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Contents

appy New Year to all our readers, let’s hope it is a better year for everyone. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas break despite the obvious Covid restrictions. We have lots of wonderful features in this issue including the importance of good health and safety practices, an article on salon pet first aid, prices setting for the year ahead, a preview of a new grooming challenge TV series and lots more besides. If you would like to feature in the magazine or have some content ideas that you would like us to explore, contact: editor@ totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk Editor www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

Sue Oliver explains why on-going training is important

Contents 04 News 06 News 08 News 10 News 12 News 14 Sue Oliver explains why ongoing training is important 18 Heidi Anderton helps set salon objectives for the year ahead

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk January 2021

22 Expert advice on salon pet first aid

On the cover:

30 Health and safety advice 34 Why pet dental care matters 36 Preview of a new grooming challenge TV series: Pooch Perfect 50 Setting new prices for the year ahead

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Heiniger www.heiniger.com

Preview of a new grooming challenge TV series: Pooch Perfect

Editor

Design and Production

Sue Corfield – editor@totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

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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

© 2021 TGM Publishing Limited, The Goods Shed, Jubilee Way, Whitstable Road, 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.

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Movement of German Shepherd Dogs is dependent on their shape New research from the School of Veterinary Science at the University of Surrey, has shown for the first time that the movement of German Shepherd Dogs is dependent upon their shape, particularly their back slope.

uring this unique study, funded by the Kennel Club through the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, researchers examined the body shape of one of the UK’s most popular breeds, the German Shepherd Dog. Commonly observed variations in its body shape include differences in the slope and curvature of the back and the posture of their hind legs. To evaluate the impact of these variations on the way the animals move and stand, researchers invited 60 German Shepherd Dogs and their owners into the Biomechanics Laboratory at the University of Surrey. They used infrared motion capture cameras and light-reflecting sensors to examine the dogs’ movements, and a high-resolution foot pressure platform to observe foot loading. Researchers found that the movements of this breed were significantly affected by their body shape. It was found that those with sloped backs support more weight on their forelimbs and place the limbs closer together whilst standing. The study found that unilateral (one-sided) differences in the movement of joints in the back limbs of the dogs, in particular, stifle flexion, hock flexion and hock adduction and external rotation, suggesting greater motion lop-sidedness in dogs with a more sloped back. Externally rotated hocks on any dog are known to be linked to lack of muscle balance in the hind limbs in dogs with a spread stance. This suggests that maintaining a healthy muscle mass in the hindlimbs can be essential in this breed. 10 | Total Grooming Magazine

Dr Constanza Gómez Álvarez, former Lecturer in Musculoskeletal Biology at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Surrey, Honorary Senior Lecturer of Brunel University London and a Visiting Research Fellow in the Department of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Cambridge, said: “A common feature of some German Shepherds is a distinct sloping and/or curvature of their spine. It was previously thought such differences were purely aesthetic and had no impact on the animal’s motion but what we have found dispels such notions”. “Those with a sloping back move differently, and not always in a symmetric way. These results highlight a link between sloping backs and the biomechanics of German Shepherd Dogs that may go some way in explaining the prevalence of clinical conditions in some dogs but not others, like hip and elbow dysplasia. Further investigations resulting from the 200 dogs with signs of musculoskeletal pain will show if there is any correlation between joint pain and shape or not at all.” Bill King, Chairman of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust which has invested more than £10 million into health research over the past decade, said: “These are the first publications of an important research project which the Kennel Club Charitable Trust commissioned and funded to help clarify understanding of the impact varying body shapes can have within the German Shepherd Dog breed. “These studies will help us to plan

These results highlight a link between sloping backs and the biomechanics of German Shepherd Dogs that may go some way in explaining the prevalence of clinical conditions in some dogs

further investigations and to work in an informed way with breed clubs and other experts to protect the health and welfare of this wonderful breed.” Dr Aliah Shaheen, Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics in Brunel University London, said: “The state-of-the-art technology and methods that we used in this study allow us to get an objective (unbiased) measure of the posture and movement of these dogs in 3D and the resulting forces experienced by their musculoskeletal system. These methods are also used in other applications in Biomedical Engineering, including the assessment of human gait and movements for clinical and sports performance purposes.”

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From Iraq with Love An army medic, Kara Lane has been reunited with a stray dog that she rescued from Iraq thanks to the intervention of War Paws – a charity that saves unwanted and injured pets in Iraq.

fter decades of warfare, Iraq’s environment has suffered considerable devastation and although most UK and allied troops have returned home, some small peacekeeping battalions remained behind to train Kurdistan forces. Army medic Kara Lane (22) who was attached to the First Battalion Duke of Lancashire regiment, carried out her tour of duty in Iraq at the end of last year helping to train Kurdistan troops in life-saving medical skills. She was based in a Kurdish camp and conducted regular courses in medical procedures. On one occasion, after her course, she was on her way to the shower block when she heard barks and whining from underneath one of the portacabins. On closer investigation she discovered a tiny German Shepherd Collie cross puppy hiding there. She provided regular food and water to the pup and a bond was established. The puppy began to interact with the other troop members and became a mascot. Kara said: “We all loved her and we named her Mo. She was so friendly and mischievous and was a distraction from the daily grind in camp.” Kara was sent off to a distant camp for a few weeks and when she returned she looked for Mo and they renewed their friendship. However, not everyone at the camp was enamoured with the growing pup. “I was taking a class when I heard a high pitched shrieking, I ran out and found a Kurdish contractor trying to push Mo into a plastic bag with the aim of killing her. I told him to let her go immediately, which he did. She ran to me for protection. Knowing I would

12 | Total Grooming Magazine

Kara Lane with Mo at home on Anglesey

soon be sent back home, I had to find a way of getting her out of the camp and patriating her to the UK. “Our boss spoke to the head of the camp and asked him to make sure that Mo was left alone while we made plans to get her away from there. The lads in the battalion agreed to help and we got in touch with War Paws who sorted out all the vaccinations, passport and travel arrangements for her. “We all contributed to the fundraising initiative and I received an anonymous donation for £1,000 which was a massive injection towards the £3,000 that we needed to fund her rescue. “It only took a couple of weeks to sort out the arrangements but then with the virus pandemic, she got stuck in Jordan for seven months before her journey could continue to the UK. It was more difficult getting her out of

there than it was arranging the entire process from Iraq.” Mo arrived in the UK on 28 October and was finally reunited with Kara two days later. She now lives in Holyhead on Anglesey with her new family and is enjoying walks on the wonderful beaches and headlands. “I didn’t think Mo would remember me but she definitely did – she went mad with excitement when we met. She has settled in really well and is a joy,” Kara concluded. War Paws has been badly affected by the virus pandemic and is desperately raising funds to help feed and treat over 200 sick and injured animals in its care at its Iraqui shelter. The charity is running a £1 a month campaign and is urgently asking people to donate just a pound a month. For more information visit: warpaws.org

Get Qualified

Groomer and trainer, Sue Oliver shares her views on why qualifications are vital in the grooming world:

t’s been a tough 2020 and I hope you have arrived at 2021 safe and well. As you know COVID 19 has changed the world, and the impact has been vast. COVID 19 has touched us all in many ways and I personally have lost two people in my life due to the virus. I want to be encouraging and talk about the grooming industry and how it has been affected, along with some thoughts of how we can move forward positively. One major issue within the dog grooming industry through the various lockdowns was whether salons were supposed to open or not - a nightmare for many of us. The British Isles Grooming Association, worked tirelessly to secure answers from the Canine Feline Sector and DEFRA as I am sure many other organisations and groomers also did. One of the main reasons for the ambiguity was possibly because dog grooming is not regulated, therefore we did not seem to come under any list of industries in the government guidance. I personally wrote to my MP and my local authority and then Trading Standards. Nightmare isn’t the word and answers did not come quickly. I know many groomers out there do not want to be regulated for whatever reason, but it may and probably will come, especially as COVID regulations has highlighted the important role of the dog grooming industry to many authorities. So, what’s the main thing you can do? Be Safe, Be Trained and Be qualified Lockdown has produced some worrying trends amongst people looking for a career change, where people who have no training at all think it’s easy to groom dogs make some money and have consequently established their own enterprise. This

14 | Total Grooming Magazine

Sue Oliver

concerns me massively. Without any training or guidance, they are offering dog grooming, are they safe? So, what about the experienced, trained, well established groomers out there that do a great fantastic job but don’t hold a qualification. You can study and get qualified. You don’t necessarily have to go on a course, there are organisations who can support you in gaining a qualification in Dog Grooming. I went and spoke to some organisations about the qualifications they offer:

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ICMG ICMG offer training and qualifications “ICMG UK offers dog grooming qualification’s which are accessible to all and long-standing groomers that want a qualification without necessarily attending a training course. ICMG qualifications are not only recognised the UK but they are internationally recognised in 26 countries worldwide, including Canada, USA and South America, Australia, Asia and Benelux countries. ICMG offer face to face certification and Zoom with online written exams” Get in touch info@ icmguk.com www.icmguk.com

Summit Summit offer a range of qualifications with City and Guilds ” If you are looking for a training centre to begin a career in grooming, improve your current grooming skills or looking to become a training centre, Summit can offer guidance and advice for your route to success.” Get in touch for City and Guilds qualifications enquiries@ summitgroomertraininggroup.co.uk www.summitgroomertraininggroup.co.uk

iPet iPET offer training and dog grooming qualifications “We started the journey of becoming an Awarding Organisation as we believe professional training and certification is the key to improving our industry and raising animal welfare standards. Our ethos is quality, quality, quality. We strive to improve quality in all that we do, from the writing of new qualifications to the production of resource materials and the professional development of those inside and outside our organisation.” Get in touch info@ipetnetwork.co.uk www.ipetnetwork.co.uk

Heavenlyz Heavenlyz Dog Grooming Training Centre offers recognised qualifications. “The most popular qualification at Heavenlyz is set by the Open College Network West Midlands Awarding Body (OCN) The delivery is very groomer friendly as it is assessed 16 | Total Grooming Magazine

primarily on practical skills. Heavenlyz team will give you your own assessor who will support you all the way and we make available fabulous resources and qualification guides. Email team Heavenlyz liza@ heavenlyz.com or call 01283 703043 www.heavenlyz.com

The Groomers Spotlight The Groomers Spotlight are an organisation that recognise qualified dog groomers and advertise their merits. Stuart Simmons from The groomers Spotlight thoughts are “ The Grooming Industry is in trouble. Emerging from the second Covid-19 lockdown, so many businesses are closing and unfortunately, unemployment is on the rise as a direct result. People will turn to professions that they think can offer them a quick return for little very little training. Unfortunately, dog grooming is seen as such a profession. The Groomers Spotlight isn’t there to belittle good groomers that haven’t got a qualification, it’s there to encourage and to protect an industry that provides a good income for those that have worked to achieve their qualification, the people that have been externally assessed to be competent should, god forbid, anything goes wrong. We see it as our duty to come together to protect the industry and raise its profile to that of a skilled worker, for the sake of our jobs and for the protection of the dogs that could be injured by unskilled and untrained

hands” Get in touch info@ thegroomersspotlight.com www.thegroomersspotlight.com There are many other organisations that offer qualifications and training in dog grooming. I wanted to give you an idea of the type of training and qualifications available. Please understand that I am not saying that you are an inadequate groomer if you are not qualified, this is far from the case. I am suggesting that dog grooming may develop, and guidelines or regulations may in the future state that dog groomers will need to be qualified. Which qualification and route you opt for is your decision. They are all great and my belief is that any training and qualification is better than none. My advice is to get in touch with a training provider and go and see them or have a good discussion with them about what they offer and how it works for you. Make sure you are happy with the trainer being qualified and have good experience of grooming. My view is that training schools should be regulated so that you are given the correct training and standard of teaching. Please feel free to get in touch with me for any advice on training and qualifications that I might be able to help you with. sue@ sueoliverdoggroomingstudio.co.uk

Looking Forward to the New Year

Heidi Anderton, principal of Absolutely Animals and London School of Pet Grooming, talks about planning for 2021. With nearly 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).

fter a year like no other, we all have high hopes for the year ahead but what can we do to get our business model in

order?

Planning for the New Year! There’s lots to think about and you can start planning for the year ahead in several ways. It is an ongoing process of being part of a business. Standards update and improve all the time so it is very important that you keep yourselves up-to-date and current with: • Equipment and techniques • Employment laws and legislations • Animal welfare laws and guidelines • Career progressions The dog grooming industry is vast. I still learn new things after 30 years and you can and should do the same. Learning and joining in keeps you inspired, motivated, informed and updated and most of all it continues your passion.

CPD – Continual Professional Development This is the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities. You may hear this term a lot if you are in the field of education as it is always promoted to increase abilities and knowledge. But it is also an important 18 | Total Grooming Magazine

term which we should be aware of in our everyday lives and work roles. We can continue our professional development through:

Competitions So, unfortunately, most competitions were cancelled last year, but we are hopeful that there will be a return to this competitive world during 2021. Usually, there are many grooming competitions held throughout the whole of the British Isles, which really means that you do not have to travel too far to get to one of these events. For a passionate groomer, a grooming competition can bring you many things: From being able to watch others grooming to the trade stands to seminars. If you can muster up the courage to take part, you will make good friends with some of the other competitors from the British Isles and even from overseas. The most important CPD for competitors though is the the feedback from the judge.

Exams Whichever exams you take, whether it is dog grooming, business, teaching or even photography you will still be developing your skills and learning to enhance your business. I often hear, ‘what is the point of doing exams’? Well in my opinion, the point is, to verify your knowledge and to learn a

Heidi Anderton

bit more. Not only is it good to refresh our knowledge, as most of us do forget things over time, but it is good to enhance our knowledge and challenge ourselves. Something we can do on a continual basis. The Professional Recognition Awards are the next City and Guilds step after the level 3 in dog grooming. They are about managerial skills and challenge the candidate to think more about management. Most groomers are doing this all the time in their businesses and will no doubt learn lots to improve what they have in place by doing this award. You can visit my website for more information on the PRA. This award is level 4 and must demonstrate competency in 6 different areas

• Standard 1: Commitment to Professional Standards • Standard 2: Communication and Information Management • Standard 3: Leadership • Standard 4: Professional Development • Standard 5: Working with Others • Standard 6: Managing Customer

Relationships Exams help you to improve yourself and your business so have a look at what you can do next!

Seminars Speakers are assigned to talk about topics of interest which span across all the areas which you may be planning to improve going forward. Keep an eye out for the seminars in the competition programmes and look to see who the speaker is. Seminars are usually very popular so make sure you book in advance. BIGA has a list of forthcoming competitions on its website – so this is a good place to start.

Seminars are a great way of expanding knowledge

Private training If you are less confident in some areas, you can take some private lessons from a dedicated and skilled tutor. There are many people who specialise in certain areas and who can take you step by step through certain breeds or techniques which you feel you need help with. Another most important area to think about when planning for the NEW Year is your:

Budget and Forecast Budgeting essentially lays out a plan for where a business wants to go, whereas financial forecasting indicates where the business is actually headed. A budget estimates the amount of revenues and expenses a company may incur over a future period. If you have a business and you want to improve it, it is essential that you take a small business course. Exams and learning again, I know! but there is nothing more interesting than in learning and developing skills that will help your business to grow and prosper.

Shows provide superb hands-on experience along with feedback from judges and industry experts

Add-on services These are a great way of getting more out of your customers. Add- on services include anything which is indirectly related to your main service. For example: colouring or spa treatments, microchipping, dog walking, cat grooming, dog sitting, dog treats, toys and other sale items. Have a look at the profitability of these services and maybe include them in your forecast.

Networking groups and magazines You can find out about forth coming events through networking groups,

20 | Total Grooming Magazine

magazines and British Isles Grooming Association – BIGA www.mybiga.org , they have a page dedicated to forthcoming events in the British Isles so you can plan your year ahead. Keep inspired, motivated, informed and updated. Wishing you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year. www.absolutelyanimals.biz

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First Aid for Groomers First aid is an essential skill for all groomers, but it can feel a bit daunting. Working around animals with scissors, water, and electrical equipment on a daily basis means you have to know what to do when something goes wrong! Accidents can happen, even with the strictest safety protocols in place. So, it helps to be prepared. This means knowing in advance how to respond, and also having the equipment at hand to do so. Here’s all you need to know about dog grooming first aid! Dr Sarah-Jane Molier on behalf of Aqueos shares her tips: Be Prepared for a Dog Grooming Injury Attend a dog grooming first aid course. There are many grooming first aid courses on offer, including some available online. It is important to keep your knowledge up-to-date, so refresher courses are important too. When choosing a course, look out for nationally recognised providers. If you choose an online course, videos are key! First aid can be very hard to master without someone showing you how.

Have a first aid kit ready Having a well-stocked first aid kit to hand, alongside your dog groomer kit, is essential. Things to include in your dog groomer’s first aid kit: - Bandages: some cohesive bandage (meaning it sticks to itself, such as Vet Wrap) and some open weave/ conforming bandage; - Sterile wound dressings and / or spray on plaster; - Surgical tape; - Haemostatic powder or pen (to stop bleeding); - Disinfectant wipes; - Saline pods or salt to make your own (mix one teaspoon of salt with a pint of water); - Antibacterial spray or cream; - Sterile eye wash; - Cotton pads / swabs; 22 | Total Grooming Magazine

- Thermometer; - Foil blanket; - Instant cool pack; - Curved round ended scissors; - Latex or rubber gloves; - Tweezers. Have your vet’s phone number laminated and next to the phone. And just as importantly, know when to use it. Remember, you are allowed to administer first aid to prevent further damage or pain, but only as a temporary measure whilst veterinary attention is sought. If you aren’t sure whether an injury is minor and can be treated at home, call your vet surgery for advice, or advise the owners to do so.

Possible Dog Grooming Injuries With the greatest skill in the world, dogs and cats can be unpredictable. They do fidget and accidents can happen. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the injury first. Keep your safety in mind, as scared or injured animals may well react out of character and snap or bite. It may be sensible in some situations to pop a muzzle on before attempting to administer first aid. If you cannot safely administer first aid, then don’t. Call your vet surgery for advice. Clipper Cuts and Nicks. Accidentally caught the dog or cat’s skin with your grooming clippers or scissors? Here’s what to do:

1. If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a cotton swab or gauze for a few minutes. Resist the temptation to keep checking if it is still bleeding! Every time you move the gauze, the blood clot will be dislodged, and the bleeding will start again. 2. If the wound is not bleeding or only bleeding a little, flush it with sterile saline or salt solution to remove any debris. 3. Apply a non-sting antibacterial

Salons like Pampered Pets run first aid clinics for staff

spray or cream to the wound. Sprays tend to be better tolerated! 4. Place a bandage if the wound is in an area that allows this. First apply a sterile wound dressing, then a layer of conforming bandage and lastly a layer of cohesive bandage. The bandage needs to be tight enough that it wonâ€™t fall off, but not so tight that it stops blood flow. You should be able to slide two fingers between the skin and the bandage. If the bandage is low down on a limb, then include the foot in the bandage to prevent it from swelling up. Your dressing should never be left on for more than 24 hours, so make sure you relay this to the owner. 5. If the wound is in an area that you cannot bandage, or is a small nick, then a spray on plaster may be a better option. This creates a barrier, protecting the wound from dirt and bacteria. If it is a significant wound or there is a flap of skin, then seek veterinary care ASAP, or advise the owners to do so.

Bleeding Nail Quicks It can be hard to assess nails, especially if they are black, and so you may occasionally cut them too short. Similarly, the dog may move, causing your nail clippers to slip. Bleeding quicks can be scary as they have a good blood supply! Stay calm and apply pressure until you can apply a 24 | Total Grooming Magazine

haemostatic powder or pen. Try to reassure the dog; the bleeding will stop quicker if you can keep them calm and still.

Clipper Rash and Skin Reactions Some animals have more sensitive skin than others, so close shaving or certain shampoos may elicit a reaction. Immediate first aid is aimed at soothing the skin and preventing infection. Cleaning the area with an antibacterial wash can help prevent bacteria getting in through the damaged skin barrier. Next, applying a cold pack can ease the discomfort. These skin rashes are very itchy, so preventing the dog or cat from scratching or licking is crucial. Otherwise the rash may turn into a nasty skin infection. Make sure you communicate this to the owner too.

Eye Injuries

Shampoo in the eye can cause a minor irritation with lots of blinking or a more pronounced red eye. Flush the eye with sterile saline or eye wash to prevent further irritation. Any accidental trauma to an eye should be assessed by a vet.

Falls It is not impossible that an animal could jump or fall off the grooming table. Should this happen, watch for signs of discomfort such as limping or licking an area. Let the owner know if this happens, so they can seek veterinary

advice and pain relief as needed. Keep the animal as still and rested as possible in the meantime.

Electric Shocks Now, this is thankfully a rare one! In the unlikely event that an animal chews an electrical cable or receives a shock from wet grooming clippers, immediately remove them from the source of the shock. Remember your safety too! Always turn off the appliance before approaching, if you can safely do so. Otherwise use a wooden broom handle (or other non-conducting long object) to gently move the animal away. Wrap the animal in a foil blanket and seek immediate veterinary attention. Of course, as with anything, preventing is better than treating! Review your safety protocols regularly. Of course accidents do happen to the best of us, so keep your first aid knowledge up to date too.

Salon Profile on Cuttz4Muttz

Debby Knight LCGI of The Bristles Dog Grooming and Training Centre - an Assessment Centre for Summit Training Group – finds out more about Cuttz4Muttz based in Bewdley Worcestershire

y job as a City and Guilds Assessor gives me the opportunity to travel around the country visiting different grooming salons and meeting some awesome groomers and students . In September I had the pleasure of visiting Gwen Parle at Cuttz4Muttz in Bewdley. Gwen’s salon is a very calm, well-organised and an absolute pleasure to visit. The whole atmosphere is friendly and welcoming and I would certainly be happy to take my dog there for grooming. Gwen is the second youngest of a large Irish family. When Gwen was eight they all moved to England. Most of the family became publicans or entered the catering business. Gwen was a notable exception. The ethos of Gwen’s grooming business is the comfort of the dog and as a result, she works hard to make the

Megan with Basil

Megan and Gwen

26 | Total Grooming Magazine

dog’s visit a happy one. Gwen fears the dentist and she uses that fear to put herself in the position of the dog and how he or she may feel when visiting a grooming salon. She also endeavours to make the dogs feel safe and the majority of her regular owners drive in open the boot of their cars and the dogs jump out and run into the salon happily. Gwen loves that and

feels they react like that because they feel safe. Many of the dogs initially come in with the attitude: “I am here for my appointment , now where is the toy box and biscuit jar?”

How did it all start? When Gwen was 14 she got a Saturday job hairdressing. Her family

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assumed as she cut human hair she could also clip their dogs’ hair too. “My Father got me to do a quick trim on his dog and when other family members saw the result, they brought their dogs to me too,” she tells me. The hairdressing however ended and she followed in the footsteps of her family and went into catering, however she still got a call when the dogs needed a trim. As a family, they always had dogs in their lives and maintained a genuine love and respect for them. When Gwen turned 50 she decided to retire for the catering business which she had grown to loathe. She had continued to groom the family dogs and her sisters knew she was not enjoying her retirement. It was them that nagged her into opening a grooming salon and that is when her professional grooming career started.

Going pro She decided if she was going to do it, she needed to be properly qualified. At 50+ years old , she went to train at Fido Sasoons, Willow Farm House in 28 | Total Grooming Magazine

Lincolnshire . While she was training and during one of her visits home, she noticed dilapidated premises not far from where she lived and went about finding out who owned it . It took some time to convince the owner to rent it to her, plus it was going to need a total refurbishment . However she managed to convince the owner to give her a chance. After completely refurbishing the interior of the shop, Cutttz4Muttz ( a name thought up by her grandson, Benjamin ) at Long Bank, Bewdley was successfully opened. Gwen employs two members of staff: Megan, who came to her straight out of school and with Gwen’s support is now a qualified groomer. Harriet, also joined her straight from school has just begun her level 3 and Gwen thinks she has a great future ahead of her. Gwen said: “Both girls have such a natural way with dogs and I am very proud of both of them.” Harriet and Megan both do a lot of sponsored runs and walks in order to raise money for the local charity called Far Forest Dog Rescue.

Megan with Basil

Growing the business Currently the salon sells dog shampoo, dog collars, leads, coats and a few other bits and pieces but only on a small scale. Gwen would love to branch out into selling grooming products such as clippers, blades and scissors but says these are expensive to stock. I am sure Gwen has great plans for the future and I will look forward to seeing how her business develops.

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Business Protection is Key Key man or key woman protection should be a vital part of the business insurance mix for the growing number of salon business owners and with a large proportion of salons owned or run by women, this is an area that should not be overlooked, especially when operating in a Covid19 world which could suddenly impact on a key member of the team.

ith over a million selfemployed women running businesses and estimates that this will double over the next decade, women should be aware that they are not only likely to outlive their male partners but are also more likely to become sick or critically ill which may prevent them from working or running their businesses. Insuring our car, house and even our life is second nature to most of us so why is it that protecting a valuable business asset is something that most business owners frequently overlook? It could be that it’s because business protection deals with the ‘what if ’ factor while entrepreneurs and finance directors work on fact and optimism. But when you consider that in the UK alone one in six people will die before they reach 65 suddenly the ‘what if ’ becomes more of a ‘when’. Essentially business protection insurance deals with protecting your business from adverse financial effects of the death of a key person, partner or shareholder. In small or tight knit organisations every single employee is important but there are also ‘key players’ those people who play a significant if not vital role in the company’s development and without whom the business could be jeopardised.

30 | Total Grooming Magazine

‘Keyman or keywoman’ protection aims to protect the business from the loss of these key people through either illness or death by providing the business with enough cash to enable it to survive until such time as the key person has been replaced. Key people are essential to the smooth running of a business and it may not simply be a matter of replacing the key person. If they are no longer around there may be a significant implication on your profits and may lead to you losing business at least in the short term. As such, it is worth looking at having key person protection to cover the business for loss of profits until such time as you can find a suitable replacement.

Usually a term assurance policy simply provides funds to deal with the death of a key person. Normally this is a multiple of net or gross profits or two or three times their salary but can be more if linked directly to the risk to the business. The insurance premiums should not be deducted as a business expense unless this has been cleared as the most effective route by your independent financial adviser. Getting it wrong and claiming as an expense for tax purposes can result in any receipt being charged as income and may not be to your advantage. For more information contact an independent financial adviser.

A Clean Sweep is Vital

Groomer and trainer, Debby Knight of Bristles Dog Grooming Training Centre gives her top salon hygiene tips.

Hygiene product focus: The Sinkie

visit many grooming salons and it is very rare for me to visit one that has a clean salon, kitchen and toilet. Yet health and hygiene is the most important part of your grooming business and is vital given the current virus pandemic world in which we are working in.

My top tips are: • Make sure you have sanitiser and face masks and gloves available for your team and for clients’ use. • Wash your hands between each dog groom and before leaving the grooming salon. • Keep good ventilation in the salon. • Sterilise your blades, scissors, brushes, combs etc between grooms. • Buy a UV sterilising wand. This kills bacteria, viruses and dust mites and can be used on your equipment (blades, combs scissors etc ) between dogs to prevent cross contamination. • Make sure you are aware of what the common zoonotic diseases like scabies, worms etc. • Clean your bath, dog crates and table with an antibacterial product between dogs. • Don’t reuse towels, instead use one dog per towel and at the end of the working day wash all towels on a hot wash. Never leave them overnight . Don’t forget to wipe out the wet towel basket etc . • Wipe over your large pieces of grooming equipment between grooms as it will be covered with dander and hair. • Wash the dryer filters too. 32 | Total Grooming Magazine

Washing hands regularly is vital

Mop the floors and allow to dry. • Leave a dehumidifier running at night to take out all the damp stale air. All this will eliminate the smell created by bacteria. There is a UVC machine that can be purchased for about £400 that will take out all the bacteria in the room. Health covers both you and the dogs. Buy good quality equipment; adjustable tables will prevent any back problems or strains. Use brushes that are ergonomically designed. Have a tetanus injection to protect yourself from infectious bites. Vaccinate and worm your own dogs regularly. Change the towels regularly in your toilet, clean the sink and NEVER leave a dirty mop and bucket in the salon, kitchen or toilet. By cleaning inside and outside your salon you will reduce the chance of catching or giving infections and create a great impression for your visitors.

The innovative Sinkie hair trap is now available for dog groomers. Manufactured in compressed silicone rubber, Sinkie is a flexible, flat, perforated disk with a patented skirt and sucker feet that allow it to sit flush over any plughole and stay in place whilst water flows through it and any waste items remain on top. At the end of the wash, the Sinkie can be lifted out and the debris binned. A quick rinse under the tap and the Sinkie is ready for re-use or, at the end of the day, it can be put in the washing machine with the towels. For further information, please contact Dossil Ltd directly on 01954 204276, email info@dossil.com or visit www. dossil.com

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Oral care is about more than making pets’ smiles sparkle—it’s an important component of their overall health. In fact, 80% of dogs begin to show signs of oral disease by age three.

o help understand the topic of oral hygiene take a look at a few basic definitions below: Gingivitis - inflammation of the gums. Periodontitis - a general term for a disease of the oral cavity that attacks the gum and bone and delicate tissues around the teeth. Pyorrhea - inflammation of the gums and tooth sockets, often leading to loosening of the teeth and accompanied by pus. Caries - an area of decalcification of the tooth enamel leading to cavities in the tooth. Caries are very rare in dogs. Plaque - the first buildup of material adhering to tooth enamel. Composed of a mix of intercellular matrix of bacteria, salivary polymers, remnants of epithelial cells and white blood cells, it can cause caries, calculi buildup and periodontal disease. Calculus (Tartar) - calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate combined with organic material, deposited on the surface of the tooth. Grooming salons may well see dogs a lot more frequently than a veterinary surgeon, so point out any areas of concern to your clients.

Adverse Effects of Poor Oral Hygiene Jan Bellows DVM, said: “The toxins from periodontal disease are absorbed into the dog’s blood stream. As the kidneys, liver, and brain filter the blood, small infections occur causing 34 | Total Grooming Magazine

Maintaining good oral hygiene is a key component of a pet’s health

permanent and at times fatal organ damage. After periodontal disease is treated, and the owners give proper home care, most dogs respond wonderfully due to the decreased pain and infection.” The adverse effects of periodontal disease are due in part to the toxins the bacteria secrete and the damage these toxins cause to delicate kidney, cardiac, and brain tissue. In addition, many veterinarians believe that actual bacterial colonies can spread via the circulation and set up housekeeping within the animal’s tissues, commonly in the heart valve areas, kidneys and liver. Far better than extracting teeth,

performing gingival flaps, filling erosions or doing root canal procedures, would be to prevent the health damaging periodontal disease in the first place. Since most dogs presented with advanced periodontitis are older canines, owner concern regarding the safety of dental procedures always seems to be an impediment to performing dental procedures, especially since anaesthesia is an important aspect of a thorough dental cleaning. But it is important to consider the benefits of the treatment offset against what is generally a low risk of using anaesthetic on an older dog.

Prevention One of the best ways to insure optimum oral health is to provide the dog with a well-balanced, meat-based dog food. Meat assists in keeping the mouth environment healthy. Actively encouraging the dog to utilize chew treats that require some “exercising” of the teeth, such as is provided by compressed rawhide chewies, hard rubber or nylon chew toys, can assist in keeping the mouth structures vital. Brushing the dog’s teeth can be a big help, too, but needs to be done almost daily. One study in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, December, 1996,

reported “Tooth-brushing every other day did not maintain clinically healthy gingiva in dogs. The daily addition of a dental hygiene chew to a regimen of tooth brushing every other day reduced the gingivitis scores and reduced the accumulation of dental deposits (plaque, calculus and stain). Daily tooth-brushing should be the recommendation to the dog owner irrespective of dietary regimen.” Newer dental care products that include antiseptic impregnated chewies, canine appropriate tooth brushes, and even flavoured tooth pastes to “reward” the dog for allowing the brushing, are available online and in pet supply stores or veterinary surgeries. Also important

are routine oral hygiene visits where under light anesthesia the patient can undergo ultrasonic teeth cleaning, close inspection of teeth and gingiva, and assessment of overall oral health. Addressing problems when they are minor and preventing the health damaging effects of bacterial contamination and systemic toxin release are immeasurably beneficial to the dog’s long-term health status. Dr. Bellows neatly sums up the need for optimum oral health throughout a dog’s life, “When a client asks me how long their puppy will live, I usually respond 15-17 years if you brush their teeth daily … 11-13 years if you don’t.”

Total Grooming Magazine | 35

Colin Taylor & Verity Hardcastle will judge grooming contestants on a new TV show to be aired in the new year on BBC

Pooch Perfect

Pooch Perfect: Dog Groomers compete in new BBC TV series about dog grooming

ctress Sheridan Smith OBE, is to front a BBC Television series that sees dog groomers compete against each other to find “the UK’s top groomer.” Sheridan will be accompanied by two of the UK’s leading dog groomers, Colin Taylor and Verity Hardcastle, as judges, in the weekly competition. The dog groomer contestants in the show will be provided with dogs that they must groom for assessment by the judges before being knocked out of the competition or proceeding to the next round. The TV series is produced by Seven Studios and is based on the original TV series that recently aired in Australia, fronted by the comedienne

36 | Total Grooming Magazine

and actress, Rebel Wilson. Colin Taylor was also one of the judges in the inaugural TV series. “ I cannot wait to work as a judge alongside this talented lady [Sheridan Smith] who I know will bring families together to enjoy a heart-warming fun and educational show about dogs of all shapes and sizes being primped and made to look beautiful,” said Colin in a Facebook post about the upcoming show. Colin, who is originally from London, provides a wealth of experience as a multi-award-winning professional groomer. He is the author of the award-winning book ‘What Would Colin Do? 101 Situations and

Solutions for every dog groomer’, an international competition judge, creator of the international dog grooming competition Master Groom, and host of the popular podcast ‘Is that a dog hair in my tea?’ Colin spent an unforgettable few weeks in Australia filming the inaugural show and was delighted with its success: “I was really anxious about how it would pan out and nearly turned down the opportunity but I am actually so pleased that I took up the challenge. I am sure the UK series will be a resounding success,” Colin said. Verity, who is from Yorkshire, is also an established multi-award-winning UK groomer who took first place

at the prestigious Groom Expo in America and has won most of the UK’s top competitions. She has also won numerous business and industry awards for her grooming salon and training centre. Verity has judged numerous dog grooming competitions and appeared frequently in the media to help raise awareness among pet owners about the benefits of regular grooming and how to maintain your dog’s coat at home. “I am so excited to be involved in Pooch Perfect, the first show of its kind in the UK, and to be able to showcase the viewers our industry and the talent and skill within it,” said Verity. “If I had a tail it would be wagging in anticipation! “At the end of each challenge, we provide constructive criticism to the contesting groomers and we aim to give an in-depth critique that they can learn from. They are all professional groomers with their own grooming businesses and it is important to build their confidence and motivate them. I want to see the groomer reassuring the dog in their care. When it comes to the groom, I will be looking for a beautiful silhouette, balance and symmetry and neat scissoring, but beautiful, caring

Groomers will not see their pooch challenges beforehand. Models will go from scruffy to fluffy

handling and understanding of the dog’s needs are a vital element,” said Verity. Each week, the groomers, who will not receive any prior warning about the breed of dog or the challenge coming their way, will reveal their creations on The Dogwalk, where judges Colin Taylor and Verity Hardcastle will deliberate over the week’s canine contenders, and their owners are given the chance to see their newly transformed dogs for the first time. From scruffy to fluffy and from ruff to regal, audiences across the country will be barking mad for this brand new

show. Animal welfare is paramount and each dog has their own handler that takes them out for regular comfort breaks. As well as amazing ‘transfurmations’, the show will also be packed full of useful information for dog lovers and owners, delivering top tips on responsible ownership, fun facts about dog breeds and a guide to at home pooch pampering techniques. The programme is due to start early in 2021. Dates will be confirmed so keep an eye out.

Total Grooming Magazine | 37

Stock Walker and Drake’s exciting range of Cold Pressed foods to keep those doggy tails wagging.

alker and Drake is an exciting range of Cold Pressed food for dogs that is made from the highest quality ingredients to keep those doggy tails wagging. The meat and the majority of vegetables are sourced from British farms and quality producers, and the fish is sourced from traceable fisheries. A healthy microbiome is crucial for a dog’s overall health, from nutrient absorption to mental health. When bacteria become out of balance, disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), digestive issues, immune system reactions, diabetes, and even depression can result. It is therefore important that you feed a dog a balanced diet that contains all the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino and essential fatty acids that are required for a health and wellbeing and avoid any ingredients that are likely to cause an allergy or intolerance such as fillers, artificial colourings and preservatives. Walker and Drake recipes are easily digestible, grain and gluten free, promote good gut health, hypoallergenic, are great for joint care, contain no nasties and are gently pressed to preserve nutrients. Cold Pressed dog food is the best way of producing a dog food and is the nearest thing to a raw diet. The food is pressed at a lower temperature of 40 - 44°C compared to ‘kibbled’ dry dog food which is extruded at a temperature of approximately 140°C and above. The end result is a naturally softer, denser, complete nutritious dog food which breaks down easier in the stomach and

38 | Total Grooming Magazine

is gentler on tummies as opposed to kibbled food, which can absorb liquid meaning that is stays in the stomach longer and can lead to bloating and discomfort. The lower temperatures are also the key to locking in natural enzymes and vitamins, as well as retaining fibre and molecular structures so that delicate ingredients such as herbs and botanicals are not destroyed in the cooking process. Walker and Drake is available in three tasty recipes, Duck, Ocean Fish and Chicken in attractive 2 kg and 10 kg bags made from recyclable materials. Other key ingredients include: Sweet

Potato , Beet Pulp, Peas, Chicken Oil, FOS Inulin, Yeast Bio-Mos, Psyllium Husk Powder, Apple, Carrot, Tomato, Seaweed, Cranberry, Flavour Bioflavex, Glucosamine, Fenugreek, Green Tea Extract, Fennel Seed, Blueberry, Yucca Schidigera, Chondroitin, Marigold Powder and Devils Claw Root. Walker and Drake can offer quick delivery, quality customer service and many testimonials from satisfied customers. For further information visit: www. walkeranddrake.com and for trade enquires contact Tim Matthews our Sales Director email:tim@walkeranddrake.com

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Animal Essentials introduces supplements to improve petsâ€™ joint health and wellbeing over the winter months

s the weather cools down, it is also a good time to remember that winter can be uncomfortable for pets, particularly with conditions such as arthritis and other types of joint pain. Just like in humans, cooler temperatures can aggravate sore joints in cats and dogs making them more stiff and painful. Senior pets often are more prone to experience joint problems in the colder months and this can be managed by controlling their weight, diet, exercise, and making improvements to their home environment. There are now also some exceptional supplements on the market that can help prevent and soothe some of the most common joint conditions in dogs and cats. At Animal Essentials, we manufacture some of the best veterinary formulated supplements on the market - all made from the finest, natural ingredients and quality herbs. Joint Support tincture from Animal Essentials promotes joint mobility during normal exercise and supports healthy liver function. It also contains extracts intended to provide relief for stiff and swollen joints. Ingredients include vegetable glycerine, distilled water, certified organic Alfalfa, Yucca root, Burdock and Liquorice. It is also Alcohol Free. Other supplements which are useful in the winter months include Animal Essentials Mushroom Defence Tincture which is a combination of three scientifically proven mushrooms rich in beta-glucans and sterols that provide antioxidant protection and

40 | Total Grooming Magazine

immune system support.. Senior Support Tincture is a mind, body and spirit formula for ageing dogs and cats that supports normal function of the digestive tract, urinary tract, circulatory system and brain. Finally Heart Health Tincture is an alcoholfree sweet tasting formula designed to support healthy cardiovascular structure and functions in dogs and cats. It is especially recommended for senior cats and dogs.

To become a stockist or to find out more about Animal Essentials visit: www.animalessentials.eu. Contact Dan Mackenzie at dan@allaboutpethealth. co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1892 281 007 Animal Essentials is distributed throughout the UK and Europe by All About Pet Health. www. allaboutpethealth.co.uk

Supplements to protect your dogs’ joints, coat, skin and immune system during the winter months

uring the winter months it is important to keep your dogs in tip top condition paying particular attention to the coat, skin, immune system and joints. January is also the start of Walk Your Dog Month which is an international initiative designed to dust off those January blues and get people out and about, to meet other dog walkers and improve their own and their dogs’ well being. It is an ideal opportunity to lose a few pounds that have been put on during the festive season and also to help avoid pet obesity making sure that dogs are receiving active exercise and proper nutrition during the winter months. Pet supplements can be used to enhance any dog’s diet during this time of year winter months and Overby Farm which is an extension of the NaturVet brand, manufactured & distributed by Garmon Corporation in the USA, is one of the largest pet supplement manufacturers in the USA., The Corporation has extensive experience of employing natural ingredients to formulate solutions for dogs and cats. Garmon Corp is a fully compliant cGMP Standards facility. They are also an NASC Audited Member carrying the NASC Seal on all labels, providing a symbol of “quality assurance” for consumers. Overby Farm formulations are developed by Garmon Corp staff scientists and veterinarians. Formulated to supply important joint support for adult pets, including large breeds and overweight pets, Level 2 Moderate Care Joint Health

soft chews provide important antioxidants and help to support the structural integrity of joints and connective tissues. Containing Glucosamine, MSM and Chondroitin the supplement is packed full of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, botanicals and minerals. For use in dogs over the age of 12 weeks, the clinically tested Advanced Joint Formula provides Glucosamine, MSM, Chondroitin and Green Lipped Mussel to support connective tissue, cartilage health, joint movement, and lubrication of joints. Recommended for pets in need of advanced joint care, such as senior pets, those recovering from joint related injuries or surgery, or when the most support is needed. This formula is also packed full of minerals, botanicals and fatty acids. Other supplements in the range that can also be helpful this time of year are Omega- Gold Salmon Oil and Brewer’s Yeast with Garlic Powder Soft Chews for the skin and coat and All in One Vitamins and Daily Vitamins in soft chew format for the immune system. Distributed across the UK and Europe by All About Pet Health, Overby Farm can also be supplied as an own label product range helping grooming businesses establish their own brand of pet supplements. To become a stockist or to find out more about Overby Farm, visit: www. overbyfarm.eu. Contact Dan Mackenzie

at dan@allaboutpethealth.co.uk Tel:. +44 (0)1892 281 007 Overby Farm is distributed throughout the UK and Europe by All About Pet Health. www.allaboutpethealth.co.uk Total Grooming Magazine | 41

Are you charging enough? There’s no point in being a ‘busy fool’ you are in business to make a living, so it is important that you charge enough for your services. However, what is a fair price for various levels of grooming? We have some advice from the experts.

olin Taylor warns against price-calling other salons. He suggests checking out competitors’ websites for general interest but working out your own pricing. He said: “I find it helpful to start with an ‘hourly’ guide price. For example only: £30 per hour. I make bookings with the assumption that a medium sized dog will generally take 1.5 hours, so my ‘guide price’ for an average dog would be £45. “This assumes that the groomer can comfortably manage six dogs in an eight hour day allowing time for lunch and coffee breaks. So, if that’s my ‘median’ price for a medium dog, I adjust the scale for small dogs, large dogs and extra large dogs. “I then work out a rate for just a bath and dry. A higher rate for scissoring/ styling. Another rate for shave-off and a separate rate for hand-stripping. “I always make sure I have a minimum price. Doesn’t matter what breed or how small. If the customer has made a booking, there will be a minimum charge. My minimum will be £35 so that’s what I will charge, even if it only took an hour to groom the dog.” * Debby Knight of The Bristles Dog Grooming and Training Salon - an Assessment Centre under Summit Groomer Training Group says: “Be brave, review your grooming prices. This is the time of year your tax

42 | Total Grooming Magazine

Debby Knight says: “Be brave review your grooming prices.”

return has to be in, so if you need an excuse to raise the prices this is it. Your overheads have gone up so your prices need to do the same. “If you had increased your prices in line with inflation over the last 15 years you should be charging double what you were probably charging in 2000. For example, 15 years ago I charged £21 for a Westie so I should be charging £42 today . I recommend you increase any prices under £30 by £2 and anything else an additional £1.50

per £10. If you have a customer that is paying well below market rate and you have plenty of business, put their price up to the going rate of the other customers.” However, you will know the dynamics of what the market can stand in your area and it is equally important to consider what you feel your customers are willing and able to pay and what your competitors are charging. *Source: What Would Colin Do?

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

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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

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