Total Grooming Magazine May 2021

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk MAY 2021

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23/09/2019 16:02:28

Contents

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s grooming salons re-open, we get the latest views on tables and baths and which types are best. There’s a feature on clipper maintenance and why it matters. And, after the grand finale of Pooch Perfect, we go behind the scenes with winner Kelly D as she shares her journey to becoming a household grooming name. 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

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Tables & baths – a groomer’s view

Contents 04 News 06 News 08 News 10 News 12 News 14 Tables & baths – a groomer’s view 18 Clipper maintenance

On the cover:

www.totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk MAY 2021

Simpsons 01354 691830 www.simpsonsonline.co.uk

22 Pooch Perfect Winner – Kelly D shares her experience 26 Paws for thought visits the iPET Network and finds out more

Editor

Design and Production

Sue Corfield – editor@totalgroomingmagazine.co.uk

Grant Waters – grant@cimltd.co.uk James Taylor – james@cimltd.co.uk T: 01795 509108

Commercial Director Mike Smith – mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk T: 01795 509110

Account Manager Becky Smith – becky@tgmpublishing.co.uk

Credit Facilities Manager Natalie Murray – creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk T: 01795 509103

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Grooming with pain and how to manage it

about their training offer and expansion plans 30 Grooming with pain and how to manage it 34 Behaviour – How to prepare dogs for a busier lifestyle 40 Profile of Bone Idol 44 The truth about cats and dogs howtointroduceanewdogtoacat household © 2020 TGM Publishing Limited, The Goods Shed, Jubilee Way, Faversham, Kent ME13 8GD. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical or physical – without express prior permission and written consent of the publisher. Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and addressed envelope. Manuscripts should be type written. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic, belongs to TGM Publishing Limited. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher. The Publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Total Grooming Magazine | 3

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News and Product Round-up Vet and Groomer Sophie Bell joins BIGA Member Discussion Boards

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ophie is the vet behind Ask The Vet on BIGA Voice Tails and tongues will be wagging at the news that vet and groomer Sophie Bell has joined BIGA Voice as one of its specialist advisors taking member questions on Ask The Vet. BIGA Voice is the online chat forum for members of the British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA). The forum features specialist advisors across Accountancy, Business, Insurance, HR Consultancy, Dog Behaviour and Grooming. As a vet with a hands-on appreciation of the role groomers play in animal welfare, Sophie explains that “dog groomers are an extra pair of eyes and often spot things that the owner does not.” “I am proud to be working with BIGA to support groomers, to provide them with a wealth of extra knowledge and to add to their amazing skill set.” Sophie is likely recognised by many groomers for her company, Animal Love Pet-First Aid, through which she provides educational courses and webinars. The training has been highly rated and well-received, particularly over the last year of the pandemic. “We’re so pleased to have Sophie answer member questions on BIGA Voice,” says Director Heidi Anderton, “not just for her combined expertise as a vet and groomer, but also because she’s friendly and approachable and has this great quality of putting you immediately at ease.” “It’s this,” continues Heidi, “that is the spirit of BIGA Voice.” Heidi argues that it hasn’t been social media’s finest hour over the last few months. The member discussion boards, by contrast, “are a safe friendly space where you can

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Sophie Bell

ask a question without fear of ridicule.” BIGA has consistently endeavoured to build bridges with others across the industry and in business to offer value to its membership. The BIGA Show, for example, regularly welcomed guest speakers and exhibitors across insurance, animal first aid, HR practices,

dog behaviour in the salon, alternative therapies and more. Now, with BIGA Voice, members can put their questions to the advisors easily online. Indeed, as Sophie echoes, “working together means we can use one another’s expertise to create a better life for our animals.”

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Hartpury Launches New Masters Degree in Animal Welfare and Legal System

Hartpury students

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new postgraduate degree launched by Hartpury University focusing on animal welfare and the UK legal system will equip graduates with the expertise required for management roles within the animal welfare sector. The MSc Animal Welfare, Policy and Legislation degree has been designed by Hartpury – a member of the UK Centre for Animal Law (A-Law) – to meet emerging animal welfare challenges linked to the UK legal system. The innovative programme will cover content applicable to a wide range of animal industries, including livestock farming, zoos and the management of feral animals. As it’s delivered mainly online and offers full and part-time pathways, the course provides an opportunity to study flexibly to fit around other commitments.

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The MSc Animal Welfare, Policy and Legislation degree will include talks delivered by expert guest lecturers – academic and industry professionals – who are actively engaged in the development and implementation of legislation and policy. Students enrolled on the course will have opportunities to further enhance their knowledge by applying theory to practice in real-world settings, including on campus at Hartpury, which is home to 70 species of animal. Dr McCormick, Head of Animal and Agriculture at Hartpury University, said: “The animal welfare sector is diverse, covering everything from agriculture to pet shops and rescue centres to wildlife conservation. “As graduates progress into management positions, they’re likely to find themselves responsible for legal compliance. “If they’re working for government

or charitable organisations, they may even be involved in important consultation and lobbying to drive forward new legislation. “This new course will provide graduates with the expertise they need to navigate the legal system and make a difference to the lives of animals through improved welfare standards.” All research activity at Hartpury University, which offers PhDs, postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in the areas of sport, equine, animal, agriculture and veterinary nursing, either directly or indirectly informs not only current industry practice but also the curriculum. Research is fully integrated within teaching, with staff research active in the areas in which they teach and many dissertations embedded in larger scale research projects.

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Bamboo Bowl gets Top Review

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et Brands has partnered with a leading publication and their hand-picked panel of experts, to review its extensive range of products, with the first round seeing Bamboo Bowls and iQuties come up top trumps and the Bamboo Bowl slow feeder gaining the first 5 Star rating. The Bamboo Bowl was awarded the first five-star rating. Not only does it tick the box for the ever-growing trend of being eco-friendly, but it also successfully slowed down the greediest of dogs. One of the expert panellists reported, “Wow, loved this product!!! Not only is it eco-friendly, but it is also the perfect size and very easy to clean, especially if like me you don’t have a dishwasher! Lovely colour, just the right number of rims around it to slow the dog down. My old senior now takes much longer eating which is far better for her health!!” Another of Pet Brands products was also in the line-up. The iQuties Paw Hide provides fun physical and mental stimulation for dogs. Coming a close second to the Bamboo Bowl, it was reviewed as a fantastic boredom buster, which is a trending search for dog owners as the nation prepares for their return to work. The panel reviewed the iQuties Paw Hide positively, noting it “…tests the brainpower of the dog. Lightweight and less likely to be chewed. It is attractive looking and relatively easy to clean between uses.” As entertainment for dogs is at the forefront of the owner’s mind right now, Pet Brands have extended their iQuties range with the Lick Treat Mat. Designed to soothe anxiety and eliminate boredom, Lick Mat is perfect with wet food, pumpkin, squashed banana and (xylitol-free) peanut butter. It is the perfect addition to the toy basket and can give owners peace of mind that their furry family member is being entertained and made to feel at ease, while they are stepping back to normality. Both the Bamboo Bowl and iQuties

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ranges are exclusively stocked at Vital Pet Group. For further information visit www. petbrands.com Leading animal welfare charity Battersea announced the appointment of Peter Laurie as its new Chief Executive. Peter will step into the role with immediate effect, having held the position of Interim Chief Executive since January, following the departure of Claire Horton CBE from the charity.

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Kayla Can Cut It!

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n January 2021 Christies Direct launched Can You Cut it? The 2021 Brand Ambassador search. The hope was to find someone that was not only a highly skilled groomer, with a wealth of breed and product knowledge, but also someone with passion for the industry, a friendly personality, and a positive can-do attitude. Event Manager, Amy Donaghey said “We were overwhelmed with the initial response, and the number of fantastic applications is a testament to the grooming industry. Our judges had the task of selecting our finalists and it was not an easy one.” From these applications the judges created a shortlist of 8 finalists who moved through to stage 2. During this stage, the finalists were asked to create some pieces of content to showcase their skills and product knowledge and share passion. Amy said “The calibre of content from finalists was incredible and our judges, Michael Shiels, Colin Christie, and Lindy Harper read and re-read, watched and re-watched, but one name stood out.” And the company were delighted to announce Kayla Harrison, as their 2021 Brand Ambassador during their first live-streamed event Unleashed Live on 11th March 2021.

So … Who is Kayla Harrison? A young Kayla dreamed of one day becoming an international spy, but when it became clear she couldn’t do a front flip, she realised she’d need to explore another of her lifelong passions – animals. After achieving a whole host of distinctions while studying Animal Management, Behaviour and Welfare at college, Kayla went on to study dog grooming which is where she found her calling. Kayla has now been grooming for over 10 years. She holds her OCN level 3 in grooming, has studied Pet First Aid, and has almost finished her 10 | www.christiesdirect.com

Kayla Harrison Brand Ambassador for Christies Direct

ICMG qualification. In the future she hopes to complete her Level 4 teaching qualification and use her passion for grooming to inspire up-and-coming groomers in her own grooming school. Kayla specialises in poodles and schnauzers but is an expert at handling challenging dogs in the salon. She loves creative grooming and her two standard poodles regularly model her talents. Kayla and her sister own two busy salons in Berkshire: ‘2 Left Paws’, and she recently featured on BBC One’s Pooch Perfect. Along with her well-earned reputation as a top-class groomer, Kayla is also known for preparing and handling long-haired Briards at Crufts. Prepping a dog for a show like Crufts requires specific skills to ensure the coat is show ring ready, but not left fly-away

before showing. She has prepped and handled dogs to podium positions in the Good Citizen Dog class, Veteran Bitch, and Post Graduate Bitch classes. Marketing Director Lindy Harper commented “Kayla naturally and effortlessly talked to camera during her grooming demonstrations, sharing not only product recommendations, but how these products translated to time and money savings for groomers in the salon, and we know how important that is for our customers!” The judges all agreed that her content was educational and informative, but also fun and genuine.” Christies Direct look forward to producing lots of content alongside Kayla and can’t wait until she can take to the main stage at one of their highly anticipated grooming expos!

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Lyme Disease UK urges public to Wake Up To Lyme as symptoms overlap with COVID-19

Be tick aware

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fter a year of COVID-19 related lockdowns, and the approaching warmer temperatures, many of us are eager to get back outside. On the path to normality, we will need to continue to observe the guidelines that protect us from coronavirus and support the NHS, but also Wake Up to Lyme. The symptoms of acute Lyme disease can overlap with COVID-19 symptoms, with fatigue, fever and exhaustion being common in both cases. Yet it is largely unknown, and very often untreated or misdiagnosed. As we return to parks and private gardens, both being places ticks are active, it’s important to be aware of how to prevent tick bites, know what to do if we are bitten and help prevent further cases of Lyme disease this summer. Many animals can have Lyme disease

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and show no signs or symptoms. Dogs are most frequently infected but Lyme can also occur in horses, cattle, and cats - and people. The most common signs include swollen joints, lethargy fever, loss of appetite, painful or swollen joints, and intermittent lameness. Left untreated it can lead to damage in the kidneys, nervous system, and heart. To prevent ticks use tick collars, tablets or spot-on products; try to avoid long grass; and regularly check your pet for ticks. Vets are experts in this field and are ideally placed for providing advice to pet owners.

UK registered charity, Lyme Disease UK, will be carrying out their fifth ‘Wake Up to Lyme’ campaign this May, International Lyme Awareness Month. Lyme Disease UK is a volunteer-led charity that offers support for Lyme disease patients and their loved ones. In 2016, the Big Tick Project discovered that a third of dogs checked in a study had ticks attached which their owners did not know about. The #WakeUpToLyme awareness campaign aims to reduce the number of new infections and educate people on how to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Tables & Baths

Groomer Sarah Colquitt shares her experiences of tables and baths. Sarah is a lover of all animals, an experienced dog and cat groomer and owner of Puss ‘N’ Pooch salon

Sarah feels her table was well worth the additional investment

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etting up your salon can be exciting, daunting and a rather hefty investment too. So much to think about, how, when and where. But alongside those major decisions like choosing the right location also comes the decisions of choosing the right equipment for your needs and your budget. There are many items to purchase and your budget will likely end up needing to stretch further than you initially estimated, so it’s natural to try and find discounts and deals for all your equipment needs. However, the one area where you really shouldn’t be skimping on the spend is the two pieces of most vital equipment to any groomer - your

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table and bath! These will be the two biggest investments you make in terms of equipment and much as it may be tempting to watch your wallet it’s best to spend wisely so your items will last you for many grooming years ahead. Many of us will find we are influenced by where we trained and their set-up as it’s what we’re used to but it’s still well worth looking at the market thoroughly and seeing what choices are available and at what price point. Attending shows such as Crufts and other Expos is a very good idea for actually seeing the item prior to purchase and getting a feel for its features and actual size. Dimensions online are one thing but seeing the

item will really assist you with your comparisons. There are so many options out there nowadays and I’m sure many groomers who set up years ago wish they could purchase again from such an array of tables and baths on the market today. There are more suppliers too but with this larger choice comes far more decisions to make, it can be quite unnerving for a new groomer. X-Frame, Z-Frame, Portable, Folding, Rotating Tabletops, Hydraulic or Electric and that’s before you look at the various sizes, materials and whether you want a single grooming arm or a H-Bar. Ultimately before flicking through the many options, it’s best

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to know what you require and your salons business plan will assist you with these decisions. If you’re only planning to groom smaller breeds then this reduces the options you need to look at and will also bring the costings down too. However, if you’re planning on grooming large breeds your decision will initially be led by table size. Primarily a groomer needs to protect their back if they wish to have longevity in this career so the choices you make on these purchases will have the most impact. A mobile groomer planning on visiting homes needs a foldable table or portable one, however these will limit the ability to adjust the height and the weight they can hold. Fundamentally any table needs to be sturdy, versatile and practical, it’s no good buying a heavy duty table if you’re unable to frequently load it in and out of your vehicle. However, the drawback of the lighter tables is that they aren’t necessarily as sturdy, in an ideal world we’d like every dog to stand like an angel but this just isn’t the case. A lot of the foldable tables offer a selection of notches offering a few different heights. These tables are definitely worth viewing at shows before making the decision. Online suppliers that aren’t specifically grooming specialists offer flimsy and poor products that may seem like a bargain but often are not fit for purpose and need sending back, therefore costing you more on the return’s postage too. Hydraulic tables use a gas filled pump to lower and lift, I have had a large hydraulic table for 15 years now. I was tempted to invest in an electric model but after working in other salons over the years I found the cables that feed the electric supply a trip hazard, especially if you’re not used to them, they also limit where they can be placed in the salon. Hence why many salons have electric tables against walls, I’m used to be able to turn 360 degrees around my table and find it very restricting and uninspiring facing a wall to groom. Hydraulics can be a little jerky with their movement so this can cause concerns for nervous dogs, however 16 | Total Grooming Magazine

with the majority it’s as simple as wrapping a reassuring arm around the pooch whilst the table is moving. Electric tables offer a smoother and quieter manoeuvre however in regards to placement you also have to make sure you account for enough space at the end of the table to allow for its movement. There is also the potential of motor failure and the cost of either sending it away for repair or replacing a motor can be quite a hit to your finances even if you have a maintenance fund at the ready. Baths are predominately made in two material types; stainless steel and polyethylene and are either a fixed height free-standing item or with an electric motor. The same principles apply as with choosing a table, look at what you’re intending to be offering. If you’re not planning on grooming the

larger and giant breeds then you don’t necessarily need to invest in an electric bath, however as there is such a variety of heights between the toy to medium breeds this can still lead to a lot of bending and leaning. A lot of baths now offer an internal shelf for placing the smaller breeds onto to raise them up to you. Overall, I would recommend for the sake of protecting your back and if funds allow, investing in an electric bath is the way to go. Mine has been going strong for 15 years now with no motor failure and the handset for adjusting the height has only needed replacing once. A lot of the newer models now have a foot pedal for height adjustment therefore removing the need for a separate piece, however a separate handset makes the cost of repair/ replacement far more economical.

Oil Em clipper spray will help in your blade maintenance regime

Clip Top Condition: How To Look After Your Clippers by Simply Sharp

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lipper maintenance takes so little time out of the day, but it’s amazing how many people prefer to skip it! Not keeping up with your clipper maintenance means your expensive equipment will wear out much faster. Plus, dull blades can pull your client’s hair and even cut their skin - good luck getting that client back! Just following a few simple steps after each use will keep your clippers in top-notch condition for years to come. The best thing you can do for your clipper is to brush, spray, and oil it after every use. Cut hairs left between the teeth will blunt your blades, as will any

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dust from your environment. Start with a large, soft brush to remove most of the debris, then follow up with a small stiff brush to get the rest – something like an old toothbrush works wonders. A good blast of clipper spray will rid you of the last of the hairs – but there are other reasons that it’s an essential for your kit, too. Clipper blades heat up during use and risk burning your client, plus they pick up plenty of bacteria. Spraying your blades with Oil’Em® Clipper Spray will cool and disinfect them – among other benefits! It also lubricates and prevents rust, prolonging the life of your clipper blades. For good

hygiene, you should also be sterilising your blades frequently using a blade wash solution. A lack of oil means your blades will create too much friction, causing them to dull and become damaged. It’s quick and easy to oil your blades – with the clipper turned sideways, simply apply a few drops of oil on the teeth and allow the clipper to run for 10 seconds to disperse it. Too much oil will attract dirt, so wipe away the excess using a paper towel (with the clipper off). Make sure to use specialist clipper oil for this – WD-40, motor oil, and olive oil are all too thick and will cause damage to

the clipper’s internal components. If you’re still not getting a nice, smooth cut after all that work, it’s time to get your blades sharpened! You might wonder how often you should be throwing out and replacing your clipper blades, and the answer is – not very often if you’re maintaining them properly! Ideally, you’ll only need to dispose of a clipper blade if it’s damaged or if your sharpener advises you to. It’s best to buy an extra blade when you purchase your clipper – dropping a clipper can break the teeth, so it’s good to always have a spare on hand! Unfortunately, even perfect maintenance can be undone if you store your clipper incorrectly! Be sure to store your clipper in an indoor environment, where the damp and cold of the great British weather won’t cause corrosion and damage. Coil your cord rather than wrapping it around the clipper, and store blades separately to prevent damage – give them a good oil beforehand to protect against rust. If your clipper has been in storage for a while, we’d recommend a thorough clean before you use it. If your clipper is damaged, or just not running as well as it should, sending it to be serviced may be your answer! Even if you never skip your daily maintenance, a professional service once a year will extend the life of your clipper significantly. Simply Sharp offer nationwide clipper servicing, repairs, and scissor and blade sharpening via post – and at only £15 for a full service of your grooming clippers, it’s an investment that’s well worth it for perfect performance. Oil’Em® Clipper Spray is sold in a 400ml can for £6.50. Place your order today at https://www.simplysharp. co.uk/ Bringing together a team with many years of collective experience, Simply Sharp was founded in 2019 to meet the diverse needs of customers in a number of industries, including pet grooming, equine care, and hair dressing. Contact Kyle Hyde at enquiries@ simplysharp.co.uk for more information about Oil’Em® Clipper Spray. 20 | Total Grooming Magazine

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Pooch Perfect Winner The final of Pooch Perfect saw Kelly Davis, Georgia Ashton Fuller and Lakhi Thindal go head to head to impress judges, Colin Taylor and Verity Hardcastle.

Kelly D was crowned the winner of the first season of Pooch Perfect

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fter an intense finale with some spectacular grooms, only one contestant could take home the winning title of Pooch Perfect. Kelly D was crowned the winner of the first season of Pooch Perfect on BBC One. In the final, Kelly groomed a continental clip on a standard poodle for the first time ever during the breed standard challenge. For her last-ever dog walk challenge, Kelly groomed her Miniature Poodle for a Red Carpet and took her inspiration from Cher. We interview Kelly to find out more:

How did you feel about winning Pooch Perfect? I was over the moon to be crowned the 22 | Total Grooming Magazine

winner of Pooch Perfect and I am still on cloud 9. It is such a surreal feeling!

Your view of the series? The series was incredibly well organised, it was a true portrayal of the love we all have for this industry and the challenges we are sometimes faced with. It was amazing to be part of something that aimed to educate (and entertain) the general public as I am an avid fan of promoting the work that we do.

The impact it has had on you? I am overwhelmed with the response from winning the competition. The support and kind comments from my staff, customers, friends and family

has been absolutely amazing. I have been inundated with requests to attend events, cut ribbons, appear as a guest celebrity, attend interviews etc however I do not want to lose track of what is most important to me and that is my grooming studio and training school. My Business means everything to me and I take pride sharing my knowledge with future generations so I am trying to strike the balance as best as I can.

How were you chosen for the series? I am always looking for new challenges so I put myself forward during the lockdown in March. The audition process was nerve wracking so I was so pleased (and surprised) to have been chosen to take part in the series.

One of the most challenging parts of the process was keeping the news from everyone because I was so excited!

The importance of your family’s/husband’s support? Without the support of my husband and children this would never have been possible. They have always supported me throughout my career, enabling me to gain tonnes of experience and knowledge. I am grateful to have such a caring and supportive family! They really are the best!

How did you start in you grooming and how did your business develop I have been grooming since 2002, starting my career as a work experience student in a well-respected grooming and training school, Canine Design,in conjunction with an animal care course. Three months into my work experience I was offered a full time job. I went on to complete my Level 3 in dog grooming, teacher training and from there I gained my LCGI (Licentiate of the City & Guilds Institute) and my Higher Diploma in dog grooming. After nine years in my well-loved job I opened my own Studio. I am proud to have received many awards over the years for the studio, training school and yearly dog grooming competition.

What were the biggest challenges you have had to overcome? The hardest thing to overcome was starting my business from scratch in a new area with no clients or students. Over the years I have successfully built the business through word of mouth and I now have very loyal customers and students. It is hard work but I am so glad that I did not let anything get in the way of my dream.

What are the greatest lessons you have learned from grooming? The greatest lesson for me and something I often say to people is to never stop learning. It is easy to 24 | Total Grooming Magazine

Kelly has become a household name!

fall behind if you do not continue to improve your skills. I believe that education is the key to success!

What elements give you the greatest satisfaction? In terms of grooming I get the greatest satisfaction from building a bond with my furry clients, grooming and caring for them to the highest standards. With the student, it is teaching others to pursue their dreams and sharing my knowledge.

What are your views on training for groomers entering this sector? It is imperative to research the training centre before committing to a course. Check that the tutors are all fully qualified and that the course will provide you with enough professional experience to be able to succeed on your own. If it is worth doing, it is worth doing it right (the first time!). You would be surprised at how many students retrain with us.

What are your views on competing in grooming shows? I adore competing in competitions around the world. Competitions provide me with the chance to test my skills, learn from others and most importantly network! There are so many amazing people in this industry and these events give us a chance to share our knowledge and share our love for the industry.

What plans/aspirations do you have for the future? I look forward to being able to host my annual dog grooming competition again. I have missed this event dearly because it attracts the most wonderful people from all over the country!

What is your favourite dog to groom and why? Oh no, don’t make me choose! I absolutely love grooming all dogs however if I had to pick I would probably choose a Bedlington Terrier because they are one of my favourite breeds!

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Paws for thought... Paws for thought finds out more about the iPET Network and its groomer training courses including the latest ‘fast track’ courses for experienced groomers:

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ecently celebrating signing up 40 training providers and a partnership with Animal Courses Direct, the ‘by groomers for groomers’ Awarding Organisation iPET Network has secured its standing and reputation in the world of education and grooming. Sarah Mackay, who together with business partner Fern Gresty set up iPET Network with a dream of creating qualifications for the Canine and Feline industry. In turn creating a network of accessible and friendly Training Providers for the UK’s army of existing and would-be groomers to deliver the qualifications. They spoke to Total Grooming about their business, and why they believe training and qualifications are so important. A lifelong dog lover, Sarah had groomed dogs as a teenager, but then stepped into a corporate career in HR, quality and training and left the grooming world behind. But five years ago Sarah decided to ditch the corporate life to transfer her skills in grooming and training and was offered a Dog Grooming Tutor role at Four Paws Groom School, which was run by Fern. The pair hit it off, iPET Network was formed and their idea to design and offer Dog Grooming qualifications created by groomers for groomers was born. This allowed new or experienced learners to have choice when searching for qualifications knowing that iPET Network are upping the standards and creating qualifications that really work for the industry, the learners and pets that deserve the best care. This ethos has been praised and

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Sarah Mackay, who together with business partner Fern Gresty set up iPET Network

championed by leading industry lights Stuart Simons and Colin Taylor. Colin said: “This is different because it’s not just a qualification, it’s designed with thought behind it by dog people, and that for me is really important.” Sarah, speaking about starting the business and realising their dream, said: “Fern had advertised for a tutor and I ended up coming on board as a partner to develop the business. That was four years ago and it’s gone from strength to strength from there. “Never in our wildest dreams did we think it would be as big as it is, and from an employment point of view that

has been great too because we have been able to hire local people in the areas that we cover. “People have really resonated with our ethos which is all about doing it right and maintaining the quality, the feedback from our training providers and learners is that they can see the difference between ours and other training, because the support and roundness of the qualification adds value the whole way through. That is really important to us, and we have been able to expand in a way which never compromises that.” The grooming industry is as-yet

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unregulated, and many longserving groomers have never completed any formal qualifications, with many feeling uncomfortable with the looming threat of legislation. But iPET Network have addressed this in a respectful way, with a fast-track course which takes into account these veteran groomers’ existing valuable skills. Sarah said: “As an industry we all have to be advocating for qualifications, just because you are doing it right, it doesn’t mean that someone else is. And when things go wrong it has an effect on trust in the entire industry. “Some people say they can’t believe you can do a dog grooming course in 30 days, but with 22 hours of training I passed my driving test. “That didn’t mean that I was the best driver I would ever be at the end of it, but I had the solid foundations and skills that I needed to learn from there. That is what this is all about, building strong foundations in the subject and animal welfare and it needs to be fair for everyone.” Since its inception iPET Network has expanded beyond simply dog grooming, offering courses in other animal subjects too such as canine nutrition and first aid. To create these qualifications the business sources the very best experts to advise on course materials, most recently canine nutrition consultant Lisa Hannaby. Sarah and Fern have also now expanded the Four Paws Groom School brand to include sites in Kent (teaming up with business partner Sarah Sturley) and with Shropshire coming soon, the iPET Network qualifications are delivered by 40 training providers around the country. Sarah added: “The sky really is the limit with animal welfare at our hearts. This is something that we believe in so much and we can’t wait to see where it takes us, and the industry that we love.”

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Total Grooming Magazine | 29

It’s a Pain! Groomer, Jenny Farrell looks at how to cope when you are grooming in pain:

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any groomers and nongroomers suffer from pain whether it is due to repetitive strain or a health

condition. As a pet stylist for over 12 years working in salons, vans and having my own salon, I suffered with a painful condition called CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) and autonomic dysfunction, which are both neurological nerve disorders. It is basically like having your hands crushed and twisted and then set on fire all at once constantly so, as you can imagine, grooming is a challenge! I want to share with my fellow groomers how to cope with a painful condition and still stay grooming! Although my condition is rare, I see many stylists in pain, and unable to alleviate the situation themselves. Firstly, pace yourself ! You really need to pace your grooming life from day one and if you’re not, then start now! I am a workaholic, I go to work early and work all the way through – with no breaks and then leave late. However, this has done me no favours. If there’s one thing to take away from the article it is to pace your grooms - slow down and don’t do big dogs that you cannot physically do or know will cause your body pain and discomfort. I now only do small breeds and work part-time but remain in business. In fact, I earn almost the same amount!

Do not be scared of turning away difficult dogs. Drink lots of clear fluid, eat healthy meals and keep active outside of grooming. Your body needs water and dehydrated bodies are sluggish. If you suffer from inflammation you should look into a diet which reduces joint inflammation. I have always been active outside of grooming but even if 30 | Total Grooming Magazine

Jenny Farrell manages her schedule with care to minimise pain and anxiety

Tom Claes on Unsplash

you feel lazy you should always try to exercise daily - walk and do some stretch exercises to help loosen your ligaments before starting your day. There are videos online of scissoring exercises which reduce the amount or repetitive strain injuries in a hair stylist. If you know you have an issue such as carpel tunnel, wear a support or splint but make sure you wear the right size, in the right area and wear it for the right amount of time. Over splinting can cause weakening of the joints and wearing a splint in the wrong area can cause more damage than good. For my condition splinting is a big no as it causes pressure on the nerves but for carpel tunnel it’s excellent, so make sure 32 | Total Grooming Magazine

you know why you are in pain! Hot and cold compresses may help depending on the type of condition, injury or aches you have. You can use a hot and or cold compress for many. For my condition you never use anything cold, always heat even if it’s 90 degrees outside always heat, but for over used wrist or sprained finger for example, ice is really soothing and can reduce swelling surprisingly fast. Make sure your salon is warm in winter which is really important to maintain your health in general and a lot of UK salons are cold and damp in the winter. Make sure your salon is mould free. I have visited many salons with black mould. Black mould is a

huge health hazard so make sure your salon is damp proof and mould free. Do not work in a salon with black mould. Try to stand when grooming, sitting down prevents your blood circulating properly so if you do sit down to groom try to get up and walk around between grooms to maintain blood circulation. Mental health is a factor, remain calm, collective and stress free as stress is a huge contribution to physical health and grooming is a very stressful environment at times. Remember, no health no groomer, so love yourself and enjoy your grooming career!

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Remember to give your dog quality time when you are with him without constant phone distractions

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o how will your dog cope with this change? Greta Inglis, dog behaviour consultant for Wamiz, the online pet care experts, explains how to ease the transition for your dog as restrictions gradually ease, and the best ways to help your dog integrate into your updated lifestyle without having to resort to rehoming.

How can you prepare your dog for a busier lifestyle? Preparing your dog for a busier lifestyle is important, particularly if they have become used to spending the 34 | Total Grooming Magazine

majority of their time in your company. Teaching your dog to settle calmly on their bed can help prepare them for time home alone. Reinforce time spent on their bed or in their den area, rewarding relaxation regularly – and combine this with physical and mental stimulation for a well-balanced and happy dog. Helping your dog feel safe on their own takes time and practice. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats and search games can help keep your dog feeling mentally stimulated in your absence. Physical stimulation is equally as important if they are going to spend

more time alone. This will vary depending on your dog’s breed – if your dog loves other dogs, make sure they get out meeting dogs on walks; if they love to explore, let them sniff. This will go a long way in helping them relax in your absence.

Which breeds of dog are more suited to time alone? Some dog breeds need more social interaction than others. These dogs breeds are known for being more independent and low-maintenance in terms of their need for company: • Akita

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Total Grooming Magazine | 35

• Chow Chow • Afghan Hound • Shar Pei • Greyhound • Basset Hound Although these breeds are known for their independence, this doesn’t necessarily mean they will be happy being left alone a great deal. All dogs need company, interaction and activities.

Which breeds require more attention? Some dog breeds are notoriously human-oriented, thriving on constant company and attention from their people, such as: • French Bulldog • Border Collie • Golden Retriever • German Shepherd • Italian Greyhound • Hungarian Vizsla

What are the less obvious signs of separation anxiety to look out for? Dogs are very perceptive and sensitive to changes in their environment, and there may be triggers that signal your departure you’re not even aware of. Pacing and panting can both be signs of stress, in addition to lip licking and yawning. The most common signs are barking, whining and, in some cases, urination or defecation. Looking out for these more subtle signals could help you support your dog during the adjustment period, before these more noticeable behaviours manifest and the problem is harder to address.

How can separation anxiety be avoided? Positive reinforcement training is the best way to avoid separation anxiety. Starting as soon as your dog joins your household can help to set them up for success. It can be really useful to video your dog and check how they respond – if your dog reacts when you leave, either through stress signals such as pacing, panting, or more intensely through vocalisation, this means you have moved 36 | Total Grooming Magazine

too quickly. Go back a step to a point your dog was comfortable and then slowly increase the time you leave them alone.

How to help train your dog to re-adapt to your busier lifestyle Behaviour modification programmes which look at building up the amount of time your dog is left alone, can really help your dog settle into a busier lifestyle. Following the steps below can help to address any triggers that signal your departure and cause stress: • Start with absences of only a couple of seconds, if your dog is very anxious, it may only involve steps towards the door so be sure to return and comfort them. • Increase the distance between you and your dog, and the timeframe they are alone, taking a step back if they show signs of stress. Tip - You can help your dog get used to the feeling of being alone by leaving the TV or radio on or by using food puzzles and enrichment. • Try to change your dog’s reaction to actions that signal you are leaving. An example of this is picking up your keys. Sit calmly with your dog and touch your keys. As soon as they make a low-level noise, treat your dog with something tasty and go about your business. • Gradually build on the noise and interaction with the item, building positive associations through food rewards and then carrying on as usual. This helps show your dog nothing bad comes of the trigger and will help when you do need to leave them alone.

If you have home cameras with a microphone, should you avoid reassuring your dog? If you have a home camera with a microphone, it may be tempting to speak to your dog. Whilst this in itself isn’t bad, and depending on the dog, could go some way in alleviating their stress, it is worth bearing in mind that the sound from an unidentifiable source

could cause confusion to your dog. Additionally, if your dog becomes too used to this, and you won’t be able to consistently offer reassurance, this could cause further anxiety in the long run. Where possible work on training your dog to feel comfortable home alone by themselves. Jessica Rodriguez Jimenez, Founder at Rescue Centre TeluMa’s Dream, shares her comments and expertise for anyone who is considering rehoming their dog: “90% of issues can be sorted out if there is the will to do it. Of course if someone can’t take care of their dog, then rehoming a dog is probably the best solution. If the decision is taken to rehome the dog, the current owner should make the effort and allow the dog to stay with them at least until a new home is found and avoid the dog being put into a kennel and experiencing this dramatic change of environment. “Dogs do have to get used to being left alone. Start with establishing that they aren’t allowed to follow you everywhere in the house (close the door and open it after 2 to 5 minutes). Go out and leave your dog alone at home, repeating this at different times during the day and for different time spans. Starting with little steps allows you to build up this understanding. Owners will need to assess if the busier lifestyle means they can’t give their dog the proper care and stimulation they need, even with the help of a dog walker, then it’s unfair on the dog. If the dog ends up spending more time with someone else than with its owner then that’s unfair too.” Remember to put your dog’s needs first.

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Forthglade’s Big 50!

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orthglade, the Devon based makers of natural pet food has reached a landmark birthday and celebrates 50 years of making delicious dinners for dogs. Since 1971 the focus has remained on high quality ingredients and gentle cooking methods, and over the last five decades the Devonian dog lovers have expanded their range to include wet food, dry cold pressed recipes and tasty treats. Forthglade is celebrating its big birthday in a range of ways, including unveiling a limited edition birthday meal and launching a new charity initiative ‘50 for 50’.

Limited edition birthday recipe Forthglade’s special Sardines &

Haddock birthday meal, with potato & broccoli is packed with 75% fish. It is packed with vitamins, minerals and botanicals such as camomile, parsley, rosemary, and nettle. The new recipe offers a great source of protein, nutrients, and natural oils and is free from junk or fillers - it contains all the goodness a dog needs to stay happy and healthy. The complete meals are free from junk or fillers and contain all the goodness a dog needs to stay happy and healthy. It’s also grain free, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies. As with all Forthglade wet meals, this variety is made at Forthglade’s Devon factory using a gentle steaming process; combining its quality ingredients and fish landed in Devon. This method makes sure that all the goodness and flavour from each ingredient is retained for a healthy balanced diet. The Sardines & Haddock meal is suitable for dogs aged over a year old and is available in convenient 395g trays (RRP £1.45) or as a case of 7 trays (RRP £10.15). It is available in all leading supermarkets, good pet shops, online retailers and at forthglade.com.

Forthglade’s 50 for 50’ As part of Forthglade’s 50th birthday celebrations, a new campaign 50 for 50 has been launched, a charity initiative to donate a total of 50, 000 trays of wet food to 50 UK charities 38 | Total Grooming Magazine

that support four-legged friends in need. “What better way to celebrate our birthday than recognising all the great work achieved by the dedicated charities across the UK offering care to dogs in need, particularly following such an exceptionally tough year for charities” said Gerard Lovell, Joint MD, Forthglade. Ten charities will be selected each month for five months to receive donations. Visit Forthglade. com/50for50 to cast your vote each month, for the charities that you would like to see gain extra support this summer with a Forthglade’s food donation. To find out more about Forthglade’s natural meals and treats visit forthglade. com

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The team at Bone Idol

Profile of Bone Idol “The industry needs to be prouder of itself ”, that is the message of Bone Idol co-founder Scott Learmouth.

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cott, together with husband Jon and business partner Ben set up Bone Idol, in St James’ Street Brighton in 2016, and despite a global pandemic the business has gone from strength to strength. So much so that Bone Idol has now launched the Bone Idol Training Academy a few streets away in Hove, a

40 | Total Grooming Magazine

state-of-the-art grooming school which offers the iPET Network qualifications. But PR and marketing veteran Scott, who quit the London rat race to start Bone Idol in part for his and Jon’s own dogs Krystle and Doris, believes that the grooming industry he loves should be prouder of itself, and shout more about its skills and successes.

He said: “We started Bone Idol because when we moved to this area we couldn’t find a dog groomer that we wanted to use. “We met Ben who at that time was an amazing mobile groomer, and around the kitchen table came up with the Bone Idol concept. “Since that time we have become

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aware that the grooming industry is changing in a way that is really exciting and relevant. Programmes like Pooch Perfect have given our trade prime time coverage, and opened up healthy debates. “There is a move in society at large towards the artisanal, and people want to go to their local butcher, baker or deli more than a chain store. “The rise of the local independent movement has been the perfect place for Bone Idol, and the grooming industry in general to grow, and I think we should all be prouder of our trade.” He added: “At Bone Idol we launched our own brand of cold-pressed dog food Nora Nose Best, and select products for our grooming parlour shop which shine in the space they have been given. This includes a ‘doggy deli’, and Dogs and Horses collars and leads, as well as working with local independent designers to make products which support Brighton’s crafters and makers. “This includes charging what something is worth. A lot of skill, training and experience goes into the work that is created in salons around the country, people appreciate and respect that, our prices should reflect that too.” Scott believes that dog grooming is ‘coming of age’ but that this should not be a scary moment for long-standing groomers with years of skills and experience. He said: “The answer is that the industry is maturing and we are seeing differences in the services we all offer. “An Asian fusion cut, or a highly skilled breed standard, should be charged as such when compared to the equivalent of a “short back and sides”. “Both are equally valid and important for dog welfare, but we collectively need to educate the public that this is a big and diverse market and always comparing simple prices by breed is not the answer. “We need to support the evolution of our industry and collectively charge for our skills and the time it takes to complete complex grooms.” He added: “There is definitely more of a prerequisite for qualifications, and 42 | Total Grooming Magazine

Scott Learmouth

Ben Thorpe hand scissoring a poodle

as a business we are proud of that, and we are proud to be part of The Groomers Spotlight, which will only recommend qualified dog groomers. “But we recognise that this industry has some great long-standing talents who are as yet unqualified, and that is why we are proud to offer the iPET Network fast track course, which takes

into account existing skills and allows these people to enhance their business offer. “We should all be working together to elevate each other, it’s a wonderful industry.” To find out more about Bone Idol go to www.boneidol.co.uk

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The Truth About Cats and Dogs

It doesn’t have to be a ‘dog eat cat’ world - dogs and cats can and often do live together peacefully, although creating a harmonious family can take some effort, planning and careful guidance. It does depend on a lot of variants including the breed and age of the dog and its past life. In some cases, the dog and cat may even become good friends, although tolerance on both sides is more often the general outcome.

Some cats and dogs become best friends

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hen introducing a new dog into the household, it is important to remember that dogs can kill cats easily, even if they are only playing. Some dogs have a high prey drive – especially breeds like Lurchers, Bull Terriers and German Shepherds so be very cautious.

44 | Total Grooming Magazine

Even placid dogs need to be monitored until acceptance has been achieved – on both sides. Forethought and careful planning is necessary before bringing a dog into a home with existing cats. Be sure to do the following: • Create a safe place for your cat/s

where the new dog can’t get to it. Using a baby gate or cat door is one solution. • Keep the cat’s food and water dishes in a safe area too, so that the cat continues to feed in safety. Also, cat food is too rich for dogs and dog food lacks vital nutrients for felines so

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the two shouldn’t be mixed. • Check your dog understands basic commands, such as ‘sit,’ ‘stay’ and ‘leave.’ This will be helpful with introductions.

The Introduction: Before the introduction, exercise your dog and feed him, this will help to relax him. Put the cat in a safe place and let the dog explore the house for half an hour or so. This will allow him to take in the

‘feline smell.’ Then take the dog out and let the cat meet the ‘canine smell.’ Pet behaviourist, Rosie Bescoby of Pet Sense, says: “A prime objective is to avoid causing the cat to hiss, bat the dog or run away - this means the cat is already stressed and finds the dog scary. We want the cat to remain calm and relaxed and we should not proceed unless they are. “If there is any tension, we would remove the dog immediately and make sure the next session is made much

easier and set them up for success. It may be that the scent transfer stage itself takes days or weeks so I really want to emphasise how slow this whole process needs to be.” Next stage: Put your dog on a short leash and be ready with lots of treats to reward good behaviour. Let the cat and dog check each other out at a distance. Pet and talk to your dog soothingly. Give your cat and dog some treats and praise. Repeat these short visits several

My personal experience of introducing a rescue dog into a multi-cat household Introducing a large Newfoundland cross Labrador who is also a rescue dog with no cat credentials is quite challenging. It is also testament to the adaptability of pets that they accepted each other after a relatively short while. I am also lucky enough to have seen a true affectionate bond established between our dog and one of our cats. Our first dog was introduced to cats as a puppy and was born into a cat household and therefore raised with cats. This was the ideal scenario and led to a problem-free co-existence. However, we took the major step of introducing a new, large, adult, rescue dog (Labrador x Newfoundland) into our multi-pet household (we have three rescue cats) with some initially alarming results. Despite the regulatory shelter ‘cat check’ which just monitored his response to a cat emerging quickly from a cat basket and taking off fast in the other direction, Spartacus (the dog in question), was desperately interested in our cats when he first came home. He does not have an aggressive nature, but did want to chase them. Our three cats were initially very intimidated by his size and when he went anywhere near them fur flew in all directions. We enlisted the support of a pet behaviourist, but actually she was more of a dog trainer and her suggestion of

46 | Total Grooming Magazine

holding the cats while Spartacus inspected them didn’t go down well with me because I felt that it would be unfair to the cats and would be viewed as a breach of trust. So, instead, I would crate him in the kitchen, while the cats ate in the same area. I also kept him on his lead when we were all together in the living room. Outside was a little more tricky, but actually, our female cat who is a bit of a ‘tart’ would follow him around at the time of his last toileting visit out of doors and gradually over time they became used to each other. What I wasn’t expecting was for true love to be established between Spartacus and Beano, our large black and white male cat. They cuddle up together on the sofa and more surprising than this is that Beano presents himself to Spartacus to be washed, meowing and nuzzling Sparty’s cheeks until he complies. Once Spartacus begins, he will wash the demanding feline for several minutes until one of them decides they have had enough. Beano always initiates this action and loves the resulting rough washing,

purring throughout the entire procedure. I asked pet behaviourist, Rosie Bescoby of Pet Sense, what this means. She said: “In cats, grooming each other is a form of bonding and scent transfer which they bestow upon members of their community. “Dogs lick things instinctually and your house cat just happens to be the current target of your canine’s tongue. Licking is almost always a positive thing so do not stress when your dog licks your cat. “Licking or grooming can also be a form of submission. A dog will lick other members of its pack that it views as being superior, so Spartacus may feel he should do Beano’s bidding.”

times a day gradually giving your dog more leash as appropriate. Getting the cat used to the presence of your dog is important and using a crate for the dog for short periods only (if he is happy with this), may help and make the cat feel they have the upper hand. Perhaps feeding the cat outside the crated dog to encourage it to get used to him. “It is fine to use a crate as long as the dog remains relaxed in the crate watching the cat move past and it is fine to feed the cat in the presence of the dog as long as both are relaxed. We want to avoid using any corrections at all - we want the dog to associate the

cat with being calm and relaxed, not aroused and then corrected,” Rosie commented. Once your dog and cat get along during leashed visits and are calm in each other’s presence, you are ready for the next step. Let go of the leash but be ready to grab it or step on it if he attempts to go after the cat. Keep the lessons regular and only when everything is going smoothly should you take your dog off the leash and supervise the two closely. If introductions don’t go smoothly, seek professional help. Conflicts between pets in the same family can often be resolved with professional

help but make sure you use a pet behaviourist who specialises in dogs and cats. Rosie says: “Even dogs who have previously lived happily with a different cat can react very differently to a new cat, and the same can be said for cats who have previously been best friends with a dog. Regardless of your cat/dog’s previous experience with the other and irrespective of their personality, ALWAYS err on the side of caution and introduce them slowly and carefully. A messy introduction is hard to rectify.”

Julie Hill from Shrewsbury in Shropshire has introduced a new dog into a cat household on a couple of occasions. This was her most recent experience:

“W

e have three cats. Leo was 8, Dizzy and Storm were 7 years old when we introduced German Spitz Klein puppy Mischief to them. “Initially we kept her on a lead, and as she was accustomed to and happy with a crate, sometimes she was in her crate when the cats were around. This was particularly useful for our mealtimes, as it meant we could relax and eat, rather than having to keep one eye on canine-feline interactions. “We are lucky that all three cats came from homes which included dogs, and they were introduced as kittens to our Labrador and Bichon Frise. They were used to dogs, but not to puppies and Mischief was very small and very fast, so she was quite an adjustment for them. “We praised them all when they interacted pleasantly, and our cats are very nice and calm.

48 | Total Grooming Magazine

I’m always worried that they might inadvertently scratch a dog’s eye though, so we took time and care to introduce them and supervise them. Initially the cats were wary of Mischief, and kept their distance, but she is a very sociable and determined little dog, so gradually, they all became friends. Within weeks all four would be sharing the sofa, stretched out, snoozing happily. “I always get the feeling that none of them see themselves as “cat” or “dog”, but just as one of the gang.”

Dog First Aid Training Courses and Equipment Animal Aiders Animal Aiders provides high quality and affordable dog first aid courses all over England, ideal for dog professionals, including groomers. T: 01284 811192 or 07758 739332 E: info@animalaiders.co.uk W: www.animalaiders.co.uk

Food Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming Clothing

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Shampoo

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dried within hours for SmartBarf convenient everyday use SmartBarf vegetable and herb which is very important when mix fora busy dogs on a raw fed or home running and successful business. prepared diet provides valuable extra vitamins and minerals for a remember... more complete meal. ‘First impressions count’ E: info@SmartBarf.co.uk more information please contact us on W:Forwww.SmartBarf.co.uk 01787 267900 email us on sales@jimjump.co.uk FB:or visit www.facebook.com/SmartBarf www.jimjump.co.uk

Grooming Supplies Clipit Grooming Clipit Grooming offers an exclusive range of hair protective clothing to include The Clipit Suit. We also develop innovative time saving clipping and grooming accessories. T:07508 188437 E: paula@clipit-grooming.com W: www.clipit-grooming.com FB: facebook.com/clipitgrooming IG: instagram.com/clipitgroom T: twitter.com/clipitG Mutneys Made by groomers, for groomers, Mutneys Professional Pet Care have been manufacturing and supplying professional dog grooming shampoo, fragrances and equipment for 20 years. Our range has been developed within working salons and is produced here in the UK at our Shropshire premises. If you would like to know more, why not speak to a knowledgeable member of the team? T: 08454 68 64 67 or 07968 861 593 E: sales@mutneys.com W: www.mutneys.com

Trade Association For Pet Care Specialists The British Dog Groomers’ Association is a trade association offers dog groomers a range of practical and financial benefits, including insurance, a legal helpline and qualifications. It is part of the Pet Industry Federation family and provides access to invaluable support mechanisms to give dog groomers the skills and confidence to cope with the challenges of running a business. T: 01234 273933 E: info@petfederation.co.uk W: www.petfederation.co.uk

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To advertise here please email mike@tgmpublishing.co.uk or call 01795 509110 Total Grooming Magazine | 49

Going Mobile…

Winner

Grooming Van of the Year

The Portable Palace Created from our Revolutionary insulated panel, the Palace provides groomers with unrivalled benefits never seen before in the industry! This amazing new concept was born due to our lining's incredible lifespan - they often out live the vans they were placed in - so we created a demountable pod where your business can be moved on to the next chassis easily when needed - or if you no longer wish to be mobile, you can demount the pod and work from your garden!

• • • • • • • •

As the chassis ages, the Palace can be removed and placed onto a brand new chassis - resulting in a much cheaper cost than having to buy a whole new van and conversion with next to no downtime If the chassis is involved in an accident or breaks down you can simply remove the body, place it on the ground and work from your driveway whilst you wait for it to be repaired. The lining will not out live the vehicle like so often seen with used van conversions. You then have to sell the van & conversion and then buy a new van and conversion and wait whilst it is converted. Whereas with the Palace, you can keep the pod forever and change the chassis as you need to. Once you choose to retire from mobile grooming you can remove the Palace, sell the chassis and work from the Palace in your garden instead of having to buy a parlour or convert a room in your house. When you choose to move home, you can take the pod with you and this portability combined with the size means they will not normally require planning permission in your garden. You never need to buy a Brand new chassis that can depreciate - simply buy used a chassis and then swap them out as they get too old. Smaller than its LWB Van equivalent but provides a more workable space inside that is highly customisable as there are no van strutts or vehicle constraints Can be driven on a normal car driving license Say goodbye to having to buy a whole new van and conversion every few years - simply move your Palace from one chassis to another with zero down time and when the time comes and you no longer want to be mobile, simply

Wet Pet Conversions

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Going Mobile…

Winner

Grooming Van of the Year

Discover your dream work place today

G;Rooms

Our fantastic portable grooming Pods allow you to groom from the comfort of your own garden in a fully waterproof, insulated & professional environment. They are completely self contained - for electric you simply plug the cable provided into your house, for water in you simply attach your garden hose and this is piped straight to your Hydrobath. Waste water is held inside the bath and piped out to a location of your choice. The Pods do not normally ever require planning permission and they can be delivered to even the hardest to reach locations. And if you move house? our Pods move with you! Each pod is fully portable and can be moved an unlimited amount of times. Choose from an unlimited amount of interior & exterior options with fully customisable packages to perfectly suit your budget and design with ever Pod and conversion available on finance from as little as £20+vat per wk!

Trailers

Made from our Revolutionary insulated panel, our VCA Approved Grooming trailers provide the perfect solution if you would like to work from home and be mobile without the running costs associated with a van - with no tax or MOT required with trailers! You can leave the trailer on your drive way or hitch up with your vehicle when ever you need to. And when you have finished being mobile you can permanently demount the trailer from the axels and use it as a Garden Pod!

Vans

Our industry leading dog grooming vans provide unrivalled levels of luxury combined with practicality. Choose from new or used vans or supply your own, we work with you to create the perfect package for your business. Complete with a 10 year lining warranty our conversions outlive and out perform all in their class with a build quality that is second to none. Unlimited optional extras and packages are available including sign writing and free delivery back to you.

New vans Available fully converted from just £68+vat per wk! Portable Palace

Your parlour for life. Our new revolutionary demountable Palace offers benefits never seen before in the industry. Once your chassis reaches the end of its life or is involved in an accident, you simply demount your Palace and work from home or swap it onto a new chassis. If you no longer want to be mobile you can demount the pod and use it as a parlour in your Garden. The palace’s can be driven on a standard UK driving License and are often smaller than their van based equivalent whilst giving you more usable space. Available in a wide range of sizes with unlimited conversion configurations. Available on finance

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NATURALLY BETTER

Treat little stinkers kindly!

If you prefer your 'natural' shampoo pure, without chemical scents or artificial colour, give this one a go! Enriched with essential oils to super hydrate and deeply nourish the coat and skin, what's not to like?

simpsons-online.co.uk/showpride 01354 691 830

Showpride PURE Shampoo simpsons-online.co.uk/breeds 1 Litre £ 12 Ref: 4071–144 5 Litres £ 30 Ref: 4071–143