Designed to meet the real-world demands of busy groomers, Mastercut’s Superwides deliver 25% more cutting width - making light work of any clipping job. These blades aren’t just an upgrade, they’re the smarter way to groom.
Finish Performance Value
Editor
Tom Woollin tom@tgmpublishing.co.uk
Commercial Director
Mike Smith mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk 01795 509110
Design and Production
Grant Waters grant@cimltd.co.uk
James Taylor james@cimltd.co.uk
Credit Facilities Manager
Gwen Lee creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk 01795 509103
Digital & Web Developer
Xhulio Bishtaja digital@cimltd.co.uk
Marketing Manager Lucas Payne lucas@cimltd.co.uk
Social Media Manager
Lily Lawson socials@cimltd.co.uk
Director Tom Woollin
Managing Director John Denning © 2026 Cogent Multimedia 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 Cogent Multimedia 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.
Editor’s Letter
Welcome to the February issue of Total Grooming Magazine, where this month we focus on growth, education and the evolving opportunities within our industry.
We’re delighted to introduce our Groomer of the Month, Carla Keen of Wayland Wags Dog Grooming, who shares her journey into grooming, her calm one-household-at-a-time approach, and how wellbeing, confidence and continued education shape her business today.
With Crufts 2026 fast approaching, we bring you two in-depth features: an exclusive interview with the Royal Kennel Club exploring the launch of the first-ever Crufts Dog Grooming Championships, and a countdown piece highlighting what groomers can expect from the show floor, competitions, demos and trade stands.
Our business and education features include Katie’s Cat Column, celebrating the realities and rewards of working with cats. We also feature Rachel Bean, who combines winter first-aid advice with reflections on observation and empathy, and Retail Done Right, offering practical guidance on adding retail to your salon without pressure or hard selling.
Enjoy the read, and please reach out if you’d like to be featured.
Tom Woollin Editorial Director
10 Groomers of the Month
Carla Keen of Wayland Wags shares her grooming journey and salon approach. 13 Crufts Preview
What groomers can expect from Crufts 2026, including competitions and trade highlights. 26 Rachel Bean
Winter first-aid advice and professional reflections from Rachel Bean. 29 Retailing
How retail can add value to your salon without hard selling. 36 Katie’s Cat Column
Why specialist cat grooming knowledge matters more than ever.
DotDotPet Partners with Battersea
UK pet-care brand DotDotPet has announced a partnership with Battersea, supporting the charity’s work with rescue pets through sales of its award-winning dog shampoos and Eco Towels. The Battersea-branded grooming range is already available through leading UK retailers including Pets at Home and Ocado.
Built on feel-good science for pets and their parents, DotDotPet focuses on reducing stress during grooming through its unique approach to fragrance. Dogs experience the world primarily through smell, and strong or lingering fragrances can be overwhelming, contributing to anxiety and aversion during bath time. By using low-irritation, non-overpowering fragrances, DotDotPet helps make grooming calmer and more comfortable for pets — and easier, quicker and less stressful for their parents.
A percentage of sales from the Battersea-branded grooming range is donated to Battersea to help fund the care and rehoming of rescue pets across the UK.
Harry Chapman, Founder of DotDotPet, said:
“I am hugely proud that DotDotPet is associated with such an esteemed
unconditional love our pets bring. Being able to support a charity that helps rescue pets find their forever homes is a real honour and part of why we launched DotDotPet — to make pet lives healthier and happier.”
James Devenny, Senior Corporate and Commercial Manager at Battersea, ‘We’re so pleased to be working with Dot Dot Pet as our newest licensee. This collaboration brings Battersea to life in a fresh, creative way — and importantly, each product sold helps us be there for every dog and cat.’
The partnership includes DotDotPet’s coat-type dog shampoos and Eco Towels, with the shampoos recently winning a Your Dog Grooming Award.
For more information about DotDotPet please visit www.dotdotpet.com or if you wish to become a stockist please email hello@dotdotpet.com
What Groomers Need to Know
The professional grooming sector continues to evolve, and while licensing is often the headline topic, there are a number of recent legal changes that groomers should be aware of, in particular around animal welfare and employment law. Understanding these changes is essential not only for compliance, but for protecting your business, your staff, and the dogs in your care. In our new bi-monthly feature Animal Focused Alliance founder, Vicky Skinner will provide a sector snapshot of the changes underway.
One key area of change is the strengthening of legislation around animal mutilations, particularly ear cropping and de-clawing cats. Ear cropping has been illegal in the UK for many years, but recent updates and the introduction of the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill has tightened the net around associated practices. This includes banning the import of dogs with cropped ears and cats who have been declawed- two processes that are carried out purely for cosmetic reasons. Other changes implemented through the new legislation are raising the minimum age of imported dogs and cats from 15 weeks to 6 months and banning the import of dogs and cats who are in the later stages of pregnancy (42 days).
By understanding these changes, groomers can be confident in how to handle conversations with clients who are considering buying new pets and ensure their business does not inadvertently support poor-welfare practices through images of cropped ears in marketing or social media.
Alongside welfare legislation, changes to employment rights are also moving through Parliament and will affect grooming businesses that employ staff. Proposals under the Employment Rights Bill have included reforms to unfair dismissal qualifying periods, zero-hours contracts, and protections for workers. While some details are still being finalised, the direction is clear: greater expectations on employers, even small businesses. For grooming salons, this highlights the importance of having
clear contracts, structured probation periods, proper training records, and fair, documented procedures in place.
For many groomers, particularly sole traders and small teams, keeping up with these changes can feel overwhelming. Legislation is often complex, guidance can be inconsistent, and misinformation spreads quickly online.
That’s where the Animal Focused Alliance comes in. The Alliance exists to provide clear, factual, welfareled guidance for pet professionals across the UK. We monitor legislative developments, engage with policymakers and sector groups, and translate complex regulation into practical advice that works in the real world. Our focus is on helping groomers
operate confidently, professionally, and in a way that puts animal welfare at the heart of their work.
For more information visit www.animalfocusedalliance.co.uk
THE BLADE THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
Runs Cooler. Lasts Longer. Cuts Smarter.
Meet the first blade engineered with magnetic force technology. No friction. No heat spikes. Just smooth, reliable grooming that keeps pets comfortable and professionals productive. Upgrade to M-Force®—the future of grooming. Discover M-Force® Blades at Andis.
Wayland Wags Dog Grooming
Carla Keen, owner of Wayland Wags Dog Grooming, shares how an unexpected college open day sparked her grooming career. From breed-standard trims to hand-stripping and deshedding, Carla’s calm, one-household-at-a-time approach keeps her salon personal and focused. She also hosts a wellbeing podcast supporting groomers nationwide.
How did you first get started in grooming, and what inspired you to choose this as your career path?
I began training to groom after my parents visited a local agricultural college open day. They went to see the lambs, but while there they found a demo for the City & Guilds dog grooming courses and my dad thought I’d enjoy it. I wanted a career change, so I signed up for the introductory course and never looked back.
Have you had any standout mentors along the way?
I’ve been lucky to attend seminars and
training days across the country with many talented groomers. When I focus on a new breed, I study the breed standard, go to shows and grooming events, then learn from breed specialists. I also value feedback from people I respect in the industry, including Angela Caley, Zoe Duffy, Joanne Angus, Jitka Krisova, Eve Somers and Julie Harris.
Can you walk us through how you run your business day to day—what makes your salon or service unique in the way it operates?
I start at 8:30 or 9am and groom one household at a time. I usually do 3–5 dogs a day, 4-5 days a week. I’m lucky to
have a real mix of breeds and styles, from de-shed and tidy-ups to hand-stripping and breed-standard trims. I work alone, listen to podcasts, take a few minutes between dogs to clean down, and aim to finish by 5:30.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your grooming career or business, and how have you overcome them?
Early on, my biggest challenge was confidence with customers who had unreasonable requests. I would stand my ground, but feel awkward and anxious afterwards. Continuing education, competitions, and meeting other
groomers helped hugely. I learnt clearer ways to explain welfare, coat condition and realistic results, and it reassured me that others faced the same conversations. Communication, like grooming, improves with practice.
You have a podcast - ‘well - being for dog groomers, the podcast’ – tell us about this…
I set up Well-Being for Dog Groomers, The Podcast because I’m interested in mental health, the brain and neurodivergence. As I went to more industry events, I realised how many groomers struggle. Each episode features a different guest, from groomers and vets to mental health professionals and neurodivergence experts. The aim is to share the highs and lows honestly, swap practical ideas for salon life, and help listeners feel less alone. It’s available on all major platforms and is sponsored by Simpsons Grooming Supplies. You can start with any guest and listen in any order.
What tips or lessons would you share with aspiring groomers to help them build both their skills and confidence?
Get out to educational events, meet other groomers and go to dog shows. Focus on what confuses you, but also what genuinely interests you. There are endless breeds and styles to learn, so keep practising and ask for feedback.
Where do you see the grooming industry heading in the next few years, and how do you plan to evolve your business or skills alongside it?
I see the industry continuing to grow; it’s boomed since I started 12 years ago and it’s brilliant to see. Alongside grooming, I’m training to be a counsellor. I’m not hanging up my scissors, but I like having a backup career, especially as I live with fibromyalgia. I’m happy keeping my salon small and personal, but I’d like to teach more one-to-ones for new groomers.
Crufts 2026
Crufts Welcomes Groomers
Crufts 2026 puts grooming centre stage. In this Total Grooming Magazine exclusive, Helen Kerfoot, Chief Canine Officer at the Royal Kennel Club, reveals what’s new for professionals—from the debut Royal Kennel Club Dog Grooming Championships to must-see trade highlights, welfare-led messaging and what the changes signal for grooming’s future.
Crufts 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year—can you give us an overview of what’s new or different at the show this year, particularly for grooming professionals?
Crufts 2026 will be a landmark year with the launch of the Royal Kennel Club Dog Grooming Championships, in partnership with Artero. The Championships will be held in a brandnew hall, which will also host the Young Kennel Club ring, giving young people a dedicated space. This addition will celebrate the artistry of competition grooming while highlighting grooming’s vital role in health and welfare for every dog. Alongside the Championships, visitors will still find nearly 500 trade stands, many grooming-focused, and the new Crufts Club for pet owners, within an event that attracts over 150,000 visitors and 20,000 dogs.
Crufts is introducing its first-ever dedicated grooming competition in 2026. What inspired this addition, and what can groomers expect in terms of format, judging, and standards?
Crufts has long featured grooming demonstrations and breed-ring preparation at a very high standard, and the Young Kennel Club grooming competition has grown steadily. After visiting UK and European competitions and working with Artero, we recognised the need for a highprofile UK championship that celebrates professional talent.
The competition runs across four days with beginner, intermediate, open and championship levels in five classes: Poodles; Spaniels and Setters; Pet/ Crossbreed/Workshop (including Asian Fusion); Handstrip; and Pure Breed Scissor. Each class will be judged by three judges from the UK and overseas. Winners of the open and championship classes progress to Best Groomer in Show on the final night, presented in the Main Arena and broadcast live on Channel
For groomers who may traditionally see Crufts as a handling or breedingfocused event, what would you say are the key reasons they should make attending Crufts 2026 a priority?
Crufts 2026 will be a genuine grooming showcase: a chance to watch top competitors, compare techniques and styles, and see Best Groomer in Show decided on the biggest stage. It’s also
a great place to network with fellow professionals and suppliers, and to see new tools and products in action.
How is Crufts continuing to evolve to reflect the modern grooming industry, including education, professional development, and career pathways for groomers?
Crufts recognises that ethical, welfareled grooming matters for every dog. By placing grooming within the core programme, we can help owners understand what good care looks like and point them towards reputable
professional guidance. We are working with experienced groomers and judges to shape the Championships and keep welfare at the heart of the message. Our ambition is to grow this into a worldleading event that gives the profession the recognition it deserves.
Can you tell us about any demonstrations, seminars, or grooming-led features taking place at Crufts 2026 that attendees should be sure not to miss?
Trade-stand demonstrations will be a key feature across all four days, with brands showcasing techniques, equipment and
new launches. While we aren’t hosting dedicated grooming seminars in 2026, we are exploring education-focused sessions for future years.
Looking ahead, how important is the grooming sector to the future of Crufts, and is this new competition a sign of greater recognition for groomers within the wider dog world?
The grooming sector is increasingly important, particularly with the rise in crossbreeds that require regular coat care. Promoting responsible grooming alongside training, health and nutrition supports dog welfare, and we recognise this as an area where Crufts can add real value. This new competition is a clear sign of greater recognition for groomers, and we will review Crufts 2026 thoroughly.
You can find more information about the competition and enter online, the closing date is Friday 20 February 2026. www.crufts.org.uk
Crufts Countdown
Crufts 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the grooming industry, with a fresh spotlight on professional skill and education. From major suppliers bringing their best offers to groomers planning competitions, demos and networking, Hall 8 is set to be one of the busiest places to learn, connect and invest.
Crufts has always been a calendar highlight for dog people, but for groomers it’s much more than a day out. It’s where the industry gathers: salon owners looking for smarter ways to work, educators swapping techniques, and suppliers listening closely to what professionals need behind the scenes. With grooming competitions and showcases stepping further into the limelight, Crufts 2026 feels like a turning point for the wider recognition of grooming as a skilled craft.
For Christies, it’s one of the most important moments of the year to meet groomers face-to-face. Amber Dillon, Customer Care Manager at Christies, calls it “a definite highlight in the Christies calendar” and says it’s a key opportunity to connect with customers, not only to showcase products but to learn from real conversations on the stand.
That in-person element matters. There’s still no substitute for picking up a clipper, comparing blades, and asking the questions you don’t always have time to type into a search bar. It’s also the chance to talk honestly about what’s working in salons — and what isn’t.
As Amber explains, “Crufts allows us to listen and learn. Speaking directly with groomers helps us understand their businesses, what works well in the salon, and where there may be gaps in the grooming market.” It’s a reminder that the best suppliers aren’t just selling products — they’re paying attention to how those products perform under pressure in busy, real-world grooming environments.
From a groomer’s perspective, Crufts is also about something deeper than shopping. It’s about staying inspired in an industry that demands physical energy, creativity and care. Salon owner, educator and demonstrator Sally Hart
CRUFTS 2026
says Crufts 2026 is set to be “a truly monumental year for the grooming industry,” helped by the introduction of the Crufts Grooming Competition.
“This new addition will shine a well-deserved spotlight on the skill, dedication and passion of professional groomers,” Sally says, adding that it highlights “commitment to breed standards and traditional techniques that underpin the craft.” In busy salons, groomers juggle coat types, client expectations, time pressures and pet behaviour, so Crufts offers a rare chance to reconnect with shape, balance and finish.
Sally also points to the learning that happens beyond the grooming ring. “Crufts also provides the rare chance to observe, chat with and learn from other groomers, as well as to watch some of the world’s top dogs being handled in conformation showing,” she explains. “This is an often undervalued experience, yet it offers priceless knowledge that I apply daily in the salon to provide our clients with an elite level of service.” Even if you never compete, watching top presentation can sharpen your eye and lift your finishing at work.
Crufts is also a place where professional friendships thrive. Lia Godding, who attends every year as an ambassador for WOW Grooming, describes the show as a blend of work and enjoyment. “Every year I will work with WOW Grooming who I’m an ambassador for,” she explains. “I get to help groomers, show people and pet people on what products would be best for them.” Lia also enjoys the hands-on side: “I also do demos on my standard
poodles which I really enjoy.”
For many visitors, demos are where ideas click into place. Seeing technique in action, understanding how products behave on coat, and being able to ask questions in real time can beat scrolling online when you’re back in the salon. You can watch a finish, learn a prep tip, and then go straight to a stand to compare tools or coat care products for yourself.
Alongside that professional focus, Lia captures what makes Crufts feel special.
“Personally I love going to see all my grooming friends, having a look at new products and watching the agility,” she says. That mix is part of Crufts’ pull: trade stands, grooming activity, and the wider show atmosphere that can recharge you after a long stretch of routine.
This year, the increased grooming spotlight is widely welcomed, but there’s a sense it’s still growing into its space. Lia says, “I think it’s a great idea that they are doing this. I wish they had
SHARPEN.
advertised it earlier as I feel like it hasn’t been pushed enough.” She also notes, “It is also pricey though too.” Even so, she believes it will build momentum: “I think in years to come it will grow and show so many people the hard work and dedication we all put into our work.”
For an industry that has sometimes been misunderstood as simply “washing dogs,” that visibility matters. It helps clients appreciate the skill involved, supports higher standards, and encourages more people to treat grooming as a respected profession rather than a casual service.
Suppliers are taking note too. Amber says Christies were “delighted to hear that Crufts is putting the spotlight on grooming this year — it feels like such a natural next step.” From their side, they’re coming prepared.
“We’ll be bringing our full range of grooming products as always, with great promotions,” she says, adding that their team will be on hand to help groomers choose what genuinely suits them and their salons.
That’s an important point: the best purchase at Crufts isn’t necessarily the
CRUFTS 2026
biggest one — it’s the right one. The show can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to be drawn in by shiny new tools or deals. But the value of a supplier stand is in the advice as much as the discount. When experienced staff can match equipment to your workload, breed types and grooming style, it helps groomers make smarter investments that pay off long after the show is over.
Amber also stresses how much suppliers learn at the show. “Events like Crufts are one of our biggest opportunities to speak directly with groomers and really understand their day-to-day challenges,” she explains. “Our team comes together to discuss what we’ve learned from conversations that day,” feeding ideas into practical improvements in products and service.
Crufts is also personal. Sally shares that showing her own dogs will be a major highlight: “On a personal level, showing our two terriers will be a real highlight of Crufts 2026.” Lia’s goals are similar: “I would love to make some new contacts and possibly projects. But most of all watching other demos to gain new skills, meet new groomers, catch up with old.” She also has a practical aim many will share: “Would also like to buy some new grooming equipment which will help and elevate my grooms also.”
For suppliers, the aim is that groomers leave feeling supported. Amber says, “I really hope groomers leave our stand having had a fantastic experience,” and adds, “There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a happy customer heading off with the clipper they’ve had their heart set on — especially when they’ve picked it up at a great price.” Beyond products, she wants connection: “Above all, we aim to share our passion and enthusiasm for the grooming industry.”
Crufts 2026, then, is shaping up to be more than a shopping trip. It’s a meeting point for craft, commerce and community — and a chance for the wider dog world to see the skill behind every finished trim in real time.
Brooks Braithwaite
Explains why Liability Insurance Is Non-Negotiable for Professional Groomers.
Running a grooming business is about far more than great cuts and calm hands. Every day, groomers work with animals that may be anxious, unpredictable, or unfamiliar with their surroundings. Add sharp tools, water, electrical equipment, and members of the public into the mix, and it becomes clear why liability insurance isn’t just a “nice to have”. It’s essential.
Whether you’re grooming from home, operating a salon, working mobile, or offering grooming as part of a wider pet-care service, the right liability cover protects both your livelihood and your reputation.
Understanding liability insurance for pet professionals
Liability insurance is designed to protect you if something goes wrong and a third party makes a claim against your business. In pet businesses, two key types of liability and negligence cover typically include:
• Third-party / Public liability
• Custodial Responsibility / Negligence to Animals
Third-party / Public liability: protection when animals cause harm or damage to third parties
Third-party or Public Liability Cover
protects you if an animal in your care causes injury to someone else or damages their property.
For groomers, this could include scenarios such as:
• A dog biting a customer during dropoff or collection
• A nervous pet knocking over equipment or damaging a client’s belongings
• An animal escaping and causing damage to nearby property
• A customer slipping on a wet floor
• A member of the public tripping over equipment or cables
• Damage caused to a client’s property during a home-based or mobile
grooming appointment
Even well-trained, friendly pets can behave out of character when they’re stressed, in pain, or in a new environment. If an incident occurs and you’re found legally responsible, third-party liability cover can help with compensation claims, medical costs, and legal fees.
Without cover, you could be personally responsible for legal costs and compensation, expenses that can quickly escalate and place significant strain on your business.
This type of insurance offers peace of mind, not just for you, but for your clients too, who trust you with their pets.
Custodial Responsibility: protection when an animal owner deems you negligent following an incident
Custodial Responsibility protects you following an incident to an animal in your care and the animal owner deems you negligent and seeks costs and compensation.
For groomers, this could include scenarios such as:
• A dog falling off the table and injuring its leg
• A pet escaping whilst being groomed
Why liability cover matters for groomers
Grooming is a hands-on, highresponsibility profession. You’re working closely with animals who may bite, scratch, wriggle, or panic, and clients expect their pets to be returned safely and happily.
Having appropriate liability insurance:
• Protects your finances if a claim is made
• Helps safeguard your professional reputation
• Demonstrates professionalism and responsibility
• Builds trust with new and existing clients
Many clients actively look for insured groomers, particularly when booking for nervous, elderly, or high-value pets. Being able to confidently say that you’re fully insured can be a deciding factor when someone is choosing between businesses.
How much does liability insurance cost
• Cat grooming
• Mobile grooming
the UK?
for pet businesses in
The cost of liability insurance varies depending on several factors, including:
• The size of your business
• The services you offer (for example, grooming only or grooming plus other services)
• Whether you employ staff
• Any previous claims history
For groomers, a sole trader offering grooming services may pay as little as
£8.51 per month. Insurance premiums can range widely. There’s no one-sizefits-all price, which is why it’s important to choose a provider that understands the specific risks of grooming businesses.
How to get the right liability insurance for your grooming business
Getting insured doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by clearly identifying the services your business provides. This might include:
• Dog grooming
• Nail clipping or spa treatments
• Handling nervous or aggressive animals
You’ll also need some basic business information, such as:
• Your business location
• How long you’ve been trading
• Whether you work alone or employ staff
Once you have this information ready, you can look for insurance that aligns with your day-to-day operations. In addition to public and third-party liability, many groomers also consider cover such as care, custody and control of animals, which protects you if a pet is injured while under your supervision.
Peace of mind for you and your clients
Running a grooming business should be about doing what you love, not worrying about “what ifs”. Liability insurance allows you to focus on providing excellent care, knowing that you’re protected if the unexpected happens.
For groomers at any stage (from newly qualified professionals to established salon owners) the right insurance is a cornerstone of a safe, trusted, and sustainable business.
For more information please visit www. brooksbraithwaite.com or call 0345 982 5499
Passion, Practice, Perspective
Rachel Bean is a Veterinary Nurse, Canine First Aid Tutor and passionate music photographer. In this piece, she reflects on how observation, empathy and attention to detail connect her worlds of animal care and live music, before sharing vital winter first-aid insights for groomers and pet professionals.
A very happy New Year to you all. January and February always brings that clean-slate feeling, a chance to reset intentions and remember why we fell in love with this profession in the first place. For me, it’s about people,animals...And music!
Those who know me well know that alongside my lifelong devotion to animal welfare, I have a second love: Music photography. There’s something magical
about freezing a fleeting moment on stage, the same kind of focus and empathy we bring to caring for animals.
This festive season I was delighted to act as photographer for a very special gig by Bootleg Blondie, the UK’s premium Blondie tribute band, who performed a heartfelt show in memory of Clem Burke.
Clem, who sadly passed away in 2025, wasn’t just Blondie’s iconic drummer, he was also a supporter of the tribute scene and even played with Bootleg Blondie between tours with the original Blondie.
What a legend. To be involved, camera in hand, celebrating a life so full of amazing songs was an absolute joy.
Photography, much like nursing, is about noticing details, expressions, posture, energy, skills that translate beautifully between my two worlds. Back in the clinic and classrooms, those observational skills matter every day. As a Veterinary Nurse and Canine First Aid Tutor, I spend much of my time teaching pet professionals how to spot the subtle signs that something isn’t right. Winter, in particular, brings its own
challenges, and groomers are often the first to notice when a dog is struggling.
Winter first-aid: What groomers can spot
Cold weather affects dogs differently, but keep an eye out for:
1. Shivering or trembling, especially in small, elderly or short-coated breeds
2. Stiffness or reluctance to move, which can indicate cold-aggravated joint pain
3. Pale, cold ears, paws or tail, a warning sign of hypothermia risk
4. Behaviour changes, such as anxiety, seeking warmth, or lethargy
5. Dry, cracked paw pads, worsened by ice, grit and salt
What to do:
If you notice any of these signs during grooming, pause and warm the dog gradually, never with direct heat. Use towels, raise the room temperature slightly, and encourage gentle movement if appropriate. Flag concerns to the owner, suggest weather-appropriate coats for vulnerable dogs, and advise a veterinary check if symptoms persist. Simple conversations can prevent serious problems.
I’m also thrilled to share that I’ll be
speaking at Pet Pro Expo 2026 on 3 October at Eastside Rooms. As a Canine First Aid Tutor I’ve been proud to help create the first OFQUAL-recognised Canine First Aid qualifications for pet professionals, raising standards across
our industry. If you want to invest in your business, and your confidence, in 2026, I’d love to see you there.
To find out more about Rachel Bean go to www.rachelbean.co.uk
Retailing
Retail Profit Barriers
Retail is one of the most overlooked profit opportunities in grooming salons. When done correctly, it enhances client care while boosting margins. This Essential 5 breaks down the key obstacles stopping groomers from succeeding with retail – and why overcoming them could transform your salon’s profitability.
1. Lack of Confidence in Selling
Many groomers feel uncomfortable “selling” to clients. The reality? Recommending the right shampoo, brush, or maintenance product is professional advice, not pushy sales. When positioned as aftercare, retail becomes a service, not a pitch.
2. Poor Product Selection
Stocking too many products – or the wrong ones – leads to slow movement and wasted cash. Successful salons focus on a tight, curated range of high-margin, problem-solving products that align with the services they already provide.
3. Products Hidden in Plain Sight
If clients can’t see products, they won’t buy them. Retail tucked behind the desk or on cluttered shelves kills impulse purchases. Clear displays, good lighting, and simple signage make a huge difference.
4. No Retail Routine
Retail works best when it’s part of the grooming process, not an afterthought. Without a simple system – consultation, recommendation, reminder at pick-up – opportunities are missed. Consistency is key.
5. Underestimating the Profit Potential
Some salons believe retail “isn’t worth the effort.” In truth, even modest retail sales can dramatically improve margins, especially during quiet grooming periods. Retail income isn’t tied to appointment slots – it scales without more dogs.
Retail isn’t about becoming a shop. It’s about maximising every client interaction, increasing average spend, and positioning your salon as the expert. Remove these five hurdles, and retail can become one of the easiest ways to grow profit without grooming more dogs.
Retail Done Right
As grooming salons face rising costs and fully booked diaries, retail is becoming an increasingly valuable extension of professional care. Industry voices share how thoughtful, well-curated retail can boost income, strengthen client trust, and support better coat maintenance between grooms, without turning salons into sales floors.
Bringing retail into a grooming salon is no longer a fringe idea reserved for large, highfootfall premises. As business costs rise and appointment books reach capacity, more groomers are looking at retail as a way to strengthen both their income and their client relationships. Done well, retailing is not about aggressive selling or turning salons into pet shops, but about extending professional care beyond the grooming table.
For many groomers, the most immediate appeal of retail is its ability to add value without adding labour. Pam Campbell, owner of Ayrshire Grooming Salon, sees retail as a natural complement to her existing services. She explains that knowing your market is key, as it “gives you more interaction with your customers and helps build a good customer relationship,” while also allowing salons to “increase profits with no extra labour.” From her experience, retail can raise the value of a single appointment through simple additions such as treats, toys, leads, or harnesses, while also attracting non-grooming customers into the salon and increasing overall footfall.
This idea of retail as an extension rather than a distraction is echoed across the industry. Costin Stoica, Head Groomer at Animal Magic Groomers, believes retail should always start with professional care. “Grooming doesn’t end when the dog leaves the salon,” he says, noting that recommending the right products helps owners maintain coat condition, skin health, and overall welfare between visits. From a business perspective, he sees retail as something that “adds value rather than pressure,” reinforcing the groomer’s role as a trusted professional rather than simply a service provider.
Time is one of the biggest constraints
facing grooming businesses, and it is here that retail offers a distinct advantage. Kevin Simpson, Managing Director of Simpsons Online, points out that there are only so many dogs a groomer can physically groom in a day. “Retailing is one of the few ways a salon can increase its income without working
longer hours or taking on more staff,” he explains. Even modest, consistent retail sales can add up over time, and because they do not require extra appointment slots, they can be an efficient and sustainable source of additional revenue.
Despite these benefits, hesitation around retail is common. A recurring
concern among groomers is the fear of becoming a salesperson. Pam believes the safest route into retail is preparation. She stresses the importance of market research, encouraging groomers to ask existing and potential clients what they would actually like to buy. Trade shows such as PATS also play an important role for her, providing insight into new products, trends, and, crucially, profit margins. Understanding margins and shelf life, particularly for treats, is vital
to keeping costs under control and avoiding wasted stock.
Kevin hears similar worries from salons he works with, particularly around damaging client trust. “Most groomers didn’t get into this industry to sell,” he says, adding that they are rightly protective of the relationships they have built. His advice is to retail the products already being used during the groom. When a client has seen and felt the results firsthand, the recommendation
becomes advice rather than a sales pitch. Concerns about space are also common, but Kevin notes that a small, carefully chosen range often performs better than shelves filled with slow-moving products. Costin shares these early concerns, especially around investment and space. Rising costs mean every decision has to be justified. Over time, he has found that a curated, purposeful range removes much of the pressure and reduces the risk. Rather than trying to stock everything, focusing on products that genuinely solve problems for his clientele has made retail more manageable and more successful.
One of the strongest arguments for retail is its potential to deepen the relationship between groomer and client. Pam points to the link between loyalty and spending, noting that returning customers often spend significantly more than new ones. In her view, trust is the driver. With a loyal customer base, retail recommendations feel more natural and are more likely to be well received. That trust is built through education rather than persuasion. Costin believes retail works best when it is framed as a solution. If a client is dealing with matting, dry skin, or coat maintenance
RETAILING
issues, recommending a product becomes part of the problem-solving process. He makes a point of explaining why a product is suitable and how it supports the work already done in the salon. When clients see results at home, confidence in the groomer’s advice grows.
Kevin agrees, describing authentic retail as starting with experience. When a groomer can honestly say, “This is what I used today,” the conversation shifts. The product is no longer an addon, but part of the service. By linking recommendations directly to the dog in front of them, groomers move the focus away from price and onto results, which clients value far more.
With rising rent, utilities, and supply costs, the question remains whether retail is a realistic additional revenue stream for most salons. Pam believes it can be, but only if it is approached strategically. Local competition, salon layout, and front-facing merchandising all play a role. Profit margins are essential, and she notes that some suppliers offer mark-ups of up to 60 percent. To stay competitive, she suggests launches, product-of-the-month promotions, and bundling retail items into spa packages. Giveaways and competitions can also add momentum, particularly when loyal customers are encouraged to get involved and spread the word.
From a supplier perspective, Kevin emphasises support and flexibility. Starter packs, curated ranges, and the ability to reorder little and often help salons avoid overcommitting.
Education is just as important, enabling groomers to talk confidently about products without relying on scripted sales techniques. Retail, he says, should not feel like a separate business within the salon, but a way for groomers to be rewarded for the knowledge and care they already provide.
Ultimately, retail success looks different for every salon. As Costin points out, it should never replace core grooming income, but it can provide a valuable supplementary stream when aligned with a salon’s values and standards. With the right products, clear education, and an honest, client-focused approach, retail can strengthen professional relationships while helping grooming businesses remain resilient in a challenging economic climate.
Aeolus Premium Fiberglass Baths
Available in three sizes and a chose of colours
Aeolus leaders in quality grooming products Tables, Baths, Dryers and much more!
BTS-90E Medium bath available in Green and White
BTS-130E Large bath available in white, Hot Pink and Deep Blue
BTS-180E Jumbo available in White
Expanding Cat Care
Welcome to February’s cat-focused column where we are going to look at adding cat grooming to your offerings for 2026. There are a few different courses out there now which is much better than just the three available when I did my training back in 2020. There are also more locations to learn at around the UK rather than just the South East, which makes it much easier for people to get the training they need too.
Cats are Not Small Dogs!
Specialist training in cats is really needed as they are not small dogs and have completely different behaviour, personalities and handling needs that require specific study. They have different nutritional needs as well as body language, and even their skin pH is different, meaning many dog products are not suitable for them. Catspecific ranges of products are always a good place to start looking rather than a product that is for dogs and cats together because of this.
Why Learn About Cats?
Reports vary, but in the UK there are around 13.5 million pet dogs owned by around 36% of households compared with 12.5 million cats in 29% of households. Some surveys even have the number of cat owners as higher than dogs for the first time, and many are calling 2026 the year of the cat. Now think about how many dog-specialist businesses and companies you see out there and then compare that with the number of cat companies. It’s a massive discrepancy, isn’t it? Just think of all the business you are missing out on to exclude cats from your services.
Learn Cat Grooming The Kat Lady Way®
My new course, which launched in January 2026, is designed for beginners and professionals wanting to add cat grooming to their services. It focuses on welfare, behaviour, reading cats and cat-specific handling, alongside practical grooming skills, business setup, marketing and feline first aid.
A 5-day practical option is available via mobile visits or salon-based training, with a more in-depth 20-day version also offered. Both include the same online
modules and a dedicated feline first aid course.
Why I Decided to Teach
I have always enjoyed teaching and have previously taught cat grooming for another organisation. They offer a strong programme, but I wanted something more authentic to my welfare-first ethos, and one that could be taught both mobile and in salons. While I have access to a salon, 99% of our clients still prefer a
mobile service in their own homes. Cats are far less comfortable travelling than dogs, and it isn’t natural for them to be transported in cars. Many become highly anxious in carriers, let alone arriving in unfamiliar environments filled with unfamiliar smells and animals before handling even begins.
I trained my current second groomer and previous students while working mobile, so repeating the model made sense. It’s not for everyone, but it offers
a flexible alternative designed to work with cats, not against them. The goal is to provide varied learning options so professionals can choose what suits them and their clients best, much like the excellent work being done by organisations such as The Holistic Grooming Academy.
Cats Often Get Misunderstood
There are so many stereotypes about cats out there. We hear they are aloof, aggressive, hold grudges, are independent and have fewer care needs than dogs, which are all just not true. I would love to keep educating as many people as possible about the joys of time with cats and that it is all just a case of learning more about them to see their personalities shine through. Studies actually show that cats can develop more secure attachments with humans than dogs can where trust is involved, and there are finally some campaigns out there like Cats Deserve More to try and address issues like these.
For more information on cats, our ethos and our course check out our website: www.thekatlady.co.uk or drop us an email at meow@thekatlady.co.uk
Focus on High–Velocity Dryers
by Greg Crisp, President Double K Industries.
While today’s groomers have numerous equipment options and obligations to contend with, one of the most critical dryer categories is highvelocity dryers, a.k.a. blasters. As most groomers know, blasters generally have low to moderate air volume but high air pressure, allowing the discharge air to be concentrated through narrow nozzles to achieve high air speeds. The air also flows through and cools the motors, and as a result is heated—contributing to the drying process.
The importance of this dryer type has financial, ergonomic, and quality-of-work consequences.
The financial implications fall into several categories. A blaster is one of the few tools—aside from a clipper—used for relatively long periods of time, requiring hands-on labor. Accordingly, since a groomer’s time is his or her most valuable asset, a dryer’s effectiveness has an outsized impact on profitability.Virtually any two-motor high-velocity dryer on the market is a better investment than almost any single-motor unit, with labor savings paying for the difference in cost many times over before the end of the product’s lifecycle.
Relative performance differences among dryers from different manufacturers can also have significant financial implications. A performance improvement of only four percent for a dryer used just two hours per day, at a labor rate of €15 (or £15) per hour, can pay for the dryer within 18 months of ownership.
Serviceability is also important. Dryers engineered for easy serviceability can reduce expenses and aggravation associated with motor brush changes, repairs, and routine maintenance.
Ergonomically, noise, heat, and physical strain are all important factors to consider.
EU noise related regulatory guidelines are predicated on exposure levels measured in decibels (dB) over time. Eighty-five dB is generally considered the upper permissible limit. While the issue of acoustic insult can be complicated, it is best to invest in forced-air dryers that feature acoustically isolated motor/fan assemblies and sound-damping housing materials, which are typically quieter. Acoustically engineered nozzles and air intake systems can also help reduce noise.
Two-motor dryers can generate
air temperatures up to 15° C above ambient. While this is very helpful for drying efficiency, it can be difficult to hold hot dryer nozzles for extended periods. Nozzles designed to insulate hands from high temperatures, along with thermally isolated handles, are best.
A dryer’s capability and versatility can affect—and improve—your finished presentation. Power, control, and the ability to modify airstream behavior can allow your blaster to strengthen your results and support your success.
