
Facebook: petceteraetc
Instagram: @petcetera_etc
Industry Services
Pet Industry Federation
Open to all pet businesses in the UK, PIF is the membership association for the pet industry with a wide range of member benefits to support business growth and development.
T: 01234 273933
E: info@petfederation.co.uk
W: www.petfederation.co.uk
Facebook: petindustryfederation
Twitter: @PetFedUK
Instagram:@petindustryfederation
LinkedIn: Pet Industry Federation (PIF)
Monty’s Natural Treats & Wholesale Looking for extra income? Give our Natural Treats, Foods & Supplements a New Brand. Wholesale Products at low prices & Free White Label Services.
T: 0203 797 6308
E: trade@montysnaturaltreats.co.uk
W: www.montystreats.co.uk
Organic Grooming Products
Secret Weapon UK
Our unrivalled range of top quality dematting products, shampoos and conditioners are suitable for all coat and skin types. Organic and hypoallergenic our ethically sourced products make grooming easier, kinder and faster. Award winning and successfully selling worldwide for 8 years.
T: 07923 368137
W: www.secretweaponuk.com
Facebook: Secret Weapon UK
Instagram: @secretweaponuk
Burns Pet Nutrition
Founded by veterinary surgeon John Burns in 1993, pioneering pet food brand Burns specialises in using simple, healthy and wholesome ingredients to create award-winning recipes that pets love.
T: 0800 0181890
E: sales@burnspet.co.uk
W: www.burnspet.co.uk
Facebook: burnspet
Instagram: @burnset
Twitter: @burnspetfood
Raw Feeding
Natural Instinct
At Natural Instinct, we are all passionate about pets. We believe raw food is the best natural option, feeding as nature intended, free from artificial additives, colours, preservatives and fillers.
T: 01276 608500
W: www.naturalinstinct.com
Facebook: NIPetfoods
Twitter: @NIrawpetfoods
Instagram: @naturalinstinctfood
Shampoo
Bugalugs
Bugalugs Pet Care produces high-quality pet products trusted by professionals worldwide. Manufactured in the UK’s Lake District, our bestselling range includes grooming supplies, dental care items, and supplements for pets.
T: 01900 837942
W: www.bugalugspetcare.com
Facebook: @bugalugspetcare
Instagram: @bugalugspetcare
TikTok: @bugalugspetcare
For All Dogkind
Award-winning grooming and wellbeing range for all skin & coat types. Delivering natural, healthy and healing products that are ethically sourced and luxuriously kind to hounds & humans. (Trade discounts available)
T:. 020 7148 0316
E: info@foralldogkind.co.uk
W: www.foralldogkind.co.uk
Natural Pet Treats
Pet Food
Sharpening
Shear Ease
Shear Ease specialise in clipper blade sharpening, scissor/instrument sharpening and clipper service & repair blades and scissors sharpened and back in the post in one working day!
T: 01407 832 800
E: office@sheareaseltd.com
W: www.sheareaseltd.com
Leucillin
Healthy skin makes for a happy pet!
Leucillin keeps skin clean and clear tackling irritation, sore, itchy or smelly skin, safe for ears and eyes.
T: 0345 548 9800
E: info@leucillin.co.uk
W: www.leucillin.co.uk
Facebook: leucillin
Instagram: @leucillin_skincare
Training and Education
Capel Manor College
Train to become a qualified dog groomer; choose from full and part-time courses with free tuition for 16 to 18 year olds.
T: 0303 003 1234
E: study@capel.ac.uk
W: www.capel.ac.uk
Facebook: capelmanorcollege
Twitter: @capelmanor
Instagram: @capelmanor
Four Paws Groom School
Dog and Cat Grooming Training Courses and regulated Qualifications. Our friendly and knowledgeable Tutors will support you every step of the way. Locations in Cheshire, Kent, Herefordshire and Greater Manchester.
T: 01606 333765
E: info@fourpawsgroomschool.co.uk
W: www.fourpawsgroomschool.co.uk
Facebook: fourpawsgroomschool
Instagram:@fourpawsgroomschool
Haddon Training
Established in 1997, Haddon Training are an award-winning training provider specialising in dog grooming, animal care and equine. We offer qualifications which are all supported by our team of expert Trainer-Coaches.
T: 01672 519977
E: enquiries@haddontraining.co.uk
W: www.haddontraining.co.uk
Facebook: HaddonTrainingLtd
Instagram: @haddontraining
iPET Network
International Awarding Organisation, creating regulated qualifications for the Animal Care and Veterinary Science sector. We aim to improve animal welfare through education, successfully winning awards for our Dog and Cat Grooming qualifications.
T: 0800 433 4700
E: info@ipetnetwork.co.uk
W: www.ipetnetwork.co.uk
Facebook: @ipetnetwork
Instagram: @ipetnetwork
KD Grooming Studio
KD Grooming Studio, a multi-awardwinning pet grooming Studio, delivers flexible C&G/National Pet College & vocational courses. Train with Britain’s Best Groomer, Kelly Davis (BBC) and her highly skilled team. Enrol year round.
T: 01963 34110
E: info@kdgroomingstudio.co.uk
W: www.kdgroomingstudio.co.uk
W: www.kellydavis.uk
Facebook: KdGroomingStudio
Instagram: @kdgroomingstudio
National Pet College
Offering City & Guilds dog
grooming qualifications via our approved training centres around the UK. Also, Higher Diploma in Dog Grooming, teacher training and short courses including canine first aid.
T: 01234 984450
E: info@nationalpetcollege.co.uk
W www.nationalpetcollege.co.uk
Facebook: nationalpetcollege
Instagram: @nationalpetcollege
Pet Passion to Profit
Mentoring Pet Grooming Professionals to earn more money and have the business they dream of; changing lives of groomers and the grooming industry one business at a time!
E: info@petpassiontoprofit.com
W: www.petpassiontoprofit.com
Facebook: Petpassiontoprofit
Facebook: groups/doggrooming businesshelpandsupport
Instagram: @pet_passion_to_profit1
Rob Fellows Reiki
Help calm the dogs in your salon and make your job easier too. Easy to learn and simple to do Reiki training courses especially for groomers. Home Learning or Live Training and Qualification Day.
E: rob@RobFellowsReiki.com
W: RobFellowsReiki.com/reiki-fordog-groomers
Facebook: RobFellowsReiki
FB group: Reiki for Dog Groomers
Instagram: @reikirobfellows
Summit Groomer Training Group
Summit works with dog grooming training centres delivering quality tuition and City & Guilds qualifications. With centres across the UK there is one near you.
See our website for details.
T: 01535 661776
E: enquiries@summitgroomer traininggroup.co.uk
W: www.summitgroomer traininggroup.co.uk
Skincare
