Groomer to Groomer June 2018

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 37 ED.6 • JUNE 2018

VOLUNTEER GROOM I NG IN

GUATEMALA

WHAT’S SO GRE AT A BOUT

GROOMING

SHOWS?

HOLISTIC ,

ORGANIC

OR NATURAL

W H AT’S T H E DI F F E R ENCE?

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CONTENTS | JUNE 2018 VOLUNTEER GROOMING

uatemala IN

or WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

by Michelle Knowles PAGE 12

Conner: Avoiding the Key to Failure

6

Holistic Grooming: It's Only Natural

56

Northwest Grooming Show 2018 Recap 16

Intergroom 2018 Recap

64

Berry: The Paper Trail

20

New Products

68

Hosler: What's So Great About Grooming Shows?

28

Groomer Humor Comic

68

Helping Clients Reduce Allergies to Cats

34

Oquendo: How Our Clients View Us

44

Classifieds 70 Calendar of Events

EDITOR/PRESIDENT Todd Shelly todd@barkleigh.com

SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jenn Barraclough jennifer@barkleigh.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Gwen Shelly gwen@barkleigh.com

JR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jenny Thomas jthomas@barkleigh.com

MANAGING EDITOR Rebecca Shipman rebecca@barkleigh.com

WEB MASTER Luke Dumberth luke@barkleigh.com

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Adam Lohr adam@barkleigh.com

VIDEO DIRECTOR Jeremiah Strawbridge jeremiah@barkleigh.com

ART DIRECTOR Laura Pennington laura@barkleigh.com

VIDEO PRODUCTION Becca Tarlo rtarlo@barkleigh.com

Michell Evans Kathy Hosler

Gary Wilkes Mary Oquendo

Daryl Conner Kathy Rose

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38

by Marni Hills

onfession:

HOARDER I'M A SHAMPOO

52

by Michell Evans DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS James Severs james@barkleigh.com MARKETING COORDINATOR Alyx Robertson alyx@barkleigh.com

ON THE COVER “THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 37 ED.6 • JUNE 2018

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

VOLUNTEER GROOM I NG IN

PUBLIC RELATIONS/SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Chelsey Hall chelsey@barkleigh.com AD COORDINATOR/ ADMIN ASSISTANT Karin Grottola karin@barkleigh.com

GUATEMALA

W HAT’S SO GR E AT A BOU T

GROOMING

SHOWS?

HOLISTIC ,

ORGANIC

OR NATURAL

W H AT’S T H E DI F F E R ENCE?

Khris Berry Michelle Knowles

Copyright June 2018. 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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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

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GROOMING MATTERS

by Daryl Conner

FAILURE AVOIDING THE KEY TO

“I can’t tell you the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone.”

— Ed Sheeran s professional pet stylists, we are members of a service industry. This means we do work for customers rather than providing goods or manufacturing things. And this, by its very nature, means that we must please our clients. If we fail to please them, we will not have a profitable business.

However, it is important that we realize that we cannot please everyone.

Trying to make everyone happy sets us up for certain failure.

There are some people in the world who are determined to be miserable and unhappy all the time.

We need to learn to recognize these people and understand that nothing we can do will change who they are.

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Beyond those difficult humans, there is the simple fact that the way we each operate our own individual business will not be desirable to everyone.

The idea for this article came to me after I posted on a social media site about an interaction I had with a potential customer. The man had a Bichon and a Standard Poodle and had moved from another state. His previous groomer is highly skilled, and he was used to having his dogs look terrific after being groomed. His stylist gave him two recommendations of potential places to bring his dogs near his new home. I was gratified that she had given my name.

The man and I had a long conversation. He had taken his dogs some-

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where three months ago (against the advice of his previous stylist) and was not pleased with the results.

When we spoke, he told me the dogs were a mess and asked for a quote.

Although my rates are in line with others in my state, he found them to be too high and tried to convince me to do the work for much less. I was polite but firm. I didn’t like the idea of losing a new customer with two dogs, but I also didn’t feel the need to undercut my normal fees to please him. And that is a good thing.

I started thinking about how groomers cannot please everyone, and here are some things I came up with: • Being firm about your business practices does not mean that you cannot

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If your priority is to be home every night to have supper with your family, you must refuse to allow a customer to convince you to stay late so they can pick their dog up at a time convenient to them.

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still be kind. In fact, it is extra important to be polite when you are telling someone that you can’t accommodate their wishes. I was very polite to the man who was asking me to groom at a drastically reduced rate, and when he hung up, I felt that at some point I might hear from him again.

• The service we provide may make many of our customers very happy but be inappropriate for others. For example, I have worked Saturdays for my entire career. When I opened a new business four years ago, I decided I’d done my share of working weekends and it was time for a change. However, I had a handful of valued customers who legitimately could only come to me on Saturdays. So, I got creative. I got them all on the same 6–week rotation, and now I only work one Saturday every 6 weeks. I can live with that, and they are grateful that I have found a way to accommodate them. They understand that if they must miss their Saturday, it is up to them to figure out how to get here on a week day or wait another 6 weeks and perhaps have added charges due to coat condition.

• Although it feels good to say, “Yes, I can do that for you,” we need to know that it is not a good idea to do so if it goes against our higher priorities.

So, if your priority is to be home every night to have supper with your family, you must refuse to allow a customer to convince you to stay late so they can pick their dog up at a time convenient to them. I find that a nice way to phrase a refusal like this is, “I’m sorry, that doesn’t work for me.” This simple response leaves little room for argument.

• When you must refuse a request, try to temper your refusal by offering an alternative. Let’s say Mrs. Brown wants you to leave the coat on her matted Maltese 1–inch long. You know you are going to be lucky to get a #5 blade

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The essential point is that you should not make yourself miserable, or lose income, just to please customers. In the end, it should be you who makes the rules for how you choose to run your business.

through its fur, and there is no way you can fullfil her wish. You can offer something else, such as; “I won’t be able to leave Puff’s fur quite that long on his body this time, but I can leave the hair on his head and ears that length, and we will reschedule him for 6 weeks so we can grow the coat out to look the way you want it to.”

• It is important to differentiate when you are trying to be generous, and when you are trying to dodge conflict. I happily give discounts (or even complimentary grooming) to a few customers who I know are on a fixed income but still take great pains to maintain their pet’s health and grooming care. This is my choice and I do it with a happy heart. However, if some random person demands a price reduction, I stand my ground and do not feel the need to take a pay cut just to please them.

The essential point is that you should not make yourself miserable, or lose income, just to please customers. In the end, it should be you who makes the rules for how you choose to run your business. Clients who will be a match for you and the way you work will find you if you are authentic to yourself, show that you love what you do and do your best work.

As Toby Mac once said, “Stop trying to make everybody happy, you aren’t chocolate.” ✂

Find Groomer to Groomer Magazine on

www.facebook.com/ groomertogroomermagazine

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by Michelle Knowles

or WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? There are many keywords and catch phrases being thrown around in the industry these days. In our quest to find the healthiest cleansers and conditioners for regular and therapeutic care, we are constantly bombarded with the keywords “Organic”, “Natural”, “Botanical”, and the ever present “Holistic”.

H

ere is a simplified guide to help you define these terms in order to choose the products and additives that are best for you, wherever you groom.

ORGANIC According to the Organic Growers School located in North Carolina, “Organic refers to a regulated

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labeling term indicating that the food or fiber product has been produced using methods approved by a third–party inspector that integrate cultural, biological and mechanical farming practices. These practices are meant to encourage cycling of resources, foster ecological balance and conserve biodiversity. Organic agriculture prohibits the use of ge-

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netic engineering and chemical pest controls (some exceptions include naturally derived substances).”

These labeling terms are regulated by the USDA and are put on packages of food and fiber as follows: • 100% Organic: Foods bearing this label are made with 100% organic ingredients and may display the USDA Organic seal.

• Organic: These products contain at least 95–99% organic ingredients (by weight). The remaining ingredients are not available organically but have been approved by the NOP. These products may display the USDA Organic seal.

• Made with Organic Ingredients: Food packaging that reads “Made with Organic Ingredients” must contain 70–94% organic ingredients.

These products will not bear the USDA Organic seal; instead, they may list up to three ingredients on the front of the packaging.

• Other: Products with less than 70% organic ingredients may only list organic ingredients on the information panel of the packaging. These products will not bear the USDA Organic seal.

This still is not regulated within the pet product industry but at least it gives the buyer of these products some basic information to use when confronted with the Organic claim.

Natural

is truly anything that is found on Earth. Poison is natural, Plastic could even be considered natural as it is a petroleum product.

NATURAL Natural is truly anything that is found on Earth. Poison is natural, Plastic could even be considered natural as it is a petroleum product.

Generally speaking, “Natural” could mean ingredients that have not been synthesized in the lab and are not a substance that’s been subjected to genetic manipulation. For further clarification, questioning the manufacturer on what they consider “Natural” could yield the best answer.

It is important to remember that everything is chemical by nature.

Chemicals are nothing to fear and cover the spectrum of ineffective to gentle to harsh, to downright dangerous. It is in the correct formulation and application of these chemicals that some of the best products are born.

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BOTANICAL Botanical gives the feeling of green plants and lush gardens full of beautiful flowers and sweetly scented dew. In reality, 1 to 2 drops per gallon of concentrated shampoo gives the manufacturer the right to say “Botanical” on the label. Sometimes, 1 or 2 drops per gallon is actually the correct “dosage”.

These essences or oils that are derived from plants and flowers are all the rage these days and have as many benefits as side effects depending on what they are and how much is used, and even what species they are used on. There are programs that are being developed in the industry that are very informative about the uses of essential oils, hydrosols and other types of botanicals. This buzzword

could even mean an herb that has been ground to a powder to be used as an additive or mask.

HOLISTIC Yes, I said it. Holistic is a term that is thrown around so much it has lost its beautiful meaning. Webster’s dictionary defines holistic as: adjective: holistic Philosophically, characterized by comprehension of the parts of something as intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.

In Medicine: Characterized by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors, rather than just the physical symptoms of a disease.

In essence, working as a Holistic groomer and pet aesthetician, I

take into account the mental state of the animal, the condition of its coat and skin, and also form a bond with the owner so that I can get a clearer picture of the home life and nutrition of the pet before I begin my groom or therapeutic work. All therapeutic work begins with a diagnosis from the veterinarian if there is an underlying issue.

Hopefully this will shed some light on these confusing and over– used words that we hear so many times when looking for new products to try. Don’t be afraid of ingredients you can’t pronounce, all things chemical are given scientific names to classify them properly as they all belong to certain groups. That is a discussion for a different day. Happy shopping! ✂

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Tacoma, Washington 2018 Recap

T

he Northwest Grooming Show, which took place at the beautiful Hotel Murano in Tacoma, Washington this past April, had a remarkable 10.5% financial increase and 1,188 attendees! Some of the exciting highlights of the expo included the many vendors offering a variety of products and services at the trade show, the Creative Grooming Competition and the Meet and Greet Cocktail party. We can't wait until next year!

2018 Contest Results

BEST IN SHOW BEST ALL AROUND BEST IN SHOW WINNER JACKIE BOULTON WITH NICOLE KALLISH OF ANDIS AND JUDGE JONATHAN DAVID

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BEST ALL AROUND WINNER VICTOR ROSADO WITH JUDGE JONATHAN DAVID

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2018 Contest Results

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER & CREATIVE STYLING 2ND PLACE

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RESCUE ROUND-UP THIRD PLACE WINNER KAITLIN CONE

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POODLES FIRST PLACE, OPEN: JACKIE BOULTON

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GROOMING BUSINESS BASICS

by Khris Berry

The Pet Grooming industry is experiencing growth and change at an unparalleled rate. As busy working Pet Groomers, we struggle to keep up with advancements in every aspect of our jobs.

L

ikely you spend time studying changes and trends in pet grooming styles—which Bichon head shape is considered most relevant; how to apply bevels to cocker feet; is my Miniature Schnauzer pattern correct? Such are the questions a busy groomer may ask themselves every day.

As a business professional, are you applying the same care to keeping up with the needs of your business as you are the hands–on skills you deliver to your clients’ pets? Do you spend an equal amount of time focusing on the business side of your business?

Many pet professionals begin their journey into business ownership based upon a desire to provide

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

services for pets and their people.

With that journey comes a few responsibilities that new business owners may not be prepared for.

Having good basic business documents ready at every turn of your business’s road will help make sure your journey is less bumpy. These documents are the equivalent of a road map for your business. They should be clear, concise, understandable and easy to follow.

When your business reaches a turn in the road, you will hopefully have the correct document to refer to for direction. Creating a paper trail for your business will insure that you spend less time “lost” on your journey and more time moving toward

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your professional goals. Let’s review basic documents that every pet business owner should have in place.

I’ve broken each set of documents you should create for your business “map” into basic questions which may arise in your regular course of business: Mission Statements have fallen slightly out of style but still have a purpose in your business. A good mission statement should define your business and how it will interact with the world around it. I regularly review my own company’s mission statement to make sure I’m still on the road I decided to travel. Who hasn’t made a wrong turn a time or two? Crafting a clear mission statement for your business will allow you to return to it, time and time again to make sure you are steering correctly.

Employee Documents are key to keeping your paper trail paved. Like all roads, this path needs regular maintenance. Updating addresses, emergency contact numbers and even maintaining correct cell and e-mail addresses is vital to ensuring that you can contact your employees at appropriate times.

We ask our employees to complete new contact information, including updated tax status forms, each year during their annual review period.

Employee Contracts, Handbooks and Job Descriptions are no longer considered to be by–products of working for a larger corporation. Every employer/employee relationship should be defined with these documents.

Not proficient in legalese? Never fear, securing the services of a local attorney to look over a simple employment agreement is an investment that will repay you many times over if you need to enforce it.

The content of each of these documents can be as diverse as the people and shops who are creating them; groomers and grooming posi-

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Prefer to limit personal cell phone use in your establishment?

Great idea; just write it into your employee handbook.

tions vary wildly from city to city, state to state and region to region. Begin with educating yourself about the parameters of legal employment in your area and build a document which suits your daily business needs. Do you need an employee who can regularly lift dogs over 50 pounds? That’s perfectly fine as long as you define it in your job description. Prefer to limit personal cell phone use in your establishment? Great idea; just write it into your employee handbook. Each of these documents should define roles, pay, responsibilities and serve as a directory for how to navigate your salon. It’s up to you to enforce them once you define them, however.

Animal Handling Guidelines, performance standards, performance reviews and process for advancement are also all documents that

you may consider implementing in your salon. Whether you are a sole proprietor or work with a group of groomers—each of these documents provide accountability and the ability to dialog about improvement and setting a high standard for pet care services.

Client Agreements, Liability Forms and Client Record Keeping are all key components when providing a service to the public. I am a fan of offering a client agreement which basically states “We will provide X service for the client. In return, the client will respect our time and skills by doing X.” This seems like a simple statement, but many pet professionals struggle with client relations. By identifying at the onset of the client/groomer relationship how you prefer to handle complaints, no shows, rescheduled appointments or any number of issues,

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you are essentially holding your client to the same standard as yourself.

2018 is the Year of the Dog, however I believe it should have a secondary label as the Year of the Doodle.

Matted release forms are one example of the type of liability forms which will allow dialog about a dog’s grooming and make the client aware of potential risks to their pet’s health and safety.

You can create unique forms but I am a fan of the many options offered by Barkleigh including Senior Pets, Cat Grooming, Pet Safety and Matted Pets, just to name a few. These are a small investment into your own peace of mind when dealing with out–of–the– ordinary situations.

Client record keeping is a necessary element of keeping track of your people, their pets and hopefully your

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income! Whether you opt to choose a paper format or use a computerized format, having access to your client records will save you time and provide more efficient service when you are interfacing with clients by phone or in person. Creating a professional appearance begins with good record keeping.

What else? Employee Record keeping (time clock and payroll, tax and legal documents, master emergency contact lists, disaster plan, etc.) each represent an aspect of business ownership that you probably did not think of when you decided to open your pet service business. As you gain control of your business and become adept at maneuvering the obstacles which occur in the course of operations, you will find that having reliable, dependable documentation

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allows you to navigate with more ease and proficiency.

Where to start? Many pet professionals don’t have these things and don’t know where to begin to get them. Finding other professionals who have already begun the journey of the Paper Trail is a good first step. Business consultants can speed the process along and often times, while more costly in the beginning, provide a good investment in easing problems later.

As I travel, speaking on business topics to pet service providers, I am amazed at the insight and creativity that I find in fellow pet business owners.

Find a mentor; hire a good attorney; attend business classes at industry trade shows, but most of all, begin by laying your own Paper Trail and start paving your way to success. ✂

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From The Desk Of Chuck Simons Inventor of the Groomers Helper® • Groomer • Business Consultant • Salon Owner The phrase “You get what you pay for” is not always the cornerstone strategy of what you should buy, but in many cases it should narrow down your choices.

The Importance Of Quality Buying quality tools and equipment for your salon is something that long-term business owners will tell you pays dividends for years to come. Quality products, that do not fail, not only support your reliability and reputation to do a good job, but impact employee safety and liability, employee efficiency, pet safety, and protect your bottom line.

The most obvious example that supports this are the arms, clamps, and safety system on your table as they are the secure connection that controls the pets you are working on. Many quality hydraulic and electric tables have exceptional mechanics and stability, but come with economy arms and clamps as a cost cutting measure. What good is a stable table if the arm on it can be bent into a pretzel by a medium sized dog that decides to go Cujo for just one minute on you?

major additional resistance in the brushing stroke. ActiVet® designed a brush pin that is long and thin of the same high quality milled stainless steel, with a tiny bend at the end to grab that deep dead fur in the undercoat. This allows the tines to glide through the outercoat and plunge right down to undercoat, again reducing the time and energy spent, which increases the brush’s efficiency. You can undercoat a Samoyed or Husky in half the time with the right tool.

Finishing is an art, and this brush system addresses that as well.

The finishing brushes, made with the same high quality milled stainless steel pins, have a shorter shank and longer hook in a specific organized pattern. This brush face is designed to only penetrate the outer coat, and lay the fur in a smooth organized pattern. Just the way it needs to be for perfect presentation of your final work.

A Better Technology

Beyond the task-designed faces on these brushes is the extraordinary thought that went into the final design of the tool.

This need for quality does not stop there.

The average groomer can spend up to 40% of their time each week working with brushes.

The seemingly endless task of undercoating, breaking mats, and finishing can consume so much time and energy, yet many times the tools purchased do not reflect this. In many cases, there is a disconnect between the brush price, and the cost of using it!

The brush heads have two different flexibility options: soft and firm. It is the flex of the head that drives the faces through the coat so effectively.

This “flex of the head” also offers relief to the groomer’s wrists and forearms, which will reduce strain and minimize the likelihood of Repetitive Motion Syndrome. There is less snagging, less “ripping” and they are easier to use.

Let’s take a look at what is arguably the highest quality brush system on the market, and discuss what makes it so valuable.

When the patented ActiVet® brush system was designed by groomers, they understood the three primary tasks (mat breaking, undercoating, & finishing) and designed a brush face specifically for each job. They also fully understood how much a chore brushing can be.

The durable pads that the tines are attached to can be “opened” from the top so you can get behind them to clean and sanitize.

The tines on all of the brush faces are not actually “pins”, that can come loose and break off like cheaper brushes, they are designed in long, U-shaped staples. If a tine bends, it can be pulled out from the back of the pad, straightened with needle nosed pliers or a hemostat, and put back in. It is the only professional grooming brush that you can actually repair yourself.

For busting the gnarliest of mats, one must first understand them. A mat is a cluster of tiny little micro-knots that have woven themselves together into a mass. ActiVet® designed a brush face of the highest quality, milled (that means the tips are blunted, not sharp cut wire) German stainless steel in a pattern where more tips of the tines embed themselves in the microknots at different angles. So when you “Tap & Pull” with the brush, which is the way to properly use it, you explode more of those micro-knots each time, effectively unraveling the mat in half the time. Many mats that would have caused a shave-down can now be effectively and efficiently broken down instead.

Undercoating a large, double coated dog can be one of the most arduous tasks. Because of the thicker outer-coat there can be

Add the option that ActiVet® is the only professional manufacturer that puts two of these different working faces on a single brush handle, called the Duo Series, and you will understand why they are considered the very top of the category.

The ActiVet® Brush System, along with the most overbuilt arms and clamps, and the top Safety & Positioning System in the industry are available through GroomersHelper.com.

When we asked Chuck Simons about quality and tools, he had a very simple answer, “If the dog is your canvas, and you are truly an artist, you should only work with the highest quality tools. Especially if they are durable, last for years, make your job easier, and help you showcase your talent every day.”

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT

GROOMING SHOWS? E by Kathy Hosler e

“I was one month out of grooming school and had been grooming for just two weeks when I attended my first show,” said Krista Creekpaum.

“Learning more was my goal, and eight years later, it still is. It’s true, the more you learn, the more you want to learn.”

M

any groomers, like Krista eagerly attend multiple grooming shows every year. They have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and self–improvement. Unfortunately, there are still some stylists who have never attended a grooming show and been able to experience the things they have to offer.

The most common reasons given for not attending shows are; I can’t take time off work. The shows are all too far away. I can’t afford to go. My

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customers won’t understand. I’m doing ok just the way I am.

SO, YOU THINK THAT YOU CAN’T TAKE TIME OFF? Oh yes you can. Show dates are posted months in advance, giving you plenty of time to arrange your schedule.

“Like anything in our lives, we have to plan accordingly,” says Jameson Kon. “We plan our clients’ appointments to be before or after a grooming show. And, we add a day or three to

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each show so we can have a mini–vacation or hang out with friends from our industry. We work hard. Attending grooming shows is a way to treat and reinvest in ourselves.”

“Going to grooming shows gives me a chance to learn new techniques and see what others are doing,” says Amanda McGrath. “Since I work alone this is very important to me.

Many of the tips and tricks I have learned over the years have more than made up the cost of attending.”

Put a tip jar on your check–out counter with a sign that says all tips go toward continuing groomer education.

Attending shows is a tax deductible expense!

TOO FAR AWAY? Grooming shows are now held in many locations all over the country, and the world. Almost everyone can find a show close enough for them to attend. If it’s absolutely impossible for you to get to a grooming show in person, there are many fabulous online seminars and training that you can take advantage of.

CAN’T AFFORD TO ATTEND? There are many easy ways to budget for a show. Take the money you make from one groom a week and

place it in a show account. Then you will have the funds you need already saved when it is time to go. Put a tip jar on your check–out counter with a sign that says all tips go toward continuing groomer education. Attending shows is a tax deductible expense!

“I totally get it that it can be expensive to attend shows,” shares Jameson Kon. “But, why not plan it with fellow friends in the grooming world, and split the hotel cost, or car rental, etc. Think of this as an investment, because the things we come back with are priceless.”

GroomertoGroomer.com

THINK YOUR CUSTOMERS WON’T UNDERSTAND? After all the bad publicity that has been in the news and on social media lately, you need to reinforce the confidence your clients already have in you. They should be thrilled that you are continuing your education to improve yourself and your business. Tell them that you are going for them and their pets; to learn new grooming techniques, see new products, and to be educated in new handling techniques to become a better groomer—all for them!

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“Nobody knows it all.

It’s never too late to learn, especially about what’s new in products, tools, and technique.”

—Cynthia Kohl

30

“I always have a take–away from the educational summits at the shows,” says Dawn Kinney. “Sometimes it’s salon safety, or maybe how to improve speed or technique, but learning from the industry giants always motivates me to be a better groomer. Watching the level of grooming at the demos and competitions is also inspiring, and meeting groomers from around the world has forged some life–long friendships.”

THINK YOU DON’T NEED TO GO TO SHOWS BECAUSE YOU’RE DOING OK? Are you really, or are you just a step away from groomer burnout? Whether you are a new groomer, or a seasoned veteran—to keep yourself fresh and excited about your career you need the grooming show experience. Attend-

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ing shows exposes you to informative educational seminars, time and labor saving tools and equipment, and much needed interaction with your peers.

“The grooming industry is always changing,” says Amanda McGrath.

“That’s why I feel it’s a must to attend seminars and trade shows,” “I’ve been grooming for 30 years,” says Wendy Roberts. “I have yet to leave a show without a whole bucket of new knowledge.”

“Nobody knows it all,” adds Cynthia Kohl. “It’s never too late to learn, especially about what’s new in products, tools, and technique.”

Education is the key. Learning new services that will enable you to increase your income can pay for your show expenses many times over. Say you go to a show and learn a new technique that saves you ten minutes per

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pet. If you groom six pets a day, you could finish working an hour earlier.

Just think about what you can do with an extra hour a day.

Suppose you learn how to do an add–on service that you charge $15 for. If only three clients per day opt for the service, that’s an extra $45 a day in your pocket. If you groom five days a week, you could be putting an extra $225 in your pocket every week. That’s over $11,000 per year!

Even if you are happy with your grooming skills and the way you do business, attending shows will validate and confirm that you are providing excellent services for your clients.

“The shows are invaluable for watching, learning, and breathing in new information and technique,” says Nancy Gross. “They are also a confirmation that I am already familiar with

32

and keeping up with certain styles and education. At the shows I learn even more and I get to experience the “shear” joy of seeing and handling products, equipment, and talking to other professionals.”

That “shear” joy is shared by Daryl Conner when she emphasizes how important it is to meet others of our “tribe”.

“No one can understand what we do like another groomer,” says Daryl emphatically. “And being able to TOUCH the tools we wish to buy is something you can only do at a show.

It is so much better to buy things like shears when you can hold them first.”

Amanda Zeller agrees when she says, “I love seeing the latest and greatest tools and equipment on the market to make our jobs easier. I also enjoy watching other groomers and their grooming styles. You can pick up lots

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of tips and tricks (dos and don’ts) from many different people.”

“The longer I groom, the more I’m convinced that attending shows is important,” concludes Krista Creekpaum. “When I attended my first show, I was looking for the support of other groomers. I still look for that, but I hope that now I’m providing support to others, as well. So, I attend to learn, to get support from my peers, and to give support in return. It’s what I like about shows and it’s why I find them an important part of my life.”

Dawn Kinney sums it up by saying, “If you have never attended a grooming show, I urge you to save your tips this year to fund a road trip to the show of your choice. It will expand your skills, knowledge, self–confidence, and circle of groomer friends. Invest in your career...you’re worth it!” ✂

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Alto lergies

Cats E by Deborah Hansen e

Cats and allergies—we hear it all the time. Almost everyone seems to be allergic to cats.

As groomers, we can and do help humans who have chronic or sudden allergies to their cats.

L

et’s start by understanding why many people are “allergic” to the feline. The first reason is that common allergens, such as pollen and dust, collect and get stuck in the fur. When the cat lies in an open window or goes outside, the pollen that is blowing in the breeze gets trapped in the coat. Then when the cat comes to lie next to the owner, blame is placed on the feline for the sneezing and wheezing that follows.

Many owners do not even realize this is happening. It is always a good idea

34

to ask about the open window the cat loves to sleep in or patio time before jumping to the fact that the owner is allergic to dander. Suggesting the owner keep the cat inside or out of open windows during a high pollen season will make a huge improvement in reducing allergies.

Another common allergen is dust and/or dust mites. Surprisingly, dust mites will live in any warm, moist area where they can find food. While they like to eat the human cells that are sloughed off, they will also eat the

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skin cells of pets. Pet beds are a hot spot for dust mites along with human mattresses. Add to that the behavior of cats. Cats like to race behind, on top of and under things that typically are dusty. Think of beds, carpets, curtains, TVs and cabinetry. The cat’s coat has a two-fold problem when it comes to dust and allergens. First, they collect dust in their coats, and second they provide a food source for mites. You may want to approach the subject of dust with clients when discussing allergies.

Once we are past the more common allergens, if the owner truly is allergic to “cats”, the culprit has to do with an allergy to proteins found in feline saliva, urine, and dander. Felines have at least five proteins that can be allergens for humans. (For the scientists—the two major allergens are Fel d 1 and Fel d 4. The minor allergens include Fel d 2, Fel d 3, and cat IgA.) Unlike the pollen and dust (that fall or are rubbed into the coat), these more complex allergens are deposited in the fur from saliva, urine and skin. Cat allergen particles are sticky and small. At a miniscule size—about one tenth the size of a dust mite—they can remain airborne for long periods of time, and then can “stick” to any surface they encounter.

Current studies suggest that these particles can stick to walls and ceilings of homes with felines for up to 30 weeks, while older studies had cat dander sticking to surfaces like ceilings for up to 2 years. There are also studies that are looking at second hand exposure to cat dander.

Studies are showing that dander can be transferred at schools and places of employment where items such as coats touch each other. With cat allergen particles being much more complex than dust or pollen, it is much more difficult to help humans find relief from their allergies when the cause is cat dander.

Allergists are now recognizing that in many cases, cats are a part of the family. Removing the cat is not an option for most families in today’s climate and allergists have become more accepting than they were in the “old days”. Many allergists now recommend other solutions before they recommend getting rid of the family’s felines.

As a groomer, you can help keep the feline in the home and help alleviate some symptoms. Not only do you keep the family together, but increase your bottom line while doing it.

Allergists are now recognizing that in many cases, cats are a part of the family. Removing the cat is not an option for most families in today’s climate and allergists have become more accepting than they were in the “old days”.

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Placing the feline on a

4-6 week bath & brush schedule, while the family does a

deep clean for at least

6 months

will go a long way to remove the proteins that are currently in the home.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN IT’S “GROOMER VS ALLERGEN”?

First the feline fur needs to be thoroughly washed in a water bath with two shampooings, then blow dried until the coat is bone dry. This process will “unglue” and remove most of the allergens and dead fur from the coat. While you are working on this, the owners need to be wiping down their house to remove as much of the allergy causing proteins in the home as possible. A gentle reminder to wipe the walls, fan blades and shampoo the carpets will go a long way to improving the human allergic response.

Now, like with any big problem, this cannot be solved by one bath. Placing the feline on a four to six–week bath and brush schedule, while the family does a deep clean for at least six months will go a long way to remove the proteins that are currently in the home.

Continuing this routine will slow, if not stop the reappearance of the allergy proteins on surfaces in the home and, in turn, will greatly improve the health of the humans who love the cat. With this strategy, the professional groomer

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is able to keep the allergens from building up on the cat’s coat.

A regular routine of professional grooming significantly decreases the amounts of allergens the family is exposed to. From a business owner’s perspective, this is not only good for the cats and humans that love them, but has the potential to give you four to six–week clients (eight to twelve feline grooms a year), increasing your profit margin.

I know firsthand what a struggle cats and allergies can be. My first cat came to live with my family when I was 17. A few months later my entire family had “cat allergies”. My family refused to give up the cat, so the first Saturday of each month my mom instituted a monthly deep clean day. I would bathe the cat while the rest of the family would scrub the house. Living with a cat, while family members have allergies can be challenging, but possible. It takes a dedicated family and a groomer that understands the situation.

When a groomer keeps up to date on current allergy research and cat grooming skills, it not only keeps more cats in homes with loving families, it also increases the groomer’s bottom line. Why not focus your cat grooming business on cat lovers with allergies? ✂ Deborah Hansen, CFMG CFCG is the owner of a successful feline exclusive house call business, Kitty’s Purrfect Spa in California and the creative talent behind Feline Artistic Creations. She is also the founder of “Deborah’s Programs,” a complete rebooking program for cats, and owner and creator of Kitty’s Kopy Kats, a stationary store for cat groomers. Deborah is an author in multiple grooming and local publications on the topics of feline grooming and business growth and a teacher on the topics of Safety in the Grooming Environment, Creative Feline Grooming and the Business Side of House Call Grooming. She can be found at deborahhansen.com.

uatemala VOLUNTEER GROOMING IN

E by Marni Hills e

“Saving just one dog won’t change the world, but it surely will change the world for that one dog.”

— Richard C. Call, Philanthropist, Community Leader

I

s the daily grind of grooming dogs becoming a little bit monotonous? Do you yearn for adventure? Do you wish you could do something to give back? Consider an international trip to volunteer at an animal shelter. A highly specialized skill like dog grooming turns out to be an incredibly valuable way to do good in the world of dog rescue—as I learned on my recent volunteer vacation to Guatemala.

“Voluntourism” is a quickly growing concept. Doing something to contribute in a foreign country is a wonderful way to experience another culture, learn a new language, meet

38

like–minded people and maybe gain some perspective on how you live your own life back home.

I decided to apply to volunteer at Animal Aware Guatemala—the largest dog rescue in Central America. Located in the mountains outside the picturesque Spanish colonial city of La Antigua (a UNESCO World Heritage site), it seemed like the perfect combination of an interesting destination and a place in great need of help.

As the trip date approached, I emailed the shelter director Xenii Neilsen, an American woman who started the shelter over 20 years ago, and asked, “Should I bring my groom-

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ing equipment or do you have something on site I could use?”

She replied, “Oh we had some grooming equipment donated so don’t worry, we have stuff here.”

I thought about that for a minute and then considered; what kind of grooming equipment does she think she has? What if it’s dirty, rusty, unsharpened, not a size that works for me? Too many variables and she may not know anything about “grooming equipment”. But packing it in my luggage or shipping all my own equipment seemed risky—that’s my livelihood and what if it got lost or damaged?

I decided to bring everything I

I expected the rescue to be primitive and possibly shocking. But it was more dreadful than I expected. When I arrived and was given a tour of the grounds, my initial response was overwhelming hopelessness and I thought “where do I possibly begin?!” might need and a bit more; grooming loops, clippers with lots of short blades, blade wash and disinfectant, several of my favorite shears, muzzles, nail clippers, dremel, brushes and combs, my grooming smock and pants.

I packed it carefully in my checked bag and hoped for the best.

A successful volunteer visit requires adaptability, improvisation and a strong constitution to deal with whatever needs to be done. I expected the rescue to be primitive and possibly shocking. But it was more dreadful than I expected. When I arrived and was given a tour of the grounds, my initial response was overwhelming hopelessness and I thought “where do I possibly begin?!”

Panic was setting in as we walked through a variety of concrete fenced pens spread over many hilly acres in the woods. Three hundred dogs and eighty cats were housed here and while most looked just fine, some were in really bad shape. The two young women giving me the tour were both volunteers (Erin from Canada and Julia from Germany) who had arrived a week before I did. They showed me a list they made of over thirty dogs they felt had an urgent grooming need and each was ranked—from bad to worst—either matted to the skin with urine, mud and feces, fully infested with fleas, hairless and scabby from unknown underlying issues, horrendously overgrown nails or a combination thereof.

It turns out that, although these dogs have been rescued from a life of abuse or starvation and are now

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We carried a narrow steel operating table from inside the clinic and outfitted it with a grooming arm and an old feed bag wrapped around it with leashes to provide a solid spot for dogs to stand.

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living in a safe environment with food, water and shelter, they are not “out of the woods.” Obviously certain breeds of dogs need ongoing grooming care of their coat and all need bathing and nail trims. A large shelter such as this in a developing country is staffed with a skeleton crew of local young people with very little training or background with dogs. Yes, there is a stream of sporadic visits from international volunteers, but without special skills or some training they cannot address this need.

There is simply no one there qualified to help the dogs with these specific issues.

Thank god I brought my own equipment. There was nothing set up for grooming and no clippers or blades or shears. What the director called grooming equipment turned out to be a donated grooming tub filled with an old vacuum, a hose that attached to nothing, a couple buckets and a wide variety of flea and tick and other shampoos and conditioners. This all stood in the middle of a dirt lot outside a dilapidated “clinica” building.

Time to adapt and improvise!

The building that housed the clinic was not an option as it was filled with stacked crates full of dogs and had no good overhead lighting. We carried a narrow steel operating table from inside the clinic and outfitted it with a grooming arm and an old feed bag wrapped around it with leashes to provide a solid spot for dogs to stand. We put it up on cinder blocks so it was a good height. This was my headquarters arranged outdoors on a semi-shaded side of the clinic building. Mornings were cool and comfortable but sweat and sunburn were the norm every afternoon.

As I set up my stuff around the grooming table, Erin and Julia went

out into the pens to find the worst dog on their list. They returned with a purebred Chow named Nasha. Tears filled my eyes when we put her up on the table to see what we were dealing with. Her coat was so tightly matted that I could not get anything but a 30 blade under the hair. This was probably years of pain for her. I had to adjust my thinking (“never shave a double coated dog”) and my training on which blades to use when had to go right out the window.

The change in Nasha’s demeanor after her painful coat was shaved off was remarkable. Before her groom, she was just a big lump in the corner of her pen—barely moving, no expression in her face. Once we got her down off the table to go back to her pen she was wiggling furiously and wagging her tail, spinning in circles, hopping and jumping up on us, nosing our legs, mouth open with a big smile. What a wonderful feeling to have improved her life.

We continued with this routine for the rest of the week. Each day we progressed down the list so the grooms got easier and the issues were slightly less heartbreaking. I showed Erin and Julia the best ways to brush, trim nails, and bathe the dogs so they helped me immensely. If they had not been there to help me—holding the wiggly dogs on the table, running to and from pens with dogs, bathing them after they were clipped— I could not have accomplished nearly as much as we did working together as a team.

I had the weekends before and after this volunteer week to explore La Antigua’s historic churches and ruins, the open air markets, the surrounding volcanoes and some wonderful restaurants and street food.

The city is touristy but also uniquely geared toward volunteers. Certain

I had to adjust my thinking (“never shave a double coated dog”) and my training on which blades to use when had to go right out the window.

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Volunteering requires an open mind, a humble approach, and a lot of self–motivation.

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restaurants even offer weekly “Volunteer Nights” that encourage meeting and sharing experiences with volunteers from all over the world.

If you’re not comfortable planning a trip alone, there are hundreds of organizations that offer packages and tours for people interested in combining volunteering and travel to international destinations. For a fee they will arrange things like airport transfers, hostels or homestays with local families (meals included), language school classes, and the security of organized group travel—but do your research to be sure your work will truly be meeting a local need in that community.

Volunteering requires an open mind, a humble approach, and a lot of self–motivation. Even though I knew I possessed those qualities before this trip, the experiences I had in Guatemala changed me for the better. The trip and the people and dogs I met served to expand my mind, improve my abilities and open up my world view more than ever.

The first thought I had when I got home was, “When can I go back?” ✂ Marni Hills is a writer, world traveler and NDGAA-registered groomer. She recently completed training in restorative skin and coat care through Iv San Bernard USA and is now one of a small but growing number of Certified Pet Aestheticians in the country. Marni is currently grooming at Harmony Pet Clinic in the Greater Milwaukee area.

Her pet family includes rescues Rune, a 16 yr old Amstaff mix and Lily, 6 yr old yellow lab. If you would like more information about joining future international volunteer grooming trips please email Marni at groomforgood@ gmail.com

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I polled several pet owner Facebook groups. I was looking to get a good cross-reference between high and lower maintenance breed pet owners.

And this was my question: How do you view professional pet groomers?

T

heir choices were: Skilled Professionals, Skilled Laborers, Unskilled Laborers, and Depends on the Place.

My very unscientific poll had some good news. Approximately half of the respondents looked to us as skilled professionals, while the other half said it depended on the place. And yes, there were a couple of rude options

44

added. But all in all, it seems most people think highly of their groomer.

But what about the other half that thought it could go either way?

How do you change that perception?

1. THE FIRST STEP IS TO LOOK PROFESSIONAL. Greet the client, including the pet, with neat hair and clean, appropriate clothing. Be aware

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of your body language. Stand straight with no leaning in any direction and offer your hand, along with eye contact and smile. It’s perfectly fine to greet long–term clients with a hug. Attention is always on the client in front of me. The purpose of looking professional is for clients to have confidence in you.

Observe other professionals and

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Take a good look at your facility. Is it clean and does it smell fresh?

What are your cleaning protocols? Sometimes we get so used to smells, that it’s hard to tell. Ask a friend or significant other to do the sniff test periodically. how they interact with you when you are in their place of business. How do they make you feel? Looking professional doesn’t stop with the groomer.

Take a good look at your facility.

Is it clean and does it smell fresh?

What are your cleaning protocols?

Sometimes we get so used to smells, that it’s hard to tell. Ask a friend or significant other to do the sniff test periodically. Is it organized? Clutter feels constraining.

2. ACT PROFESSIONALLY. It is your job to ensure the client is aware of your policies and procedures. You are responsible for providing clear communication. It is not the job of the owner to interpret what you mean.

Any written instructions should be legible to prevent miscommunication between groomers. Set boundaries.

Allowing the client to tell you what you will do, when the pet is ready, how much they’ll pay, being chronically

late or a no show and consistently rescheduling, to name a few, erodes confidence in businesses.

This is where written policies and procedures need implementation and are consistently enforced. Don’t over promise and under deliver. It is not feasible to take a severely matted dog and turn him into a fluff ball. Use the word “naked” to describe what the matted pet is going to look like.

Never agree to “try my best” because

Everything that leaves your grooming facility should have your name on it.

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A MATTED DOG

GETS 3 OPTIONS 1. SHAVE IT NAKED AND START OVER. 2. SHOW THEM HOW TO BRUSH AND COMB, THEN RESCHEDULE. 3. QUOTE THEM AN HOURLY DE–MATTING PRICE AND APPROXIMATE TIME.

when an owner hears that they are now envisioning a fluffy pet and will be disappointed over your perceived promise. You over promised and under delivered. However, if they expect naked and you were able to wet shave and finish with a 5—you are a hero. In this scenario, you under promised and over delivered. Huge difference.

Don’t judge your clients. I am not privy to other people’s personal life.

Maybe they are uncaring owners, but what if they are dealing with a sick child, or loss of job, or any number of other personal issues? None of which is my business. People like options because it gives them a sense of control. A matted dog always gets three options: 1. We can shave it naked and start over.

2. Show them how to brush and comb and reschedule so they have an opportunity to de–mat their own dog.

I have this to be a frequently chosen option. They try and are unable. They come back with a newfound understanding and respect for what we do.

This pet usually ends up on a more frequent grooming schedule as well.

3. Quote them an hourly de– matting price and the approximate time it will take.

Keep lines of communications open. There are times when we make a promise to a client in good faith, only to realize that it is not possible. This usually involves a shave down. If the style has significantly changed, I do not proceed without client approval.

My preferred method is by text, as I will have a written authorization to do so. Phone approval can lead to a he said–she said type of situation.

3. Be the professional. While looking and acting the part offers visual cues to the client, being the profes-

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There are clients that, no matter how professional you are, will never be happy and are often vocal about it. Clients that are encouraged to go elsewhere include those that use abusive or foul language, and exhibit inappropriate behavior. sional is a mindset. This is confidence in your skills and in yourself, so that when you inform your clients what needs to be done, it is accepted rather than questioned. Embrace continuing education. There are many avenues to accomplish this from trade shows, to local classes, to online options.

There are clients that, no matter how professional you are, will never be happy and are often vocal about it. Clients that are encouraged to go elsewhere include those

TM

that use abusive or foul language, and exhibit inappropriate behavior.

Professional behavior includes social media reactions. There is a segment of the population that believes if they threaten to leave a bad review or begin a social media campaign against your business, you will cave and give them what they want.

Installing video cameras, along with clear, signed documentation regarding matting, can circumvent part of this problem. Setting and sticking to

your written policies and procedures leads to better–behaved clients that are more respectful of this profession. Never respond out of anger to such reviews. If it gets out of hand, contact your insurance company and business attorney.

There will always be people who think less of any service professional, but let’s keep them in the minority and focus on how to improve our image with those who love us or want to love us. ✂

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ASK THE GROOMING TUTOR

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onfession:

HOARDER I'M A SHAMPOO

Oh Michell. I have a problem with hoarding shampoo. I go to trade shows and learn about new shampoos and then I buy them. All of them. If I read on Facebook that someone likes a shampoo for a particular coat type, I buy it. If a new line of products comes out, I want to be the first to use it.

Over the years I have developed a huge problem. I have so many. I have gallon jugs, eight-ounce bottles, funnels, mixing bottles and samples all covered in dog hair and out of control! I would like to reduce my collection but it’s hard to know what I really need —BETH to keep. Can you help?

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eth, you are not alone.

Many groomers have this problem. It is a good idea to enlist the help of friends and family to help you with the process of cleaning out your product hoard.

There are also paid experts to help with this process if your friends and family are too easily convinced that the ¼ of a gallon of expired whitening shampoo with a broken lid has value. It does not.

First take everything—and I mean everything—out of the room except the tubs, grooming tables, shelving, storage furniture and anything else that is not fastened down. This is a good time to send in the cleaning crew. They can really get the place clean while all the products and supplies are out of the room. Take the opportunity to move shelving and storage cabinets out and clean the hair up behind them and under them.

Maybe explore moving some things around for a better work flow. Also painting and repairs, if needed, are much easier to do at this stage.

In another room, set up three areas or containers. One container should be for trash. All expired products go here, along with products that have not been used in the last twelve months. Any products that have broken containers should also be thrown away.

The second area or container should be for donations. Donations are an excellent way to downsize your collection without throwing products away. There are countless

You’ll find out with Bio-Groom’s stellar product line-up, many of those “experts” not only use the best, but highly recommend it…Bio-Groom, it’s all about the Love of your Pet

Donations are an excellent way to downsize your collection without throwing products away. There are countless charities that will put these products to good use.

charities that will put these products to good use. Most charities only accept un–opened, un–expired products.

This is a good place for products that you purchased in multiples only to discover that you do not enjoy them.

Also, the bottles that can’t possibly get used by the expiration date can go here. Local breeders, kennel clubs and shelters will all happily take them off your hands.

The third area or container is where you put everything you are keeping. For this area consider having a maximum of six types of shampoo and three types of conditioner.

Most salons can function well if they have one each of the following; a good cleaning shampoo with a fragrance that your customers like,

hypoallergenic shampoo, tearless shampoo or facial, flea or flea and tick shampoo (depending on area), anti–itch shampoo, whitening or brightening shampoo, light cream rinse, medium conditioner and heavy conditioner. Many salons find that they can do with even less variety.

There is no need to have multiple products that do the same thing.

Consider ordering on a schedule depending on how much room you have for storage. If you have lots of storage and you go through shampoo and conditioner slowly, order just two times per year. If you have less storage and your salon goes through product quickly, order quarterly. Try to avoid ordering small amounts every month to avoid high shipping

JAY SCRUGGS Visit our website to see what other groomers have to say about the Prima Bathing System.

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costs. Also, many companies will offer a case discount, making larger orders less often a better deal. Order only what you need!

Consider limiting your storage area. If you have fifteen shelves to store shampoo you will likely fill all fifteen shelves. Reduced storage area might help you curb your hoarding desires. When you put the products that you are keeping back into the bathing or storage area, take the opportunity to organize them in such a way that everything is convenient.

Remember to organize the items according to expiration date.

Consider pump tops for gallon jugs to make it easier to ration products.

When trying out a new product or product line, choose a test group for your product. Choose up to six dogs with six different coat types and lifestyles. Purchase enough products to bath all six dogs three times.

Usually a gallon will do. Truly testing a product takes time, patience and good records.

Bathe each dog for the next three appointments in the new products.

Ask yourself questions like; how quickly did the products rinse from the coat? How quickly did the coat dry afterward? Was the product helpful for detangling? Was the coat easy to scissor? Did the product do what it said it would do? For example, if it was a whitener, did it whiten? Does it smell nice? Does it leave a little or a lot of fragrance in the coat when dried?

Is the texture nice? The list goes on and on, depending on what you would like the product to do for your clients.

Make note of your answers.

When the test subjects come back for their next groom, ask the owners how they liked the product. They are a good resource for answering

questions about how the products wear at home. Remember to look at the pet before you give them another bath. How did their grooms hold up? How does the coat feel? Are they matted more than on the previous products? How do they smell? Do they seem like they have a residue?

Again, make note of your answers.

It takes at least three baths to see if the product is right for your clients’ needs. If the test subjects come for grooming once every eight weeks, this process will take up to six months. They will get a bath on week one, week eight, week sixteen and then you must see what they look like when they return on week twenty–four. Obviously, if they come more often it will take less time.

I hope this helps. You can do it, Beth! ✂

Ask yourself questions like;

☐☐ How quickly did the products rinse from the coat? ☐☐ How quickly did the coat dry afterward?

☐☐ Was the product helpful for detangling? ☐☐ Was the coat easy to scissor? ☐☐ Does it smell nice? ☐☐ Did the product do what it said it would do? ☐☐ Does it leave a little or a lot of fragrance in the coat when dried? ☐☐ Is the texture nice?

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HOLISTIC GROOMING

E by Malissa Conti-Diener C.A. M.M.T. e

As a long time, homeopathic pet groomer, I have always happily been on the outside of the “regular” grooming circle. I have been called the granola groomer, the hippy groomer—I prefer The Oily groomer. As a certified aromatherapist, essential oils and plants play a central part in my practice.

I

embrace the natural lifestyle; I try and always push for a movement back to this style of grooming since it connects us on a deeper level with the animals we see. Now the tides are changing, and so are the marketing tactics of the companies that supply our salons. How you navigate these waters is important as a person and a pet stylist.

Natural, holistic, healthy, organic…all buzz words that have recently popped up in the marketing of the pet grooming industry. A growing number of groomers are looking for healthier alternatives for themselves and the pets they serve. This is a great trend to

56

get on board with. It not only benefits you personally, but it also will help you in all other reaches of your life and business.

Contrary to most marketing companies, natural lifestyles have been around for a very long time. So it’s more of a return to nature, and rediscovering its healing potential for all of us. Nature was created to nurture us; our bodies and souls crave that nurturing.

Animals in particular align themselves with nature. This is a synergistic energy that flows in and out of them naturally. They instinctually connect with the earth and

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the environment they live in. We as humans have disconnected that energy flow, and we are now looking for a way to unplug from the stressed and toxic lifestyle and reenter ourselves back with a healthy flow of energy in our environment.

Collectively, as an industry, we need to begin with self–care. Groomers are notoriously generous—giving 110% to the customers, pets, employees, vendors, etc. But where is our care for ourselves? Usually at the bottom of the barrel. We will skip meals or eat poorly, are dehydrated (most coffee, teas and Soda are diuretics and deplete the body of hydration), stand

Get your mind wrapped around the fact that you are going to be creating a better life for you and those you serve. By taking time out and examining the changes we need to make, we can improve our lives exponentially. in the same spot for hours in bad footwear and without stretching, over use our bodies, let people with negative energy suck us dry and then go home and collapse after trying to tend to our family’s needs as well.

This is not healthy or holistic for us as humans and pet groomers.

These practices also do not serve our pet customers well either. Stressed out, hurting, hungry and devoid of patience and positive energy, we are a frayed wire that the animals are trying to connect to. We need to make changes to get back to a more holistic approach to our life.

There is a saying, “Where the mind leads the body will follow.” This is step one in creating a more natural lifestyle for yourself. Get your mind wrapped around the fact that you are going to be creating a better life for you and those you serve. By taking time out and examining the changes we need to make, we can improve our lives exponentially.

Far too often we allow big media marketing to dictate our consuming habits. We need to dig deeper into the choices we are making. Reading labels and understanding them is also another step in the right

direction. Begin to educate yourself on what is in the products you are purchasing.

Did you know that the FDA only requires that companies list 50% of the ingredients on most products? We as groomers don’t even have a full disclosure on the products we purchase, such as shampoos, conditioners and peripheral merchandise. Many items have no ingredient listings at all. We can no longer rely on the companies to have our best interest in mind when choosing our personal and professional materials. We must be our own advocate as well as an advocate

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Here are some tips to create a healthy, holistic lifestyle for yourself and your work environment. Start slowly and you will begin to feel empowered and energized by these better choices. You will also see the positive effects it will have on the people and animals that you share your space with.

START WITH YOU! PREVENTIVE HEALTH PRACTICES • Take care of your health with vitamins, better food choices, drinking water, exercise, stretching and creating a healthy daily routine for yourself.

• Utilize herbs, essential oils, minerals, and other nature–produced items in place of commercially prepared items.

• Are you aware that statistics show that many people who eat a diet of primarily fast food/commercially prepared are malnourished?

You are doing your body a dis–service—choose whole foods, real foods and view food as fuel for your engine.

and reduce your stress level.

• BREATHE. It’s amazing how many people are not conscious of their breath. Learn ways to slow your breathing, unclench your jaw, and relax your shoulders. Be calm, and calm will come to you.

DE–STRESS: BE PROACTIVE ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

CREATE LESS WASTE

• Try Yoga, Meditation/Prayer, journaling, dream boards, blogging, walking, jogging, etc.

• Seek out some form of personal expression and allowing yourself to vent and release the stress of your day.

• Overall, we as groomers are creative people and we need to release that creative, tactile energy. Something as mundane as sweeping your sidewalk can be cathartic—a quiet meditative time for you to regroup your energy

• Choose packaging that is minimal, recycle items and upcycle items.

• Consume less by thinking before making purchases.

• Create more by D.I.Y. some of your products you use daily, using healthy, natural alternatives.

• Ditch disposable products and switch to reusable items instead.

• Think outside the box. Shop at thrift stores, Consignment stores, yard sales, online local sale apps and other recycle–type merchants.

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• Use glass instead of plastic for storage of items.

• Seek out natural healing alternatives to clean and disinfect with.

• Toss the toxic air fresheners and candles.

• Diffuse quality essential oils to clean and purify your air space. Essential oils also have energy vibrational frequencies, they will help improve the energy in your space.

• Use Himalayan salt lamps to put back the negative ions into the air and improve lung functions.

• Crystals like Amethyst, Rose Quartz, and many others will help improve energy in your space and visually help you connect back to the earth and remain grounded.

• Baking Soda and Vinegar are not just for grade school science projects.

These should be in your arsenal of natural cleaning.

• Use grain alcohols to disinfect along with essential oils.

• Witch hazel and essential oils make great hand sanitizer. If there is a commercially produced product out there, you can create a natural one, usually with a few simple ingredients.

• Use recycled rags from old towels instead of paper towels.

• Make your own laundry detergent.

• Purchase natural supplies in bulk, utilizing local businesses.

• Buy only the food you need for

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the week locally from farmers markets or local produce stands.

• Start your own garden and grow herbs and flowers you can use to create items needed for D.I.Y. products.

• Compost waste.

• Use reusable bags when you shop. Environmental stewardship begins with you!

RESEARCH THINGS LIKE: • Chronotherapy: the science of color. It is a scientific fact that colors can influence our moods, energy and even health. This is also true with animals.

• Aromatherapy: the science of smell. The science of smell is hard wired right to the brain. This is a powerful way to affect mood and invoke thoughts of happiness, wellness and good energy.

• Music Therapy is an established health therapy in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of individuals.

Reclaim your space, your life and your energy. By incorporating a more connected, natural way of life, you will regain your sense of balance. Your personal goals will become more clear and achievable. Through conscious, daily holistic choices, you will be able to clear away things that no longer serve you. Be good to yourself and those around you, it’s only natural. ✂

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Expo and Groom Expo West.

Some of the exhilarating highlights of the show included honoring Christine DeFilippo, the creator and previous owner of Intergroom, at the very popular lip sync contest that she created. It was a heartfelt goodbye as we transitioned the ownership of Intergroom from Christine to World Dog Entertainment and Joey Villani. ✂

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BEST INTERNATIONAL GROOMER BEST AMERICAN GROOMER BEST INTERNATIONAL WINNER NADIA BONGELLI

STYLE & COUTURE RUNWAY STYLE & COUTURE FIRST PLACE WINNER MILENA KON

BEST AMERICAN WINNER LINDSEY DICKEN

STYLE & COUTURE RUNWAY

STYLE & COUTURE SECOND PLACE WINNER ADRIANE POPE

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STYLE & COUTURE RUNWAY STYLE & COUTURE THIRD PLACE WINNER AMANDA MADTES

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

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NEW PRODUCTS GROOMIT APP

GroomIt is the first mobile app connecting pet owners and dog groomers. By connecting owners and groomers directly, Groomit offers top quality services, all performed in the convenience and comfort of the pet owner’s home. Are you a groomer? Groom with GroomIt! Groomit groomers keep 65% of the groom and 100% of the tips. We only use all-natural products while providing a low-

stress and comfortable grooming experience. We are looking for groomers to join the team now!

Download the GroomIt App in the App Store or on Google Play.

Find out more from the website www.groomit.me

NO BATH IS NO PROBLEM WITH DRY CLEAN DOG

Natural Paws releases a new, innovative solution for getting dogs clean and refreshed, when a bath is not in the cards.

GROOMER HUMOR

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

BY MILENA KON

GroomertoGroomer.com

This product, which is sprayed directly onto the dog, clings to dirt and oils, releasing them from hair or fur when agitated with a hand towel. Dry Clean Dog is also a resource for people with allergies, giving pet parents the option to clean the allergens from their dogs’ coats more frequently than a bath would be practical. For more information about Dry Clean Dog, Natural Paws, or its line of one-of-a-kind products, visit www.naturalpaws.net or call 480-205-9959.

CLASSIFIEDS

CALL (717) 691-3388, EXT. 220 TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED.

Pet grooming business in Charleston South Carolina for sale. Located in busy, central location for over 30 years. Well-equipped shop with steady clientele. 843-834-6034

Call (717) 691-3388 ext 220 to place a Classified.

Rates: 25 words or less – $50.00.

Each additional word – $2.00 each.

Classified ads must be prepaid.

Call for issue deadlines.

Agency Discounts Do Not Apply.

Full dog grooming business for sale in Ohio, THE POOCH PARLOR, a well-established, and, growing business with a solid client base of several hundred regular customers, everything is included for an easy transaction of ownership, with equip enough for up to 3 groomers. Also an inventory of retail supplies. All client grooming records are recorded on 123PET groomer software for a convenient change of groomers, and, to ease the transaction of clients. We are willing to assist

BUSINESS FOR SALE Successful grooming/boarding business in Coconut Creek Florida since 1997. On 1.42 acres 4/3 Home, 20' x 40' solar pool. (.25 acres with large barn currently leased) Close to beaches. 964-2983508. Bedandbiscuit@att.net

Holistic PET

new ownership with any needs or questions to make the process as easy as possible. $40,000. for complete business. This price is negotiable to fit your needs. email us at poochparlordavid@gmail.com or call 330-243-3344.

Wisdom & Grace For God pours contempt upon the haughty and causes princes to wander among ruins; but he rescues the poor who are godly and gives them many children and much prosperity. Good men everywhere will see it and be glad, while evil men are stricken silent.

Psalm 107: 40-42 Living Bible

GROOMING

THE ART OF

Helping

Pressure sprayer and foaming wand Industrial quality Independent rinsing valve 2 year warranty

Pets Feel

IAL

SPEC

AS GREAT AS THEY LOOK

*

9!

$49$850 Reg

Transform your grooming practice into one that reduces stress and promotes the feeling of comfort and security for pets, clients and yourself!

ON SALE NOW AT

ANIVAC BATHING SYSTEMS

WWW.BARKLEIGHSTORE.COM

Deep Foaming Animal Bathing System Model # A1900

1-855-900-8822 www.ogenasolutions.com *2 dilution/product system, 3 & 4 available

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

GroomertoGroomer.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS HAWAII

OHIO

PET PRO CRUISE 2019 1/12/2019 – 1/19/2019 Honolulu, HI (321) 368-6622 cruisinglady@ymail.com www.barkleigh.com

PETQUEST 6/21/2018 – 6/24/2018 Wilmington, OH (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.pqgroom.com

MASSACHUSETTS

PENNSYLVANIA

NEW ENGLAND GROOMING SHOW 11/9/2018 – 11/11/2018 Sturbridge, MA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.newenglandgrooms.com

GROOM EXPO 9/27/2018 – 9/30/2018 Hershey, PA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpo.com

ILLINOIS ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/23/2018 – 8/26/2018 Schaumburg, IL (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.aagroom.com

NEVADA SUPERZOO 6/25/2018 – 6/28/2018 Las Vegas, NV info@superzoo.org www.superzoo.org

NEW JERSEY WORLD DOG EXPO 6/9/2018 – 6/10/2018 Secaucus, NJ info@worldexpo.dog www.worldexpo.dog

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO 11/5/2018 – 11/8/2018 Hershey, PA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.petboardingexpo.com

TEXAS GROOM TEXAS AT THE HOUSTON WORLD SERIES OF DOG SHOWS 7/20/2018 – 7/22/2018 Houston, TX (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com

WISCONSIN PET STYLIST INVITATIONAL 10/6/2018 – 10/7/2018 Oconomowoc, WI www.petstylistinvitational.com

INTERGROOM 4/11/2019 – 4/14/2019 Secaucus, NJ info@barkleigh.com www.intergroom.com

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TO LIST YOUR EVENT, SEND IT TO ADAM@BARKLEIGH.COM

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 37 Ed 6 • June 2018

Find us on

Twitter!

@barkleighinc GroomertoGroomer.com

EVENTS WORLD DOG EXPO 6/9/2018 – 6/10/2018 New York City Area PETQUEST 6/21/2018 – 6/24/2018 Wilmington OH GROOM TEXAS AT THE HOUSTON WORLD SERIES OF DOG SHOWS 7/20/2018 – 7/22/2018 Houston TX ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/23/2018 – 8/26/2018 Schaumburg IL GROOM EXPO 9/27/2018 – 9/30/2018 Hershey PA PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO 11/5/2018 – 11/8/2018 Hershey PA NEW ENGLAND GROOMING SHOW 11/9/2018 – 11/11/2018 Sturbridge MA PET PRO CRUISE 2019 1/12/2019 – 1/19/2019 Honolulu HI INTERGROOM 4/11/2019 – 4/14/2019 Secaucus, NJ

Klip Kards

Client Index & Extender Cards

Regular Klip Kard 3” x 5” Medium Klip Kard 4” x 6”

Available Colors

Giant Klip Kard 5” x 8”

ARE YOUR CLIENT FILES A DISASTER? These client index cards will stand up against the daily abuse of any active grooming salon and will provide you with basic information on your grooming client.

Track injuries, sensitive areas, medical problems, services, and more!

AVAILABLE IN PACKS OF 100, 500, or 1000!

EXTENDERS STAPLED TO YOUR FILLED KLIP KARD ADD MORE RECORD SPACE! Barkleigh Productions, Inc. barkleigh.com • barkleighstore.com • (717) 691-3388

and daycare

EXPO

November 5-8, 2018 HERSHEY LODGE & CONVENTION CENTER HERSHEY, PA www.PetBoardingexpo.com 74

CO R D /CORDLESS For All Day Use

LI THI UM I ON

For Longer Life

2 HOUR R UN TI ME

60 Min. Charge Time

5

YEAR

Hassle Free

WARRANTY

MADE I N THE USA

of Domestic & Imported Parts

CORDLESS DONE RIGHT 1.800.PRO.WAHL

www.wahlanimal.com

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WWW.RYANSPET.COM (800) 525-7387 FREE SHIPPING* Includes Shampoos and Dryers FREE SHIPPING* On Paw Brothers Professional® and Value Groom® Equipment

“Rely on Ryan’s”TM To Keep Pets & People Safe Professional E-Collars

Grooming Loops

Ryan’s Own Heavy Duty Kennel Leads

Premium Nylon Dog Muzzles

OVER 8,000 ITEMS IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

CREAMY COCONUT! A Gentle Coconut Based Cleansing Solution to Deeply Nourish the Skin and Coat.

M A E R C T U C O C O N RANTT RRIICCHH && FFRRAAGG R A N

• Provides Intense Hydration and Moisture • Eliminates Dryness & Itching • Stops Coat Breakage