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Welcome to the March issue of Total Grooming Magazine, where this month we turn our attention to the foundations that support confident, sustainable grooming careers — from essential skills and education to welfare-led decision making and professional growth.
Our Groomer of the Month is Joanne Silk-Smith of K9Transfurmations, whose journey from a dog-loving childhood to representing England with Groom Team England is rooted in kindness, determination and continual self-improvement. Joanne shares the importance of mentorship, self-belief and maintaining compassion for both dogs and clients while balancing salon life, competition grooming and family commitments.
Education takes centre stage this month with a strong focus on how learning truly drives progress. Our Training & Education features explore why ongoing professional development is no longer optional in a modern grooming industry, highlighting how upskilling supports welfare, staff retention, business sustainability and higher standards across the board. Alongside this, our Essential 5 features examine both grooming and training essentials, reminding us that success goes far beyond tools — encompassing structure, mindset, planning and self-care.
Katie’s Cat Column returns with an eye-opening reminder that cats aren’t small dogs. This month, Katie explores feline stress responses and nervous system differences, helping groomers better understand shutdown behaviour and adopt truly cat-centred grooming practices.
We also hear from veterinary nurse Rachel Bean, whose recent volunteer work overseas has reinforced the importance of observation, calm professionalism and first-aid awareness in everyday salon settings — with timely advice on recognising and preventing overheating.
As always, we hope this issue informs, supports and inspires you. Enjoy the read, and please get in touch if you’d like to be featured in a future issue.
Tom Woollin Editorial Director
From a childhood surrounded by dogs to competing on the world stage with Groom Team England, Joanne Silk-Smith shares a career built on kindness, mentorship and constant selfimprovement.
Industry leaders explore why high-quality training and ongoing education are essential for welfare, professionalism and the long-term success of modern grooming businesses.
Veterinary nurse Rachel Bean explains why groomers are often the first to spot health issues, drawing on powerful lessons learned while volunteering at a spay and neuter clinic in Sri Lanka.
Three experienced groomers reveal the tools, habits and mindset they consider truly essential for working efficiently, protecting welfare and sustaining a long career in grooming.
Feline behaviour expert Katie explains why applying dog logic to cats can backfire, and how understanding feline stress responses transforms safe, welfare-led cat grooming.
Natural grooming brand For All DogKind (FADK) has announced the launch of a new Battersea cobranded shampoo, created to raise funds and awareness for the thousands of dogs and cats cared for by the much-loved charity every year.
Developed as part of FADK’s nationwide initiative, the Wash With Care campaign. The new shampoo will be available exclusively through participating UK grooming salons, It represents a central part of the brand’s commitment to encouraging more mindful, empathetic dog care both at home and in professional grooming settings.
While the product proudly carries the Battersea name, with donations from every bottle directly supporting the charity, the Wash With Care campaign is entirely led and delivered by For All DogKind, built to champion better wash routines and help raise vital funds for Battersea’s ongoing work. For every Battersea licensed shampoo sold we’ll donate a minimum of £1 to Battersea.
The co-branded shampoo has been formulated to the same high standard as the rest of For All DogKind’s grooming range, offering a natural, gentle, effective clean suitable for a wide range of coat types. Every purchase contributes a donation to Battersea, helping the charity continue its mission to be there for every dog and cat that needs support.
Alongside the salon exclusive 5L professional edition, participating salons will also stock a 250ml take home bottle, allowing owners to maintain their dog’s Wash With Care routine between grooms while supporting the charity further.
The Wash With Care campaign has been
created by For All DogKind to promote a kinder, more considered approach to dog washing, both in grooming salons and at home.
The campaign encourages owners to:
• Slow down and create calmer wash experiences
• Look for early signs of skin or coat issues
• Use gentle, skin-kind products
• Treat wash routines as a moment of connection
• Support their local groomer’s expertise At the heart of the campaign sits the new Battersea co-branded shampoo, symbolising the importance of care, community and compassion in dog grooming.
Participating salons will receive:
• Point of sale assets
• Campaign materials for in salon visibility
• Access to retail stock of the 250ml takehome shampoo
• The opportunity to support a leading
UK animal charity through every sale
• National awareness driven by For All DogKind’s marketing campaign, including influencer activity and consumer facing storytelling
“Our mission with Wash With Care is simple, to help both groomers and pet owners create calmer, more compassionate wash experiences, while giving back to an organisation that does so much for animals across the UK,” said Laura, Founder of For All DogKind.
The Battersea x For All DogKind shampoo
Campaign officially launches in February 2026
Grooming salons interested in participating can contact info@ foralldogkind.co.uk | www.foralldogkind. co.uk for more information.
For every Battersea licenced shampoo FADK will donate a minimum of £1 to Battersea.
The Animal Focused Alliance is a new trade association created to support pet businesses, from dog walkers to home boarders, animal encounter providers, catteries, and more - if you work with animals, we are here for you.
Our mission is simple but powerful: To promote the highest standards of animal welfare while being the voice of the pet industry.
We are committed to helping our members thrive by offering:
• Regular sector updates - covering legislation, licensing, and best practice for animal welfare
• Primary Authority-assured advicebringing clarity and consistency to animal licensing
• Opportunities to connect with industry experts - through webinars and Q&A sessions
• Exclusive discounts - on a range of products from pet business insurance to training and products
• A voice in the sector - we actively participate in policy discussions and consultations on our members behalf and are members of the Companion Animal Sector Council, Cross-Party Group on Animal Welfare and the Pet Advertising Advisory Group.
• Client reassurance - display our logo and be recognised as a business that puts welfare, and professionalism first. Whether you’re a sole trader or an established business, the Animal Focused Alliance is your partner in raising standards, championing welfare, and building a stronger voice for the pet sector.
The Animal Focused Alliance has announced the launch of a new Graduate Membership, designed to support newly qualified pet professionals as they enter professional practice or begin setting up their own businesses.
The new membership category has been developed in response to growing
numbers of individuals completing Ofqual-regulated qualifications in pet care, grooming, training and animalrelated services, and the need for appropriate professional support during the early stages of their careers.
Graduate Membership recognises the commitment required to complete structured, regulated training, while providing access to professional guidance, sector updates and welfareled resources at a reduced cost. The discounted first year of membership is tiered according to qualification level, ranging from 10% for Level 2 qualifications to 30% for Level 4 and above.
The initiative is intended to bridge the gap between qualification and professional practice, supporting graduates as they navigate regulation, licensing expectations, business responsibilities and ongoing professional development.
Vicky Skinner, founder of the Alliance, said:
“Completing a recognised qualification is a significant achievement, but it’s only the starting point. Graduate Membership is about recognising that commitment while ensuring new professionals have access to clear, factual guidance and support as they establish themselves in the sector.”
The Animal Focused Alliance works across the UK to support welfare-led, responsible practice within the pet sector. Its work includes providing sector updates, contributing to consultations and working groups, and offering practical guidance on regulatory and business issues affecting pet professionals.
The introduction of Graduate Membership reflects a broader focus on raising standards, rewarding professionalism and supporting longterm career sustainability within the pet care sector.
Further information is available via the Animal Focused Alliance website www.animalfocusedalliance.co.uk
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From growing up in a dog-loving family to representing England on the world stage, Joanne SilkSmith’s grooming journey is built on kindness, determination and a constant desire to improve. Owner of K9Transfurmations near Chester, she shares how passion, mentorship and self-belief have shaped her career.
Becoming a dog groomer wasn’t part of a carefully mapped-out plan for Joanne Silk-Smith. In fact, as she openly admits, “it wasn’t something I set out to do as a lifelong dream — I actually fell into it by chance.” A helping hand at Mike Wildman’s salon in Chester quickly turned into something far more meaningful. “It didn’t take long for me to realise how much I loved it,” she says — and the rest, as they say, is history. Dogs, however, have always been central to Joanne’s life. With a mum who is a dog groomer and exhibitor, and a nan who bred and showed miniature long-haired Dachshunds, she was immersed in the canine world from an early age. “I grew up surrounded by a
wide variety of breeds, from German Shepherds to Cockers and many in between,” she explains. “You could say dogs are very much part of my DNA.”
Like many successful groomers, Joanne credits strong mentorship as a key influence in her development. “My biggest stand-out mentor has to be Kirsty Hunt,” she says. A moment during a Mastergroom class remains vivid in her memory. While struggling with a Bichon, she looked up to see one of Kirsty’s Poodles mid-groom. “It genuinely stopped me in my tracks; I was completely in awe.” Since getting her own Poodle, Kirsty’s encouragement and support have been invaluable. “Having a mentor who pushes you beyond your comfort zone while giving you the
confidence to try is worth their weight in gold.”
At the heart of Joanne’s business, K9Transfurmations near Chester, is a strong ethos of compassion and respect. “I focus on being kind and compassionate to both my clients and their dogs,” she says, “and I never forget that it’s a privilege to be trusted with making them look and feel their best.” She works on a quality-over-quantity basis, allowing time for each dog to receive the care they deserve. While firm about appointment policies, Joanne believes this creates mutual respect and long-term loyalty. “At the end of the day, our clients are the foundation of everything we do.”
Balancing salon life with competitive
grooming hasn’t always been easy. “There are weeks where I’ll work six or seven days, particularly when a competition is coming up,” she admits. Alongside the physical and mental demands, there’s also family life to consider. Joanne is quick to acknowledge the support of her partner James and son Jackson, even while recognising the guilt that can come with time away. “Their encouragement, combined with my passion for the craft and my determination to be the best I can be, is what keeps pushing me forward.”
What keeps Joanne inspired dayto-day is variety and growth. She loves meeting new dogs, especially unfamiliar breeds, and still has a wish list. “Something a bit different like a Kerry Blue Terrier or a Chinese Crested” is high on it. Ultimately, though, it’s self-improvement that drives her. “The only person I want to be better than is myself.”
Her advice to fellow groomers is grounded and heartfelt: “Be kind first and foremost — to yourself as well as others. Stay humble.” She encourages making connections in what can be a surprisingly lonely profession, listening carefully to feedback, and never limiting yourself with self-doubt. “Growth begins the moment you challenge those doubts and allow yourself the space to try.”
Joanne’s own journey is a testament to that mindset. She is the Spaniel and Setter Team Member for Groom Team England for both the 2023/24 and current 2025/26 cycles, selected through a rigorous two-year qualification period. “Being selected twice is something I’m very grateful for,” she says. At the last World Championships, the team placed 6th out of 23 countries — “an amazing experience and a privilege.”
Looking ahead, Joanne sees the industry continuing to raise its standards and hopes clients increasingly value welfare and quality over price. Personally, she plans to keep learning, competing, and tackling new challenges — including becoming a more confident speaker.
“Speaking in front of people has always terrified me,” she admits, “but it’s something I’m determined to improve.”
With her drive and humility, there’s little doubt she will.
In a fast-evolving grooming industry, training and education are no longer optional extras — they are business-critical. From improving safety and staff retention to future-proofing your salon, investing in the right learning makes all the difference. Here are five essential considerations every grooming business should prioritise.
At its core, training is about protecting dogs, groomers and businesses. Correct handling, canine behaviour knowledge and equipment use reduce the risk of injury, stress and accidents. Consistent education ensures every groom meets professional and welfare standards, regardless of who is holding the clippers that day.
Trends, tools and client expectations are constantly changing. Upskilling in areas such as advanced scissoring, breedspecific trims, hand-stripping or Asian fusion grooming allows salons to expand
services and command higher prices. Businesses that prioritise learning are more adaptable — and far more resilient.
When deciding what your staff should train in, think strategically. Do you want a team of confident all-rounders, specialists, or future managers? Technical grooming skills are essential, but training in customer service, time management, leadership and mental wellbeing can have just as much impact on profitability and team morale.
Not all training is created equal. Look
for providers with proven industry experience, recognised qualifications and a strong reputation. Good educators offer ongoing support, realistic expectations and clear progression routes. Ask about class sizes, assessment methods and post-course mentoring — quality training should never feel rushed.
Staff who feel invested in are far more likely to stay. Offering structured training pathways shows commitment to career development, boosting confidence and job satisfaction. In an industry facing ongoing recruitment challenges, education is one of the most effective retention tools available.
As dog grooming continues to evolve into a recognised profession, training and education have never been more important. From welfare and legislation to business sustainability and staff retention, industry leaders agree that meaningful learning underpins long-term success, higher standards, and a stronger future for grooming as a whole.
Training and education have long been cornerstones of the dog grooming industry, but as the profession continues to mature, their role has never been more significant. What was once seen primarily as a practical trade is now widely recognised as a skilled profession, carrying responsibility for animal welfare, client trust, and professional standards. With increasing public awareness, evolving legislation, and rising expectations from pet owners, groomers are being asked to do far more than simply make dogs look good.
At the heart of this shift is the quality of education that groomers receive, both at the start of their careers and throughout their working lives. High-quality training does more than teach technique; it shapes mindset, confidence, and decision-making, and sets the tone for how groomers approach welfare, safety, and professionalism in their day-to-day work.
Sue Oliver, Director at ICMG UK, said that “high quality training is vital for groomers to be able to achieve great results with their grooming skills but, most importantly, to ensure animal welfare needs are met throughout.” She explained that in her own salon, training has a direct impact on confidence and standards, with staff able to work safely and effectively while putting the dog’s needs first at every stage of the groom.
Sue also highlighted the importance of keeping education current, noting that “training needs to be current, meeting up to date legislation and demands,” and that continuous professional development plays a crucial role in maintaining standards. In a sector where regulation is limited and expectations are
continually evolving, staying informed is no longer optional.
This theme of professionalism versus hobbyism is echoed across the industry. Joanne Angus, Director at Summit Groomer Training Group, said that high-quality education is essential because grooming has evolved far
beyond aesthetics. “Today’s groomer is responsible for animal welfare, safety, client trust, and professional standards — and those things can only be delivered consistently through proper education,” she said. Joanne added that good training helps to build strong teams, improve staff and customer retention,
and promote grooming as a profession rather than a pastime.
For salon owners, the impact of quality training is felt not only in the grooming room but across the entire business. Well-trained staff are more confident, consistent, and engaged, which in turn supports better client relationships and a more sustainable working environment.
Joanne noted that ongoing education keeps work interesting and reinforces professional credibility, helping groomers stay motivated and invested in their careers.
One of the most persistent myths within the industry is that experience alone is enough. Many groomers feel that once they have been working for several years, additional training becomes unnecessary. However, all four contributors strongly challenged this idea, stressing that experience and education are not the same thing.
Sue addressed this directly, saying that “you never stop learning,” and pointing out that legislation, styles, and even breeds continue to change. She likened grooming to driving, explaining that without regular refreshers, “you can get bad habits.” Continuous professional development, she said, helps groomers stay aligned with current standards and best practice.
Joanne expanded on this idea, explaining that ongoing education introduces new tools, techniques, and perspectives that even experienced groomers may not encounter in their daily work. She said that upskilling ensures groomers remain informed about health issues and behaviour advice that can directly affect welfare, while also supporting professional confidence and preventing stagnation.
Zoe Duffy, Director at Look North Dog Grooming, agreed that learning should be viewed as a career-long commitment. She said that “the dog grooming industry is constantly evolving, with new techniques, equipment, products, and welfare standards continually being introduced,” and that regular training helps experienced professionals remain current and avoid complacency. Zoe added that ongoing development keeps the profession interesting and motivating, warning that when groomers believe there is nothing left to learn, it can lead to both professional and personal stagnation.
For many salon owners, staff training is not just about individual development but about maintaining consistency across the business. A salon’s culture, standards, and way of working are shaped by the training foundations its team shares, and misalignment can quickly create problems.
Amy Manser, World Gold Medalist and Owner of Just 4 Paws, said that a salon’s ethos is fundamental to its success. “If everyone within the business does not uphold the same standards, problems can arise very quickly,” she explained. Amy noted that differences in training, particularly around handling and dog management, can negatively affect welfare, efficiency, and the client experience.
Zoe reinforced this, explaining that when staff training aligns with salon culture, it creates a cohesive team that delivers consistent results and maintains high welfare standards. She warned that when training does not align,
inconsistent techniques and variable outcomes can erode client confidence and lead to disengaged staff. Ongoing training, she said, supports innovation, motivation, and staff retention while creating a positive working environment.
Beyond the salon floor, training also plays a crucial role in business sustainability. High-quality education equips groomers with not only technical skills but also the confidence to value their work appropriately. Zoe pointed out that investing in comprehensive training allows groomers to charge pricing that reflects their expertise, manage workloads more effectively, and reduce the risk of burnout associated with overbooking or undervaluing services.
As the demand for grooming education grows, so too does the number of training providers. However, not all education is created equal, and choosing the right provider is one of the most important decisions a groomer or salon owner can make.
Sue advised groomers to look for providers with extensive industry experience and advanced qualifications, as well as manageable class sizes. She also highlighted the value of teaching qualifications within training teams, explaining that this can significantly enhance the quality of education delivered.
Joanne encouraged groomers to look beyond certificates and ask whether tutors truly understand all aspects of the groomer’s role. She said that excellent tutors combine current salon experience with strong communication skills, animal welfare awareness, and the ability to explain not just how techniques are performed, but why they are used. She also emphasised the importance of feedback during training and ongoing support after courses finish, describing this as a key indicator of a provider’s commitment to developing competent professionals.
Amy echoed these concerns, warning that enthusiasm alone cannot replace experience. She said that “genuine industry experience across all sectors is essential,” and expressed concern about training schools using instructors who are relatively new to the profession themselves. Drawing on her own background, Amy explained that her knowledge has been built through decades of hands-on experience, training with top breeders and handlers worldwide, and continual learning beyond formal qualifications.
Zoe added that visiting training centres where possible can provide valuable insight into the quality of education offered. She said that the environment, handling standards, equipment, and overall atmosphere often reveal more than course descriptions alone. For her, truly excellent education builds lasting foundations, encourages pride in the craft, and leaves students confident, capable, and motivated to continue learning long after the course ends.
All four contributors were united in their criticism of so-called “tick-box” training. While certificates have their place, they agreed that education focused solely on attendance and assessment does little to prepare groomers for real-world challenges.
Joanne described tick-box training as prioritising certification over understanding and competency, while
Zoe said that it rarely develops the depth of knowledge or confidence required to succeed in a busy salon environment.
Amy summed it up by explaining that excellent education builds judgement, confidence, and professional standards, rather than simply guiding learners through assessments. In a profession that carries significant responsibility for both animal welfare and client trust, shortcuts in education ultimately undermine the industry as a whole.
As grooming continues to grow and evolve, the message from industry leaders is clear: meaningful training and ongoing education are not optional extras, but essential foundations. By investing in quality learning, groomers can protect welfare, build sustainable businesses, and contribute to raising standards across the profession — ensuring that dog grooming continues to move forward with confidence and credibility.
Biosure’s explains how ozone water can help with skin and coat problems
Iam Debbie, the proprietor of D for Dogs grooming salon near Glasgow and I would like to share a remarkable story with you. Winston arrived at the salon late May 2025 in a sorry state. Problem areas were feet, neck, inside back legs, and hygiene areas. Feet and pads were heavily packed with blood scabs with a pungent decaying odour - almost overwhelming. Showing a reactive temperament and clearly in a lot of pain, sedation had been required previously over a threeyear period while receiving veterinary care. Having just had a Biosure ozone generator installed, a machine that takes ordinary tap water and turns it into a strong but totally safe sanitiser I was keen if not desperate to help Winston who was obviously in great distress. Only after careful, painstaking, gentle removal of the eschar and gaining Winston’s trust was I able to immerse him in a bath of ozonated water. 20-30 minutes treatment, constantly changing the water while delicately massaging affected areas. No medicated shampoo just Biosure ozonated water. This treatment was repeated weekly for up to ten visits with a notable change in Winstons’ demeanor after the first visit and visible results in the condition of the skin after three or four visits. Comments made by Winston’s owners about his behaviour and growing vitality were duly noted. At the end of his treatment, Winstons’ owners purchased a Biosure ozone spray bottle to continue with the already significant documented improvement at home. They also took him to the vet to show them the incredible improvement in his condition. The vet was astonished and full of praise for the care he had received and on how well his appearance had improved - this documented in an email to myself. Winston has gone on now to have a full heathy life without the continuous pain, discomfort and
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debilitation caused by his skin condition. Winston, a very much loved dog bringing great comfort to his owner is now able to go out on considerably long walks, none of which was possible before my intervention and the powers of ozonated water. The Biosure ozone generators have completely enhanced the service i offer to my customers. I now offer ozone treatment for dogs with wounds ear infections (smelly ears). Using Biosure ozone water i wash the dogs ears to remove bacteria and yeasts from the ear canal without any medication at a much lower cost to my clients than vet bills. I would encourage every dog groomer to look at Biosures’ products as I have not only made a difference to many dogs with injuries and infections but have also increased my revenue stream.
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As pet groomers, you’re often the first to notice when something isn’t right. In this article, veterinary nurse Rachel Bean shares a powerful shift in perspective shaped by recent volunteer work at a pop-up spay and neuter clinic in Sri Lanka. Her experience reframes everyday observations, highlighting why vigilance, first aid knowledge, and calm professionalism matter so deeply in grooming salons across the UK today.
As pet groomers, you’re often the first professionals to notice when something isn’t quite right with a dog. A subtle limp, an inflamed ear, a change in skin condition or behaviour, these details matter.
Over the past few weeks, that belief has been reinforced for me in the most humbling way imaginable, while volunteering in Sri Lanka at a pop-up spay and neuter clinic near Yala National Park.
Working alongside the incredible team from Lucas Helps Dogs of Sri Lanka, we treated 174 dogs and cats in just three days. These animals were caught from surrounding communities, assessed,
operated on, carefully monitored through recovery, and then returned to the exact place they came from once fully awake and stable. It was intense, physically demanding, and emotionally powerful.
Conditions were a world away from a UK practice. Heat, dust, limited equipment, and long days meant everyone had to stay sharp. As a vet nurse, my role covered everything from assisting in surgery to managing recovery pens and responding to unexpected complications.
There is no room for complacency in an environment like that, you rely on your training, your instincts, and your ability to stay calm under pressure.
What struck me most was how
universal good animal care really is. Whether you’re in a high-tech clinic or a temporary set-up in rural Sri Lanka, the fundamentals don’t change: pain control, hygiene, monitoring, and compassion. Those same principles apply directly to grooming salons back home. Groomers may not be performing surgery, but you are trusted professionals handling animals every single day, and first aid knowledge can genuinely save lives.
One of the biggest first-aid risks I see in grooming salons is overheating. Grooming environments can become
deceptively warm, especially with dryers running, doors closed for noise control, and dogs that are already stressed or wearing thick coats.
Early signs of overheating to watch for:
Excessive panting or drooling
Bright red or very pale gums
Lethargy, wobbliness, or reluctance to stand
Agitation or sudden behavioural changes
Immediate steps if you suspect overheating:
Stop grooming straight away.
Move the dog to a cool, well-ventilated area.
Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water if the dog is conscious and able to drink.
If symptoms don’t improve quickly, seek veterinary help urgently.
Prevention is just as important.
Schedule heavier-coated dogs earlier in the day, ensure constant access to fresh water, maintain airflow, and remember that brachycephalic breeds, elderly dogs, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk.
Find out more about Rachel Bean at www.rachelbean.co.uk
Grooming essentials go far beyond clippers and scissors. While the right tools matter, professional grooming is built on structure, knowledge and self-care. From choosing equipment that suits you to running your day efficiently and protecting your wellbeing, these five essentials form the foundation of a successful, sustainable grooming career.
Having the right tools isn’t about owning the most expensive equipment, but about understanding what works best for you. Clippers, scissors and dryers should suit your hand size, strength, workload and grooming style. Tools that are uncomfortable or inefficient quickly lead to fatigue, frustration and even injury. Knowing when a tool is no longer serving you is just as important as choosing it in the first place.
A well-structured day is an essential but often overlooked part of grooming. Booking realistically for coat condition, dog behaviour and prep time helps avoid rushing and unnecessary stress.
Allowing buffer time for welfare breaks and unexpected delays improves both safety and finish quality. Structure creates calm, and calm leads to better grooms.
Understanding coat types and condition is a fundamental grooming skill. Knowing when to clip, hand strip, de-shed or adjust a style based on lifestyle and maintenance is essential for coat health and client satisfaction. Confident decision-making also allows groomers to educate owners and manage expectations professionally and honestly.
Every groomer runs a business, whether employed or self-employed. Knowing
your costs, valuing your time and setting clear policies around matting, cancellations and late arrivals are essential for sustainability. Treating grooming as a profession, not a favour, protects both your income and your confidence.
Perhaps the most important essential is looking after yourself. Good posture, regular breaks, stretching and managing workload all help prevent long-term injury. Mental wellbeing matters too; burnout benefits no one. A healthy groomer is safer, calmer and able to deliver consistently high-quality work.
From clippers and combs to communication and self-care, grooming essentials go far beyond what’s in your kit. Three experienced professionals share the tools, habits, and mindset they rely on daily, revealing how the right essentials support efficiency, welfare, and long-term success in a demanding industry.
Grooming essentials mean different things at different stages of a groomer’s career. Early on, they may simply be the tools you can afford or access, but with time and experience, essentials become more intentional. They are the items, habits, and ways of working that protect your body, support animal welfare, and allow you to deliver consistent, high-quality results day after day.
Across the industry, there is growing recognition that “essential” no longer just means a decent pair of clippers and scissors. It includes efficiency, education, communication, and mindset. To explore this in depth, three experienced groomers share what they truly couldn’t
work without, and why those essentials matter so much in real-world grooming environments.
For salon owner Emma Gooding, the definition of essential tools is deeply personal. Emma, from Barkin Buttons Dog Grooming, said that “when you’ve groomed as long as I have, tools aren’t just tools, they’re extensions of your hands.” That relationship with equipment comes from years of repetition, refinement, and learning what genuinely supports both groomer and dog.
At the top of Emma’s essentials list are Heiniger Opal clippers, which she describes as non-negotiable for working efficiently without unnecessary strain. She explains that power, reliability, and
comfort are just as important for the groomer’s longevity as they are for producing a quality finish on the dog. Alongside these, wide blades and attachments have transformed how she works, speeding up grooms and creating a more even finish in fewer passes, something dogs clearly benefit from.
Hand tools also play a critical role in Emma’s day-to-day work. She highlights the Colin Taylor greyhound comb as the one tool she would keep above all others, allowing her to check coats thoroughly without causing discomfort. For finishing, her Abb Fabb chunker scissors help maintain a natural, wearable look that clients love, avoiding overly sculpted results while still achieving a professional finish. More recently,
conditioning products have also become essential, with Artero Mix Conditioner Spray earning a permanent place in her kit for improving coat quality and manageability.
However, Emma is clear that success in grooming extends far beyond equipment alone. Emma said that “patience and adaptability are huge. No two dogs are the same, no day goes exactly to plan, and being able to adjust without getting flustered makes a massive difference.” She emphasises the importance of resilience, a calm mindset, and always putting welfare first by reading canine body language and knowing when to slow down or stop altogether.
Even after 27 years in the industry, Emma believes learning never stops. She reflects on how her essentials have evolved alongside industry advancements, from basic blades and shampoos early in her career to today’s wide blades, specialist products, and an expanded scissor collection. What she once overlooked, she says, was how much the right tools could reduce physical strain and elevate the final groom. Experience has shifted her focus from managing with what’s available to choosing what truly supports her work.
For mobile groomer Dione Spice, essentials look slightly different, shaped by years of high-level experience and a recent transition to one-to-one inhome grooming. Dione is the owner of Dione’s Dog Grooming, and said that “a good coat conditioning spray is an absolute essential for me.” She uses it throughout the groom, from pre-drying to scissoring and detangling, explaining that it conditions without weighing the coat down. Her go-to product, Melanie Newman Relax Coat Conditioning Spray, delivers results without leaving residue, something she values highly.
Dione’s perspective highlights how non-physical essentials can be just as critical as tools. She said that “managing stress” is something every groomer must prioritise to avoid burnout. After 25 years in the industry, she has experienced firsthand how pressure from difficult dogs or owners can take its toll. Finding a personal way to reset, whether through massage, sound baths, or another outlet, has helped her maintain passion for the job.
Systems and routines also play a major
role in Dione’s success. By working on a strict 6–8 week grooming schedule and rebooking clients immediately, she reduces matting, improves the dog’s experience, and keeps owners happy with consistent results. She also speaks openly about the importance of annual price increases, noting that transparency and confidence in pricing have strengthened client relationships rather than harmed them.
As a mobile groomer, Dione’s kit has evolved to prioritise portability and efficiency. She now relies on tools such as the Jirpet neck dryer, which allows hands-free fluff drying, and wide blades,
particularly the Simpsons Mastercut range. While she still carries regular blades, they are rarely used. One constant throughout her career, however, has been her Geib Starlite blenders. She describes them as irreplaceable, especially for fine detail and finishing on drop coats, reinforcing the emotional connection many groomers have with their most trusted tools.
For salon owner and educator Lorraine Mottershead, essentials are about balance: the right equipment, strong communication, and sustainable working practices. Lorraine works at Canine Care & Co, and said that “communication is
a must after all the dogs owners are our clients not just their dog.” She believes understanding a client’s lifestyle and expectations is key to adapting grooms appropriately and guiding owners through their dog’s grooming needs over its lifetime.
Lorraine’s essential tools list is extensive, reflecting decades of refinement, from Wahl Bravura trimmers and Heiniger clippers to silver greyhound combs, Artero brushes and scissors, Mutneys shampoos, and Julie Harris coat conditioning spray. Drying equipment also plays a major role in her workflow, including both blasters and hand dryers, supporting efficiency without compromising welfare.
Beyond tools, Lorraine places strong emphasis on planning and self-care. Lorraine told us that “plan your diary” is advice she lives by, noting the importance of blocking out time off, knowing personal limits, and avoiding overbooking. She stresses the value of lunch breaks, hydration, stretching, and hand exercises, habits she credits with preventing issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome throughout her career.
Routine is another cornerstone of Lorraine’s approach. From consistent grooming sequences to detailed record keeping, she believes structure supports both quality and animal welfare. Training dogs to free-stand, allowing breaks when needed, and maintaining detailed health notes all contribute to calmer, safer grooming experiences.
Looking back, Lorraine notes how improved equipment quality and increased choice have shaped her essentials over time. While she admits to being a self-confessed scissor collector, each tool has a purpose, including specialist scissors reserved for specific breeds. Products like Mutneys shampoos have remained a constant for over 25 years, trusted for reliability and results, while creative grooming has opened the door to newer ranges such as Opawz. Together, these perspectives show that grooming essentials are not static. They evolve with experience, working environments, and personal priorities. Whether it’s a trusted pair of scissors, a conditioning spray, clear communication, or simply knowing when to slow down, true essentials are the things that allow groomers to work safely, sustainably, and with confidence for years to come.
Why do some cats seem calm until they explode? In this exclusive column, feline behaviour expert Katie explains why cats aren’t small dogs. Exploring nervous system differences, shutdown responses and hidden stress signals, she shows groomers how dog-based logic can backfire—and how cat-centred care changes everything in modern grooming practice.
Welcome to another month of cat musings. This month we’re looking at something I’m often heard saying to other pet professionals, clients and people in general: cats are not small dogs. Sadly, it never seems to stop being necessary to say it. Time and time again I see dog logic and dog handling applied to cats, and it simply doesn’t translate.
The cat “seemed fine”… until it wasn’t. Most people working with cats don’t intend to cause harm, but without a real understanding of feline behaviour it can happen very easily. Cats don’t just behave differently to dogs – their nervous systems react differently too. What looks like compliance during a groom is often a cat that has gone into shutdown mode.
Most readers will be familiar with the fight, flight, freeze and fawn response. This nervous system reaction evolved as a survival mechanism in the face of danger and has saved countless lives over millennia.
In modern society, however, animals face far more frequent stress triggers: machinery, urban noise, overstimulation and separation anxiety, to name a few. As a result, the nervous systems of many animals (humans included) are under near-constant pressure, contributing to behavioural and medical issues. Reducing unnecessary triggers is key to keeping cats as calm and relaxed as possible during grooming.
Just to repeat myself: cats are not small dogs. Their stress signals can look very different, and if you work with cats you need to know what to look for.
Generally speaking, dogs under stress tend to be social and expressive. They may seek reassurance, vocalise, tremble, pace, sway or show visible muscle tension. Stress is often discharged
outwardly through movement. Cats, on the other hand, lean towards self-protection. They may try to hide under objects or retreat to high places, make themselves appear smaller, freeze, or lash out to create distance. Cats internalise stress, which can also show up in behaviours such as over-grooming, masking discomfort, or complete immobility.
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Because cats often freeze and make themselves small, this behaviour is frequently misread as cooperation. A cat that isn’t hissing, biting or struggling is often labelled a “good cat”.
In reality, this is commonly a shutdown response. This misinterpretation is also why people are often caught out when a seemingly calm cat suddenly lunges with teeth or claws. Early warning signs have been missed and the cat has been pushed beyond their threshold.
Some common dog-grooming approaches that don’t work for cats include:
• Just pushing through
• Long sessions for a better finish
• Restraint equals safety
• Desensitisation on the day
Pushing through is not an option with cats. It can cause long-term damage and increase reactivity at future grooms. I’ve worked with cats whose negative grooming experiences meant even their trusted humans could no longer touch them.
Cats are not designed for prolonged handling. Many become overstimulated after only a few strokes, so sessions should be kept as short as possible and stopped at the first signs of rising stress. In some cases, grooming needs to be spread over multiple sessions.
Grooming loops should never be used on cats. Anything around the neck poses a serious risk of injury or strangulation. Many cats react badly to restraint, becoming more defensive rather than calmer. I prefer using a simple towel or blanket provided by the owner, as familiar scents can be grounding. Cats also need predictability rather than endurance, so developing a consistent routine for each individual cat is invaluable.
None of this is intended as criticism. It’s an encouragement to research, study and adapt. Dog groomers undertake dog-specific training; the same commitment is needed to work safely and ethically with cats.
Work with the cat’s nervous system, not against it. Keep sessions short and
strategic, prioritise essential areas first, stop before stress escalates, and allow movement and choice where possible. Remember: welfare is more important than a perfect finish, and trust is more valuable than flawless technique.
Cats aren’t difficult dogs – they are
animals with a different survival strategy. You don’t need to discard your dog experience, but you do need to shift your mindset, rethink expectations, and learn a new language. Be curious about cats.
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