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CONTENTS | SEPTEMBER 2020
All the Stuff to
HONORING A GROOMING LEGEND
and 26
by Jonathan David
Knowles: Surviving the Extreme Client
6 The Four C's of Restraint–Free Grooming 58
Faver: Pet Detective: Dealing with Skin Issues 10 Tutorial: Sheltie Summer Send–Off 66 Connor: Groomers Go the Distance: Learning 18 New Products & Classifieds In the Time of Social Distancing
76
Which Grooming Shampoo or Product 32 Groomer Humor Can’t You Live Without?
78
Berry: Fit to Work 46 Calendar of Events
78
Hansen: Retaining Regular Clients Post–Pandemic
52
Shirlee Kalstone September 2, 1931 May 21, 2020
34
by Kathy Hosler
“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!�
EDITOR/PRESIDENT TODD SHELLY TODD@BARKLEIGH.COM
SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER JENN BARRACLOUGH JENNIFER@BARKLEIGH.COM
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS JAMES SEVERS JAMES@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
MARKETING COORDINATOR ALYX ROBERTSON ALYX@BARKLEIGH.COM
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER ADAM LOHR ADAM@BARKLEIGH.COM
VIDEO DIRECTOR JEREMIAH STRAWBRIDGE JEREMIAH@BARKLEIGH.COM
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MEDIA EVAN GUMMO EVAN@BARKLEIGH.COM
ART DIRECTOR LAURA PENNINGTON LAURA@BARKLEIGH.COM
VIDEO PRODUCTION BECCA TARLO RTARLO@BARKLEIGH.COM
ACCOUNT MANAGER/ EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT KARIN GROTTOLA KARIN@BARKLEIGH.COM
VOL. 39 ED.9 • SEPTEMBER 2020
WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM
MARKETING CONSULTANT ALEX HAMMERSLA HAMMER@BARKLEIGH.COM LEARNING
IN THE TIME
SHIRLEE KALSTONE
Copyright September 2020. 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 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
5
by Michelle Knowles
SURVIVING THE
We all have them. That client who comes in with demands, or a picture of a dog that looks nothing like the pet you are to groom, haggles over price or insists on a service you are not comfortable with.
G
rooming, no matter your demographic, is extremely rewarding at the best of times—but those worst of times can really impact your confidence, your bank account and your health. Dealing with an extremely difficult client can make us question our life choices, and I have even heard of groomers that have stopped grooming all together
6
Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
because of a brutal run–in with a client. At the end of the day, it is a business, and how you react to the situation can have consequences on doing business with future clients that may hear rumors through the community. Having guidelines in place can help you get through these tough situations and make sure you are prepared in case of litigation or other consequences of the inter-
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action. It is sometimes extremely hard to think clearly when you feel you are being personally attacked, but having some sort of protocol in place can minimize the interaction and get your day rolling again. All of us that maintain a client list, own a storefront or mobile unit, have a house–call grooming service or accept clients at our home dream of a full appointment book of lovely
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Clients that call post–groom and browbeat or threaten to give a bad review unless their demands are met are not worth the stress they create for the individual stylist or for the culture of the salon.
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
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pets and grateful clients that tip us and appreciate what we do. Then a glitch in the matrix happens. You do not have to serve these owners. You do not have to do what they say. You do not have to groom their dogs. We are the professionals that have the experience, knowledge and, most importantly, the liability if something goes wrong. We deserve respect, a professional business relationship and a mutual understanding that each of us will do our part to make the relationship a success. Know your worth. You are worth full price, not at a discount, and the client does not get to choose what price they pay. Clients choose the services, which should be agreed upon at check–in, along with the price of the groom. If that should change because of circumstances, it is best to call the client immediately and give them options on how to proceed. Clients that reject your price and go to the next groomer in the same shop or another salon to ask for a cheaper price should be allowed to explore their options. Clients that call post–groom and browbeat or threaten to give a bad review unless their demands are met are not worth the stress they create for the individual stylist or for the culture of the salon. This also goes for clients that ask you to do things that you are not com-
Being clear in what your expectations are, what is possible with the coat that you are presented with and minimizing the time that the client needs to be in your lobby will all reduce the likelihood of a confrontation. fortable with. These clients are the reason grooming releases were made. If you truly did something wrong, absolutely make it right, but if the issue is ongoing, a hair here, a bow there, $5 too much or too little, prepare a list of alternative salons in your area at which they might find a better fit. Communication is particularly important. Being clear in what your expectations are, what is possible with the coat that you are presented with, and minimizing the time that the
client needs to be in your lobby will all reduce the likelihood of a confrontation and keep contact to a minimum. Practicing scenarios involving roleplay will help acclimate the staff to handling and deescalating frantic or angry clients. When it does happen, everyone will have some experience in responding to a hostile client. With a little bit of practice, you should be able to diffuse the situation and make some decisions about whether you want to serve a particular client or not.
When these things happen, remember that you should not take it personally. It is so easy to feel personally attacked by someone who may be yelling at you, abusing your talent or knowledge, or otherwise not placing value on your hard work. There is a lesson in every encounter, especially the ones that upset you the most. This kind of self–assessment can help lead to new ways of interacting with your clients that can minimize anger and misunderstandings in the future. &
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
9
DERM CONNECTION
F
acebook post: I have an itchy dog, what shampoo should I use? Within 2–3 hours there will be 150–250 responses. But how can you solve this case with only one clue? That is equivalent to solving a murder and all you know is that the front door was open. There is so much more information that is needed to offer a solution. A good detective would examine the crime scene, ask several questions, look at motives, research the relationships of the deceased, etc. So, as a groomer pet detective, let us start breaking it down. I know the dog is itching, so, what could cause that? We tend to assume allergies, and often suggest changing the food. Hold up! We are already jumping
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
by Dr. Cliff Faver
to conclusions. Food allergies are just one of many reasons that dogs itch, and only make up about 12% of the dogs that have allergies. So, we need to add some other possible causes to our “rule out” list, like inhalant allergies, contact allergies, fleas, mites, lice, bacteria, fungus, bug bites, dry skin, harsh grooming products, being clipped too short, products that are skin irritants ( “hot” essential oils, fertilizers, some cleaning products), etc. With that long list, you can see why we get so many different suggestions. These assumptions are based on everyone’s past experiences. Since all of these are possibilities, we need to start thinking about ways to rule things out. Let us stick with the theory of
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food allergies for this purpose. What characteristics would be consistent with food allergies? Here are a few things to think about: How long has this been going on? Is it year–round? What is the pattern of the itching (where on the body)? Are the ears infected? Was there a food change that occurred within a couple of months prior to the “allergies” showing up? Remember, oral supplements will also react the same as food, so do not leave that out of your questioning. Why these questions? Food is something that is given constantly, so typically it will not be a seasonal problem. Food allergies tend to show up around the head and face, underbelly, anal region and feet. If it is the whole body or
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Did anyone ask if the coat was dry? Is this the problem instead of food allergies?
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
only on a specific area of the body, you may not have a food allergy. If the dog was okay, and then the owner had a diet (or supplement) change right before the itching started, then we need to put food allergy higher on our list. Another important thing to know is Apoquel/steroids, antihistamines and Atopica (cyclosporine) have variable to no benefits with food allergies. (see chart opposite.) Many (if not most) dogs have a secondary bacterial or fungal infection by the time the owner seeks help. So, even if we get them on the right diet, the infection will perpetuate the itching (pruritis). To solve the food allergy, we have to address the secondary infection. On that same Facebook post, there will be multiple suggestions for a change of diet or switching
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to raw. What is the science that these suggestions are based on? Food allergies are typically driven by the proteins and carbohydrates in the diet. How can you make a diet change suggestion if you do not know what they are on to start with? If the dog is allergic to beef or chicken, and you recommend raw food which has beef or chicken in it, you jumped from one allergenic diet to another. Raw is not the answer here; it is the protein source that needs to be changed. Most frequently, we need to go to a novel protein (one the dog has not been exposed to) or a hydrolyzed protein (modified protein so body doesn’t recognize it as a protein). Did anyone ask if the coat was dry? Is this the problem instead of food allergies? If harsh products are used or no conditioning is being done, the problem (in this case, food allergy) might be complicated or exacerbated by the fact that the sebum layer is depleted. When the skin is compromised because of the food allergy, it is important that we give the skin extra nutrients, minerals and hydration that are lost with the condition. Many of the suggestions on the Facebook post are different shampoos, conditioners, bathing systems, essential oils, etc. Of those listed, which ones will “fix” a food allergy? The answer is, none of them! If you fail to address the source of the problem, products will not “fix” the issue. This is a prime reason it is important to understand the science. As groomers, the most important job we do is restore the skin back to normal. The issue here is that the body is fighting us. That is why it is also important to be working hand in hand with a veterinarian. Hopefully, they will take
SKIN ISSUES
ITCHY
TYPICAL LOCATION
STEROID RESPONSE SEASONAL?
FOOD ALLERGIES
X
HEAD, UNDERBELLY, ANAL REGION, PAWS
VARIABLE
NON SEASONAL
CONTACT ALLERGIES
X
AREA OF CONTACT
YES
BASED ON EXPOSURE
INHALANT ALLERGIES
X
WHOLE BODY
YES
SEASONAL
FLEA BITE ALLERGIES
X
FROM RIB CAGE BACK
YES
WORSE IN SUMMER MONTHS
MITES/LICE
X
WHOLE BODY OR AREA OF CONCENTRATION
MILDLY
BASED ON EXPOSURE
BACTERIAL INFECTION
X
WHOLE BODY OR AREA OF CONCENTRATION
MILDLY
NON SEASONAL
FUNGAL INFECTION
X
WHOLE BODY OR AREA OF CONCENTRATION
MILDLY
NON SEASONAL
DRY SKIN
X
WHOLE BODY
NO
NON SEASONAL
HARSH PRODUCTS
X
WHOLE BODY
NO
NON SEASONAL
TRIMMED TOO SHORT
X
AREAS OF FRICTION
NO
AFTER GROOM
SKIN IRRITANTS
X
AREA OF CONTACT
NO
BASED ON EXPOSURE
BUG BITES
X
AREA OF BITE OR FACE
YES
BASED ON EXPOSURE
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
13
To have complete success, it takes both sides. The veterinarian also needs to be a good detective, or they too will fall into the trap of false conclusions and treatments.
care of the medical part so you, as a groomer, can do your part. To have complete success, it takes both sides. The veterinarian also needs to be a good detective, or they too will fall into the trap of false conclusions and treatments. We should always question ourselves when we see these types of posts or deal with problems in our own salons. Has the problem been defined in a way where we can answer the question? What is the science or issue that needs to be addressed? Is this a problem that would be best addressed from the veterinary side, the grooming side or both? Do the suggestions follow the problem, or are they just suggestions that do not apply to the problem at hand? To get our best results for the pets put under our care— whether a veterinarian or groomer—we need to critically evaluate what we do. The worst thing we can do is just throw drugs or products at a problem and hope for good results. & Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology/BA in Chemistry before getting a Veterinary degree in 1987. He is the past owner of Animal Health Services in Cave Creek, Arizona and now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard products, teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program, and speaks internationally on hair and skin. His passion is to merge groomers and veterinarians to aid in helping and healing pets. He is also a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, Board member with Burbank Kennel Club, and has served on Novartis Lead Committee, Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and a Veterinary Management Group.
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
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by Daryl Conner
GROOMERS GO THE DISTANCE:
Learning Social Distancing IN THE TIME OF
The dark cloud of the worldwide pandemic has not been without its silver lining. New opportunities for continuing education—already on the rise—have expanded.
S
avvy groomers have taken advantage of this to increase their skills without having to travel. Groomers who have had difficulty attending expos due to work or family obligations, or financial limitations are finding that the increase in distance educational offerings are a huge boon. Experts expect that distance education will be a continuing trend, allowing interested people to learn and grow from the comfort of their home or workplace. Frosting on the cake; research suggests that online
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
learning has been shown to increase retention of information, while taking less time than the more traditional forms of education. This year, Barkleigh launched World Groom (Worldgroom.dog) and has future sessions planned. The classes are held live on Zoom and students pay a reasonable registration fee to sign up for the seminars. Students are not seen or heard by others, but do have the ability to submit questions to the instructors. Stylist Helen Schaefer said, “It’s been really nice for me, because with GroomertoGroomer.com
competing, I never get to go to many classes. I was able to take the Salon Sanitation course I have been dying to, and Dr. Faver’s Skin and Coat class. Plus, I took some other classes I might not have ever taken and found that I greatly enjoyed them.” Some of the classes offered came with an option to earn a continuing education certification. Certificates are mailed to participants after completion of the class. Grooming Certification groups are offering some continuing education classes as well. Debi Hilley,
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There are even ways to learn while you are working. I frequently listen to grooming–related podcasts while I am in my studio.
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director of the Intellectual Groomers Association says, “I think it is critical to have certification programs and learning programs being offered remotely, with videos and online seminars. These programs allow more people to reach educational programs than ever before in a way that is affordable for everyone.” “I watched a poodle show trim seminar and took the AKC S.A.F.E. Salon Certification. I am teaching two seminars on the upcoming CPPGA California Dreamin’ virtual
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
tradeshow and will be watching the other 13. I have watched every livestream I could and taken advantage of every free webinar available. It has been a good opportunity to learn and keep my mind occupied,” said Erin Martin, of how she has invested some of her time during the pandemic shutdown. There are even ways to learn while you are working. I frequently listen to grooming–related podcasts while I am in my studio. Barbara Bird and Suzi Scott’s popular Groompod
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
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and Mary Oquendo’s Women Petprenurs are two of my favorites. Along with for–pay grooming classes, there is lots of other content on the internet for groomers. Super star stylists like Angela Kumpe can be found giving mini demonstrations of specific techniques—free for the watching. It is also possible to polish your skills on other pet–related interests through virtual learning. One groomer told me she found a Gun Dog class online and another acquired two certifications in Pet Nutrition. Here are some tips for those who want to get the most out of distance learning opportunities: ✓ Ask other groomers what classes they have taken that they found helpful. ✓ Set goals. Do you want to tackle a class that will earn you a certificate at the end, or just learn a few new styling tricks? Be aware; learning can be like snack foods—you may soon crave more and more! ✓ Explore the technology. Familiarize yourself with the online system before the class begins so you will not have any frustrations when it is time to start. ✓ Designate a workspace. We
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
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all learn differently, but minimizing distractions is important. It can be tempting to turn on the television or wash a few dishes while the seminar is playing, but you will retain the information better if you are set up to really focus on it. ✓ Have a notebook and pen handy to jot down notes or questions. ✓ If the class you are taking has the option of asking questions, do not be afraid to do so. You may help others who are feeling shy by getting your question answered. ✓ Keep an open mind. You may be presented with ways of doing things that are completely foreign to you. Give them a try before dismissing them, you may end up learning things that completely revolutionize the way you work. ✓ Participate. Many distance learning classes will be paired up with a chance to interact with other participants in an online group setting. Sharing ideas and questions in these groups can be wildly helpful— and you may make new friends while you are at it. ✓ If you earn a continuing education certificate, display it proudly. Your customers will be impressed! Some of the remote learning classes are sponsored by vendors of grooming products. By supporting these vendors, we not only learn about what tools and products are currently available, but also support the industry businesses that support us. We may not be able to go to a trade show and pick up those new scissors or brushes, but seeing products online can encourage us to try new things, too. Taking advantage of the wide array of educational opportunities, now at our very fingertips, is just a few keystrokes away. What are you going to learn next? &
BUT WHY?
by Jonathan David
All the Stuff to and
I
n the thirty years that I’ve been in the grooming industry, I’ve seen so many styling products hit the market. Basic shampoos and conditioners have given way to specialty shampoos and skin and coat treatments, and basic grooming sprays have evolved into styling and volumizing sprays, and products to help smooth, tame and lift coats have been introduced, giving pet groomers the opportunity to impress customers and execute some of the best grooming we’ve seen to date. But why should we try something new, and what do they all really do? I’ve heard stories from some of the OG’s of the grooming world— the groomers who were pioneers in transforming the pet grooming industry from an obscure job to a
26
Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
The pet grooming industry is an ever–evolving industry that is always improving and developing products to meet the changing needs of pet stylists around the globe. respected and necessary profession. When they started, the products were limited, to say the least, and sometimes pet groomers had to resort to using products made for humans or other animals—or products not intended as a skin and coat cleanser at all—because there just weren’t many products made specifically for pet grooming. Fortunately, for groomers today, there have been so many advances made in the products available to
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pet professionals. At one time, as the need became apparent, there were basic all–purpose shampoos and conditioners; a one–size–fits– all product, and the only specialty shampoos and conditioners were oatmeal and flea products. This was a great advancement for the industry, but it was limited. And with so many different coat types and skin issues, and so many different styling methods, there was a need for more specific specialty products to help
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groomers manage skin and coat, and help groomers achieve the best possible finished grooms. Let’s take a look at some of the grooming and styling products available to pet groomers today and how to use them. Every great grooming starts with the prep, and that includes what shampoos and conditioners you choose. In today’s market, there are many different brands of shampoos and conditioners that make various claims about what they will do. The research that the manufacturers have done to develop each product plays an important role in the performance of the product. The ingredients used also play a significant role in the performance of the product, but those results can be altered by simple
things like the water you use. For example, a groomer operating in an area with hard water may see a different result than a groomer using the same product in an area with soft water. Sometimes the recommended dilution ratio may need to be adjusted to work with your water. Always be sure to start with the recommended dilution and, if necessary, make adjustments to work well with your water. Often times, some specialty shampoos are intended to be used at full strength to achieve the desired results, so diluting the product may make it less effective. Typically, any products made for medicinal use, such as those prescribed by a veterinarian to treat skin issues, are intended to be used at full strength, so be sure to
read directions carefully and allow the product to make contact with the skin for the recommended amount of time to be most effective. If you’re using an over-thecounter product that is formulated to help treat skin issues, remember, these are not veterinary products and they are formulated to help in the treatment of skin issues, but should not be used in place of needed medical attention. Some of the specialty shampoos that have emerged through the years are those that soothe irritated skin caused by the environment, such as allergies, yeast issues or flea bites. These types of shampoos are meant to soothe and calm irritated skin and provide temporary relief, but not necessarily to cure a medical issue.
Bridging the Gap between
Vet & Groomer Dr. Cliff Faver Veterinarian 33 Years
Iv San Bernard USA – Health is Beauty
855-464-8726 • www.isbusa.com • info@ISBUSA.com
Suzanne Marchetti Groomer 35 Years
Education, Consultation, Product. 28
Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
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There are many different active ingredients that are used, but consideration of which one to use is crucial in getting a positive effect. For example, oatmeal shampoo can be very beneficial to dogs suffering from various triggers that cause itching. However, if the dog has a sensitivity to grains, the oatmeal shampoo would be counterproductive because oat is a grain. Therefore, you would essentially be putting the allergen all over the dog, so it wouldn’t be the right choice as a treatment for itching. In this case, it would be beneficial to ask the client if they’ve done any allergy testing on their pet, and if so, ask for a copy of the results so you can avoid using anything that would trigger a response. The same goes for styling
products and shampoos created to help with styling, such as volumizing shampoos or shampoos to help tame cottony or frizzy coats. These products can have many different ingredients to achieve the desired effect, but not all coat types respond the same way to each product. Sometimes these types of specialty products combined with various water types will end up making the coat difficult to brush and comb through, or some will weigh the coat down and give it a greasy or oily appearance. Whenever trying new products, I like to experiment with a few different dilutions and try it on different coat types to see what the results will be like. A little extra effort trying the products out ahead of time can save you time and frustration
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later when you’re using these products throughout the day. Some other types of styling products that have come a long way are leave–in conditioners, foams, mousses and styling sprays. These products can help give volume and body to limp or thin coats, or add moisture to dry and difficult coats, aiding in achieving a smooth and slick coat that you can run a comb through with ease. These products also help to prevent the pets’ coats from matting in between visits to the groomer—and they help pet owners be more diligent in maintaining a mat–free coat at home. When any of my clients want to keep any significant amount of hair on their pets, I recommend they use a brushing and combing spray. These are usually a very light conditioning spray that tackles static electricity in the hair and helps to keep the coat from becoming matted. As with all products, be aware that some dogs can be sensitive to leave–in products, and some may be sensitive to fragrances added to the products. The pet grooming industry is an ever–evolving industry that is always improving and developing products to meet the changing needs of pet stylists around the globe. As new research emerges, so do new products to help pet groomers provide the best possible care for their furry clients. I encourage you to experiment with new things and see what works for you and your clients. You just might find that life–changing product that you didn’t know you couldn’t live without! &
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GROOMING GAB
by Kathy Hosler
HONORING A GROOMING
LEGEND
Shirlee Kalstone
September 2, 1931 - May 21, 2020 34
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I
t is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of an industry legend, Shirlee Kalstone. She will be remembered for generations to come as a pioneer in the pet grooming industry, founder of Intergroom, and an integral part in the formation of GroomTeam USA. She will live forever in our hearts and in her writings. Her grooming guides inspired many a professional stylist. Rest in peace, Shirlee. You did a great job and you will be missed.” This announcement, penned by Teri DiMarino, was how many of us in the pet grooming industry learned of the passing of Shirlee Kalstone. Shirlee was a truly remarkable woman who influenced the lives and careers of countless stylists worldwide. If you never met Shirlee, perhaps the best way to tell you about her life and the impact she had on the entire grooming industry is through those who experienced it with her... “Shirlee was just as important to our industry as our forefathers were to our country,” says Joey Villani. “She led our industry. Shirlee had deep roots— not only in the grooming industry, but also in the dog show world.” Pursuing these two passions took Shirlee and her husband, Larry, all over the world. She connected with people on so many different levels. Whether they were just entering the industry, or were established experts in their fields, Shirlee left an indelible mark wherever she went. Many people were introduced to Shirlee through her books and grooming guides. She authored 15 books, and much of the information in them is still pertinent today. “When I opened up my shop,” says Sue Zecco, “I bought the whole series of Shirlee’s grooming books. When someone called and said, ‘Do you know
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how to groom a certain breed of dog?’ I would always say, ‘Yes I do,’ and then I would follow the step–by–step instructions in her book.” I feel I was ‘Shirlee self–taught’. I used all of her grooming guides. One of her later books actually had a picture of me and my Poodle winning at Intergroom,” adds Sue. “Shirlee was one for style and flair,” says Teri DiMarino. “Her passion superseded anything we could ever imagine, and she put it on paper. Her legacy lives in her books.” Shirlee introduced many young groomers to the endless possibilities the pet care industry has to offer. “I’ve known Shirlee for 46 years,” says John Stazko. “I first met her in 1974 when I was a grooming student at a Manhattan grooming school. She came to the school and gave a lecture and signed her Poodle book for me. After I graduated I opened my own salon. “Shirlee launched my career. She was the catalyst that got me into more than just being a groomer and having a store. She and her husband, Larry, took me under their wing and helped me. I was asked to do a program at Intergroom. That began my speaking career that took me all over the globe,” recalls John. “I started working with Shirlee in 1984 at Intergroom,” says Joey Villani. “She took me all over the world with her as her sidekick and helper. Shirlee was an encyclopedia of knowledge. She knew so much about anatomy, structure, coat type, breed characteristics, and how and why a lot of that came about. She was all about the art and the beauty of the haircut. She trained and educated my eye to look at things differently. “Intergroom was originally called Groomarama,” Joey continues. “But she changed the name to Intergroom, because she wanted it to be an international affair with groomers from all over the world attending.”
Shirlee wanted to raise the professionalism of groomers and it showed in everything she did.
Many people feel that Intergroom, and how it brought stylists and the grooming world together, was Shirlee’s greatest accomplishment. “I remember my first Intergroom,” says Sue Zecco. “I met people from Italy, France, Germany. Even when I was in the bathroom, people were talking about dog grooming. It was so exciting. “I’m still very good friends with the people I met there. We spent the whole weekend with a group of Italians who didn’t speak English, and we didn’t speak any Italian. We communicated with hand signals, etc. and we got along fine,” shares Sue. “Shirlee put her personal touch on everything she did,” explains Kathy Rose. “If a group of groomers would come from Italy, Shirlee would send a bus to pick them up at the airport. She would also plan things for them to do and see while they were in America. Yes, if you came from a different country, it was truly like you were Shirlee’s guest.” Denys Lorrain, Vice President of the European Grooming Association, traveled from Milan, Italy to attend Intergroom. “I first met Shirlee in France
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in 1991,” says Denys. “She was judging the French grooming championship that I was competing in. I learned about Intergroom and Shirlee’s ideas to unite the entire grooming world. “Some friends and I decided to go. It was amazing! The show was so wonderful, we had to return every year to enjoy it and to share our experiences and knowledge with all the international and American groomers.” Shirlee wanted to raise the professionalism of groomers and it showed in everything she did—from the show venue to the spectacular banquet and the Cardinal Crystal Achievement Awards. “Intergroom was a monumental, monster of a show,” says John Stazko. “It was known as the Red Carpet Show and it lived up to its billing in every way. It was by far the most prestigious grooming convention in the industry. The banquet was ‘the’ event of the year. The men wore tuxedos and the ladies had on their finest gowns.” “Absolutely,” agrees Hilery Zusi. “The banquet was ‘class all the way’ and so was Shirlee.” “Shirlee did everything first class,” adds Sue Zecco. “The best in show presentation was always a huge, really big deal. And, after the banquet, everyone got together to hear the live band. That’s where we all got to know each other. It was such a great feeling and lots of laughs.” “That’s for sure,” says Kathy Rose with a smile. “Shirlee was meticulous about every detail of Intergroom, but she also had a great sense of humor and always joined in the fun. I remember the year she entered a banana eating contest.” In addition to having fun, it was important to Shirlee that groomers had the opportunity to learn and improve their skills while they were at Intergroom. “Shirlee was a one–of–a–kind groomer and human being,” says Hilery Zusi. “She and I worked together
back in 1973 and 1974 for the Lambert Kay Company. She was my first real friend in the grooming industry and she taught me so much.
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“Education was very important to Shirlee,” says Hilery. “She came up with the innovative idea of having reps from different companies (that had a field of expertise) and other industry experts put on educational seminars for the attendees at Intergroom.” Grooming competitions were always a huge part of Intergroom and of Shirlee’s life. Her influence guided one groomer at a time, yet also touched the entire world. “I met Shirlee at Intergroom in 1986 as a young groomer starting out in the competition ring,” says Kathy Rose. “Meeting her opened my eyes to what she did for the industry. I was judged by her back then, and her critiques really helped me. Later in my career, I had the privilege to judge alongside her.” “There were differences in the way grooms were executed in France, the Netherlands, and other parts of EuGroomertoGroomer.com
rope,” adds Joey Villani. “Shirlee wanted to bring everyone together. It was sort of like going to a music festival and bringing multiple bands together that play different types of music. Fans love them all.” And, it wasn’t just individual groomers that Shirlee wanted to showcase, she saw team competitions as another way to bring the grooming world closer. “Shirlee was one of the founders of GroomTeam,” shares Sue Zecco. “So many groomers want to compete, and their top goal is to make GroomTeam and be able to travel to other countries and compete for the United States. All of that has to do with Shirlee.” “Yes, what Shirlee did for the industry, nobody has matched,” adds John Stazko emphatically. “Shirlee put the whole world together. All the groomers. It was phenomenal! She would have teams from all over the world to compete. It was the best of the best competing together...pretty revolutionary at the time.” “The first World Team Tournament was held at Intergroom, and it was amazing,” Joey Villani exclaims. “As each team entered the arena, they sang their national anthem, and groomers from all over the world cheered them on. Then later that night, everyone gathered in the bar/lobby of the hotel, and people again started singing. Americans sang their national anthem, the France, Canada, etc. Even though we didn’t speak each other’s languages, we became one international family that night. It was the beginning of something great—all because of Shirlee. Without her, we wouldn’t have team competitions. These competitions are the pet industry’s Olympics.” Groomers from all over the globe competed at Intergroom, and then shared what they learned with others. “I met Shirlee in 1985,” says Umberto Lehmann, President of the
“She opened the book and wrote, ‘Dear Sasha, It was such a pleasure meeting you at Intergroom. Your grooming is outstanding, Shirlee’ ” –Sasha Riess
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Italian Grooming Association and organizer of MilanGroom. “After winning the first grooming contest of my life in England, I was surprised to receive an invitation from Shirlee Kalstone to participate in Intergroom. It was a dream; my first trip to the USA to compete in the most important grooming contest in the world. “I started organizing grooming competitions in Italy,” Umberto continues. “Shirlee encouraged me, as President of the European Grooming Association, to hold the World Team Grooming Championship in Europe. Shirlee created the Oster Invitational Tournament of Champions which is considered the most prestigious individual title a groomer could win. She and I worked together on a project that became the Oster European Invitational Tournament of Champions.” Sasha Riess, who was born in Serbia, was also invited to compete at Intergroom. “In December 2002, the postman brought an unexpected letter to my door,” says Sasha. “I could not believe what I was holding in my hands. It was
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an official invitation to the Oster Invitational Tournament of Champions at Intergroom 2003. The invitation was signed by Shirlee Kalstone. “I didn’t realize that it was the same Shirlee Kalstone who wrote the book, Poodle Clipping and Grooming—the book which left the biggest impact on my career, and awoke my imagination and creativity. I read the book during my schooling in Budapest in 1991,” continues Sasha. “I didn’t understand English at the time, but that didn’t stop me from looking at the pictures. I remember trying out the dozens of Poodle styles in that book. I was just 16 years old. I went to grooming school and entered the world of professional grooming, earning the nickname ‘Sasha the Poodle Man’. “In 2003 I competed at Intergroom and won a bronze medal, but more importantly, I realized my dreams. After the award presentation, Shirlee approached me with her latest edition of Poodle Clipping and Grooming the International Reference. Then she opened the book and wrote, ‘Dear Sasha, It was such a pleasure meeting you at Intergroom. Your grooming is outstanding, Shirlee’ “At that moment, I stood frozen and speechless. I was standing in front of the woman who wrote the book that introduced me into the world of grooming and Poodles. Shirlee and I became great friends and her husband, Larry, helped me start my own line of grooming products,” shares Sasha. Shirlee’s influence has been felt all over the globe and has led to untold advances to the pet grooming industry. “When I think of some of the top industry people in the world,” says Sue Zecco, “I know they are people that made their connections through Intergroom. That’s where they all got to know each other and all came together.
Now they are running their own shows.” “I met Shirlee when I was 16,” says Kitty Dekeersgieter, organizer of Groomania which is held yearly in Belgium. “I came to the USA all alone to compete at Intergroom. Shirlee was wonderful. She helped me and introduced me to my future friends for life. She taught me that, in our industry, everything is possible. With her encouragement, I became a passionate groomer and shared my knowledge with all, and went on to design grooming equipment, and created a wholesale business. “I never thought that I would be able to organize an event like Intergroom,” continues Kitty. “But, I am the organizer of Groomania, the biggest event in Europe with 34 countries traveling to be with us every year. Shirlee is my example. I look up to her and am very thankful that she has been part of my life.” “The first time that the name Shirlee Kalstone appeared in my life was through a book; the first book written by Shirlee,” says Sergio Murilo Villasanti, of Sao Paulo, Brazil. “I was about 16 years old when a veterinarian asked me if I wanted to work in the grooming area at his clinic. I readily agreed. I had Shirlee’s book and had seen the pictures, but I didn’t know English. Following the book, I managed to do my first groomings. Without her even knowing it, Shirlee helped me start a career as a groomer. “In 1999, I went to the United States for the first time to compete at Intergroom. I was very scared. In addition to not speaking English, I was in a contest and everything was completely foreign to me. The first person to greet me was Shirlee. I was with a friend who translated for me. Shirlee had a sweet, calm voice and a smile that calmed me down a lot. She said to me, ‘Thank you very much for being here. You are the first Brazilian
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to compete at Intergroom. Thank you very much.’ “Despite everything that was going on,” continues Sergio, “I couldn’t take my eyes off her. I watched how she ran Intergroom, how she spoke to people, how people greeted her, and how much she was liked by the people. At the gala banquet she gave me a bottle of champagne with my name on it and announced my name so that everyone could hear it. It was a magical moment for me. “When Intergroom was over, she said, ‘Thank you very much for coming. And, congratulations on your work.’ I never forgot this. Because of Shirlee, I wanted to hold events like this in my country. I began to plan the first grooming contest in Brazil, and I asked Shirlee to judge at our first competition,” Sergio evokes. Throughout her career, Shirlee was often recognized for her achievements and received many awards. “I was born and raised in New York,” says Teri DiMarino. “When I would go back to visit family, I would always visit with Larry and Shirlee Kalstone. They had a beautiful apartment overlooking Central Park in New York. As you entered Shirlee’s apartment, the first thing you saw was an antique table with all of her industry awards. She truly treasured them. “The Kalstone’s apartment was like walking into a museum. Their collection of original works of art, tapestries, paintings, and other purebred dog memorabilia was unimaginable. The shining light is their collection of over 100 unique dog walking sticks and canes, which they amassed as they traveled around the world. The Kalstones donated the fabulous cane collection to the AKC dog museum in New York City where it is now on display,” shares Teri. The awards and memorabilia she garnered during her life were very pre-
cious to her, but Shirlee’s greatest joy was seeing groomers the world over grow, blossom and reach new heights in their careers. “She was there during a very important time in our industry— when we were going from dumpy American groomers to adding nice flair and style to our grooms,” says Teri DiMarino. “Look how far we have come. We have her to thank. She laid the rungs in the ladder of success in the industry for us all to climb.” “Shirlee definitely had an impact on every groomer, whether she met them or not,” adds Hilery Zusi. “All of us have benefited from her wisdom and her ideas and concepts.” “Shirlee’s is a life that does not cease,” says Sasha Riess. “It is eternity in a radiance that does not abate. It’s an inspiration. Shirlee, thanks for everything.” &
The Kalstones donated the fabulous cane collection to the AKC dog museum in New York City where it is now on display.
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GROOMING BUSINESS BASICS
by Khris Berry
TO WORK What is fitness to a groomer, you may ask? If you are a working pet groomer, you will likely define your fitness level by how many 100-pound dogs you lifted today—or perhaps how many defensive maneuvers you deployed to escape the tossing terrier on your table.
L
eg lifts for groomers are how many doodle legs you scissored, and sit–ups can be counted in the times you picked up a dropped comb (or heaven forbid, a blade). But there are other fitness types that you should be paying attention to, beyond the physicality of your profession. Let’s examine what it means to be “fit to work” as a pet professional in today’s workplace.
EMOTIONAL FITNESS As a caretaker of other living
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things, it is your job to have the emotional depth to provide for the wellbeing of the pets around you. If you are a salon owner or in a team–lead position, take that and multiply the number to include the people who rely on you in the workplace. Being emotionally fit begins with simple steps such as feeding your mind. Fresh air, sunshine and a good book are enough for some people to feel energized and ready to engage in another round of caretaking. But let’s face it, the pets (and their owners)
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can take an emotional toll on even the most compassionate person. Making time for regular emotional fitness assessments—whether you rely on a healthcare provider, a circle of friends or a stout companion to accomplish this task—will ensure that you are taking care of your emotional needs. Flight attendants tell us to put our masks on before assisting another passenger in case of emergency on an airplane. Pet groomers need to heed that warning and make sure that they are filling their emotional tanks
regularly so that they can be properly prepared to extend the kindness and compassion they are enlisted to deliver in their workplace. Paying attention to your mental state and the needs of your own mind is key to finding the delicate balance when you are working in a caregiving role. Hobbies outside of your profession are often a great source of mental stimulation as well as relaxation.
Healthy meals at regular times also help feed the body you rely on to
PHYSICAL FITNESS Pet grooming is a physically demanding and exhausting profession, although groomers often make their workload look easy. We all know that while the rest of the world assumes that we are playing with puppies, groomers are in fact lifting, bending, washing, cleaning, clipping, drying, brushing and in a constant state of movement for most of their workday. Those activities combine to ensure that a pet groomer expends a lot of energy and calories over the course of a day— not to mention the “difficult” dogs which take an extra effort to groom. Groomers can ease the burden by attending to the needs of their bodies. This includes regular exercise to protect the muscles you use often, as well as strengthen those you use irregularly. Healthy meals at regular times also help feed the body you rely on to complete your work. If your body is the machine you use to groom a dog, maximize the potential of your own machine by providing clean fuel (and lots of water!). Other helpful considerations are regular checkups with your family doctor—making sure that your health provider understands the physical nature of your job as well as the hazards you may encounter will help them keep you up and running. Many groomers find chiropractic care to be a mainstay in their physical
complete your work.
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Your Pet is IMPO
No longer struggle with the dilemma of posting your latest & greatest groom that just so happened to be on your client’s dog!
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I hereby authorize the use of photos and/or information relate d to my pet’s expe rience at this establishment. I understand my pet may be used in publications inclu ding electronic, audio visual, promotion al literature, adve rtising, community prese ntations, letters to area legislators, medi a and/or in simila r ways. My consent is freely given as a public service without expe cting payment.
I release this est ablishment and their respective and agents from employees, officers any and all liabil ity which may arise news media storie from the use of such s, promotional mate rials, written articl photographic imag es, videos and/o es. r I grant permission
to use: (Please chec k one below) My pet’s name(s)/im ages My pet’s and my last name/images My pet’s and my first and last name/imag es Establishment Name Owner Name Owner Signature
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Just like other areas of your life, pet groomers should undergo a financial fitness checkup on a regular basis to ensure that you are being wise with your finances. care plan. And don’t forget about scheduling regular checkups with an eye doctor (you use your eyes for extremely detailed work) and have your hearing checked on occasion to ensure you are protecting all of your senses properly.
FINANCIAL FITNESS Pet groomers are in high demand in most areas of the United States, and this typically is reflected in the paycheck of the pet styling professional. While there are exceptions to every rule, many pet groomers are
making well above the living wage for their chosen geographic areas, and in some cases, are the primary breadwinner in their family unit. In short, pet groomers make pretty decent wages. However, this is not always a guarantee that groomers will thrive when it comes to financial fitness. Just like other areas of your life, pet groomers should undergo a financial fitness checkup on a regular basis to ensure that you are being wise with your finances. In an industry which rarely has supplemented retirement, and rarely sees
WashUnit_GroomTable_half_12_17_F4P.pdf
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pet groomers working until common retirement age, it is critical that pet groomers learn to be savvy with their finances. Learning to work within a budget, maintain emergency savings and provide for your future are just some of the skills that every pet professional should develop.
SELF–CARE FITNESS Learning to take care of yourself is a skill that seems to escape many pet professionals. Perhaps because we are passionate about our careers, or perhaps because we are willing
to sacrifice so much for the pets we love; whatever the reason, many pet professionals simply are not skilled at self–care. This comes in many forms, from setting a good sleep schedule so that you are well rested and alert for your workday to taking a break for lunch. Here are some common and easy self–care fitness steps you can enact right now: • Wear ear protection when you are in a loud environment (barking) or using dryers. • Wear eye protection when clipping nails. • Wear suitable attire such as closed–toed shoes and material which will protect your body from hair splinters, scratches, water and common hazards. • Eat a healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner at regular times. • Go to bed early and wake up at the same time each day. • Make good social choices— whether that’s the friends you are spending time with or the activities you are engaging in. • Stare at your phone less and nature more. • Sit in the sunshine a few minutes each day. Some of these suggestions seem as though they belong in a self–help book, and many probably do. Regardless, you are in the business of taking care of pets (and people who love them). That takes a toll on even the most seasoned professional. By applying thoughtful attention to any and all of these fitness areas, you will notice instant improvement in your day–to–day approach to your workplace. And all of these things will allow you to take better care of the people and pets around you. &
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THE MOBILE BOOM DEMAND FOR MOBILE PET GROOMING SERVICES CONTINUES TO GROW
ZERO HUMAN C O N TA C T GROOMING
HIGH DEMAND FOR MOBILE P E T S E RV I C E S
EMPLOYMENT O P P O RT U N I T I E S & TRANSITIONS
Social distancing is essential, so the ideal way to groom right now is with Zero HumanTo-Human Contact. Mobile groomers can groom pets, take payments electronically, and sterilize their grooming van or trailer without human contact. All Wag’n Tails Mobile Conversions are fully selfcontained pet spas equipped with everything you need to groom so close client interaction is unnecessary.
Increased demand for mobile services due to the current conditions may continue at this incredible pace as pet owners experience the convenience of mobile pet grooming. Many of our clients are adding more vans to keep up with demand. Shop owners are adding a mobile unit, and some are transitioning to mobile only.
Groomers can look for more employment opportunities within the mobile grooming industry due to increased demand for mobile services. Mobile grooming fleet owners have begun seeking out talented groomers to grow their businesses. This high mobile demand will also equate to excellent opportunities for groomers to start their own mobile business or grow an established one.
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KITTY'S KORNER
by Deborah Hansen
(POST–PANDEMIC) After spending many years educating cat owners on the importance of regular feline grooming, numerous grooming businesses were forced to temporarily close due to stay–at–home orders earlier this year.
N
ow that many governments have allowed grooming businesses to reopen, some regular clients are afraid to restart maintenance grooming. So when we approach our once regular clients with returning to a maintenance grooming schedule, our strategy must be different than the approach we use to obtain new regular cat grooming clients. When converting a new client into a regular client, we need to focus on education. New clients do not understand that matting hurts, or that we can control the amount of dead coat in their household, or how delightful a fresh–smelling cat is to live with. Time needs to be taken with these clients to help them understand the benefit to
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the feline and to the household which maintenance grooming provides. However, our maintenance grooming clients fully understand all the benefits that feline grooming provides, yet are hesitant to schedule an appointment or commit to a schedule due to a change in income or fear of being exposed to COVID–19. We must change our business strategies to help these clients feel safe while encouraging them to return to regular grooming. Overcoming these obstacles will take new and innovative strategies that may have never been previously considered. These clients may have felt guilty during lockdown because they were not able to provide the same level of care that they knew their kitty needed. They GroomertoGroomer.com
have watched the coat condition deteriorate with each passing week of the stay–at–home orders. Longer nails tore at the family’s hearts as they began getting stuck in the carpet. But when the matting began, they probably reached out to you. These families knew their beloved feline needed professional grooming and they felt helpless in obtaining and providing that care. Now that our businesses have reopened, how do we reconnect with these clients? We know these families already understand and believe in maintenance grooming for their feline family members. So, as business owners, we have to focus on the reason our once regular clients are hesitant to restart their grooming schedules. Our busi-
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After many years of instituting an annual price increase, many grooming businesses may find it appropriate to offer our previously regular maintenance grooming clients a special rate on routine grooming. nesses will need to take new approaches while offering comfort and understanding to this group of valuable clients. Record high unemployment rates accompanied by many people having their hours and salaries cut has made families tighten up their budgets. A family that used to be able to comfortably afford monthly grooming may now be worried about how they will be paying their basic bills. After many years of instituting an annual price increase, many grooming businesses may find it appropriate to
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offer our previously regular maintenance grooming clients a special rate on routine grooming. I understand your overhead costs have gone up, and now you may be facing interest rates from carrying your business during the closure, so the natural tendency is to raise your prices. Yet, when estimating how much time these grooming clients take compared to a new client, you will see that a small discount will not only help you maintain these valuable clients, but will also allow you to groom more cats in a day.
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When you look at the amount of time a previous client needs, you will find that it is significantly less than that of a new client. These families already know what needs to be done between grooming appointments, they take less time at check–in, check–out and with communication. You also have an established relationship with this cat, making the grooming process more predictable. Overall, keeping a previously regular client is easier and less time–consuming than adding a new cat grooming client. So, in the
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signage and posted procedures that address your business’s policy on COVID prevention. aftermath of a COVID closure, it may be time to reward your long–time, faithful clients with a price reduction. Other families may fear the safety of grooming. If you are a salon–based business, they are afraid of COVID exposure during drop–off and pick–up. If you are a house–call service, these families are concerned with letting you into their homes. These owners need reassurance that you are doing everything possible to minimize the risk of exposing their family to the COVID–19 virus. Many local authorities are now requiring new signage and posted procedures that address your business’s policy on COVID prevention. However, that may not be enough to get these families back in for regular grooming. The families that truly have a fear of COVID–19 exposure simply need more. They need personalized emails, verbal reassurance, and recognition that their fears are valid and GroomertoGroomer.com
understood. Calling to see how they are doing, if they have any questions or concerns you can address, and to see how their kitty is doing goes a long way to reestablishing your relationship with these families. Running social media campaigns can be effective in reassuring your clients who are fearful, as well as in attracting new clients. Scheduling catchy captions that explain the extra precautions you are taking with each client to ensure the prevention of cross–contamination will go even further in today’s world. As we enter this new stage, it will be the little things that will keep our long–time clients faithful to our businesses. Finding strategies to help our previously regular clients keep a maintenance grooming schedule will not only benefit the feline and reduce the amount of stress in their human families’ lives, but will also be an asset to your grooming business. &
B
The
of
RESTRAINT–FREE
GROOMING E by Hannah Ziegler e
There are four main keys to grooming restraint–free. I call them “The Four C’s”: Compassion, Connection, Communication and Consistency. 58
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eginning with only twenty clients, my salon has flourished over the past four years. With no advertising budget and only my faithful clientele to spread the word, my work days are full and I am booking months in advance. When I get a new referral, one of the first things I say is that I do “restraint–free grooming.” But what is restraint–free grooming? Restraint–free grooming is exactly as it sounds—grooming without restraints. That means no grooming loops, no muzzles or Elizabethan collars, and no other people. I work alone, specializing in aggressive and fearful dogs and cats. Yes, I have been bitten. Yes, I have had pets jump off my table. But I would not exchange this approach for any other method. Restraint–free grooming has allowed fearful and aggressive pets who hated being groomed to feel calm and protected. The majority of my pet clients cannot wait to be groomed. A number of clients tell me that, as soon as they turn onto my road, their dogs go into a frenzy of excitement. So, how does restraint–free grooming work? And what do you need to know to apply this method of grooming in your own salon? There are four main keys to grooming restraint–free. I call them “The Four C’s”: Compassion, Connection, Communication and Consistency.
COMPASSION Most of us became groomers because we love pets, love caring for them, and love making them happy and comfortable. If that is the case for you, then you are already on the right track. The most important aspect of compassion is to have the desire to understand and the willingness to empathize with your pet clients. For example, as pets age, being groomed can
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become painful and exhausting. It is vital to recognize that taking time for fine details is less significant than the comfort of your aging pets. It is more about comfort than perfection. Having concern for the wellbeing of each pet that comes through your door is key to restraint–free grooming.
CONNECTION Have you ever had a pet come to your salon that you cannot seem to connect with? Something about them puts you on edge. Their nervousness seems to infect you. No matter what you attempt, they consistently shy away from you. You know that you need to get them groomed, but how will you accomplish this? If a pet cannot trust you, it is difficult to utilize restraint–free grooming. Making a connection with
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all of your pets is crucial. Connection is when you form a strong bond with your pet clients. You must lead by establishing trust, safety and reliability to form this union. I will employ play, praise and food as bonding techniques. One of my pet clients used to cower in the corner as soon as she arrived. She would shake profusely and avoid all contact with me. I had to build her trust by utilizing her love of play. Each time she had an appointment, her owner brought in her favorite ball. We would spend a few minutes before each grooming playing and developing that trusting bond. After she was finished getting groomed, we played until her owner came to pick her up. Providing play before grooming instilled trust, fun and relaxation that transferred to
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the grooming table. Playing after she was done allowed her to be rewarded for the good job she did on the table. I am not excluded from this connection obstacle. There have been a number of times when pets are so frightened from previous experiences, or so aggressive that their fear, anxiety and mistrust places a barrier between us. So, how can we effectively break down this barrier without causing more anxiety? This is where the third “C” (Communication) helps you triumph.
COMMUNICATION Communication is essential to demolishing these barriers. The more you know about the pets’ past experiences, the better you can assess the situations and address those distances.
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Can you tell the difference between an aggressive growl and a playful growl? Can you differentiate between various types of aggression and protection?
What if these pets are rescues and there is little or no information about their past? What if the owners are not forthcoming with information about their pets? That is where my favorite type of communication comes into play: body language. We all have had to learn and teach ourselves to better understand subtle human responses to read each other’s body language. But, as groomers, we need to learn the body language of pets as well. If dogs are wagging their tails, we generally assume they are happy; however, if a dog’s tail is stiffly wagging, that can express apprehension and can be easily misinterpreted. Can you tell the difference between an aggressive growl and a playful growl? Can you differentiate between various types of aggression
and protection? We need to be aware of our own body language as well, as it can easily affect the pets in our salon. We must set aside our emotions and the circumstances we are currently going through, and only be in that moment with the pet in front of us.
CONSISTENCY From long hours to different pets, consistency is not a word commonly associated with the grooming business. However, being consistent with the training, routine and clarity used with your pets is an important aspect of restraint–free grooming. When I have new pet clients, I know I need to begin training them as soon as they enter my salon. Teaching pets to stay on your table or in the tub with no restraints is
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demanding. Numerous times pets attempt to escape. They constantly move or dance on the table. They try to avoid water at all costs. It seems like there is no possible way these pets will ever learn to do what you ask of them. That is where patience is imperative. Not all pets will learn what you are asking the first, second or twenty–second time; however, being persistent and consistent always pays off in the end. One of the fastest ways pets learn is through consistent routines. The dynamic between groomers and pets drastically improves when pets know that each time they are groomed, the same pattern will occur. Providing a pet with a clear order of events (such as nails, ears, bath, dry, groom, and play) will eventually allow you to groom without giving a
word of direction. From pet to pet, this order changes depending on the need, personality and behavior of the pet, but should be consistent for each individual pet.
TAKING PRACTICAL STEPS Let me state that restraint–free grooming is not for every salon, groomer or pet. You may have rules in your salon that require you to use a grooming loop at all times. You may be new at grooming and do not feel comfortable going restraint– free. Also, not all pets can be safely groomed restraint–free. I have been able to use restraint–free grooming on 98% of my pet clients; the remaining 2% have strong reasons why I cannot use it on them. Teaching a pet to stay on the table or in a tub is a very similar
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process to teaching them to remain standing while being groomed. It requires not only patience, but repetition—a lot of repetition! If a pet sits when I need them to stand, I follow three steps. If they are new and do not understand the command, I continue to step four: 1. I ask them to stand. 2. I show them the hand signal. 3. I wait a minimum of 45 seconds. 4. I either lure them up with a treat or gently apply pressure under them. Verbal and visual communication are just as important as physical touch. If a pet jumps off my table, I choose not to get upset or angry, I simply ask them to get back onto the table and wait. I must look ridiculous to people if they could see me; right arm extended to the table, body angled a step or two away like a statue until the dog approaches the table. As soon as they put even one paw on the table, they get praised. If they back away from the table, we do it again until they know they will only get full praise when all four paws are on the table. Think of it as a game rather than a hindrance. I also do not let pets jump out of the tub. I will use my entire body to block them if necessary. If a pet puts their paw on the edge, I gently move them back into position, over and over and over again. You follow the same steps to groom restraint–free in the tub as you would when you ask a pet stand. Dedicating the extra time needed for restraint–free grooming can set your salon apart and take your grooming to the next level—and also allow the pets in your care to further enjoy the grooming process. &
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STYLED UP
by Amanda Aaron
AFTER
BEFORE
Sheltie Summer Send-Off
A
s the summer months wind down and fall is just beginning, I thought I would highlight one of my personal favorite family pets. Shetland Sheepdogs were a staple in my home growing up— my best friend from the age of 10 through age 26 was a sheltie named Sugar. Their gentle nature and forgiving temperament make them wonderful family companions and equally as popular in our grooming salons.
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As a double–coated breed that should be trimmed to maintain a natural look, there is often a contradiction in trying to preserve their natural state while achieving maintainability for the modern pet owner. This tutorial will walk you through a scissored outline trim on a sheltie. This is a great option for sheltie pet owners that want to maintain the look and hallmarks of a sheltie, but want a tighter, sportier trim.
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Because this is a double–coated breed, the most important parts of this groom will happen in the bathing room. Undercoat removal is essential for pet dogs and that can be done during the bath, as well as with a high velocity dryer after the bath. After being bathed and force–dried, the coat is run through with a stand dryer and a soft slicker brush. This helps to remove the undercoat loosened up by the bathing process. Following
FIG. 1
this, a comb is run through the entire coat to ensure it is free of undercoat. Fig 1) An undercoat rake is the final step in removing undercoat from pet dogs. To make it more comfortable for the dog, hold their skin on the opposite side from where you are raking.
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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 39 Ed 9 • September 2020
FIG. 2
This supports the skin and does not allow it to roll as much. Figs 2) To trim the feet in a cat foot shape, first make a box by scissoring across the front of the paw close to the toenails, then scissor each of the sides of the paw in the same manner.
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FIG. 3
Fig 3) After the foot shape has been set with shears, the rest is done with thinning shears by starting close to the bottom and moving upward toward the center of the foot. This helps create a tight, arched foot. Fig 4) This shows an unfinished
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foot next to a finished foot. Fig 5) Back feet can be trimmed in the same manner. Fig 6) When trimming the pasterns of a sheltie, create a crescent shape from hock to foot—this area should not be trimmed straight up and down and it shouldn’t be super tight. Just trim enough off to even it up and create a nice shape. Fig 7) The front leg furnishings should be trimmed at an angle so as to not drag on the ground. Fig 8) Occasionally there will be areas that are still too thick or voluminous on double coats, so you can bulk– thin to get those areas to lay down and be less “puffy.” In this case, I did some bulk–thinning on the rump. The key is to only open the tips of your thinning shears and create one cut then comb the loose coat out and see what it looks like before you continue on. Fig 9) Trimming the pants on this breed can also be tricky. They
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should not be rounded and bubble out, but flatter to the rear. You can achieve this look by trimming from the top of the pants straight down toward the hock. Fig 10) To make this trim sportier, we want to take some of the longer side coat off. This can be achieved by using the scissor–over–comb method. You will comb backwards and scissor over top of your comb with thinning shears to create a more natural scissored appearance. You can work from the rear of the dog toward the front, making sure to taper from the spring of rib down into the underline. Fig 11) When setting the underline, start at the stifle and lightly trim toward where the tuck–up will be placed (about the last rib). Once you set where the tuck–up will be,
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scissor from that point at a slight downward angle and end between the front legs. Fig 12) Scissor just the peaks of the ears. Fig 13) Next, comb the rough coat out to the sides and lightly trim from the widest point of the rough up behind the ears. Fig 14) This shows one side of the rough unfinished and one side trimmed. Fig 15) Tidy up the tail by trimming it in a fan shape. Hopefully these tips help you style up your shop shelties. Following this tutorial will allow you to offer your clients a great alternative for their pets, while maintaining some of the hallmark characteristics of the breed! &
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