Total Grooming Magazine April 2021

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk APRIL 2021

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Contents

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s we prepare to emerge from lockdown, the groomers battle over funding inequalities continue and we find out how they are progressing.

We also find out how groomers are faring in the USA and how the support over there compares to the UK. After the grand finale of Pooch Perfect, we go behind the scenes with finalist, Lakhi as he shares his experiences as a contestant.

If you would like to feature in the magazine or have some content ideas that you would like us to explore, contact: editor@ totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

Editor www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

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Lakhi gives an insight into life as a contestant on Pooch Perfect

Contents 04 New 06 News 08 Covid hardship and an update on the battle for fair funding 14 Lakhi gives an insight into life as a contestant on Pooch Perfect 20 Groomer, Jenny Farrell provides an insight into grooming in a pandemic in the USA

On the cover: Christies Direct www.christies direct.com 028 2766 6879

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk APRIL 2021

KAYLA CAN CUT IT Christies Direct’s new brand ambassador is ready for the challenge

24 Budget update 26 Retail opportunities and how it can add value to the salon offer

Editor

Design and Production

Sue Corfield – editor@totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

Grant Waters – grant@cimltd.co.uk James Taylor – james@cimltd.co.uk T: 01795 509108

Commercial Director Mike Smith – mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk T: 01795 509110

Account Manager Becky Smith – becky@tgmpublishing.co.uk

Credit Facilities Manager Natalie Murray – creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk T: 01795 509103

24

Budget Update

30 Guide to handstripping by Heidi Anderton 34 Paws for thought visits Anrich grooming school 42 American groomer, Lindsee Lee shares her views on when to move salon

© 2020 TGM Publishing Limited, The Goods Shed, Jubilee Way, Faversham, Kent ME13 8GD. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical or physical – without express prior permission and written consent of the publisher. Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and addressed envelope. Manuscripts should be type written. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic, belongs to TGM Publishing Limited. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher. The Publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Total Grooming Magazine | 3

SPONSORED BY

News and Product Round-up Pooch Perfect Prize

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he Shropshire pet care company which supplied the equipment for the dog grooming television series Pooch Perfect has now organised a charity competition featuring a unique memento of the show.

Mutneys Professional Pet Care Ltd, based near Market Drayton, supplied most of the equipment for the prime time BBC dog grooming series presented by actress Sheridan Smith.

The TV show featured 16 leading pet groomers over eight programmes of pet grooming competition. It culminated in the crowning of Kelly

Davis as the Top Dog Groomer.

Equipment supplied by Mutneys for the show included electric grooming tables, dog baths, dryers, trimmers, brushes, shampoos and conditioners.

Mutneys Directors, Stephanie and Jamie Roberts, took the chance during filming to have one of the company’s SuperTub dog baths signed by Sheridan Smith and all the Pooch Perfect finalists including the winner, Kelly.

They have now launched a charity raffle with the SuperTub as the prize to raise funds for Shropshire animal charity Grinshill Animal Rescue.

Mutney’s Jamie Roberts explained

that the raffle was a good way for the company to give something back to a local rescue organisation as a result of its involvement in the show.

“The bath itself is worth over £1,500 but it is a special, one-off piece of grooming memorabilia. We believe the raffle will attract a lot of interest and raise much needed funds for Grinshill Animal Rescue who do a fantastic job.” he said.

Tickets will cost £10 and are available on the Mutneys website https://www. mutneys.com/shop/signed-pooch-perfectsuper-tub-raffle-ticket/ .The raffle will run from March 10th to April 30th 2021.

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orwest, the UK’s leading provider of canine and feline herbal treatments, has launched Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive – providing a whole new target market for this already hugely popular product. An even gentler version of their best-selling dietary supplement, Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive is ideal for young animals and those with specific sensitivities.

New Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive has been developed to provide all the wholebody benefits of the original product, but with an even more gentle formula.

So, whether it’s a proneness to digestive upsets, having to be careful because of certain medical conditions or just because they are still young, now no cat or dog has to miss out on the benefits of this super supplement! With a milder flavour too, even sensitive palates are catered for.

Explaining why Dorwest decided to develop Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive, Jo Boughton-White, MD of Dorwest says, “Our unique Keeper’s Mix® product is one of our most popular, but we wanted 4 | www.christiesdirect.com

to develop this concept further, with a new formulation that suits even the most sensitive of pets and especially targeted to the specific needs of puppies and kittens.’

The blend of herbs is perfectly balanced to be gentle on the gut and other organs but still provide a powerful hit of natural antioxidants (to neutralise free radicals), vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds. The benefits are clear to see, with a wonderfully thick and healthy coat, good pigmentation, and improved overall health.

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New Network for Grooming and Pet Qualifications

Fern Gresty of iPET Network and Four Paws Groom School

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‘ by grooming professionals for grooming professionals’ training provider is expanding its reach and has teamed up with the National Animal Courses Direct brand to offer students iPET Network Ofqual regulated qualifications.

Animal Courses Direct has joined forces with Four Paws Groom School and Pet Training Courses to deliver the practical element of the iPET Network dog grooming qualifications. iPET Network is an Awarding Organisation set up by groomers Fern Gresty and Sarah Mackay, who are working hard to set the industry standard high for a range of animal services.

As well as qualifications in pet grooming, iPET Network offers courses including Canine Nutrition, Dog First Aid and Dog Walking, which help to level-up a whole range of petbased businesses.

Sarah and Fern said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have teamed up with three amazing education providers, all of whom have seen the benefits and

6 | www.christiesdirect.com

excellence of the qualifications we offer.

“Our courses are created by people who work in the industry and are delivered in a way which allows existing professionals to level up, as well as welcoming brand new people into the industry with open arms.”

The three new Level 3 Ofqualregulated qualifications are Introduction to Dog Grooming, Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling and Dog Grooming and Salon Management.

Each of the courses have different lengths of practical time in the industry, from five days to thirty days, all of which will be spent at a Four Paws Groom School or Pet Training Courses location currently centralised in Cheshire.

The courses are open to anyone aged 16 or over, and are being billed as a great alternative for school leavers who want to obtain an A-Level equivalent.

But the courses will also appeal to the legions of people who have reconsidered their lives during the lockdowns, or been put out of work due to changes in their existing industry.

Learning is flexible and can be booked to suit the needs of the student, meaning that courses can be fitted in around existing employment.

Kim Pearce, Director of Animal Courses Direct, said: “Animal Courses Direct is passionate about improving the standards of animal welfare through education.

“We are delighted to now be offering three pioneering Ofqual approved qualifications in dog grooming, newly developed by the sector-specific Awarding Organisation, iPET Network.

“The qualifications include valuable hands-on training, and the materials place specific emphasis on the care and welfare of dogs; this aligns with our ethos of ensuring excellent standards of care for animals across the sector through the provision of quality training provision.”

For more information you can visit the course pages on canine qualifications and training: https://animalcoursesdirect.co.uk/ our-courses/canine-courses/

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Groomers’ Funding Battle Continues

Groomer and support group organiser Sarah Colquitt of The Groomers Kennel (TGK) & Puss ‘N’ Pooch Salon, shares an update on the battle for funding as groomers’ plights still remains largely unheard by the masses:

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he more members we gather, the more we can try to help and by supporting each other and sharing our individual battles with different Councils our knowledge expands which gives us more peoplepower to fight as a collective. Groomers are not alone, a unity has now formed, in an industry where there was little of it before.

When TGK launched on the 11th of January 2021 our fight was regarding the Local Restrictions Support Grant – LRSG (CLOSED) Grant - but this was only for salons with rateable premises and as we wanted to include all groomers, we soon learned more about the ARG Additional Restrictions/

8 | Total Grooming Magazine

Discretionary Grant to assist all the home-based and mobile groomers too.

At the time of writing the last article we had managed to convince 94 Councils into awarding the LRSG Grant to groomers and we were going strong, whilst also advising on how to handle the process for the ARG’s and what to expect Councils to request during the application.

What soon became clear is this varies greatly similarly to the LRSG. Homebased and mobile groomers were being put through an obstacle course to receive the ARG. We found ourselves joking that some Councils wanted to know your inside-leg and bra-size, whilst others simply asked for three

months’ worth of bank statements.

The differences in approach and attitude from Councils became even more apparent, along with the incompetency displayed too. Many discrepancies were coming to light, such as some were demanding applications signed off by Chartered Accountants with a Pro-Forma, others were claiming the ARG was only for Limited Companies, and a few stated it wasn’t available for domestic premises, the variety of responses was quite shocking.

Many Councils are uncontactable and applicants were told to not contact them for six weeks, whilst others were paying out grants within a couple

of weeks. We were fully aware that this would vary due to the amount of current applications that each council was dealing with across all businesses.

However, many members waited weeks and would later receive requests for further information, delaying the process further and sometimes ending in members being told the application deadline had now passed.

There are groomers out there who have not received a penny and have been living on fresh air since the start of this year, never mind the financial impact from the previous year and November lockdown, especially as we weren’t awarded grants for that period either and we have fought to have grants backdated.

When our previous article was submitted we advised groomers to contact the BEIS to request support and a change in classification for our industry to enable the Local Authorities to pay out grants according to the same rules that the hospitality and retail 10 | Total Grooming Magazine

industry are under, which allows ‘Click & Collect’ and ‘Takeaway/Delivery’ whilst still receiving full grant support, yet meanwhile we are restricted to ‘Welfare’.

As this is at an average of 5-10% of a Groomers trade whilst being told we’re entitled to no support due to not being classed as ‘Open’, ‘Closed’, ‘Essential’ or ‘Non-essential’. The BEIS responded on the 26th of February, ignoring our pleas and stating that Dog-Groomers were not entitled to the LRSG and that any Council paying the grant after the 26th of February would be investigated and any grants paid post the 26th would have to be returned.

This was a kick in the teeth for the members who had received notification prior to this telling them to expect money in the next 7+ days this put an immense level of stress and anxiety on groomers whilst we tried to figure out what we could do next. The BEIS stated all groomers were only entitled to now apply for the ARG and yet the

inconsistency of responses increased confusion.

We had eagerly awaited Boris’ last announcement with eager ears, his roadmap out of lockdown left many of us believing it was the 12th of April for returning to normal trading. We waited with bated breath for DEFRA & CFSG to update guidance. On the 3rd of March when the Budget was announced a wave of excitement spread regarding Restart Grants but here at TGK we felt we would also potentially be refused that grant too in light of the battle we have had so far and our main focus still needed to be on attempting to overturn the classification. We looked to our supporting bodies and hoped they would back us to receive the fair treatment we deserve.

We were met with silence, as frustrations and anxieties worsened many groomers were left in a situation where they had no choice other than to start bending or breaking the rules, even if they’d been following them

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in the first place, because living on nothing, especially for those with families is not an option. We tried to get DEFRA to acknowledge the situation and to do what was necessary, but sadly nothing happened. On the 12th of March eventually an update appeared for the animal industry with guidance across the board, sadly the one industry that they didn’t seem to have any information for was the groomers.

Stating in ‘Step 1B’ (No earlier than 29/03/) ‘The Government has not yet provided revised guidance to groomers.

We propose welfare grooming only as in the current protocol until further information is available’ - ‘Step 2’ (No earlier than 12/04/) ‘Grooming should follow guidance for non-essential retail, more information to come in due course’.

Yet there was a key piece within that line, the words ‘Non-Essential’ what we have been fighting for all along, which should allow us to receive the grants.

We were left with an understanding that we are looking at the 12th of April at the earliest with the Restart Grant support without a fight.

On the 18th of March guidance was received by all Councils for the forthcoming Restart Grant support for April onwards and finally we have been named on the non-essential list stating that we will be entitled to the Restart Grant up to the value of £6K (if you’re a rateable business) fantastic news for the grooming industry as a whole but sadly not for our home-based and mobile groomers.

We are currently investigating financial support options for them in April. Happy as we are to eventually hear this news, we are not going to let lie the previous grants that many groomers have been refused now we’ve been deemed as non-essential, surely that means all groomers who were refused are now entitled to request a review of this decision. There is a small window of time left in which to do this as the deadline for the January grants closes on the 31st of March. We will be preparing new templates requesting a review of their initial decision based on this new information.

12 | Total Grooming Magazine

What has come to light is a major failing in the way the Government gave discretion to Councils in the first place. This should not have happened, it should have been a clear-cut set of rules, not allowing each Council to pick and choose what criteria they would like to set.

This hasn’t just affected our industry; many other industries are suffering in exactly the same way.

It’s a disgrace to think our country is being run this way, it shouldn’t be a postcode lottery! So please if you’re not already a member, come along and join us at: www.facebook.com/groups/ thegroomerskennel where we’ll do

our best to advise and support you and help you work your way through the roadmap of traffic-jams and diversions and let’s hope we can save as many Salons as possible by helping each other in our time of need. The wonderful Colin Taylor; World Class Groomer and Judge of BBC1’s ‘Pooch Perfect’ showed his support and kindly did a podcast with myself which aired on the March 3rd where we discussed in depth the situation Dog groomers across the UK are in, you can hear it at: www. buzzsprout.com/1343569 so please tune in for some heated chat.

Lakhi as Seen on TV

Lakhi has been grooming for nearly 30 years and has a salon and training school: Posh Pets Academy, Bournville, Birmingham. He is an international certified Master Groomer. He shows and competes and holds demos around the country, he recently made the finals of BBC TV’s Pooch Perfect grooming series. Lakhi shares his experiences:

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s most of you know BBC recently aired a new grooming competition “Pooch Perfect” prime time viewing at last for our profession.

It involved 16 all-round groomers including myself appeared on this new venture alongside judges, Verity Hardcastle and Colin Taylor, assisted by vet Bolu Eso and hosted by Sheridan Smith and the ever so delightful Stanley who is owned and loved by top animal trainer Laura Ingall.

The original concept of the show started in Australia where it had mixed reviews and thankfully was commissioned in the UK for BBC. This all started back in January 2020 where researchers attended a grooming competition to canvas entrants.

I was unaware at the time, but a close friend, Michele Bicknell, put my name forward whilst I was competing in the ring.

I’ll thank her in person when I see her.

Eventually I received an email inviting me to go through the audition process.

I had to think long and hard before taking it further as it meant I’d be in the public eye and for several weeks I would have no contact with family, which concerned me.

However, I was assured we’d have full back up from 7 studios, which we certainly did.

It all started with an in-depth application form, hundreds applied and I was lucky enough to be invited to a zoom interview. I was asked to explain grooming processes on various

14 | Total Grooming Magazine

Lakhi at the end of one of the Pooch Perfect challenges

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breeds.

We talked about my life, grooming etc and I was told I’d be contacted if I was successful and would then have to audition with a dog.

A few weeks later I received a message that I’d been successfully accepted to the next stage which was a zoom audition grooming a dog.

Nerves set in, although I’d groomed in front of hundreds of people, this was someone watching my every move, handling and how I came across.

By now it was spring and was told we’d only be contacted if successful.

I forgot about it and continued my lockdown life until a few weeks later when I received a call to say I’d been accepted to appear on the show.

Initially I felt sick and then excited.

My confidant was Michele, she pushed me to go for it which I’m glad of.

After various checks and further meetings we were given filming dates and with Covid gripping the country strict protocols were to be put in place and these were explained.

16 | Total Grooming Magazine

Initially we had to have an assistant for which I chose a close friend called Rae but with the distancing in place that had to be scrapped as there was a limit on how many people could be in the studio.

In the end it was decided that 16 Groomers competing in four rounds of four would work best.

Fast forward to August and I boarded the train to Manchester where everything was pre arranged for us including accommodation (the beautiful hotel Football, next to the Manchester United football club grounds).

The production company looked after our every need and I was impressed by the attention to detail and their commitment to our safety.

The day before filming started was eerily quiet; we didn’t know who else was on the show and our rooms were far apart.

I remember coming out of my hotel room where I saw a young lady on the phone by the lifts, I panicked thinking she was a cleaner and I had my vape in my mouth !!! She also jumped and put

her phone away hastily.

I muttered “do you work here ?”

Expecting to be evicted for vaping in my room, to which she replied no ! She in return said “are you with Pooch ?” thinking I was part of the production team.

I replied: “no, I’m Lakhi one of the contestants” To which she replied “oh, never heard of you” to which we both laughed and a firm friendship ensued.

This young lady was Tanya Salas and later we bumped into fellow contestants for our heat: Tom Heaton-Clarke and Hannah Bowles.

We’d all been told there would be two challenges, a breed makeover which was a surprise and then our own dog walk challenge which we were provided with a brief a week or two beforehand to come up with a design. Which was showcased on the dogwalk to the owners of the dogs.

We could ask for certain breeds but it wasn’t guaranteed.

So essentially, even though we’d written our briefs and drawn our

designs, we didn’t see our dogs until the doors opened and they walked in !

We embraced this as being dog groomers we get challenges like this daily.

Stuart Simons was instrumental to this show. Coming up with the challenges and dogs - we could see him racing back and forth with headset and clipboard to ensure everything went smoothly and everyone was happy.

We started filming very early the following morning and met Sheridan who was friendly and the most downto-earth person.

Sheridan also was so calming, we had a great time with one liners, bangra dancing and stopping ourselves from giggling, much to the annoyance of the floor manager “right, do it again !”

Instantly we felt at ease as all the production team guided is through the whole process.

We saw the dog crèche and it was wonderfully laid out with handlers per dog, vet nurses, groomers and spacious pens and exercise areas. It was so tranquil.

All dogs had breaks between filming

Lakhi in the finals

18 | Total Grooming Magazine

segments and were doted on.

I don’t want to give too much away as the magic of television and in case there’s people that don’t know the results or still to watch the final.

However, the set was beautifully applied, there was considerable attention to detail, and it was cool, quiet and calm.

Minimal crew were involved so as not to worry the dogs, it was quieter than my salon !

The clock on the wall was nervewracking as in any competition but all 16 Groomers handled the dogs, timings and grooming perfectly.

I’d like to congratulate them all for being so brave and stepping out of their comfort zone.

Some of the challenges were new to me as I’m more of a traditional groomer but I embraced it and actually enjoyed it more than I thought I would.

Everything was overseen by the welfare team and Bolu the vet and the judges were calm and professional around the dogs.

It was a lovely environment to work in.

Off set we got to know everyone better, however as the challenges continued and we lost fellow groomers to eliminations it was difficult as we’d bonded so well and the personalities we couldn’t hug made it all the more emotional.

It was hard work and long hours but I’d do it again in a heartbeat as it showed the general public that we’re all for the dog and put our hearts into our work.

Whatever your thoughts are on the show, let’s please remember that this new insight into grooming is the first of its kind and I hope it will go from strength to strength, especially as so many dedicated people put a lot of love and hard work into “Pooch Perfect.” I really do hope that the general public will start to champion groomers everywhere.

I’d like to thank everyone for their support, it’s been overwhelming, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

You can catch up with all the episodes of Pooch Perfect on BBC iPlayer

COVID-19 UK vs USA

Groomer Jenny Farrell, who has grooms in the UK and the USA looks at how support for groomers differs across the Atlantic:

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he global Covid-19 pandemic has impacted many businesses around the world, in the UK dog grooming has been dramatically affected, but is the UK worse off than the USA? In the UK, groomers were first forced to close in March 2020 as the whole of the UK went into its first lockdown. All businesses except essential shops and medical services were forced to close.

Grooming salons were allowed to reopen with social distancing measures in place in June 2020.

Salons were allowed to open with less staff and less tables to ensure a 2 metre distance and PPE in place leading to reduced dogs and staff to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.

The re-opening was short lived as once again in November 2020, salons were forced to close unless carrying out grooms on matted dogs that required grooming for welfare only and medicated baths for welfare only.

This reduced the amount of clients’ groomers were allowed to take dramatically, forcing many businesses and self-employed groomers to close for a month in November 2020 lockdown.

Salons were again allowed to reopen for Christmas with social distancing in place, reduced clients and staff. All staff and clients were now required to wear masks and staff to wear PPE when working.

On January 2nd 2021 England, Wales and Scotland again went into a full national lockdown, with all but essential businesses forced to closed. Grooming was allowed to stay open but under extremely strict guidelines for welfare only, many have used this as a loophole to run their business as usual. However, those who have followed the rules once again struggled with welfare grooms only and had to close their doors due to

20 | Total Grooming Magazine

UK has thwarted groomers keen to reopen but has offered financial support to many

lack of funds.

The UK remains in lockdown until April 2021 with some measures been lifted slowly after then. Businesses such as grooming, beauty and non-essential business can look to re-open April 12th and it will be a long time before normal business is resumed within the UK.

Help and assistance in the UK Some groomers and businesses were entitled to a government grant of 80% of their 2018 earnings, staff could be furloughed (government paid % of their wages), however many groomers and businesses did not meet these grant requirements as they did not have a business or were not self-employed in 2018 meaning they did not have tax returns for 2018 - 2019.

This was a huge issue as they were not entitled to any grants or funding and forced to close or dramatically reduce their clients.

However, for some of the people and businesses that did not qualify for the grant before, they can now claim a small grant of up to £1000, which as we all know, is not enough to cover a

In the US groomers have been able to continue but for those that weren’t comfortable continuing, support was lacking

businesses out goings let alone a wage.

How has this impacted the industry The industry has been dramatically impacted throughout the UK and many have had to close their doors for good, as business rent, rates and staff outgoings with little to no in comings was not feasible.

For those businesses that have remained open or will re-open

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clients should be coming back as normal once lockdown and restrictions are lifted. However, there will be a huge struggle to make up for the lost income over the past year of closures.

As you may know I groomed and have connections to the US grooming communities since 2011. With the help of my friend and Master groomer, Lindsee Lee, who works in Palm Beach, Florida we share a glimpse of how grooming has been impacted by Covid in the USA. In the USA governments have different rules for each state, some states have had to be restricted like the UK salons. However, they have not been closed. In Florida it is the responsibility of the salon owner to close or not. Unlike the UK, Florida has no restrictions and businesses can remain open as usual, seeing all clients and not just welfare grooms.

In Florida salons have been under no rules to social distance but many owners ensure social distance is in place within their salons with tables set 8ft apart. Social distancing may reduce staff in some salons but generally speaking salons have more space in Florida than in the UK so the 8ft table 22 | Total Grooming Magazine

rule can usually be done and business remain fully staffed and open at full capacity.

How has this impacted business in Florida?

In the USA in general many businesses have been under similar restrictions to the UK salons. In Florida this has not really been an issue and business has continued as usual with social distancing measures and PPE. It is the owner’s decision if they remain open or not.

Some salons closed as owners or staff were high risk of Covid-19. Business was a little slow when the outbreak first started as people did not want to go out, masks are not mandatory in Florida but many businesses enforce them. However, people have already gone back to normal regarding visiting the dog groomer, salon or barbers. v Businesses that make less than $1,000,000 per year could apply for a loan to pay employees and support their business during the pandemic.

What is the future for dog grooming after Covid in Florida?

In Florida and most States the Covid-19 pandemic has not really had

an effect on the economy and therefore the future remains similar to before Covid for dog grooming in Florida.

That said, many businesses throughout the USA have had to close for good, including New York and California where restrictions were much harder and similar to the UK. Although the grass looks greener on the other side, I will make you all feel a little better with a little insight. The average salon rent in Florida is around £2500 - £3500 per month and you need licenses to have a salon. You will also be working a 50 hour grooming week minimum with no paid holidays, high taxes and no sick pay, in fact your health insurance would be around £450 a month if you have zero health issues and dental about the same, the cost of living is a minimum of £60,000 per year for basic living. The high cost of living and owning a salon is why Florida did not close down - people could simply not afford to.

Whereas in England, Scotland and Wales there is a lot more support overall.

Special thanks to Lindsee Lee for sharing the Florida grooming insights!

Budget Summary The Budget took place early in March. Here are the highlights:

T

he Chancellor once again pledged to do ‘whatever it takes’ during the COVID-19 pandemic and confirmed that the furlough scheme would be extended until September to support jobs through the crisis.

Mr Sunak also confirmed that the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) has also been extended, with two further grants this year.

Claimable by the self-employed who have filed their tax return for 2019/20 by midnight on 2 March 2021, these grants are also available to those newly self-employed from 6 April 2019.

The stamp duty nil-rate band on residential properties in England up to £500,000 will continue until the end of June. It will taper to £250,000 until the end of September, and then return to the usual level of £125,000 from 1 October.

Citing the latest economic forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), Mr Sunak said the economy is predicted to grow by 4% this year and by 7.3% in 2022. However,

24 | Total Grooming Magazine

despite further growth predicted for the following three years, the economy will still be 3% smaller in five years’ time than it would have been if the pandemic had not hit the economy.

To support businesses as they reopen following lockdown, £5 billion will be made available in restart grants.

Non-essential retail businesses reopening first will be eligible for up to £6,000 but the leisure and hospitality sectors, which have been worse affected and will re-open later, will be eligible for up to £18,000.

Hospitality and leisure businesses will also pay no business rates for the next three months, then rates will be discounted for the remaining nine months of the year.

However, the rate of corporation tax will increase to 25% in April 2023 for companies with profits over £250,000, whilst retaining a Small Profits Rate of 19% for companies with profits of £50,000 or less.

Turning to duties, tax on beer, wine, cider and spirits has been frozen while fuel duty will also remain frozen for an

11th consecutive year.

Mr Sunak also introduced green measures, including a new national infrastructure bank, which will open in Leeds with £12 billion capitalisation from the government, which will also offer a green retail savings product.

What industry leaders said: ‘The Chancellor has gone above and beyond to protect UK businesses and people’s livelihoods through the crisis and get firms spending.’

Tony Danker, Director General of the Confederation of British Industry ‘Extensions to furlough, business rates relief and VAT reductions give firms a fighting chance not only to restart but also to rebuild.’

Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce ‘The continuation of business rates and VAT discounts is critical, and it’s important that those in supply chains benefit from them, not just those that neatly fit the definitions of frontline retail, leisure and hospitality.’

Mike Cherry, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses

Adding Retail to a Grooming Business

By Kristian Maris, author of The Dog Grooming Business Course: How to set up and run your own dog grooming business

H

ave you heard the one about Fred? He walks into his local supermarket for a pint of milk and comes home with a new TV, a pair of trousers, pet insurance and a lottery ticket. He forgets the pint of milk.

Fred is already a regular at his supermarket and trusts their products and services. So, it’s easy to get him to purchase other things he didn’t know he needed or didn’t know they offered.

In the world of retail, this is called cross-selling.

As the owner of a dog grooming salon, you’ve got customers like Fred.

They come to you because they trust the service you provide. If you have a retail offering alongside your grooming, it’s easy to cross-sell to Fred.

Fred’s dog needs to eat. Maybe he needs a collar and a lead. A bed. Toys.

Treats. Shampoo. As somebody in the trade, you can purchase retail stock at wholesale prices and then sell them to Fred at retail prices. You keep the difference in price, the margin, as profit.

Kind of a no-brainer, right? You might have 100 customers, maybe 1000.

If you now offer them retail products – which is a service they will appreciate because it saves them having to go elsewhere – then you can increase your turnover. That is, you can make more money.

But is it as simple as this?

Cross-selling or providing additional services within your dog grooming business is not without a specific risk.

If you don’t do it right, you could 26 | Total Grooming Magazine

undermine the ‘core competency’ of your business – your grooming.

If you’re a solo groomer working from your own premises, the time and effort required for cross-selling may have a knock-on effect on your ability to groom efficiently. You might be lucky to have somebody help you - perhaps handling the retail sales and managing your bookings. But you might not have any profit left over after their wages have been paid.

On top of that, in order to offer retail you have to purchase the stock to sell.

This requires an upfront investment from you. Not everything sells, so you’ll end up with products that sit on the shelves for a long time before you finally decide to get rid of them at cost, or less.

Moreover, on a regular basis, you’ll need to re-order what you’ve sold.

This, again, is time-consuming. It adds to your workload and increases your responsibilities. Most of your re-ordering will be related to food. And your margins on food might not be that great – perhaps a couple of pounds for a 2kg bag. Unless you’re selling big volumes of food, it hardly seems worth the effort.

There is, therefore, an ‘opportunity cost’ associated with adding retail to your grooming. The time and effort required to talk and cross-sell to customers, re-order the stock on a regular basis, put it on display, price it, and keep your retail area clean and presentable. All of this will take time away from your grooming.

Adding retail to your grooming,

Kristian Maris shares his views on adding retail to your salon offer

therefore, needs carefully to be thought out before you start contacting suppliers and offering this. If the time that retail requires means you groom one or two fewer dogs per day, or per week, calculate your lost earnings.

Compare this number to your net profit from retail sales. The numbers have to make sense before you get too excited about all the lovely new retail products to offer your customers.

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Total Grooming Magazine | 27

Positioning Your Retail Offer

If you’re looking to generate additional profit, retailing may prove the answer.

Even where salon space is limited, you may want to select a few items to retail such as high quality dog treats or pet accessories. Remember to choose quality items that will reflect your own brand positioning.

E

ven if you have limited space, there are opportunities for pet treats or collars and leads. The Innocent Pet Care Company is offering a 15% discount across their full product range to invite salons to experience their brand.

They have a natural range of awardwinning air-dried dog food, treats and even an innovative dog celebration cake mix!

Birthday Cake Mix – is the UK’s first grain-free, meaty cake mix and won “Highly Commended” at industry show PATS in the treat section. They also offer a popular Christmas Cake Mix which includes British turkey as a festive flavour.

Love My Human, based in Chelsea, is one of their current groomer retailers who are retailing their product lines, including the new award-winning airdried dog food.

The Innocent Pet Care Company Limited is based in Wetherby, Yorkshire and can be contacted on 01937 841175 or visit www.theinnocentpet.co.uk | www.facebook.com/theinnocenthound | @innocenthound

Salon add-ons Other income streams that you can consider are pawdicures and facials: Keeping nails cut and filed is as much for safety as it is vanity and grooming but Pawdicures have been growing in popularity and have been taken to a new level with nail polish and nail art for 28 | Total Grooming Magazine

pooches.

It’s essential though to remember to only use animal friendly products as some human nail polishes could be toxic for pets.

Blueberry facials took LA by storm a few years ago and they did make it over to the UK, but only in high end doggie spas but they are becoming more

mainstream.

Dog fragrances are another area set to grow, there are over 100 different fragrances, ranging from Baby Fresh to Blue Lagoon.

Remember to keep your salon offers simple but effective with quality and innovation as your watch words!

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Total Grooming Magazine | 29

Handstripping Heidi is principal of Absolutely Animals and London School of Pet Grooming, with over 30 years in the business, Heidi is a highly qualified and experienced industry expert as well as an award-winning groomer, former Groom Team England member and founder member of the British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA). This month Heidi shows us a basic guideline to handstripping dogs.

H

andstripping is a term that is used in dog grooming. The term describes a technique that is used when pulling or plucking a dog hair from the root within the skin follicle.

Hand stripping simulates the natural shedding process of the coat. This process helps the hair to be removed from the follicle; which promotes the natural regrowth, colour and texture of the coat. Hand stripping can be carried out on a variety of breeds and textures of coat.

There are mainly two types of hair on a dog, a top coat hair (A Harsher Guard hair) and an undercoat hair (a softer secondary hair).

Handstripping can be carried out by hand or by using the New electric KARHIA machine.

Hand stripping can be carried out at any time as long as the hair is ready to be removed. From every week to once a year. The timing will depend on your breed and the desired look you wish to achieve.

How to hand strip Hand stripping must be carried out on a dog that is accepts it, and one where the coat is easily removed. The skin is usually kept taught behind the area being stripped; hair is removed by gripping the hair and pulling it out in the direction the coat grows; along the skin.Usually we strip from the top of the coat down but in thicker areas I find it easier to lift the coat and strip from underneath first. The tools 30 | Total Grooming Magazine

usually dictate the amount of hair being removed at one time, although removing less hair at a time, this helps the hair to be removed easily and without discomfort to the dog.

Terminology A ‘blown coat’ is one which has grown out to its maximum length. Usually seen with dogs groomed once or twice a year. A blown coat is a dead coat that has stopped growing and is essentially just dead hair left in the hair follicles.

When you hand strip, you take out all the blown dead coat so that the new coat has room to come through, leaving just an undercoat such as in the case of most pet border terriers.

Carding is a term commonly associated with hand stripping. Carding is carried out on wire coats and silky coats and is a technique of combing the undercoat out with a very fine stripping comb, carding tool or elasticated comb.

When you card the coat after stripping you will reduce the undercoat making it lay flatter and making room for the new top coat to grow through.

A Rolled coat describes the various lengths of coat which make up the Jacket. A dog which comes in every 6 weeks would have at least 2 clear

layers of hair, which make up the rolled coat. You could make more layers of hair with more frequent stripping such as in the case of a show dog, which are sometimes worked on weekly to keep them in tip top condition.

Hand Tools There are a variety of hand tools that can be used for hand stripping such as; Hand Stripping Knives, Chalks, Powders, rubber finger bobs and elastic bands wound through combs. The tool of choice usually will depend on the type of coat; the area to be worked on and the thickness of the coat.

Tool choice is usually an individual preference made by the user.

Examples of: Wire coated breeds (Wire coats, Broken coats, Coarse coats is terminology often used to describe a wire coat)

Examples of: Silky Coated Breeds

West Highland White, Border Terrier, Griffon Bruxellois, German Wire-Haired Pointer, Wire haired Dachshund, Italian Spinone, Giant Schnauzer

Irish Setter, English Setter, American Cocker, English Cocker, King Charles Spaniel, Afghan Hound,

All Setters and Spaniels can be hand stripped using the correct tools. There are other silky coated breeds some in the Toy group and Hound Group also.

Electric KarhiaHand Stripping Machine.

I have been very impressed with the new Karhia hand stripping machine.

This machine will be a great addition for those who offer a lot of hand stripping and want to cut down on the manual labour. It is especially beneficial for larger hand strip dogs.

I found it to be a lot quicker than hand stripping by hand and the dogs didn’t mind its use at all.

The machine works by moving against the lay of the coat. Rubber grips grab the hair and pulls it out in the direction of the coat; the hair does not break. You can also adjust the height of the rubber grips, which is great if you are working on a rolled coat or want to leave more hair.

When you should not hand strip You should avoid handstripping on dogs that have skin complaints, are neutered or if the dog shows a dislike to the process. It is usually accepted on most hand strip breeds to thin or clip any sensitive areas. Some dogs have sensitive skins and bodies all over, if they object to handstripping, look at why that may be, then either change your technique or find another one like clipping or thinning, which the dog enjoys.

We have a duty of care to animals in our salon and they deserve our 32 | Total Grooming Magazine

consideration and respect.This is explained in the Animal Welfare Act. One of the 5 Animal needs dictates that we shouldprotect them from pain and suffering. This extends to grooming as well as everyday general care.

Down side of handstripping Handstripping can be a lengthy process for the dog and the groomer. I actually find hand stripping quite a therapeutic process and you will get faster the more you practice. Handstripping is a skill of

rhythm and technique. You must strip using your shoulder and not flicking your wrist or you will end up with pains in your hands and arms very quickly.

If you want to learn more about handstripping in general or breed specific, please contact me or consult a specialist.

Keep inspired, motivated, informed and be happy!

Heidi Anderton LCGI ICMG Check out our shop and school at: www.absolutelyanimals.biz

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Paws for thought...

Paws for thought visits Anrich Dog Grooming School in Wigan. In 2020 during lockdown, the operation decided to expand and has invested £70,000 in an extensive state-of the-art salon and training facility.

A

nrich has been established for 35 years and its grooming training school offers courses based within the veterinary hospital environment. Alongside the school is a busy working salon with a team of five groomers offering quality grooms.

The new facilities include a purposebuilt separate bathing and drying room alongside a styling and working area with six grooming tables. The academy accommodates up to eight students at a time giving them plenty of individual tuition.

Managing director, James Weston, shares the operation’s journey: We constantly strive to develop our courses to ensure students leave us fully equipped and confident. We have formulated a course that covers every aspect of dog grooming so students feel ready to start their new careers as soon as they finish the course.

We believe in hands on training as the best way to learn and our Elite model club has a huge variety of dogs of all breeds for students to work on and our groom standards are extremely high with attention to detail. You will leave us fully equipped to embark with confidence into one of the biggest growing industries in the UK. All our students go on to have successful and rewarding careers.

This is all very different from how we started - with one tutor and a small class of four students. Alongside it we had a small working salon with one groomer. We progressed rapidly and soon needed to build a more spacious school to accommodate two tutors and an assistant and a class of eight students.

34 | Total Grooming Magazine

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One of our challenges was to expand and establish a larger client base and with time and effort we started to develop a bank of model dogs for the students to work on. We did this by offering quality grooms and also great customer service. All our team are not only great groomers but have had extensive training in customer service.

The high standard of grooming has meant we have kept a healthy client base which continues to grow. We developed an Elite model club of dogs of all breeds for the students to practice on and this means we can keep our course very hands-on and that students get the opportunity to work on a variety of different breeds.

We believe our success lies with the great team of tutors and groomers that have been with us for many years.

As our client base expanded so did our small working salon with a team of three groomers which runs alongside our school.

A huge amount of work went into developing our website and promoting the dog grooming course. With the introduction of our presentations on animal health care and first aid and

NATURAL, ECO FRIENDLY, HAND MADE PET PRODUCTS. “PROPER PAMPERING FROM PALM TO PAW”

advice on how to run a dog grooming business, we went from strength to strength and this certainly enhanced the course.

As we are based within an animal hospital and referral centre our principal vet, Richard Weston covers animal health care with the students.

We feel anyone embarking on a career as a dog groomer should have this knowledge as it is incredibly important in the world of grooming. We advise students on what equipment to buy and also how to maintain and look after it.

We feel we are offering a great package so that by the end of the five weeks students are confident enough to set out on their new career path. We have large numbers of success stories, great feedback and great reviews.

There is a huge demand for places, and students travel from all over the UK and even overseas to attend the course. We are continually improving our website and developing it. We now have a video so that students get to see what the course is all about. We also have a student log in facility and after care service to support students when the leave and start their new career.

All potential students are invited to visit us to see what our school is all about and we explain the course curriculum and discuss their plans for the future and give them as much advice as possible before they enrol on the course. They also get to see the school in action and get a feel for the place.

This has proved very successful as we are passionate about what we do and what we offer. Our course curriculum is very well organised and we continually develop it so that students get the best possible training and support. We get students from all walks of life – from young people starting out and also a lot of more mature students wanting a change of career. Students go on to open salons or work from mobile vans or from home and we give lots of advice on running their business, whichever path they decide to take. We get a lot of recommendations, which reflects how successful past students have become. I think the greatest satisfaction comes from hearing our students’ success stories. We love to keep in touch with them and hear how things are developing and are always on hand with advice should they need it.

Want to feature in Total Grooming Magazine?

Send an email to: editor@totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk, or write to us at: Total Grooming Magazine, The Goods Shed, Jubilee Way, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8GD. 36 | Total Grooming Magazine

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Battersea Highlights Increase in Dogs with Cropped Ears Leading animal rescue Battersea is calling on the Government to close loopholes in the law, as the charity revealed it saw a 200% increase in the number of dogs with cropped ears come through its gates in 2020.

E

ar cropping has been banned in the UK since 2006 but there are no regulations on dogs being imported from overseas with cropped ears - something Battersea believes is normalising the horrifying mutilation and acting as a smokescreen for breeders and owners in the UK who continue this illegal practice.

Shaun Opperman, Veterinary Director at Battersea, said: “Ear cropping is a horribly painful procedure, usually done without anaesthesia, that involves cutting off the floppy part of a puppy’s ear. It can lead to lifelong welfare problems and infections – there really isn’t any medical reason to do it, it’s just a cosmetic operation.

“The type of dogs that Battersea takes in really holds up a mirror to society and reflects pet trends.

Although the overall number of dogs with cropped ears is small in comparison to our entire intake, we’ve seen a sharp increase in these kinds of dogs coming in. We also know high-profile social media stars are often showing off their own pets with cropped ears- it may not be their intention, but it goes a long way to turning this into a trend and might encourage others to buy dogs with this mutilation.”

In 2016, Battersea took in just one dog with cropped ears. Four years later in 2020, the charity saw 12 dogs with mutilated ears coming through their gates, many of which had been imported from Eastern Europe.

Battersea has now joined a host of major veterinary bodies and animal

38 | Total Grooming Magazine

Blossom who came into the charity with one ear missing after what appeared to be a botched attempt at cropping.

welfare organisations across the UK backing a petition for the Government to address the gaps in the law allowing the practice to continue.

In one case, Battersea took in a young Mongrel puppy named Blossom who came into the charity with one ear missing after what appeared to be a botched attempt at cropping. Blossom needed extensive medical treatment after developing a serious infection as the result of the procedure. Following 87 days in Battersea’s expert care, she went on to find a loving new home.

Ear cropping is often practised on guarding breeds such as Mastiffs and Dobermanns and involves removing

the floppy part of a puppy’s ears in order to achieve a tougher and more intimidating appearance. However, these dogs are often more docile than their looks would suggest and can make incredibly loving family pets.

Shaun Opperman continued: “Even the smallest loophole in the law is too big when it comes to the pain and suffering dogs endure through ear cropping. We’re appealing to the Government to address this issue as a matter of urgency.”

To find out more about Battersea’s work, visit battersea.org.uk and to view the petition, visithttps://petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/574305.

Increase in Sentencing for Animal Cruelty Battersea is urging the Government to avoid further delays on introducing five - year sentences for animal cruelty

B

attersea has welcomed progress towards strengthening sentences for animal abusers after a longawaited change in legislation completed its passage through the House of Commons.

The leading animal welfare charity launched its campaign to increase maximum sentences for animal cruelty from six months to five years in prison in 2017. It has since gained universal support from over 60,000 members of the public and MPs across Parliament.

The Bill first introduced to the House in February 2020 has now passed its Third Reading after a protracted delay.

Battersea’s Interim Chief Executive, Peter Laurie, said: “It’s encouraging to see real progress being made to make five-year sentences a reality.

Now the Bill moves onto the House of Lords, I urge the Government to keep up the momentum and make this the law before the end of the current parliamentary term. Any further delays are unacceptable.”

Previous Bills to introduce the change in the law in England and Wales have suffered many delays and setbacks, including the last Government Bill which fell when Parliament was dissolved before the General Election in 2019. The proposal was brought back as a Private Member’s Bill by Chris Loder MP in February 2020, and his Bill passed the Committee stage earlier in February this year.

Peter continued: “Battersea will continue to stand up for innocent animals across the country no matter

40 | Total Grooming Magazine

what. England and Wales have one of the lowest maximum sentences for animal cruelty crimes in the world at just six months – it’s the same sentence you would get for fly tipping or theft.

It’s time we had a punishment to fit the crime and send out a clear message that we will not stand for this.”

Earlier this month, the owner of a dog left for dead in a river was fined just £80 after she admitted causing her pet unnecessary suffering in a Nottingham court case. Belgian Shepherd Bella now in the care of the RSPCA - was found tied to a rock and thrown in the River Trent. Cases like this show the

urgent need for stronger sentences for animal cruelty.

The Bill must now clear the same stages in the House of Lords before the end of the current parliamentary term in May to pass into law, or risk falling once again.

Battersea also campaigned successfully on this issue in Scotland.

The Scottish Government passed the law to raise maximum sentences from 12 months to five years in July 2020, bringing the law north of the border in line with that in Northern Ireland.

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When is it Time to Move on?

Florida groomer, Lindsee Lee, shares her experiences of seeking job fulfilment in the US grooming world and when you should decide to move on:

M

ost groomers have been there. I know I certainly have, several times. Unclear on whether you should stay in your current salon or move on and find a new one. There are so many factors that run through your mind when the debate starts, but they all lead to one big question: “Am I happy?”

When first starting out I tried the ‘stick it out until it gets better’ mentality and watched as my other groomer friends seemed to excel in our field. Some got better hours and shorter days, some got better jobs, some opened their own businesses, some bought cars and houses and had babies.

In the meantime, it felt like I was stuck scraping by and unable to afford to live.

That’s not to say that they were all better groomers than me, or that I was an inferior groomer, we all like to believe we’re a bit better than average and I’m no different. On one hand I am and continue to be incredibly proud of every single one of them for every accomplishment they have achieved, while on the other hand it’s disheartening questioning myself.

I’ve changed salons four times since I stumbled into the grooming industry and, while I am comfortable in my current salon, I do not see this one as my final grooming place. My previous salons were certainly memorable, filled with abuse and cruddy pay cheques and stress. My friends remind me often of the nonsense I put up with waiting for it to get better. Everyone has that small hype-team behind them pushing them for greatness, my team has three 42 | Total Grooming Magazine

Lindsee Lee

people - my wife and two other great friends. They are there for the rant fests and venting, the accomplishments, the worries, the jokes and the fun.

They helped me discover that I didn’t mess up, I’ve just been unlucky, and I am absolutely ready to make my luck change.

The first salon I ever worked in was a corporate salon, I started as a bather and after 10 months it was miserable. It was a draining and venomous place to work due to a greedy and judgmental salon manager. I decided to leave and go to a proper grooming school, and

that was the best decision of my career.

This was the one I never questioned.

I began the climb and started in a franchised grooming shop while learning, and barely five months in to working there I was blown away with how unprofessional it was. It was worse than the corporate salon, everything I was told to do contradicted what I was learning and what was safe or comfortable for human or animal. I asked myself “Am I happy?” Nope.

Time to go!

I then started in a new facility. I helped during build out - painting

Clean enough to invite your friends round...

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Great value for money.

Free samples available on request*. (*for new customers)

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walls, lacquering the floor, erecting the grooming tables, the whole shebang, and thought I was valued by the owner. They whispered sweet nothings in my ear about earning higher wages, getting a raise when we get busy, yearly bonuses, top notch grooming equipment, company paid shear sharpening, and the ever-soughtafter Insurance Benefits.

After a year it became an extremely toxic work environment due to the owner’s mental instability. She had every employee walking on eggshells, scared to come to work. I thought “If I just stick it out, it’ll get better” and stayed. The recurring question came again, “Am I happy?” Not even a little bit. I gave a formal notice. After leaving I questioned whether I should have stayed, the pay was pretty decent, and I was hurting for money. My hype-team reminded me that my mental health is more important than the pay cheque.

I then went to work for a small private shop. I worked there as an 44 | Total Grooming Magazine

‘independent contractor.’ I had no contract and paid no rent. I was told by the owner it was a better solution, but later found that it was illegal in this shop. Once again I was hoodwinked by empty promises and visions of freedom that I didn’t even have. I was being controlled, being told what to do and when to do it by an absentee owner, being told what my prices had to be, and being told what I was paid. And so the question came again, “Am I happy?”

I was at first, but not anymore.

In my current salon I am content and happy. I have found an owner that understands the grooming industry and actually cares about her employees. It took me a few shops and headaches to get here, but it happened. I eventually want to own my own business, and my current boss knows this, so this may be the place I rest and build myself up to get there. Finally, I can focus on MY goals and not someone else’s.

Everything I have gone through has drilled into me that the ‘stick it out until

it gets better’ mentality never works, and my immediate happiness is just as important as my future happiness. We all know that you must build yourself up, raise yourself to higher levels, continue your education, network and meet new people, and be proud of your work. There is also an element of luck when it comes to finding that right shop with that perfect team that fits you.

But never settle for second best. I have learned through hard trial and error my entire life that there is a space for me to exist happily, and if I’m not in that space then I need to go find it. I am worth it. You are worth it. When is the right time to leave? When your mental health isn’t important to anyone in the business, and when the pay isn’t worth the misery.

You do not need to suffer now to succeed later.

By Lindsee Lee, lindseeleeamsden@ gmail.com

Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh th 12 September 2021 Event Sponsor

Register your interest at www.groomfest.co.uk

Is it a good time to start your own Dog Grooming Business?

In the UK, there has been a significant increase in dog and puppy adoption during the lockdown, and unfortunately, many owners will be unprepared or unaware of the grooming and upkeep measures needed to appease their new family members! The poodle breed-mix is also becoming a significant trend in the UK, and with high-speed growth in their curly coats, they require regular brushing, bathing and of course trimming.

O

ur sleepy highstreets are preparing for the grand reopening of their local businesses. Many have suffered, but some are anticipating a steady route to recovery with new refurbishments, fancy window displays and of course, COVID-safe precautions. This is no different for the dog grooming sector. Whilst some salons have been able to stay open for occasional welfare grooms, it has only been occasional work. So, it is safe to say that any dog groomer will be eagerly awaiting their first appointment and will enthusiastically greet their scruffy clients with open arms…

Animal Courses Direct is the UK’s largest education provider of animalrelated Ofqual regulated qualifications and accredited courses and has just launched a brand-new Diploma at Level 3 in Dog Grooming and Salon Management.

Any current Dog Groomers or aspiring Dog Groomers can now upgrade their expertise with a certified and nationally recognised qualification.

This regulated qualification has been developed by grooming professionals and contains all the tools and skills required to open and run your own small dog business.

To gain the Level 3 Diploma Dog Grooming and Salon Management – you will study all the 8 units of theory and 30 days of practical, which

46 | Total Grooming Magazine

includes, hands-on training at one of our top, hand-picked, COVID-secure training providers. The theory elements of the course can be studied online, in the comfort of your own home. You will gain an understanding of the required health and safety measures within a dog grooming environment, as well as skills in canine emergency first aid and an understanding of canine behaviour. You will learn more about the relevant canine welfare requirements and by the end of the course, you will be comfortable and confident in styling and grooming a range of different dogs and coat types.

The practical experience provides students with the opportunity to groom a minimum of 20 dogs, ranging across 10 different breeds with different coat types and styles. Alternatively, there are two other Level 3 courses available. The Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling and the

Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming, are both alternative qualifications for those who want to explore a variety of hands-on experience and learning materials.

If you are interested in studying this qualification then please visit our website at www.animalcoursesdirect. co.uk or fill out a ‘contact us’ on our website and one of our friendly student support team will call you when it’s convenient for you. Before you go… Total Grooming readers can redeem £50 off any dog grooming qualification by entering the code GROOMING50 at checkout.

60 YEARS YOUNG!

Supajets blow other dryers away Now available in a range of five colours

They outperform and outlast the competition If you're looking for a new dryer, the SUPAJET is difficult to ignore as it's set the industry gold standard for more than 50 years.

Unlike some other dryers, a SUPAJET needs only occasional servicing and, simple maintenance to help keep it working in tip-top condition.

It’s remains the 'grooming' nations favourite dryer because it’s so well designed - a SUPAJET is built to perform and built to last.

Most importantly, the SUPAJET delivers optimum air speed and temperature to dry coats of all types and textures, fast and effectively.

simpsons-online.co.uk/supajet 01354 691 830

So, if your salon needs a dryer that's reliable, efficient and cost effective to run, look no further.

The SUPAJET is simply 'best in blow'.

Supajet Stand Dryer £495

simpsons-online.co.uk/breeds Available in: White, Pink, Blue Purple or Green

Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh th 12 September 2021 Event Sponsor

Register your interest at www.groomfest.co.uk

Dog First Aid Training Courses and Equipment Animal Aiders Animal Aiders provides high quality and affordable dog first aid courses all over England, ideal for dog professionals, including groomers.

T: 01284 811192 or 07758 739332 E: info@animalaiders.co.uk W: www.animalaiders.co.uk

Food Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming Clothing

...Image is everything Jim Jump Designs JimJump offers an exclusive range We all know that style is important in portraying a image for any business. of professional lightweight, fashionable hair resistant clothing that can be JimJump have designed mixed and matched to create your new exclusive high quality and own personal style for everyday fashionable range wear.

Give your business a smart of clothing. and professional image as first Our Range impressions count. For more offers exclusive information please contact us on of T: designs 01787 267900 lightweight E: hair sales@jimjump.co.uk resistant W:clothing www.jimjump.co.uk that can be

mixed and Natural Food matched to create your own personal image for everyday wear.

Animal Health Address: 38-40 Broton Drive, Halstead, Essex, CO9 1HB. T: 01787 476400 F: 01787 476998 E: sales@animal-health.co.uk W: www.animal-health.co.uk FB: facebook.com/animalhealth T: twitter.com/animalhealthco

Shampoo

All garments can be washed and

dried within hours for SmartBarf convenient everyday use SmartBarf vegetable and herb which is very important when mix fora busy dogs on a raw fed or home running and successful business. prepared diet provides valuable extra vitamins and minerals for a remember... more complete meal.

‘First impressions count’ E: info@SmartBarf.co.uk more information please contact us on W:Forwww.SmartBarf.co.uk 01787 267900 email us on sales@jimjump.co.uk FB:or visit www.facebook.com/SmartBarf www.jimjump.co.uk

Grooming Supplies Clipit Grooming Clipit Grooming offers an exclusive range of hair protective clothing to include The Clipit Suit. We also develop innovative time saving clipping and grooming accessories.

T:07508 188437 E: paula@clipit-grooming.com W: www.clipit-grooming.com FB: facebook.com/clipitgrooming IG: instagram.com/clipitgroom T: twitter.com/clipitG Mutneys Made by groomers, for groomers, Mutneys Professional Pet Care have been manufacturing and supplying professional dog grooming shampoo, fragrances and equipment for 20 years. Our range has been developed within working salons and is produced here in the UK at our Shropshire premises. If you would like to know more, why not speak to a knowledgeable member of the team?

T: 08454 68 64 67 or 07968 861 593 E: sales@mutneys.com W: www.mutneys.com

Trade Association For Pet Care Specialists The British Dog Groomers’ Association is a trade association offers dog groomers a range of practical and financial benefits, including insurance, a legal helpline and qualifications. It is part of the Pet Industry Federation family and provides access to invaluable support mechanisms to give dog groomers the skills and confidence to cope with the challenges of running a business.

T: 01234 273933 E: info@petfederation.co.uk W: www.petfederation.co.uk

DAVE WESTBROOK

For All Dogkind Awardwinning grooming and wellbeing range for all skin & coat types. Delivering natural, healthy and healing products that are ethically sourced and luxuriously kind to hounds & humans. (Trade discounts available) T:. 020 7148 0316 E: info@foralldogkind.co.uk W:www.foralldogkind.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL SHARPENER 07739186419 We specialise in all dog & horse grooming equipment.

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CLIPPER BLADE SHARPENING • SCISSOR SHARPENING • CLIPPER REPAIR • CLIPPER BLADE SALES

To advertise here please email mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk or call 01795 509110 Total Grooming Magazine | 49

Going Mobile…

Winner

Grooming Van of the Year

The Portable Palace Created from our Revolutionary insulated panel, the Palace provides groomers with unrivalled benefits never seen before in the industry! This amazing new concept was born due to our lining's incredible lifespan - they often out live the vans they were placed in - so we created a demountable pod where your business can be moved on to the next chassis easily when needed - or if you no longer wish to be mobile, you can demount the pod and work from your garden!

• • • • • • • •

As the chassis ages, the Palace can be removed and placed onto a brand new chassis - resulting in a much cheaper cost than having to buy a whole new van and conversion with next to no downtime If the chassis is involved in an accident or breaks down you can simply remove the body, place it on the ground and work from your driveway whilst you wait for it to be repaired.

The lining will not out live the vehicle like so often seen with used van conversions. You then have to sell the van & conversion and then buy a new van and conversion and wait whilst it is converted. Whereas with the Palace, you can keep the pod forever and change the chassis as you need to.

Once you choose to retire from mobile grooming you can remove the Palace, sell the chassis and work from the Palace in your garden instead of having to buy a parlour or convert a room in your house.

When you choose to move home, you can take the pod with you and this portability combined with the size means they will not normally require planning permission in your garden.

You never need to buy a Brand new chassis that can depreciate - simply buy used a chassis and then swap them out as they get too old.

Smaller than its LWB Van equivalent but provides a more workable space inside that is highly customisable as there are no van strutts or vehicle constraints Can be driven on a normal car driving license Say goodbye to having to buy a whole new van and conversion every few years - simply move your Palace from one chassis to another with zero down time and when the time comes and you no longer want to be mobile, simply

Wet Pet Conversions

01258 837779 www.wetpetsconversions.co.uk

Going Mobile…

Winner

Grooming Van of the Year

Discover your dream work place today

G;Rooms

Our fantastic portable grooming Pods allow you to groom from the comfort of your own garden in a fully waterproof, insulated & professional environment. They are completely self contained - for electric you simply plug the cable provided into your house, for water in you simply attach your garden hose and this is piped straight to your Hydrobath. Waste water is held inside the bath and piped out to a location of your choice. The Pods do not normally ever require planning permission and they can be delivered to even the hardest to reach locations. And if you move house? our Pods move with you! Each pod is fully portable and can be moved an unlimited amount of times. Choose from an unlimited amount of interior & exterior options with fully customisable packages to perfectly suit your budget and design with ever Pod and conversion available on finance from as little as £20+vat per wk!

Trailers

Made from our Revolutionary insulated panel, our VCA Approved Grooming trailers provide the perfect solution if you would like to work from home and be mobile without the running costs associated with a van - with no tax or MOT required with trailers! You can leave the trailer on your drive way or hitch up with your vehicle when ever you need to. And when you have finished being mobile you can permanently demount the trailer from the axels and use it as a Garden Pod!

Vans

Our industry leading dog grooming vans provide unrivalled levels of luxury combined with practicality. Choose from new or used vans or supply your own, we work with you to create the perfect package for your business. Complete with a 10 year lining warranty our conversions outlive and out perform all in their class with a build quality that is second to none. Unlimited optional extras and packages are available including sign writing and free delivery back to you.

New vans Available fully converted from just £68+vat per wk!

Portable Palace

Your parlour for life. Our new revolutionary demountable Palace offers benefits never seen before in the industry. Once your chassis reaches the end of its life or is involved in an accident, you simply demount your Palace and work from home or swap it onto a new chassis. If you no longer want to be mobile you can demount the pod and use it as a parlour in your Garden. The palace’s can be driven on a standard UK driving License and are often smaller than their van based equivalent whilst giving you more usable space. Available in a wide range of sizes with unlimited conversion configurations. Available on finance

Wet Pet Conversions

01258 837779 www.wetpetsconversions.co.uk

NATURALLY BETTER

Treat little stinkers kindly!

If you prefer your 'natural' shampoo pure, without chemical scents or artificial colour, give this one a go! Enriched with essential oils to super hydrate and deeply nourish the coat and skin, what's not to like?

simpsons-online.co.uk/showpride 01354 691 830

Showpride PURE Shampoo simpsons-online.co.uk/breeds 1 Litre £ 12 Ref: 4071–144 5 Litres £ 30 Ref: 4071–143