Groomer to Groomer December 2022

PHOTO

by Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

Kathy Hosler

Photos by Animal Photography

by Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins

Dogs are beloved worldwide and often a favorite subject for story and myth.

This is not surprising, as dogs are our most ancient inter-species relationship. However, as science advances, much of what we thought we knew about dogs turns out not to be true. New information, often even more fascinating and exciting than the previously believed mythologies, challenges us to update our practices and our thinking.

My husband and I loved to watch the old television show “MythBusters.”

A team of talent, ranging from Hollywood stunt guys to clever and inventive scientists and engineers, would test out a new myth each week trying to prove or disprove it. It often involved entertaining explosions, cool robotics or sizzling chemistry.

It turns out, the grooming profession has some “myth-busting” of its own to do. We are in the middle of a significant knowledge revolution in grooming. For most of the last century, groomers have been operating in silos—working alone, not communicating with each other and with no educational requirements.

Groomers used to work primarily from their own homes and with no internet. We were more isolated and even secretive, feeling competitive and proprietary with our own skills and information. Mythbased practices abounded in those days.

However, as trade shows, competitions and, post-pandemic, more online educational opportunities become available, the knowledge revolution in grooming began to reach more people. We are evolving into a much more

collegial, educational and communicative industry. All around us, we are seeing the myth-busting power of new information and the morphing of old school thinking in our industry. Product lines, tools, equipment, and our expertise are getting better and better. And, our pet clients benefit from this expansion as well.

While all this new information is increasingly available to more groomers, our industry and the reception it has received remains uneven at best. As my grooming and teaching career has spanned over four decades, the explosion of new information in our industry based in science is truly exciting to see. But with many fields (not just grooming), there is still a very present attitude of, “I know what I know, and it works—don’t bother me with that new stuff.”

Transitions in information are not always easy or quick, and grooming experiences growing pains, as do many other professions. Some prefer to cling to their familiar practices and anecdotes, while others are excitedly lapping up any new information they can access.

Let’s take a look at just a few interesting myths about dogs and their grooming that have been “busted” by recent advances in scientific information:

descended from the wolf at all! The dog is a cousin of the wolf, both having descended from a common ancestor.1

A similar common misunderstanding of evolutionary science includes the old school notion that humans evolved from monkeys. We did not. Just as the dog and the wolf came from different lines of the Canidae family, humans and other primates are cousins, descended from an extinct common ancestor.

Teams of scientists are still working on all this, debating single-origin or dualorigin theories. Canine evolutionary science has seen an explosion of discoveries in recent decades, including migration patterns and the discovery of five distinct and globally distributed gene pools. As early as 11,000 years ago, there were already five distinct dog lineages that gave rise to canines in the Near East, Northern Europe, Siberia, New Guinea and the Americas.2

Myth: The dog is descended from the wolf.

Busted: The dog has always been said to be descended from the wolf. It’s even on dog food commercials, so it must be true! Recent discoveries of ancient canine DNA and our better ability to explore the details of current DNA have proven the dog is not

Once the dog’s DNA was fully mapped and published in 2003, lots of old stories about the dog were myth-busted. The mapping of the canine genome showed that the wolf and the dog had a common ancestor as yet undiscovered in fossils and archeology, but clearly there in the DNA. Some scientists are calling it “the ancestor wolf” or “proto-dog.” They are working to find more ancient dog DNA to help fill in the gaps.

2.

1. Myth: Humans domesticated the dog.

Busted: Domesticated animals are species that are long-controlled by humans and who live and work with us exclusively. They no longer live in the wild, nor can they. All domesticated mammals

(including humans) share physical features that are similar, and there is some exciting new science that explains why that happens3—a more involved topic for another day.

The story has long been that the dog was the first species domesticated by humans. Because of the amazing work in ancient DNA, anthropology and archeology, we now know that the dog as a distinct species is much older than once thought (approximately 33,000 to 44,000 years old). What science has revealed is that our two species are co-evolved and, therefore, we share a relationship unique in all the world.

But who domesticated whom? Which of our two species first tentatively approached the other, demonstrating the mutual benefit of a partnership? It may change your

understanding of who we, as dog groomers, work with to learn this! What the evolutionary biologists now say, clearly indicated by the bulk of the emerging evidence, is that the ancestor wolf or proto-dog approached us first. They came to our camps to feed off our garbage and we saw the benefit of having them near our camps. They kept away other predators and, over time, they helped us hunt more successfully. So, they get the evolutionary credit. Dogs are the first domesticated mammals and dogs domesticated us! Dogs taught people the benefits of inter-species friendliness. Dogs may even be responsible for the very survival of the human species at multiple points in our history.4,5,6 I find it deepens the joy and appreciation in my grooming to know this about the dogs on my table.

3.

Myth: All canine coat types can be groomed the same.

Busted: The same shampoo; the same shave down, no matter the breed or coat type, has long been a widely accepted grooming industry practice. But thankfully, for the dogs, that is now changing with more and better information about coat genetics and dermatological science. The dogs get the benefit of better grooming as our industry innovators put out more and better products, tools, and techniques based on this better science.

When I began grooming in the early 1980s, there were few choices in grooming products and tools, and everything got shaved. Shampoos and conditioners are now researched, manufactured and marketed with many more options for coat type, skin issues, breeds and desired grooming outcomes. Tools and equipment are amazingly better with more diverse choices for both the groomer’s hands and the dog’s skin and coat.

Best of all, our understanding of canine coat genetics has greatly improved. We now have access to electron microscopy and advanced dermatology. We know about the anagen, catagen and telogen phases of hair growth, and the differences between those cycles in primary versus secondary hairs. This access to better information leads us to an improved understanding of the most significant genetic difference in the canine coat, which is what some of us are calling “Fur vs. Hair,” or genetically pre-determined length (PDL) coat types (which are not to be clipped) vs. genetically undetermined length (UDL) coat types (which grown until cut).

We also now know that on wirecoated breeds (also a Fur or PDL coat type), the microscopic follicles are deeper

and more complex and the hair shaft is larger. This means they won’t easily shed out naturally and must be pulled or tugged on (hand-stripped) or carded. If they are only clipped, they can leave little bits of hair roots inside the follicles, eventually causing some of the follicles to clog, become irritated and even die.7

This list is in no way exclusive of the myths that surround dogs and our profession. There are many others to discuss and consider, and they are all part of our professional growth as groomers. Myth-busting should be an on-going process in any field as new science helps us re-evaluate our old school practices.

As we acquire more information and science about what we do and collectively bust more myths, we help our skilled trade industry grow more and more into a respected profession. And as we rise in our ability to educate ourselves, we help raise our status as skilled tradespeople to a professional level and do things better for these wonderful dogs we serve.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/ article/pii/S0960982215004327

https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Survival_ https://www.nationalgeographic.com/ animals/article/130302-dog-domesticevolution-science-wolf-wolves-human https://www.theatlantic.com/ technology/archive/2012/05/ humanitys-best-friend-how-dogsmay-have-helped-humans-beat-thehttps://www.trendingbreeds.com/wire-

Raising Heirs: Raising Heirs:

There was a time when I would groom dogs with my infant daughter in a backpack. That was 33 years ago, and now my daughter, Rachel, who works with me in my grooming studio, often wears her baby in a backpack while we work.

And she is not alone in grooming with her child...

The Art of Grooming With Children The Art of Grooming With Children

by Daryl Conner Photos by Daryl Conner

Quinci Cole of The Dog Spot in South Weber, UT started a Facebook group called “Dog Grooming with Kids,” and it currently has almost two thousand members. She said, “When I asked in other grooming groups about how parents handled certain situations, I had many groomers attack me, not knowing who I am or my story. I am just a mom with kiddos trying to figure things out and do right by my children. I got so much hate that I would often delete my posts and question myself.

“Then I created the group,” Quinci continues, “and we have so many parents who give helpful tips and cheer one another on. I am thankful for so many grooming parents who have joined and made us the great group that we are.”

Some groomers take their kids on the road in mobile units, and others make child-friendly spaces in

stationery shops. Many have found that working from home is ideal for balancing pet grooming and parenting. The motivation for working with kids is the common thread.

“The first five years of a child’s development are so important. I don’t want hired help to be responsible for teaching my daughter about love and trust,” Rachel shares.

Mariah Arnett of The Dog Shack LLC in Portage, MI adds, “I always knew that if I had children, I would want to be a stay-at-home mom. The idea of a daycare or a stranger watching my son the majority of the day and me missing all those little moments; the little firsts, wasn’t appealing to me.”

children in a working environment around pets work?

Quinci says, “My kids had hearing protection and have been taught how to approach a dog since a young age. When my kids were little, we built them a toy room off the salon. A glass door connected it, so we could always see each other. Now that they are older and in school, I schedule my summers a little differently so they can do their activities while I work.”

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Jessica Heibein of Grooming by Jess in Wilmington, NC echoes her peers: “I waited until I was 35 to have my daughter, and I didn’t want to miss her growing up.” So, how does having babies and

“We took half of our reception area and built a room,” Jessica explains. “We insulated it for sound, and we have a Pack and Play, TV, and toys in there. We also have a play area near the grooming table and put up a half-wall to keep her separate from the dogs.”

Cheryl Workman of Grooming Gallery in Mooresville, IN says, “I ended up working for myself and owning a shop just as much because of my son as

Some groomers take their kids on the road in mobile units, and others make childfriendly spaces in stationery shops.

anything. When it became clear that he was not neurotypical and going to need therapy, I realized that childcare might not be feasible. Having my own business, I could schedule around his needs. Even if I had to cut back, I was still able to make an income and pay my bills.

“When he had behavioral issues at school and was sent home, I was able to bring him to work with me,” Cheryl continues. “And no matter how difficult things were raising a child with special needs, having my creative work helped keep me sane. We had some struggles, but having a flexible career allowed me to be the kind of parent I wanted to be. I was even awarded ‘The Difference Maker Award’ for families at my son’s school.”

How do customers respond to their pet groomer having kids at work?

Rachel says, “I have been overwhelmed by the support from

our customers. When they come in, if they don’t see her, they seem sort of panicked and ask, ‘Where is the baby?’

They shower her with gifts, and many get right down on the floor to play with her. She seems to bring an added level of happiness to their visit.”

Quinci agrees and adds, “My clients all have been great about it. Some love seeing the humans my kids are turning into, or love seeing them have the same excitement for their pet to come for grooming as I do.”

“Some days, I think my clients enjoy my son being in the salon with me more than I do!” Mariah shares.

“They all love to see him on their regular visits, watch him grow, and hear about all the new stuff he can do. They have been a great support system for me through my pregnancy and transitioning into the motherhood

phase of my life.”

What is the best part about being a groomer and having your kids with you as you work?

“Feeling like I am a good mom,” Quinci shares. “Sometimes it’s hard to find your balance, and as they grow, it is constantly changing. Every so often, you feel you’ve found your groove, and whoops! there it goes, and we are back to square one.”

Cheryl adds, “You lose some productivity having kids at work, but it makes up for it by knowing they are OK.”

“I am surprised at how much happier working with my baby has made me. I am in such a better mood at work. I am smiling all day because she is doing something funny or giggling. I just love my days. I appreciate my job more,” Jessica concludes. &

Asahyper–efficientveterinarian, IwastryingtoprepareasmuchasI couldpriortomyone–and–onlychild. ForthoseofyouguyswhoknowMyers–Briggspersonalityscoring,I’mapretty tohigh“J”(e.g.,analretentive),soIwanted babybeasorganizedaspossibleforthis thing.Boy,wasIinforasurprise.

Groom Expo: Where Everyone Belongs

by Kathy Hosler

"Groom Expo is where we gather and speak the language of grooming," says Jayne Gallagher, seminar speaker and co-star of Pooch Perfect. "It's the heartbeat of our industry!"

More than 5,500 groomers from all over the globe gathered at the Hershey Lodge and Convention center in Hershey, Pennsylvania to attend the 2022 Groom Expo. "This was my first visit to any grooming show outside of Australia," says Sarah Warner. "I heard that Groom Expo was the biggest in the world, and when I found out that I had been nominated for a Barkleigh Honors Award, I knew I had to attend.

Groom Expo

“After traveling 30 hours and over 10,000 miles, I arrived in Hershey,” Sarah continues. “The first person to greet me by name was Rebecca Shipman at the registration desk, and from that moment on, I felt like I was among ‘my people.’ I found the vendors, attendees, and even the grooming competition judges to be the most approachable, kind, supportive, and friendly collection of people."

Jeff and Elizabeth Childers, who were also firsttime attendees, drove from Tennessee to attend the expo. "We are preparing to open a self-serve dog wash and will also be offering professional pet grooming services," says Elizabeth. "The Expo has provided an enormous amount of valuable information that will help us to provide the right tools and information to our pet owners and our

Bandanas

employees. Dr. Cliff Faver's ‘Business 101’ seminar was enough to make the whole trip worthwhile."

Jennie Smith, who owns a grooming salon and grooming school in Loveland, Colorado, calls Groom Expo the “Superbowl” of grooming expos: "This year I brought all 13 of my staff members to Groom Expo and signed every one of them up for the VIP package," says Jennie. "The VIP lounge always had a supply of coffee, hot chocolate, water, and chocolates. And it was nice to have a place to go to relax and absorb everything you learned in the seminars.

"And, the seminars! Where else can you go and have one-on-one conversations with the top people in our industry? One of my girls got to be Victor Rosado's assistant for his ‘Supercharge Your Grooming’ seminar. Let me tell you—she is still on cloud nine!

"I loved the mental health series and feel it is so needed in our industry," Jennie continues. "We are all such empaths for the dogs, our clients, our staff, that we forget to take care of ourselves. All of the speakers in the

series opened up and were honest about struggles they had. And I think for myself, a 37-year veteran in the industry, it was powerful and impactful to know I wasn't alone."

In addition to the educational seminars and grooming demos designed to help you take your skills from good to great, grooming competitions were held throughout the weekend. You could sit in the audience and watch some of the best groomers on the planet work their magic from start to finish, observing their techniques and seeing the products they use.

The enormous trade show was buzzing all weekend long. The vendors had products for every skill level and budget, and the groomers were taking full advantage of show specials to stock up on their favorites.

Groom Expo is not all business though, there was plenty of time for fun. The Internet Social, “Groomers of the Galaxy” opening-night party and the Barkleigh Honors after party gave attendees the opportunity to meet up with old friends, make new ones, and

unwind and really enjoy themselves.

Saturday evening featured the Barkleigh Honors Awards and dinner. It was a spectacular event that solidified the fact that groomers are “family.”

The ballroom erupted with tumultuous applause and cheers for the winner of each of the grooming tournaments as they vied for placement in the Best In Show Awards. Then, the 26 contestants of the Abstract Runway competition displayed their amazing creations on the catwalk, and were rewarded with the audience's thunderous approval.

During the Barkleigh Honors Awards, every nominee received a huge ovation as their name was announced. When Delise Knight received the Barkleigh Honors “Lifetime Achievement Award,” there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Everyone rose to their feet in tribute to her and to honor her achievements.

Sunday's Creative Grooming competition drew entries from all over: "I traveled 3,576 miles from England to participate in the Creative competition," says Vikki Pearman. "It was a dream come true for me. Everyone was so helpful and friendly, and I received many compliments for the groom I did. It was a great experience and a memory

I will have forever.”

"I've been going to Groom Expo since I started my grooming business 18 years ago," says Jolene Siebeneck. "When I got into competing in Creative, my goal was to win the ‘People's Choice Award.’ I can't even begin to explain the feelings I had when I was announced as the winner! I was ecstatic! Then, when my name was announced as taking 1st place, I was in complete shock. Every competitor works so hard and puts in countless hours for this moment. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that I won both awards!”

Creative groomer Andrea Zelinsky didn't let a case of nerves and anxiety keep her from competing: "Right before the competition, I ran to the bathroom, splashed some water on my face, and gave myself my best mirror pep talk," says Andrea. "I opened the door and saw Stacy Przbylinski who quickly asked me if I was all right. My tears started flowing, and Stacy immediately showed me her love and support and said, ‘Just listen to the music and forget about the crowd.’ And, that's exactly what I did.

"To my surprise,” continues Andrea, “MY name was announced as Rising Star.

After the show, a fellow groomer says to me, ‘Man, creative groomers really just love when each other places. That's so awesome to see.’ And, it's so true. I have found my place among a community that strives for personal best but also strives for community success."

Time after time, Jayne Gallagher's comment about Groom Expo being the heartbeat of the industry was confirmed by the groomers at the show.

"Although I was traveling alone, never once did I notice it amongst the incredible community of groomers I was with," shares Sarah Lagos. "I learned more than I could ever explain about the art of pet grooming, about myself, and how grateful I am to have found this career.

"I could tell you all the things I bought and what I did every day, but my biggest takeaway was during the Barkleigh Honors Awards,” continues Sarah. “As the awards were presented, speeches given, and tears shed on stage, I felt a sudden and immense gratitude. I realize that this career is the reason I've been able to find happiness, hope, and a purpose.

“I have a future," Sarah affirms. "It's what I was meant to do. I'm sure of it!" &

"Every competitor works so hard and puts in countless hours for this moment."

-Jolene Siebeneck

Jolene Siebeneck winner of Groom Expo 1st Place Creative and People's Choice Awards 2022

Groom Expo

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STEALTH

TABLE

The Blackworks Stealth Grooming Table is the industry’s most innovative grooming table with game-changing features and a sleek, modern design. Find out why this will be the last table you buy!

by Jonathan David

Sam Kohl is dog grooming.

His roots in education run deep and his contributions to the industry reach far and wide. As a visionary with a talent for creating resources and tools for pet groomers around the world, he started the very first nationally recognized pet grooming school and has authored some of the most influential publications about grooming dogs in existence today. His innovative tools have changed the working lives of pet groomers everywhere—and he doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.

Sam took some time from his busy schedule to chat with me and share his incredible journey in the pet grooming industry…

Jonathan: Hi Sam, I’m so excited to share your legacy with our readers. You’ve contributed so much of your life to this industry and have done so much for groomers. Tell me about the very beginning of your career in the pet industry; where did it all begin?

Sam: I always wanted to be involved in the animal world. As a youngster, I dreamed of becoming a farmer. So, in high school, I enrolled in an agricultural course in Queens, NY.  Later, after I was discharged from the Marine Corps, I opened three businesses on the side; a tropical fish store and two small pet shops. None of the three were profitable, so I closed them after a while.

My next move was to take a course in a small, new school called “The New York School of Dog Grooming.”

After graduation, I took a job in a pet shop that was located in a department store in Harlem. This gave me the idea to open a grooming shop close to that pet shop.  I then went downtown to the grooming school to buy all the supplies and equipment to open my own grooming shop, and this was when I got my big break! Ben Stone, the school’s director, surprised me by offering to sell me a 50% share in the school! Without a second’s hesitation I said, “Of course I’ll do it!”

Two years later, I bought the other half of the school. It was then that I was able to make major improvements. I turned the New York School of Dog Grooming into the New York State Department’s first and only licensed school of dog grooming in New York State, and first in the entire country! I improved and lengthened the courses, converted four apartments in the school building into dormitories and received permission to teach foreign students to learn to groom. I hired a manager and brought my wife, Cynthia, on board to manage the office, and me.

Jonathan: That’s quite a beginning! And that leads me to my next question…In 1972, you published your first grooming book, The All Breed Dog Grooming Guide, arguably one of the most popular grooming guides of all time. There wasn’t anything like it available on the market. Where did the inspiration come from and what was the process for such a new concept?

Sam: Well, now we needed a textbook to work with so that we could adhere to a unified course of study. The problem was there was nothing sufficient available at the time to solve this critical problem. I contacted all the dog breed clubs to ask them exactly how their particular breed should be groomed in a pet style. To add to this, I also contacted established AKC dog breeders around the country for their input on grooming pets that could look as good as show dogs. And that’s how my first book was born. This was what started the dog grooming industry as we know it today.

"Because of my book as a learning tool and my New York School of Dog Grooming that graduated over 20,000 students, these graduates began teaching others to groom; accounting for a large part of the groomers worldwide today."

-Sam Kohl

Jonathan: Since that very first grooming guide, you’ve authored multiple books with multiple editions for the grooming industry and for pet owners alike. Clearly education is a passion of yours. Where does that passion for continuing education and professional improvement derive from?

Sam: Imagine how many people have learned to groom, worldwide, from the over 100,000 sales of my All Breed Dog Grooming Guide books. Because of my book as a learning tool and my New York School of Dog Grooming that graduated over 20,000 students, these graduates began teaching others to groom;

accounting for a large part of the groomers worldwide today. Our school also graduated at least 10 people who opened their own grooming schools. My passion comes from helping so many people become better at what they do and love…dogs.

Jonathan: Your talents and contributions aren’t limited to writing books. You’ve also designed and developed countless tools to assist pet groomers under your brand, AARONCO® Pet Products Inc. Where does your inspiration for new products come from?

Sam: Years before I created AARONCO, I contributed to our industry by giving ideas for new products to other companies, free of charge. I saw the success of my ideas and knew I had to design for myself. I now design my products only for AARONCO.  My ideas emanate from what is needed for the benefit of the groomers’ hands and the dogs’ bodies. I am as thrilled with each product I design as one might be with a newborn baby.

I’m currently working on several more new designs, but my problem now is finding more time to do them. Another enjoyment for me in producing new tools is in the naming of each one. It keeps me up about an hour each night thinking of the perfect names, but I love it.

Jonathan: All your contributions, publications and well-designed products certainly haven’t gone unnoticed. You’ve been the recipient of countless awards in the industry. I’m sure it would be hard to choose, but if you had to pick one award that's been the most significant, what would it be?

Sam: Well, I have two. One is more of an accomplishment and the other is an award. The accomplishment that no one is aware of and that I am very proud of was, I think it was about 1975, when I got angry thinking how little attention the dog world was receiving from the media.  The Westminster Dog Show had just ended and not a word of it was mentioned in the press or on TV. I sat down and wrote postcards with a thick, black marker to two newspapers and two TV stations saying: “AMERICA’S SECOND

Well, the next year, every one of them and others featured the dog show, and have been featuring dog shows on their newscasts and columns ever since!

The award I’m most proud of is the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the late, great Sally Liddick and Barkleigh. She was truly a giant of our industry, and her approval and recognition meant everything to me.

Jonathan: Well, I think you’ve certainly made Sally proud. And being one of the founders of this industry, you’ve watched it grow and change and improve through the years, in large part because of your contributions. What piece of advice would you give to the newest generation of groomers who may some day make their own mark in the industry?

My advice to new groomers—and all groomers for that matter—is to read books, watch the videos, buy the new tools and develop your own opinions about what works best for you. Attend industry trade shows and never ever stop improving!

Sage advice from one of the greatest inspirations in our industry! Thank you for sharing your story and advice with us, you truly have been an asset to groomers everywhere.

&

"My advice to new groomers—and all groomers for that matter—is to read books, watch the videos, buy the new tools and develop your own opinions about what works best for you. Attend industry trade shows and never ever stop improving!"

-Sam Kohl

Today’s groomers are recognized by everyone as the talented artists they truly are. Very sadly, though, in the early seventies, groomers received very little respect. They were initially hired to groom in pet shops, and then typically told that part of their job consisted of cleaning soiled cages and feeding the shop’s animals.

When these starry-eyed groomers balked at this, the pet shop owners would say, “See, didn’t I tell you that all these groomers are flakes? None of them stay on the job for a long time!”

On the other hand, veterinarians were quick to recognize that these groomers were a great addition to their veterinary practices.  Having pet owners bring their dogs and cats in on a steady monthly basis to a groomer that was located in a vet’s office was a surefire way to increase business at the vet’s medical practice, as well as a newfound income.

For some strange reason, it took several years before the big-box store operators realized that adding a grooming department to their stores would increase their revenue. They did this by simply adding a glass-encased room to some of their stores and stocking it with groomers and grooming managers they found or trained. Thus began their jump onto the grooming wagon!

Nowadays, the latest trend is for new franchisors to sell their franchise arrangements that feature combination grooming services and retail pet supplies countrywide. I believe this is a golden opportunity for any established groomer to add an attractive, wellstocked retail store to their business. This can be done by either carefully selecting one of these franchises or setting up your own business.

You already have the grooming knowledge and the customers to help by

Sam Kohl

In fact, Philip has used one of his Air Force Commanders for nearly 20 years. More grooming salons and pet owners depend on MetroVac than any other brand for power, performance and durability. Our nearly indestructible lineup also includes the hands-free Top Gun Stand Dryer, the hand-held QuickDraw and the epic power of the iconic Master Blaster. There’s a MetroVac pet dryer to fit any budget. It’s no wonder we’re the #1 choice worldwide for over 35 years.

support your endeavor, and your clientele probably buys their pet food and supplies from other sources, so why not grow your own business first before a new competitor appears in your town or close to you?

If needed, most pet product manufacturers will gladly offer helpful advice in setting up a retail operation for you. However, do not let them oversell their products to you!

Most importantly will be how attractive you make the surroundings.  Even if the store’s area isn’t huge, it is eye appeal that counts. No need to spend outrageous sums of money to make the addition, creativity will do the trick, and surprisingly well!

With your artistic groomer’s eye, I’m sure you can do it successfully. With best wishes—go get it! &

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

Timesaving

Features of Grooming Business-Specific Software

by Erin McCarthy & Jeff Brodsly

Groomers are artists; amazing artists. But running a grooming business takes so much more than being just an artist.

As a small, medium or large business owner, how much time do you and your employees spend on everything but your craft? How much time do you spend booking, confirming and following up on appointments, taking phone calls, collecting customer payments and all the other essential but not fun administrative tasks?

Ask yourself this: If you could spend next to zero time on these tasks, would your business be more profitable?

In today’s environment, there are so many tools that salon owners and

their groomers can utilize to work more efficiently…yet many do not. This article will explain how you can grow your business with four simple technology solutions to get you out of the day-today business monotony, make you more money and refocus your energy on the tasks you care about.

Are you using an off-the-shelf booking, client management or credit card system not specific to the grooming industry? Or maybe even pen and paper? If so, we get it. You are running your business the best way you know how.

But consider this thought: Would you use an old pair of kitchen scissors to shape a topknot? Sure, the kitchen scissors may work; but are they going to

give you the same results that using a pair of freshly sharpened curved shears would give you? Definitely not likely!

To be fair and offer a realistic analogy, the same goes for using any sort of software system that is not designed specifically for the grooming industry. It may work, but not in a way that will get the job done faster, better and smarter.

So, if you don’t use kitchen scissors, why would you use a nonspecialty software product? You probably wouldn’t if you knew the true benefits that industry-specific software has to offer, just like you know the difference between kitchen scissors and that pair of shears you splurged on at Groom Expo. The right industry-specific software with features like online reservations, automated appointment reminders/ confirmations and text-to-pay can help you work smarter, not harder.

1. Online Reservations. I know what some of you are thinking; “Customers scheduling their own appointments is something I’ve had actual nightmares about, NO THANKS!” But online booking technology has grown so much in the past few years, and with all the different customizations and safeguard options available, there is no reason you cannot have the schedule you want without the hassle of doing the scheduling yourself.

Set up your software to require your approval before an appointment is added to your schedule. This way you still get the final say, but spend just five minutes a day approving your clients’ booking requests vs spending hours doing it all manually. Wouldn’t you love to cut down on time spent flipping through the calendar, looking for open appointments when you could be grooming?

“I have come into the world as a light, so no one who believes in me should stay in darkness”

If you could increase your retail/ add-on service sales by up to 80%, would that money help your business? When a customer calls in to make an appointment, you probably don’t have time to explain all the different extra services and upsells your salon offers; or, in many cases, your front desk staff may simply not be comfortable trying to sell other services or items. With online reservations, most software does this for you. Ten-dollar teeth brushing? Twentydollar luxury spa package? Five-dollar nail grinding? Those numbers add up fast!

Do you know what else adds up fast? The amount of time and money lost on no-shows. Online reservations give you the option to charge a deposit at the time of booking, which has been proven to drastically reduce the rate of no-shows and keep your customers accountable. Most online booking systems also come with a customer-facing portal, speeding

up the new customer intake process and allowing existing customers to see their appointment history, upload vaccination records and more.

2. Automated text messages. Hang up the phone and say goodbye to reminder calls. By using software with integrated text messaging, you can send out automated appointment reminders without lifting a finger. Text messaging offers more flexibility than a traditional phone call because it allows customers to respond quickly and in situations where they may not be able to talk on the phone. In most software, customers can conveniently reply “YES” to automatic reminder texts and their appointment will be marked as confirmed in your software system.

With automated text messages and online reservations, you can easily reduce your administrative work by hours each day. We all love the

With today’s innovative software and technology, you can automate so many of the tasks that interrupt your workflow and consume the valuable time you could spend doing what you love.

convenience of getting these texts from our doctors, dentists and hairdressers, so why not offer this same great experience to your clients, while also saving you time?

3. Integrated credit card processing. Integrated credit card processing allows you to keep track of your payments and finances in one place, making it easy to stay organized. By using integrated payments, you can save an average of 60 minutes of staff time per day (30 appointments x 2 minutes = 60 minutes SAVED!). Additionally, you’ll be able to improve the client experience, prevent the chance of manual entry errors and stop wasting time comparing invoices with your batch reports, trying to track down that missing five dollars.

4. Text-to-pay. With text-to-pay, it’s easy to streamline your checkout

process. Not only will you save staff time, but you’ll get your clients in and out of your facility much faster. One of the many benefits of using text-topay is that it's a secure way to send invoices and receive payments via text message. All transactions are encrypted so you can be sure that your customers’ information is safe and sound. And because it's so convenient, text-to-pay is perfect for busy pet groomers who are always on the go.

Imagine being able to go into your software, check a box that shows your groom is done, and a text goes out to your client letting them know the pet is ready for pick-up with a link to pay their invoice and the option to add a tip. The client can then simply walk into your facility, grab their pet with zero paperwork or payments to complete, and you can both get back to your days.

Many grooming software providers also allow you to securely store customer credit card information in the form of encrypted tokens. Keeping customer payment information not only speeds up the check-out process, but also protects your business by ensuring you are compensated for no-shows and lastminute cancellations (this is especially helpful during the holiday season).

The bottom line is this: We all want to work hard and make money, but most of us got started in the pet care industry for the pets, not for the bookkeeping and administrative chores. But with today’s innovative software and technology, you can automate so many of the tasks that interrupt your workflow and consume the valuable time you could spend doing what you love.

Technology is constantly improving, so shop around, ask for demos and make sure whatever system you are using to manage your business is the right fit for your unique needs.

Remember, working smarter, not harder will save you time and money. Leverage what is out there today and get back to doing what you love! &

Erin McCarthy is Kennel Connection’s Marketing Manager/Software Design Consultant, and professional pet groomer for nearly a decade. Jeff Brodsly, owner/CEO of Kennel Connection and 100GROUP, adds 15 years of experience listening to clients' pain points and providing them with technology solutions to improve their businesses. After 28 years in the industry, Kennel Connection launched Hello-Groom, web-based software designed specifically for groomers. The team is stacked with pet care professionals who build software based on their hands-on experience and invaluable feedback from people like you. Hello-Groom offers best-in-class software, credit card processing, business insurance, phone systems, and 2-way-SMS, supported by a dedicated customer service team. www.hello-groom.com

by

There is a lot of confusion around the topic of shedding and de-shed services. Understanding why cats shed and how we as groomers can help cat owners control shedding will aid you in better servicing your feline clients. When we are able to explain shedding to clients and offer them a variety of options, it develops trust and respect within the groomerclient relationship.

Why Cats Shed

First, there is a misunderstanding about why cats shed. There are several reason, but the shedding that owners mostly notice (and the reason behind the infamous “lion-cut season”) is triggered by the number of hours of sunlight. People tend to blame the heat for shedding because the warmer temperatures are usually tied to the increase of sunlight hours. And since humans are more negatively affected by heat than sunlight, they make the correlation with the heat instead of the number of sunlight hours.

My business will observe a spring and fall shedding season right when we start thinking it is “always light” or “always dark” outside. When this observation is noted, we detect our trash filling up with more dead coat from our regular clients. Four weeks later is when we start getting complaints of shedding, and six to eight weeks later is when the pelt removals start coming in.

Another reason cats shed is stress. Have you ever finished a groom, showed the cat to the owner and a few hours later gotten a complaint that the cat is shedding everywhere? That is a stress response. It can be triggered by how the owner caught the cat to get it to you, the car ride, the actual grooming process, the trip home or what happens immediately after the cat arrives home.

Felines can also shed due to non-grooming-related stressors. When a family has a significant schedule change, house guests, goes out of town, gets a new family member or pet, or there are other interruptions to the feline’s daily routine, shedding can be triggered.

Deborah Hansen

Shedding is a natural biological process. Sometimes we forget that cats are mammals and that each hair follicle on a mammal goes through a natural growth, resting and shedding stage. (Some consider a fourth transitional stage when referring to hair growth.) The basics of hair growth will require maintenance to keep the coat that is dropped during the shedding stage from accumulating in a way that annoys the family or is dangerous to the feline. Due to the cyclical nature of the growth cycle, there will never be a one-step solution to solve shedding.

While medical issues can also cause shedding, it is more common that the increase or decrease of the number of hours of sunlight or stressors in the home environment is the root of the shedding that the family is observing. Families should be encouraged to discuss shedding concerns with their veterinarian.

Why Shedding Needs Addressed

Most families prefer to live with a cat that has their shedding under control. People do not appreciate cat fur on their clothes, furniture or floor. And while shedding is an annoyance for humans, it can cause medical emergencies for the cat.

When a cat removes dead coat by licking their body, the coat is digested. Digested coat has three options: First it can be regurgitated as a “hairball;” second, the ingested coat is passed through the digestive system and will be noticeable in the fecal matter; and the last outcome is for the coat to cause an internal blockage. And this can result in a medical emergency. If cats with full blockages due to ingesting coat do not have surgery, they will die. While the family

see the blockage forming, this

Also keep in mind that if any of the dead coat is trapped in the living coat, or if all of the dead coat from one shedding episode is not removed, issues like matting and pelting tend to begin. This is the point where professional help will be needed.

The Groomer’s Role

As groomers, we have several ways to help these families. While nothing will stop the natural process of dropping dead coat, there are options to control shedding.

The first option is obviously a lion cut. Lion cuts are great for families that want to wait over 10 weeks between professional grooming appointments. A four-to-six week lion cut schedule seems to give peace of mind to the families that have had multiple blockages surgically removed. When performing a lion cut to prevent shedding, make sure the family understands that even a cat with a lion cut will shed due to the natural growth cycle of the hair follicle.

A regularly scheduled, full-coat groom will also manage the amount of dead coat found around the home and that is being ingested by the cat. Depending on the genetics of the cat, this could be as often as every two weeks to as long as every ten weeks. Breeds and mixes with short, dense, fine coats, like some short-hair exotics, might only be able to go two weeks between grooms for optimal shed control. Other short-hair breeds or mixes with less dense and courser coats might be able to make it ten weeks before shedding becomes a problem.

Sometimes there can be confusion on what is meant by a “full-coat groom.” I am referring to a comb-out followed by a water bath with two complete shampooings, then the

use of a force dryer until the coat is completely dry, concluding with a full comb-out. This is the minimum that is needed to control shedding.

In my business, de-shed services are on top of the full-coat groom. My deshed add-on is a suction de-shed service. I like to show my clients the value by taking a picture of their cat and the pile of coat I comb out on one side and the pile of coat I vacuum off on the other.

This promotes the de-shed add-on and encourages clients to request the service at every appointment.

The topic of shedding can be very confusing for everyone. Once you understand the basics, you can be better prepared to educate your clients and help them make the best choice for their family and the cat they love. &

Groomer To Groomer

by Kathy Hosler

Within the new digital version, the traditional magazine layout is reworked into a fully digital format that can be viewed on any device without needing any downloads or apps.

other. The magazine grew and soon had subscribers throughout the country.

Barkleigh has always been on the cutting edge, determined to provide their readers with unparalleled, comprehensive industry coverage. In addition to the print version, it became available to read online at groomertogroomer.com. It was just the second magazine in the United States to offer that option to their readers.

Through the years, technology has changed and, true to its roots, Groomer To Groomer is “leading the pack” to present new technology to its readers.

Groomer To Groomer will continue to be a print magazine, but what has changed is the revolutionary new digital platform version. Now, you can experience the magazine and its content in an all new interactive setting.

Within the new digital version, the traditional magazine layout is reworked into a fully digital format that can be viewed on any device without needing any downloads or apps, allowing you to have your favorite industry magazine with you wherever you go. One-hundred percent of the print content will be captured in the new digital design.

Even more remarkable, the digital version contains additional enhanced features and content that is not available in the print version. For

example, if you are reading an article about Asian Fusion grooming, you may be able to click and listen to an audio file or instantly watch a video demonstration of a related groom.

Share-ability is another fantastic feature of the online platform. You can share part of an article, the full article or the entire magazine on every social platform. Suppose there is an article about maintaining a doodle at home between professional grooming sessions. You can immediately share it with your doodle clients or all of your social media followers, which is a great way to educate and inform others, and a huge opportunity to reinforce your standing as a knowledgeable professional.

Even the advertisements have an exciting new look. With just one click,

you can instantly go to the advertiser’s website or see a new tool or piece of equipment in operation. With a print magazine, you either have to call the advertiser on the phone or send them an email to get more information about their products.

Another great feature is that the digital version will be accessible to everyone. Anyone in the world can do a Google search on a grooming topic, and if anything on the subject has been published in an issue of Groomer To Groomer, just one click will take them to the article.

To see this revolutionary, educational and entertaining new format for yourself, take a look at the exciting first issue: https://digital.groomertogroomer. com/issue/september-2022/ &

by Blake Hernandez

Before

T

his short and sassy Bichon modification hits all the right spots for the Bichon fancier.Whether it's a purebred show dog or a mixed mutt in drag, a round, cute face with a manageable body is a win with most pet owners.

Fig 1) Start right where the dog’s shoulder blades meet and clip to your desired length. For my clients on a sixto-eight-week rotation, I recommend a 1/2" guard comb over a #30 blade on the top line.

Fig 2) Next you’ll bring that same length around the ribs and underneath the dog’s brisket.

Fig 3) Then switch to a #5F in reverse, going from the dog’s Adam’s apple up to the throat latch.

Fig 4) In order to show angulation in the rear, you will take a shorter length than the body (in this case a 1/4") and clip from the pin bone down to behind the knee.

Fig 5) To add some balance, you must go longer on the legs. For this trim I used 1" guard all around the rear leg.

Fig 6) For continuity, you will do the same thing on the front legs.

ARCHITECTURAL DOG WASH TUBS

Fig 7) For Bichons, it's OK to keep the feet down and scissor around them. Shape a nice round foot with a tight bevel.

Fig 8) With the tail held over the back, trim away any of the hair that draws the eye away from the center of the dog.

Fig 9) Moving on to the face, shave the top lip and just one or two lines of hair on the bottom lip just beneath the nose.

Fig 10) Next, clip the stop with a #10 blade to help make the eyes pop.

Fig 11) Comb the hair towards the eyes and trim the hair away from the eyes at a 45-degree angle.

Fig 12) In that tight throat latch that you clipped, use a curved scissor reversed to separate the head from the body.

FIG. 9

FIG. 10

FIG. 11

FIG. 12

FIG. 13

Fig 13) Starting at the bottom of the head, shape a tight lip and round out toward the ears.

Fig 14) Once you get even with eye level, you will turn your scissor up to help create a round head from every angle. Then repeat on the other side.

Before I had any nice Bichons to practice on, I had tons of curly mixed breeds. I would practice and practice on all sorts of mixes, as long as I could make them fluffy. So this trim would work on mixed breeds as well. This is also a nice trim because the ears are short and manageable. &

FIG. 14

Endless Operation

Portable, for mobile groomers or shops

Gradually chills (cools down) clipper blade temperature without dulling the blade

Environmentally friendly

Chilly Blade is a cooling device for clipper blades www.chillyblade.com

User friendly, can be placed on a table top or installed on walls

t is a lovely day, and one of my favorite dogs is in for his grooming session. He is an 11-year-old Boerboel named Joey that comes every month. I get him up onto the table and, in typical Joey fashion, he sits on his bum and stretches his front feet out toward his head.

I grin and ask, “Comfy?”

by Anjie Coates

Photo by Anjie Coates

Joey: “Oh yes, very comfy. I love table time.”

“I know buddy, I know,” I say as I shave the fuzz off the top of his feet so he doesn’t slip on the hardwood at home.

Joey: “That tickles!” He says while wiggling about.

Joey: “OK. Do I get a treat for being good boy?”

“Yes, so you’ve said many times,” I reply as I begin to file his nails.

“I know Mr. Tickletoes, I’m going quick. I have to do this though or you’ll slip on the floors and throw out a hip or something,” I say as I finish the last foot.

Joey: “I never slip. It’s called gliding, and it’s done on purpose.”

“Yes, you get a treat for being a good boy,” I tell him as I grab a freeze-dried beef liver treat and a drool rag.

Joey: “Tickles!” He wiggles.

“Yeah, well, you almost glided into your Dad at suppertime,” I remind him. “Let’s eliminate all the sliding and gliding and keep everyone safe, shall we?”

Joey swallows the treat then makes faces at me while I wipe his mouth. “I love you honey, but I don’t love your drool on my head,” I say.

“Well there isn’t enough to clip them; there’s barely anything there. You’ve been putting in road work I see,” I say to him.

Joey: “We go for walks all the time now. Bad vet.”

Joey: “Love is drool.”

“Bad vet?” I inquire.

“Erm, well…,” I murmur as his rolls of chub are jiggling as I brush him. “I suppose there may be a bit extra Joey to love, but exercise is good for you. You want to be here to have lots more spa days, don’t you?”

Joey: “He implied I was heavy.”

“He did? What did he say?” I ask, not at all surprised by this revelation.

Joey: “He said, ‘He’s fat!’ Can you believe that?”

Joey: “I love spa days.” He grins and kisses me across my eyeball.

“Gak! Thanks, honey,” I say as I rub the slobber off of my face.

Joey: “Yup! I good boy.”

“I love you Joe, you’re the best boy,” I say with a chuckle.

Joey: “Best boys get treats!”

“Not until they’re done, they don’t get any more treats,” I say as I get ready to clean his ears. “Joe, what are you growing in there? Your ears have never been this dirty. It’s all road dirt. Bleh.”

Joey: “See? Exercise bad.”

“You’re all done! Shall we go get your picture taken?” I ask as I unclip the loop.

“Erm…you already ate it,” I say as I put the bathrobe on him.

I snap a few pictures and say, “Nice job!” as I offer him the last tiny piece.

Joey: “YES!” He yanks me toward the picture room, making me thankful yet again for the dry deck.

Joey looks around for the treat he ate as if he could see it, then looks at me.

Joey: “Are you making one treat three treats?”

“If I die on the way there no one gets treats,” I exclaim.

I offer him the second treat between my fingers so this time he knows it’s there and say, “OK, look at the camera, buddy!”

Joey: Hops onto the picture platform and sits, “Ready for treat!”

Joey smiles at me.

“Well…your Dad is working hard to help you lose weight so…,” I murmur.

I quietly tear a small treat into three pieces, “OK, here you go.” And I pop one of the tiny pieces in his mouth.

Joey: “Ready for the treat!” After he swallowed the tiny piece without even noticing it was in his mouth.

Joey: “If I do good and I do road work like Dad says, can I go back to having regularsized treats?”

I chuckle and reply,

SHOW SCHEDULE

MASSACHUSETTS

NEW ENGLAND GROOMING SHOW October 2023 Sturbridge, MA www.newenglandgrooms.com

OHIO

PETQUEST 6/22/2023 - 6/25/2023 Wilmington, OH www.pqgroom.com

TEXAS

GROOM TEXAS 7/22/2023 - 7/24/2023 Houston, TX www.txgroom.com

ILLINOIS

ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/9/2023 - 8/13/2023 Schaumburg, IL www.aagroom.com

NEW JERSEY

INTERGROOM 3/30/2023 - 4/2/2023 Secaucus, NJ www.intergroom.com

WASHINGTON

NORTHWEST GROOMING SHOW 3/16/2023 - 3/19/2023 Tacoma, WA www.nwgroom.com

OTHER INDUSTRY EVENTS

GROOM'D 3/10/23 - 3/122023 Georgia International Convention Center College Park, GA • www.groomd.org

CALIFORNIA

GROOM EXPO WEST 2/16/2023 - 2/19/2023 Pasadena, CA www.groomexpowest.com

PENNSYLVANIA

GROOM EXPO 9/7/2023 – 9/10/2023 Hershey, PA www.groomexpo.com

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE 11/6/2023 – 11/9/2023 Hershey, PA www.petboardingexpo.com

info@barkleigh.com (717) 691– 3388

earthbath® Launches New Treatment Balm

earthbath’s new Treatment Balm is the only pet balm made with over 30% Nilotica shea butter in addition to aloe vera and coconut oil to help soothe and nourish dry, itchy, cracked skin on dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens over six weeks old. Easy to use, pet parents, groomers and veterinarians can simply apply earthbath’s Treatment Balm directly to dry noses, cracked paws, calluses, skin folds, hot spots, open wounds, and abrasions to help promote healthy skin and healing. This vegan formula does not contain any beeswax or other animal by-products, and is made in the USA with domestic and imported materials. www.earthbath.com

Lyxvara™ Puppy Tearless Shampoo

Tearless Puppy Shampoo is a uniquely gentle cleansing and conditioning formula that will leave a dry coat soft, shiny, and healthy. But don’t let the name fool you! It is specially formulated for both dogs and cats. The shampoo contains aloe vera and gentle proteins that leave a soft, fluffy coat but is also mild enough for use on an animal’s face and on baby animals such as puppies and kittens over four weeks of age. Available on Swedencare USA’s website at us.swedencare.com

STEALTH

TABLE

The Blackworks Stealth Grooming Table is the industry’s most innovative grooming table with game-changing features and a sleek, modern design. Find out why this will be the last table you buy!