Total Grooming Magazine August 2021

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk August 2021

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23/09/2019 16:02:28

Contents

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s restrictions end, we are pleased to discover that grooming shows are back on the agenda.

With this in mind, Joanne Angus shares an update on how Groom Team England is preparing to take on the world in top grooming.

And, with career changes uppermost in mind, one lady has dropped her dog handling army career and moved into dog grooming. We have the full story in this issue.

Please feel free to get in touch with questions and any matters that are of concern to you. We will do our best to address these. Keep safe and well.

Contact: editor@ totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

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How an army dog handler has become a pet groomer

Contents 04 News

Editor www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

06 News 08 News 10 News 12 News 18 Joanne Angus provides an update on Groom Team England 22 Jenny Farrell explains why good customer service is vital

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk August 2021

On the cover: Image courtesy of Wet Pets Conversions

30 All about the new cat grooming qualification

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

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News

34 Jitka Krizova on how to relieve itchy skin 38 How an army dog handler has become a pet groomer 42 Doggy dangers and how to avoid them 46 How supplements can promote good digestion © 2021 TGM Publishing Limited, 1st Floor, Saphir House 5 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 New Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship Standards Gets Go-Ahead

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he National Pet College, the new name for PIF Education, has today announced that a Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship Standard has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

The new apprenticeship provides a valuable entry route into the dog grooming industry for post-16 learners and allows dog grooming employers to offer a new way of training staff to a nationally recognised standard.

The standard has been developed by an employer panel, led by staff from the National Pet College and Pets at

4 | www.christiesdirect.com

Home. The standard covers the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to bath and dry dogs of all coat types and deliver basic clipping; as well as communicating with clients, meeting legal responsibilities of running a commercial dog grooming salon and working with dogs with different health and behavioural considerations.

Vicky Skinner, Head of Education at the National Pet College and one of the lead developers of this apprenticeship standard said: “We’re delighted that this new standard has finally been given the green light. The standard offers young learners a brilliant entry route into a

career in dog grooming and provides a springboard to further qualifications in the industry.

“The broad range of practical and theoretical skills which apprentices cover during their training will equip them really well for the commercial realities of working in a dog grooming salon; and in doing so help safeguard animal welfare.’

The new standard will be published on the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education website (https://www.instituteforapprenticeships. org/apprenticeship-standards/) and should be ready for delivery by September 2021.

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The Grooming Show – A Fantastic Success

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he first live grooming show in two years took place at the Kennel Club Buildings, Stoneleigh on July 18th thanks to the hard work of organisers, Julie Lalou, Lia-Jayne Henderson and Denise Westbrook.

A sell-out success, the show took place on one of the hottest days of the year so far, with competitors and spectators coming from all parts of the country to enjoy seminars, shopping and the spectacle of some of the country’s top groomers competing for the Best in Show title.

Organiser, Lia Henderson, said: “We had a fantastic turn out of over 250 and had over 12 trade stands. Over 10 classes and all nearly at the capped status. We want to thank Mutneys for sponsoring our BIS and Suzanne Clarke P&W UK for sponsoring RBIS “Everyone was fab and all played their part in-line with Covid restrictions - wearing masks, hand sanitising, social distancing.

“The grooms were outstanding from all competitors, judges were really struggling with placings and couldn’t believe how high the standards were and it was so nice to be in the grooming world environment again; seeing all the people you’ve missed over lockdown and seeing your grooming friends again.”

Sophie Fury was crowned Best In Show with a wire-haired Fox Terrier called Lord.

She said: “It was a last minute decision for me to compete because I didn’t have a dog to take but it definitely paid off - we went and won Best in Show! I was gobsmacked and overwhelmed as there were so many other fabulous grooms.

“I was honoured to groom Lord the Fox Terrier. Unfortunately, he isn’t my dog and I groomed him for the very first time at the competition. He was stunning! He stood on the table like a statue, his tail always up, it was a pleasure to handstrip him.

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“I feel that the trophy belongs more to him than to me.

Huge thanks to Costin (Lord’s owner) trusting me and allowing me to use him in the competition. I couldn’t have won without them!

“Thanks to the organisers for a great show.”

RBIS was Holly Mills with her

Sopie Fury with Lord – winners of Best in Show

Poodle from Asian Fusion Class Chosen

by Colin Taylor. Photographer Peter Hulance The Grooming Show will hold their two day weekend show on 22nd & 23rd January 2022 at Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Coventry.

Follow our social media @ thegroomingshow all details.

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Cat Owners Beware of Contaminated Pet Food The Food Standards Agency (FSA), Food Standards Scotland (FSS), Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), local authorities and the pet food supply chain are taking the situation extremely seriously. All potential causes of feline pancytopenia are being investigated.

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o unsafe cat food has been identified but the manufacturer and brand owners affected, based on investigations so far, have taken the precautionary action of recalling batches of cat food that have been possibly linked to affected cats.

The FSA has published a product recall notice which details the affected products. Cases of feline pancytopenia are continuing to rise so we want to spread the message to cat owners who may not have heard about the recall.

A series of targeted analytical tests were initially undertaken to look for heavy metals and mycotoxins (including T-2/HT-2) in the recalled cat food, as these toxins are known to be able to cause pancytopenia in cats. Tests were also undertaken to see if some of these toxins or any deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals could be identified in the bloods of cats with confirmed cases of feline pancytopenia.

No definitive cause has yet been identified, although full results are currently pending.

Joint investigations, by the food business and respective agencies involved, have since broadened to look for a much wider spectrum of toxic substances in the recalled cat foods, individual ingredients and in the blood of affected cats.

‘Withdrawal and lethargy’ key signs of deadly cat condition with possible link to food Senior Veterinary Advisor at Agria Pet Insurance advises cat owners on signs of Feline Pancytopenia A current recall of some cat food brands is in place due to a possible link to the condition Feline Pancytopenia.

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Affected cats present with a very low red and white blood cell count, which can lead to anaemia and serious infections. To date, Senior Veterinary Advisor for Agria Pet Insurance, Robin Hargreaves, advises, “The signs that cat owners may see with Feline Pancytopenia are symptoms that would always warrant an owner to take their cat to the vet. These changes are significant and centre around: • Changes in appetite • Being off their food • Not eating at all • Reduction in levels of activity • Tiredness • Lethargy • Not playing or interacting as usual “The tiredness and lethargy associated with Feline Pancytopenia is caused by anaemia, which is one of the key signs

of the disease.

“Affected cats are unlikely to be in any pain, so won’t seem distressed, but rather will be quiet and withdrawn – so look out for this.

“These are the kinds of symptoms that owners may, under usual circumstances, sit-out for 24 hours to see if they worsen or improve.

However, if your cat has eaten any of the foods concerned and is showing any of these symptoms, don’t wait – contact your vet immediately.”

The affected brands are listed here.

If you have been feeding your cat on any of these foods, stop doing so immediately.

Further advice and the latest updates for owners and veterinary professionals can be found on the Royal Veterinary College website.

This article can be found here: https://bit. ly/3hgIvKC

SPONSORED BY

Thousands of UK cats take part in the ‘Agria CatWalk’ and raise £13,000 for cats in need

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hanks to the involvement of thousands of cats and their owners this May, Agria Pet Insurance has donated £13,000 to UK animal rescues.

Almost 7,000 cats, and over 23,000 cat ‘parents’ and cat-lovers, joined a month-long celebration of all cats via the “Agria CatWalk” competition.

The Agria CatWalk was created to highlight the significant issues faced by the UK’s cats and cat rescues and support them with awareness and donations. Far fewer cats than dogs in the UK are protected with insurance, which is often a key factor for them ending up in rescue – their owners cannot afford their vets’ bills.

The specialist pet insurer’s work with hundreds of animal rescues gives them a unique insight into the problems they face. A survey of their rehoming partners revealed that 80% of cats in rescue had not been adopted due to their age, appearance, or disability.

Designed to highlight the ‘magnificence of every cat’, the event showcased how special all cats are – from their unique looks and personalities to their unusual pastimes, with the photo-sharing ‘Agria CatWalk’ Facebook competition.

Helped by high-profile judges, International Cat Care, ProtectaPet, Your Cat Magazine, and Katzenworld, cat lovers took part to win a share of £2,500 for their nominated rescue every week in May. Agria Pet Insurance also donated to animal rescues with every cat policy sold during the month.

“This fact triggered the campaign’s theme of celebrating every cat. Their quirks and diversity make them the companions we love so much, so we wanted to highlight this, and encourage potential owners to consider all cats, not just the stereotypical ‘perfect’ ones,” explains Tom Vaughan, Head of Marketing at Agria Pet Insurance.

One of the winning rescues, Assisi Animal Sanctuary, received a £1,000

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donation. They said, “This past year has been so challenging, and has, without a doubt, been the most financially punishing year Assisi has ever seen, so we are incredibly grateful to receive this nomination and prize.”

Amotherby Cat and Kitten Rescue commented, “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this and so grateful to Agria and our super-supporters – it will make such a difference to our rescue.”

A third of cat rescues surveyed said they were already full, with two-thirds reporting a significant increase in cats surrendered to them over the past year.

The majority reported an increase of between 25% and 50% above what is usual, with more than 70% of rescues

worried about the number of cats due to arrive in their care as lockdown continues to ease.

The survey also found that, sadly, a quarter of cats in UK rescues have been there for at least six months.

Agria Pet Insurance has also just launched their new Cat Rescue Directory – a place for potential adopters to find a cat rescue local to them and help more cats find their forever homes. You can find this at: https://www.agriapet.co.uk/petowners/products/for-cats/find-a-catrescue/ Survey carried out among Agria Pet Insurance cat rescue partners in April 2021.

SPONSORED BY

Warning to dog owners over adder bite danger

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gria Pet Insurance and The Kennel Club have joined forces to warn of the dangers to dogs from adder bites this summer.

According to claims handled by Agria Pet Insurance, April to September is the most common time for dogs to be bitten by the UK’s only venomous snake.

Bella, a two-year-old Cocker Spaniel from Devon, was recently bitten by an adder while walking on the beach. She had been playing in some long grass, and it was only after her owner brought her home that she started to realise something was wrong.

“Bella became lethargic and wouldn’t eat – which is unlike her – and then I noticed that she had puncture wounds on her face, so I took her straight to the vet,” said Danielle, Bella’s owner.

While the vets monitored her, the swelling continued to increase, so Bella was treated with antivenom. She had to stay in overnight but was allowed home the next day, and fortunately, after 5-6 days, the young Cocker Spaniel had made a full recovery.

Bella’s vet’s bill came to £1,089. Her owner, Danielle, said, “It was awful when we discovered that Bella had been bitten by a snake - we were so worried about her.”

Tom Vaughan, Head of Marketing at Agria Pet Insurance, said, “Dealing with an adder bite can be very traumatic for both dogs and their owners and, if not treated swiftly and appropriately, can prove fatal. We want to draw owners’ attention to this time being right in the middle of the period where we handle most of our claims for adder bites. Understanding the signs to look for and simply having the awareness that adder bites can and do happen could be enough to save a dog’s life.”

Snake bite facts • 85% of the snake bite claims handled

by Agria Pet Insurance occur between April and September^ • The average cost of a claim for an 12| www.christiesdirect.com

adder bite is £936.00* Nick Sutton, Science Communication Advisor at The Kennel Club commented: “Adders are the UK’s only native poisonous snakes and are found in a wide range of habitats, so it’s crucial owners are aware of their surroundings when out and about or even in the garden, and keep an eye on their dog. Adders hibernate over winter and emerge in spring; they can often be found basking in the sun, and inquisitive dogs that stumble upon them are most often bitten around the face, muzzle, and front paws.

“Signs a dog has been bitten by an adder can include a small puncture wound, swelling, bruising, increased temperature, and sickness or lameness.

Dogs that are bitten should be taken to a vet as soon as possible, leaving the bite alone in the meantime, as this could cause further complications.

“We hope Bella’s story will help more dogs and owners avoid adders, and stay aware and alert during these warmer months.”

If you have any concerns about your dog, always contact your vet for advice.

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Total Grooming Magazine | 13

For all your scissor needs

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he Scissor Boutique has the most amazing collection of Scissors; whatever you need to cut they have the Scissor for the job! The team are specialists in Dog Grooming Scissors with a lifetime of experience that their clients find invaluable. Each and every Scissor has important specifications that others often overlook. This is why the Scissor performs in a certain way. It is those precise and small details that can be easily dismissed that give a Scissor the ability to both go through thickness and density and stay sharp for a long time. Or others that are capable of give an amazing finish or a desired effect, for instance velvet finish or a more natural look as if ‘I grew this way’. So choosing the right tool for the job is imperative if you want to be the best groomer you can.

In the last 30 years or so, Scissor manufacturing has changed so much and it is still developing. Some says its progress others will disagree, as we see a decline in the numbers of skilled traditional craftsman and Scissor makers with generations of knowledge. Machines take over and so many of these Scissors will not live up to expectations of old. Specific details that technology has made possible have changed the way Scissors perform; some of these details allow us to achieve things we never could dream of years ago. However these Scissors are more about special effects than everyday hard work in the salon. It is now even more important than ever that you understand the Scissors you buy and how to care for it. What you can expect from the Scissor, the way they work for you and the skills required using them.

Purchasing with these things in mind the Scissors will last you longer, require less servicing & sharpening and give you more satisfaction.

Mandy works with her clients to ensure they have the right Scissors to

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help them achieve their goals. A consultation with Mandy can be a game changer as she explains the relationship between the Scissors and the operator. As far as we understand this is a very unique way of selling Scissors and not a service you find at other outlets. Most of her clients say it improves the confidence to use the Scissors and the enjoyment of Scissoring. Most get a better finish in less time and real job satisfaction.

This has to be a win, win situation. At The Scissor Boutique it is important that each and every Scissor is a valuable part of a groomer’s kit and not something found in a draw with no purpose.

At events The Scissor Boutique always had a queue of clients eager for advice. Since the pandemic Mandy has honed a skill of working online with clients. A video consultation to find the right Scissors for you, at whatever stage you are in your career can be nearly as good as a visit to the workshop in Kings Lynn.

The team at The Scissor Boutique are still working from base doing appointments in the Scissor Garden.

This is a relaxing covered area just outside the door of the tiny workshop were consultations take place and time is spent with clients to ensure they go home with the right Scissors for them to take them forward. To book a visit that inspires the love of Scissoring for appointment Tel; 01553 611380 or send Mandy Carr a message at The Scissor Boutique on Messenger.

Everything on the website www. thescissorboutique.co.uk is in stock; they never advertise anything that is not available to you. All Scissors are checked in the workshop by experienced Scissor technicians and the tension will be checked and adjusted for each Scissor however much it costs (Scissors from £1.99 to £800). Each Scissor is oiled and tested before it is packed with care instructions and comes to you at speed. Clients have access to a telephone helpline (01553 611380) or can arrange a video call when the order is delivered to they can go through everything again to ensure complete satisfaction. The Scissor Boutique experience is a must for any discerning professional.

Lorraine - Hair of the dog 1. We have been using the Aqeuos product for a few years now, after seeing it at a pet product exhibition.

Our main consideration when choosing which shampoo we use is dependent upon the skin type and coat condition. If the dog has a particularly dry or sensitive skin, then we would opt for a gentle, mild, or medicated shampoo. If the dog has a greasy coat or requires a very deep cleanse then we would use a certain shampoo to strip the coat from a build up of grease and dirt.

2. We have used this shampoo on many breeds and coat types as it kills bacteria and combats itchiness which we are experiencing more frequently.

It is also a very good deodorising shampoo which eliminates fox and badger smells too.

3. We have also found that this antibacterial and anti-fungal shampoo is as effective as vetinary prescription shampoos such as Malaseb, which is prescribed for the same skin conditions. It provides instant relief from minor skin irritations from the first application and we have found that continued use has completely alleviated a dogs irritation completely.

It is also very effective in helping heal minor skin wounds and preventing possible infections. After bathing and drying, the coat is extremely clean and soft and we actually bathe the majority of our dogs in this shampoo as it is suitable for all skin and coat types, even if there is no evidence of a particular skin problem.

4. As a very busy groomers, I would 100% recommend this product to other groomers, who undoubtedly have fury clients similar to ours who 16 | Total Grooming Magazine

would benefit from being bathed in this particular shampoo. Coupled with this product being very cost effective and great value for money (compared to other medicated or prescription products), the shampoo can be diluted but at our salon

we choose not to as it still highly profitable. Finally, Tracy (the founder of this company), runs a very professional organisation and their customer service is first class! The team are always very helpful and nothing is too much trouble.

Sharing a memory from previous World Championship

Groom Team England Update After a two year break Groom Team England has made its way back to the founders and a brand new committee

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he current committee consists of: Chair – Joanne Angus, Vice –Chair Zoe Duffy, Sponsors Liaison –Alison Rogers, Team Liaison – Peter Ensell, Social Media – Becki Ensell, Treasurer – Joanne Botwood, Website and Design - Nicole Macpherson , Media Adviser – Lia Henderson and Motivational Adviser Louisa Tandy .

The aims of Groom Team England and its committee are as follows:

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1 To form a Groom Team for England to represent the country at International level 2 To run a non-profit making organisation 3 To raise funds and sponsorship to enable promotion of the team and cover all expenses when competing at world championships 4 To promote sponsors 5 To demonstrate and share knowledge of the profession with all groomers

6 To put the needs of the team before personal gain 7 To formulate rules and regulations for team members 8 To select team members from the most consistent winning groomers at the time We have been working hard behind the scenes to raise Groom Team’s profile with an all new spectacular website www.groomteamengland.com and refreshed social media accounts on

Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. There’s no way you can miss us now!

Groom Team’s new and very different online photo competition, Zoo Groom, brought excited interest not just from the UK but from all corners of the world. The competition with a difference was for any animal with 4 legs, no legs, feathers or scales.

Whether they were dogs groomed to breed standard or creatively groomed, a snake, a cat, a sheep, or a horse with an artistically trimmed design in its coat there were classes for all. Fantastically original and amazing professional grooming photos came pouring in and were judged by our talented panel. All the winners won a beautiful rosette and gift vouchers supplied by our generous sponsors; Redcape, Simpsons and Wow Grooming. Our overall winner was judged by Ashleigh Butler of Britain’s Got Talent fame and the award went to Natalie Latte, from Hong Kong with her beautiful cat grooming. Natalie won products and a clipper sponsored by Artero.

A brilliant £1528.10 was raised – so ‘Thank You’ to everyone that entered.

As Groom Team relies solely on sponsorship and fundraising we appreciate every penny anyone can donate, spend with us on competition entries, buy exclusive merchandise (available from October) or fund 20 | Total Grooming Magazine

through sponsorship. We have a Just Giving page established for donations should you wish to make them! www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/groomteam-england Over the next 12 months our aim is to continue to raise funds with seminars, attendance at shows and competitions and also our brand new exclusive ‘Feedback Frenzy’. This will entail receiving feedback on a photo of a groom from a team member or several team members – the perfect way to prepare you for real life competitions.

The team are also running seminars to directly raise funds such as Costin and Cheryl’s All Around Fabulous which many of you attended. Thank you The current team consists of six

members made up from the last two teams who have not had the chance to appear in the world event due to its Covid postponement.

They are: Cheryl Howard, Julie Lalou, Amy Manser, Costin Stoica, Denise Westbrook and Kirsty Young.

These amazingly talented groomers have worked tirelessly over the last 4 years to earn the points required to make the team and represent their country. They will go on to compete individually and in the team event in the World Championships scheduled for September 25th 2022 in Belgium. With talent like this we’re sure to bring home the Gold!

The Importance of Great Customer Service When you get into grooming or start thinking about the idea of grooming dogs, you might not think that customer service is very important as you work with dogs, but customer service is vital in business and that includes dog grooming.

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ustomer service will win or lose you your client base no matter how well you groom.

You need customer service to listen and understand what the client is asking you to do, to inform the client of realistic expectations and create a working relationship with the client to retain clientele.

Customers are always right is the famous saying, but actually in my experience I find that most customers have little idea about what they want or how to achieve it and really like to hand their dogs over to a groomer who is educated not only on the dogs clip but the health, welfare and who

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communicates in an empathetic, friendly and educated way.

Many clients want to learn from you about their dog’s health, skin, diet etc remember you can only advise on what you’re qualified in so if you don’t have the qualification you should refer to somebody who does.

It’s important to establish rapport and a relationship with your clients.

Once they engage and communicate about their pets, so perfect and natural opportunities will open up to encourage them to purchase more of your services and products.

For example when you go to somebody for a service and you have

an attentive and positive experience you want to return there. However, if you approach somebody and they don’t know or are unwilling to find out, are cold towards you or even rude, you wouldn’t want to return and will probably tell a few people on the way home or your friends about your bad experience and so a bad reputation can be established quite rapidly.

So how do you build up a positive working relationship with your clients and maintain your clientele?

First impressions are everything always greet and acknowledge your clients with a warm welcome and smile (even if you’re having a nightmare

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Canine receptionists’ at Pampered Pets make a great talking point!

of a day or have a stressful dog on the table) be attentive if you cannot go to them straight away talk to them and say: ‘very sorry won’t be a moment..’ Be polite and informative even if you don’t want to be!

Clients are money and they do tip even in the UK, so be nice it literally pays off.

Ask about the dog and enquire about any changes in the animal’s health or well-being or anything different they would like or that you need to know. If 24 | Total Grooming Magazine

it’s a new client ask them for details of the pet’s health and get a feel for them.

Some people like to talk and can be hard to get away from while others will not really want to talk and that is fine, just be short and friendly.

When you have a client that won’t stop talking, a good trick is to say: ‘I’m going to get started on Cooper now so we can get him finished for your collection time’ and smile, they usually get the hint without you having to be rude or lie.

If for any unfortunate reason you have to deal with a complaint, remember to be kind, fair but also stick to your rights and do be firm but friendly. Remember to have your facts correct, stand your ground but also be fair, if you made a mistake you must admit to it and do the right thing ethically.

Remember that customers are your friends too, they are for the most part rewarding to have around!

Home or Away - Options for Delivering a Pet Grooming Service This month Heidi Anderton looks at the best options for delivering a pet grooming service. 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).

Pooch Perfect has an eye-catching brand identity emblazoned on its van.

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he pet grooming industry is diverse, which makes it so difficult to regulate and advise on methods, routines and animal behaviours. Environments where grooming is offered can make all the difference to the end result and to your pocket, whether you are employed or self-employed.

Home grooming Grooming pets in the comfort of the client’s own home is not to be sniffed at; no pun intended. This was the route I took after I left my training; I loved it!

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I really got to know the pets and their owners, and some became friends and long-time clients too, who I still have to this day; some 30+ years on!

Advantages – Grooming on a 1-1 basis, with the pet in their own environment.

Going to a different place every day.

Having a closer bond with the owners in an informal setting.

Disadvantages –Time consuming travelling and setting up. Can be physically difficult, bending while bathing, lifting equipment and not having another pair of hands to help.

This is usually a self-employed option for offering a pet grooming service.

Excess hair in the client’s home can be a disadvantage for some clients.

“I trained with Absolutely Animals over three years ago and have since been grooming in peoples’ homes. It is great as I really get to know them and many of them are waiting with tea, biscuits and chat.It’s surprising the things they tell you (sometimes quite surprising)! The downside can be timings setting up due to parking, traffic and packing, the table in and out the car can take its toll on you physically and some dogs do behave differently

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with owners’ present.You need to make boundaries clear for the owners, like not distracting the dog while you are scissoring and not coming in and out of the room whilst you are working.No two days are the same, but I love it!”

Sue Wright

High Street Salon grooming Usually a team effort but grooming from the high street can be a real toll unless you have another income stream, such as selling pet products, pet day care or offering hydrotherapy.

Advantages –You can gain employment easily in high street salons/chains. All equipment is at the right height. There is usually a team for support. More pets are groomed in a shorter space of time. No distractions from clients. Room for growing your business and improving your employment level.

Disadvantages –Bills, Bills, Bills!

Rent, rates, service charges, taxes, other premises costs, PAYE, Wages, Pensions, Staff training and Welfare, Administrative expenses, legal and Professional costs – the list goes on!

“I opened my own salon in 1995. I gained assistance from the Princes Trust, but we didn’t have access to the internet then, so things were a lot more challenging than they are today. My salon has developed from a dog grooming salon into a salon and training school with a large cat grooming clientele as well.”

Heidi Anderton

Mobile Grooming Another option is to offer a grooming service in a mobile van. These vans are now professionally fitted out. Drive to the client’s home, set up in the driveway or in the street. You will never be in the same area for too long.

Advantages - Low-cost lay out.

Provide a very convenient service with no mess in the client’s home.Grooming on a 1-1 basis, flexible grooming times.

Tools at right height and accessible. No distraction from clients. Covers a large catchment area. Van provides your own advertising.

Disadvantages –Will be too expensive to pay for parking in some 28 | Total Grooming Magazine

areas, mostly a self-employed option for delivering pet grooming. You need to hook up to the customers electric. Can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter depending on your insulation.

Can be lonely.

“I run a mobile dog grooming business in London. My van has been converted into a grooming salon by Wet Pets Conversions who have done a brilliant job. Before I started my business, I trained at Absolutely Animals with Heidi and Christine and their wonderful staff. It was an amazing environment to train in as it wasn’t just the handling and grooming of dogs that I needed to learn. It was how to run a business, dealing with customers and getting my pricing right to run a successful business.

Absolutely Animals are the company that helped me get to where I wanted to be, they taught me everything I needed to know about dog grooming. Even now that I have left they are still on the other end of the phone if I ever have a question or query about dog grooming.”

“The pros of being mobile: Very convenient for my customers as I travel to them and give their dog one to one attention in their own surroundings. I get to travel to different locations throughout the week. Different scenery. Overheads are lower than a salon as it is just me working.

No employees. I can be very flexible with grooming times.

The cons of being mobile: Can’t cater for everyone as not everyone has parking outside

their property and a power supply available for me to plug my cable into. Can’t fit as many dogs in as a salon as I have to travel to each customer. Less financial gain than in a salon, as more staff and more dogs can be groomed.

But overall, I am glad I went mobile as it suits me perfectly.”

Lucy Tallant

Grooming from your own home Home-based business: Pet grooming is very flexible. For example, you can start with a home-based business, working from your garage or spare room. That means lower costs – so it can be a great way to start.

Advantages –Very low overheads, you won’t need to leave your own home.

Disadvantages –Clients coming to your home out of working hours. Dogs marking on your premises. Planning permission is required with your local council as this option could disturb your neighbours.

Whichever route you take – you still have a legal and moral obligation to be competent in the service you offer, to be insured and to declare your income to your local tax office.

Keep inspired, motivated, informed and be happy!

Heidi Anderton LCGI ICMG www.absolutelyanimals.biz

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Get Grooming Launches New iPET Network Cat Grooming Qualification Get Grooming Pet Grooming School is delighted to announce it will be running the New iPET Network level 3 cat grooming qualifications from September. The new qualification is the First & only Ofqual Regulated Cat Grooming qualification in the U.K. There are three practical options to start your Cat Grooming career or expand the knowledge you already have with the opportunity to gain a recognised cat grooming qualification.

iPET NETWORK Level 3 Award in Cat Grooming The first is the iPET Network level 3 Award in cat grooming offering a five day route to gaining the basic cat grooming information such as handling and what equipment to use, health and welfare, and working safely whilst practically bathing and drying of various coat types. It is assessed via three assignments and one practical exam.

iPET NETWORK Level 3 Certificate in Cat Grooming The iPET Network Level 3 Certificate is a ten day practical course which 30 | Total Grooming Magazine

covers most things cat including clipping, handling, health and welfare, maintenance of equipment, legislation and practical learning such hygiene trims as well as lion trims, modified lion trims and bathing a variety of coat types. This is assessed via five assignments and two practical exams.

iPET NETWORK Level 3 Diploma in Cat Grooming The final option is the level 3 Diploma in Cat Grooming which offers twenty five days of practical cat grooming and theory to become the ultimate cat groomer. It covers all of the above plus customer care, dealing with complaints,

running a cat grooming business, pricing, and a wide range of practical grooms on a variety of breeds. An ideal route for those wanting to exclusively cat groom. This is assessed via eight assignments, a feline first aid course and three practical exams.

Fast track to a Cat Grooming qualification There is also a fast track option for already experienced cat groomers who are wanting to be identified as a qualified cat groomer. This is available for the Diploma and the Certificate in Cat Grooming.

It is estimated that there are

roughly the same amount of cats in the UK as dogs. Yet dog grooming is well recognised and there is often a dog groomer based in most towns, yet cat groomers are few and far between.

There is a huge need for cat groomers especially in areas with high rise flats where dogs cannot be kept. Some households might also have more than one or even two cats as they do not have the accompanied physical need for exercise that dogs do. Most dog groomers are inexperienced and unsure about cat grooming. With knowledge on handling, equipment, breeds and health it is possible to groom cats safely and effectively for both groomer and cat.

At Get Grooming we help you overcome any worries you may have and gain confidence in grooming cats so you can add this avenue to your business and help cater for the 12 million UK pet cats. Like dogs, cats may need regular brushing to stop then becoming matted, or a good deshed in the summer months. Like double coated dogs, some cat breeds should not be clipped and regular bathing and grooming can prevent matts and make the grooming process a lot quicker.

Our courses are run by our Director and Tutor Michelle who has owned cats for 35 years, as well have having shown and bred a variety of different breeds including Maine Coon, Persian, Sphynx, Ragdoll, British Long and Short Hair, and Domestic breeds. “ Sadly cats are misunderstood creatures and with the correct handling and knowledge, cats can be just as enjoyable to groom as dogs”. Learning different ways to handle cats , identifying behaviours and signs of stress can help us to understand cats and learn to groom them successfully. A cat that is groomed regularly will prevent matting and also allow the cat to become more comfortable with the grooming environment. Starting a cat from young age can also help the cat to accept the grooming process as the cat matures.

Many dog groomers believe they can cat groom in the same way as dogs but cat grooming can be very different.

There are a huge variety of different 32 | Total Grooming Magazine

Some cats require regular grooming care or they can become severely matted.

breeds, each have their own health concerns, breed traits and grooming needs. There are diseases that can affect cats but do not appear in dogs, things like HCM, a heart condition that can suddenly kill an affected cat. Cats skin is also much thinner and therefore require different blades to a dog, and handling and restraining a cat is much different to the dog species. If working with cats it is advisable to make sure you have the relevant training to make sure you are confident and work safely to groom the cat species and the variety of breeds that come into the salon.

Cat grooming can also be very

lucrative, much more than dog grooming and most grooms takes under an hour. Pricing tends to range from £35 for a bath and brush of a short haired cat that takes 15-20 mins, up to a lion trim that might take an hour and costs £95. So many more cats can be completed in a day and more income is generated. It also provides an extra service to your business, and you may only want to offer cat grooming one day a month or you might decide to cat groom full time.

For more information on the Cat Grooming Courses please see our website at www.getgrooming.co.uk

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nvironmental allergies are not limited to a certain season of the year anymore. For example, spring and spring pollen. We’re now seeing more and more all-yearround allergens.

Environmental allergies are frustrating no matter which system of medicine is used to treat it. It almost always requires an approach from several different angles. Especially if a dog owner wants to keep long-term medication to a minimum or not at all.

Itching, associated with skin allergies is the thing that dogs owners want to resolve immediately. As it is so frustrating to see a dog constantly scratching and hurting himself.

Bathing a dog with environmental allergies is important and effective. It is a cheap and sensible thing to do in order to remove the allergens (pollen, dust mites, etc) from the coat and skin.

Bathing provides immediate relief and the guideline is to bath your itchy dog at least once a week.

When I did my last survey, one of the questions I asked my subscribers what products they are looking for or would like me to develop or come up with. Shampoo and eye cleaner were on the top of the list.

For a very long time I wasn’t keen on creating a shampoo as I think there are many great dog shampoos on the market. But then I kept thinking about it and thought if I chose to follow the ‘shampoo route’ it would have to tick a few criteria.

One of them was; it will have to complement one of my current products. But which one?

Calming spray? I don’t think ‘calming shampoo’ is necessary as a dog can be easily sprayed in a bath with Calming Floral Spray. Or even after bathing which would be more effective. But

34 | Total Grooming Magazine

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Total Grooming Magazine | 35

never say never… maybe one day…

Insect repelling shampoo? How much of the insect repelling essential oils actually stay on the skin and coat after rinsing? So, I thought, spray is more effective to use…

SKIN RELIEF. Yes, that’s the answer.

Skin relief shampoo would perfectly complement Skin Relief Spray and help all the doggies suffering with environmental allergies.

I also knew the shampoo must be as natural as possible. And it is! 99.4 % which is an amazing number for a shampoo!

Another criteria was the shampoo must clean and condition the coat.

From my experience, most of the medicated shampoos (example – Melaseb) don’t clean the coat very well.

They do the job, like Melaseb as an antibacterial and antifungal shampoo for the treatment and control of seborrheic dermatitis in dogs.

Shampoo like this should only be used if indicated by a vet, otherwise it can be bad for the skin, and can cause dryness.

36 | Total Grooming Magazine

The shampoo must have the right pH balance As you probably remember from your school days, the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14 with levels less than 6.4 considered high acidity, and levels more than 6.4 considered high alkalinity.

The normal range of skin pH level for humans is 5.2 to 6.2, which means it tends to be on the acidic side. Human shampoos and other skin products are formulated specifically to maintain this balance. Relative pH balance for dogs ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, tending toward a more alkaline concentration (depending on breed, gender, climate and the anatomical size).

When we wash our dog with shampoo, like it or not, we wash away the acid mantle. The acid mantle is a very fine, slightly acidic film on the surface of a skin and it works as a barrier to protect the porous top layer (the stratum corneum) from bacteria and viruses. The stratum corneum keeps the outer body well hydrated by absorbing water and not allowing excessive evaporation.

It’s this reason why most human and dog shampoos, as well as soaps,

are formulated with moisturisers – to replace the protective layer that has been washed away. This is at least until the skin is able to replenish itself around 12 hours later. If the stratum corneum is left unprotected without its acid barrier, it will be open to a host of microorganisms. This may show up as dry, flaky, irritated, or peeling skin and perhaps even as a rash of itchy lumps.

And so the Skin Relief Shampoo was born!

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Former Army Dog Handler Turns Groomer A former army dog handler has joined the hundreds of people changing their lives and careers by doing an FE course in dog grooming.

J

essy Brown, from Northern Ireland was medically discharged from the army due to an illness, and is now putting her love of dogs to good use by studying for the iPET Level Three qualification in Dog Grooming and Salon Management at the Bone Idol Training Academy in Brighton.

She said: “I’ve always worked with animals, before I was in the Army I used to work at animal shelters and things like that, I’ve always been around dogs, and love going into work and being with the dogs all day. That’s why I think I’ve chosen grooming as my next career option, it’s a natural transition, and I won’t miss the canine company I’ve enjoyed so much.

“Before I started the course in my head I thought it was going to be loads

Jessy Brown embraces her new training.

and loads of classroom work, and then a little bit of grooming here and there.

But it has been so hands on and it’s amazing. You are literally grooming dogs all day every day! You do have theory lessons, but they really make it as interesting. It has been brilliant.”

The large-scale influx in the purchase of puppies and new dogs seen during the pandemic has led to never beforeseen demand for dog grooming in the UK. Grooming salons around the UK are struggling to keep up, and Ofqual regulated awarding organisation iPET Network, which offers dog grooming qualifications, is appealing for would-be groomers to sign up and become part of the growth industry.

Nationally since the start of the 38 | Total Grooming Magazine

pandemic 3.2million households brought home a pet of some kind.

From 2020 to 2021 there was a boost in dog numbers from 9million to 12million, and with 17 of the 20 most popular dog breeds needing regular grooming or treatments this has led to a big surge in demand.

And with many people considering a complete change of career and outlook following the COVID 19 pandemic, working with animals in a flexible way is an attractive option.

People like Francessca Thomas, who is branching out after her career as cabin crew for an airline was thrown into turbulence by the pandemic.

She said: “I picked the course at Bone Idol because my work situation was uncertain, and it was the most

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Jessy Brown in her former army dog handler role

flexible course I found. I looked at a college; the course was one evening every week from 5pm till 8pm. I couldn’t guarantee that I could do that for eight weeks, because I might have flights.

“I grew up with Welsh Terriers.

When I moved into my own place three years ago and was in the position to, I got my own dog! I brought home Luna the Working Cocker Spaniel last December.

“When I was a child I wanted to work with animals and become veterinary nurse. “Then you finish school, college and university and life takes over! I never thought working with animals would be my career as an adult but it was always a dream.

“With the pandemic you suddenly have so much time to really think ‘what am I doing with my life?’

“Being with Luna at home and spending a lot of time training her, made me think ‘why I am doing anything other than spending all my 40 | Total Grooming Magazine

time with dogs?’”

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, who run the canine sector-specific awarding organisation iPET Network, which supports training providers around the country in providing the high-quality qualifications, said: “The demand for dog grooming has never been stronger, and these millions of new puppy parents need to be reassured that the groomer they choose holds a nationally recognised qualification.

“Sadly, because of the pandemic lockdowns some grooming businesses in the UK have not survived. That coupled with the giant demand the remaining ones are experiencing means only one thing; We need more qualified groomers.”

In the UK in 2019 830 people received certificates in a Level 3 dog grooming qualification, this has risen to 895 in 2020, but more are still needed.

And Scott Learmouth, who runs the Bone Idol Training Academy and salon in Brighton can attest to that.

The salon has been packed out with bookings ever since it was allowed to reopen, and the iPET Network qualifications offered by the training academy have seen a record number of sign-ups.

He said: “The pandemic has been so tough, but coming out the other side it is all the more clear that we have a growth industry on our hands.

“We have seen so many different types of people signing up to take the iPET Network courses. People have had the opportunity to reassess their lives, or have lost jobs, and dog grooming is a fun and creative new start for them.

“Likewise at the salon it is safe to say that it has been packed! It’s wonderful to be back, but it’s clear that the industry needs to expand to keep up with demand. It is a really exciting time for dog grooming.”

To find out more about the courses that the iPET Network offers go to www. ipetnetwork.co.uk

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Doggy Dangers Expert tips on how to protect your dog from the dangers lurking in the garden: Step one identify toxic plants and flowers

T

he prettiest parts of your garden could be the most dangerous to your dog. Toxic plants are one of the biggest dog health hazards in your garden.

Many common plants and flowers, such as daffodil buds and tulips, are toxic to animals, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea and even seizures.

Before bringing a dog into your home, check the ASPCA’s full list of plants that are toxic to your pet, and see what you need to remove or block off in order to protect your dog’s health and safety.

If you’ve discovered that your garden is home to a toxic plant, remove it from the area, clear any seeds or roots and replace it with the following plants that are all safe for dogs; Roses, Sunflowers, Marigolds, Hibiscus, Snapdragon, Aster, Daylilies and Herbs.

Unfortunately for owners, flowers and weeds aren’t the only types of greenery that can cause harm to pets.

42 | Total Grooming Magazine

Common garden fruit and vegetable plants can also be toxic to dogs. Tomato plants, rhubarb, onions, garlic and fungi might be tasty foods to us humans, but they are toxic to pets and can result in an upset stomach if consumed.

If you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your local vet immediately.

Create a secure place for tools and equipment Summer is an important time of the year for any gardener or aspiring horticulturist. But during this time, it’s crucial to know that your garden probably contains a few hidden dangers that can injure your pet. Garden tools, including lawnmowers, strimmers, sharp tools and loppers should be securely stored in a shed or in your home away from your pets.

Screws, bolts and other small fittings can become a choking hazard for your dog, especially young puppies who

enjoy exploring the garden with their nose and mouth. Your dog could easily injure itself on sharp items left lying around.

Make sure to keep any potentially poisonous chemicals, such as garden fertiliser and insect repellents locked away or stored high out of reach from your four-legged friend. If your puppy manages to get hold of something dangerous, contact your vet immediately.

Secure your garden with fencing Letting your dog play or roam in the garden is an excellent way to let them burn off some energy between walks, but the area must be kept safe and secure. Make sure your garden is secured with a fence tall enough to contain an energetic dog. Check for gaps where your dog could squeeze through, and ensure fence panels are well placed in the ground so

your mischievous dog can’t dig underneath. Finally, make sure the panels are secured and sturdy enough to resist a boisterous dog.

Keeping your pooch safe is just as important as keeping them from escaping the garden, so barbed wire and sharp materials are not suitable type of fencing for homes with dogs. Sharp or pointed fencing can cause severe injuries, so picket fencing is your best option.

Keep ponds and pools covered Ponds, swimming pools, and jacuzzis can pose a severe danger to pets, especially during the year’s warmer months. Ensure that the water is covered or secured with fencing and that your dog is never out by the water unsupervised.

If you have a lake, pond, or stream within your garden or close by, your puppy may be exposed to blue-green algae, a term used to describe bacteria found in warm fresh or salted water, called cyanobacteria. If your dog takes a quick drink from the water, it could lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy due to harmful toxins which can stop their liver from functioning properly.

Remove any excess soil and compost The start of summer signals sunnier weather, longer days and hopefully more time spent in the garden for you and your dog. But, unfortunately, it’s not very well known that compost can be highly toxic to pets, causing serious illness.

Compost is a mixture of decomposing food scraps, recycled plants and other nutrient-rich organic matter. As the compost begins to decompose, it can produce dangerous mould spores and bacteria, potentially creating mycotoxins that are highly toxic to animals.

If you believe your dog has been digging or playing in the compost, keep an eye out for warning symptoms and contact your local vet immediately.

The symptoms of compost poisoning include hyperthermia, diarrhoea, vomiting, foaming at the mouth, agitation, hypersensitivity and lethargy.

If you know your pet has eaten compost, call your local vet straight away and don’t wait for the symptoms to show, as specialised treatment will be required.

Safely remove slugs and snails Slugs and snails start to reappear when

44 | Total Grooming Magazine

the weather turns cold and wet, and your pet will likely encounter one at some point in its life. Dogs are the most common pet to come in contact with slugs and snails due to their curious and playful nature. These garden creatures contain lungworm parasites, which can cause serious health issues if passed on to your dog, including heart problems, breathing problems and haemorrhaging.

To safely remove slugs and snails from your garden, do not use snail bait, as they are commonly mixed with toxics, and ingestion can be fatal for your dog. Instead, fill tubs with beer around your garden that are accessible for slugs and snails but hidden from children and pets. The snails and slugs will be attracted to the beer, will fall into the tub and drown.

Remove any cocoa mulch Chocolate is dangerous for dogs, as it contains ingredients such as theobromine and caffeine. Like chocolate, cocoa mulch, a garden material spread on flower beds and borders to retain moisture and suppress weeds, also contains harmful toxins. If a dog ingests cocoa mulch, it can result in vomiting, increased heart rate, tremors and seizures.

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Gut Health – Something to Digest!

W

e are what we eat – and given that some dogs would choose to eat some pretty undesirable things it’s no surprise that some of them suffer from runny stools, flatulence and poor appetite. Combined with this, dietary sensitivity can be very common among pooches.

Many dog owners will be on the lookout for a quick solution and experimenting with lots of different diets can be costly and time consuming.

It can take around two weeks for the digestive system to adapt to new food.

That’s one of the reasons that many dog owners turn to supplements and prebiotics and probiotics are popular choices.

The intestine naturally contains many types of bacteria, especially in the large intestine. Some of those bacteria potentially have beneficial effects, while

46 | Total Grooming Magazine

some produce toxins and have other adverse consequences. Both are held in balance under normal circumstances.

There are number of stressors that could cause sensitive digestion, like moving to a new home, or the presence of poor quality or poorly digested food in the large gut can upset this balance, allowing the ‘bad’ bacteria to proliferate.

Providing more of the ‘good’ bacteria provides a buffer against that happening and allows the gut to benefit from the effects of these good bacteria in their own right – they can for instance help gut cells stay healthy.

Prebiotics add these beneficial bacteria direct – in the case of Lintbells YuDIGEST it’s a bacteria called Enterococcus faecium E1707, which is an EU registered strain of probiotics approved for dogs.

A prebiotic nourishes existing populations of good bacteria in the gut

by providing them with a food source.

While some fruits and vegetables contain prebiotics, adding high purity MOS, scFOS and beta-glucans directly as YuDIGEST can be even better, as there’s no need to break down food components to release them. In a gut that’s already upset and not digesting food properly, that’s likely to be a big benefit.

Herbie, a 13 year-old Border Collie, is very sensitive to noise and also finds almost any changes to his routine stressful. His stomach mirrors any stress factors in his life. As a result, he does suffer intermittently from runny stools.

Thanks to YuDIGEST supplement, the problem is kept under control.

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Total Grooming Magazine | 47

Natural support for your bitch

Entire females can be subject to some very specific issues, whether you choose to breed from them or not…

Fertility & whelping Once you’ve made the decision to breed from your bitch, planning is key! From finding the perfect sire to ensuring she is in peak health. Her state of health and fitness prior to mating and throughout her pregnancy is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes for her and her pups. Exercise and diet need to be considered, and Dorwest Herbs have dome handy products that can support her before and during her pregnancy, helping her to prepare for whelping.

False pregnancy If you have an entire (un-neutered) bitch and she’s not been mated, you may notice her showing some unusual 48 | Total Grooming Magazine

behaviours following her season. False, pseudo or phantom pregnancies usually start after the first or second season and unfortunately, if your dog has a tendency to these, she’s likely to suffer season after season with symptoms of increasing severity. The symptoms range from mild unsettled behaviour to more extreme nesting habits such as carrying toys, looking for pups and even depression. Physical changes can also occur, including a change in body shape, enlarged teats with even milk production. Dorwest Herbs have products that can help ease the symptoms in a natural way.

Popular with breeders, raspberry leaf is a birth aid that has been recommended by veterinary and

healthcare professionals for centuries!

Dorwest Herb’s Raspberry Leaf Tablets is suitable for all pregnancies, but especially those where a difficult delivery might be anticipated. Working to tone and strengthen the muscles of the uterus in preparation for birth, they can help ensure a smooth labour for your dog. Raspberry Leaf Tablets can also be used as an aid to prevent pseudo/phantom pregnancies in dogs.

Available in 100, 200 & 500 tablet sizes, rrp starts at £9.70 and currently they are buy one get one free with code RL50, hurry whilst stocks!

For more information call 01308 897272, visit dorwest.com or connect with them on social media.

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 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

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

SHEAR EASE LTD, FREEPOST RTGX-JEHG-XTTH, RHOSYBOL, AMLWCH, ANGLESEY, LL68 9TR

Phone: 01407 832 800

Web: www.sheareaseltd.com

ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING NO ‘HIDDEN’ FEES SAME DAY TURNAROUND INWARD AND OUTWARD POSTAGE INCLUDED IN PRICE FREE POSTAGE LABELS AND PADDED ENVELOPES AVAILABLE Burrsville, Frating Rd, Thorrington, Colchester, Essex, CO7 8HT

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

Pet Treats

Monty’s Wholesale Looking for extra income?

Give our Natural treats, foods & supplements a new brand!

Wholesale with white label service & UK manufactured products.

T: 0203 797 6308 W: www.montystreats.co.uk

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