Getting Creative Top competitive groomer, Lia Henderson, shares her top tips for getting creative…
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reative grooming is a funny one it’s like marmite - some love it some hate it! We know it’s not for everyone but it can be look absolutely awesome when it is carried out correctly. There’s so many techniques to master with creative grooming. In the same way that we are taught to groom dogs, it’s a whole new ball game with creative. The safety of the products, how to use them, what’s in them, the effect on a dog’s skin etc... These are paramount. But this is a small intro into getting creative in the salon and some of the small things we can do to glam up the dogs. Firstly, only ever do creative if the dog is happy to stand, is completely comfortable and you have permission from the owner. Make sure the products you use are safe! If you want to practice without the permanent effect of colour. There are lots of products blo pens, chalks, paint pens, glitters, gems, feathers and so much more. We are lucky enough to have a small business in the UK who supplies all the dog safe creative supplies and is very informative and helpful about the products usage. So, if you are unsure find out. This company is called Riddles Creative Box. Always remember creative is creative so go as wild as your imagination will allow you to, BUT always remember how far the dog can go also. Remember keep away from the eyes, private parts, and if using colour, always do a patch test 48 hours before application - a little blob inside the groin area. But think of all the amazing little extras you can do. I get asked by my clients to provide a creative makeover for weddings, parties, pride etc... and it can be the simplest of things like a
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rainbow tail for pride. Some carving on the dog’s coat for an awesome effect, glitter furjazzles, feather extension on the ears, or even just the odd gem. It all washes out (apart from semi/perm colour) always remember to tell the owner that sometimes the product can transfer onto carpets etc... So, I always say ‘have you got cream carpets?’ If so I’m not chalking the dogs legs... Haha! If you want to know more or you’re interested in expanding your creative skillset there’s loads of Facebook pages but three of the ones I follow which are fab are: Opawz Creative Dog Grooming UK Safe Creative Grooming UK They are very informative, everyone helps one another and there’s lots of tutorials etc... So grab your dog, some glitter, chalks, blo pens & get creative. But remember be safe, use safe products, enjoy your new flair for creative grooming.
Lia Jayne Henderson @barkingbeautifuldg
