Groomer to Groomer July 2015

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CONTENTS | JULY 2015

SPLASH TECHNIQUE

TRANSFORMING THE

GROOMER/VET RELATIONSHIP

CREATIVE GROOMING’S NEXT BIG THING?

by Kathleen Sepulveda

22

by Michelle Knowles

PAGE 16

ALSO INSIDE “Can’t Promise Pretty”

6

Shake, Rattle & Roll

42

Wilkes: Electing Yourself Dog Catcher 10

Low Cost Advertising Ideas

44

Surviving The H3N2 Epidemic

Oquendo: Ergonomics

50

26

Connor: The 60 Minute Spaniel 32

Professional Groomers’ History Project 54

Omboy: Memoirs of a Hair Thief 36

Calendar of Events

Calculate Your Competition

Classifieds 68

38

66

EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR/PRESIDENT Todd Shelly todd@barkleigh.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Gwen Shelly gwen@barkleigh.com CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Adam Lohr adam@barkleigh.com

BIKINI TRIM

by Kathy Rose

60

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 34 ED. 7 • JULY 2015

MANAGING EDITOR Rebecca Shipman rebecca@barkleigh.com

WEB DESIGNERS Lance Williams lance@barkleigh.com

ART DIRECTOR

Luke Dumberth luke@barkleigh.com

Lucas Colton lucas@barkleigh.com

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING James Severs james@barkleigh.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Laura Pennington laura@barkleigh.com

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

SURVIVING THE H3N2 EPIDEMIC

SPLASH TECHNIQUE CREATIVE GROOMING’S

NEXT BIG THING?

BREAD & BUTTER

GROOMING:

COLUMNISTS

Missi Salzberg

Dawn Omboy

Kathy Rose

Teri DiMarino

Gary Wilkes

Bonnie Wonders

Kathy Hosler

Mary Oquendo

Daryl Conner

BIKINI TRIM

PHOTO BY JENNIFER O’DELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ON THE COVER: Photo by Jennifer O’Dell Photography

Copyright July 2015. Groomer to Groomer is published monthly by Barkleigh Productions, Inc, 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Postmaster: Send change of address to Groomer to Groomer c/o Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Annual U.S. subscription rate $25. Outside U.S. $79. year, surface rates. Groomer to Groomer is free to current Barkleigh Productions, Inc. customers. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Editorial offices: 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. (717) 691–3388 FAX: (717) 691–3381 Email: info@barkleigh.com

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

5

CAN’T “ PROMISE PRETTY” E by Ellen Ehrlich e

M

ary Oquendo coined this phrase back in the early days of petgroomer.com.

It stuck in my mind, because in the grooming profession, you can’t always promise pretty.

In a perfect world, puppies, kittens, dogs, and cats, would stand on our grooming tables like statues. They would offer their nails for a pedicure, their ears for cleaning, and their faces to wash. They would jump in the tub, turn when asked, and roll over for tummy trims. No one would ever have a tangle or “smile” at the groomer. Every pet would have an impeccable coat.

Wouldn’t you love to live in this world?

Let’s face it. Although we have furry clients that are terrific for grooming, there are obstacles every pet stylist has to overcome to obtain

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

the perfect compromise between comfort and style. Since we’re working with living creatures, the groomer has to consider age, coat condition/matting, health issues, once or twice a year pets, behavior, and temperament.

We can’t take it personally. Not all pets love grooming. Even my poodle Jesse, who is an angel for grooming, looks glum when I ask him to get in the van and jump on my grooming table.

What’s important to know is when we groom pets, there are certain limitations on what we can and can’t do.

Jesse is an older gentleman, going on fourteen. Standing on the grooming table for a couple of hours was not an issue when he was a younger dude. Now that he’s a senior with a touch of arthritis, he gets tired and has a hard time standing. It’s

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difficult to lift his leg, even for a nail trim. This is something to take into consideration. It’s easy to read Jesse’s signals, so I’ve made adjustments in his style to keep him comfortable during the grooming process.

We are all familiar with the client who brings in a photo of a pet from a calendar or greeting card and asks you for the same trim on Fluffy. The problem is their dog hasn’t visited the groomer in six months. The owner means well by bathing the dog. They try to brush the hair but are unsuccessful. Underneath the fluffy topcoat is matted hair. The best the groomer can do is clip the dog short to start over and explain how important it is to bring the dog in for regular grooming appointments. Offer the pet owner tips on self-care so the trim he/she

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I’ve been grooming Roxy, the Maltese, for seven years. Due to a back injury that continues to worsen, she is now bathed, dried, and groomed lying down. Groomers need to do what is in the pet’s best interest, whatever the situation might be. Sometimes the simplest trim is the best solution.

What about puppies? They can be a challenge. Sometimes good as gold, other times a whirling dervish. You never know what you are going to get when you see a puppy appointment in your schedule. When you are grooming puppies it is be best to be flexible in your expectations. Explain this to the pet owner. It’s all about the puppy having a good time for his/her grooming experience even if you just accomplish feet, face, and fanny.

Many groomers, including myself,

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

have been in the situation where grooming the dog from the neck down is a cinch. The problem lies in trimming the face. Grooming is a dangerous profession. Our shears are razor sharp; our clippers are powerful. You take your life in your hands when you place your scissors or trimmers next to the corner of the dog’s eye. We work on moving targets and no one wants to have an accident. If grooming tasks cannot be accomplished safely, put the scissors and clippers down and just say, “No.” I have learned in the last ten years of my mobile business that I cannot groom every dog or cat that stands on my table. Some pets are a better fit for another groomer. Some need to be seen by a mobile, house call, or vet groomer. Some dogs and cats need to be sedated for grooming. There are

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many variables to take into consideration when grooming pets. The safest effort is always the best outcome.

Communication is key. This is the best time to develop a teamwork grooming approach with Mom and Dad. Discuss the options, and explain what tasks you can and can’t do. Focus on what you can promise: a clean, cute, and happy pet. ✂ Ellen Ehrlich is a mobile pet stylist who loves to think, talk, read, and write about pet grooming. Next to grooming, Ellen loves to empower, motivate, and inspire other groomers to be the best they can be. She is the author of The Successful Pet Groomer, Go Mobile And Succeed, and 49 Essays On Pet Grooming.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 6 • June 2015

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 5 • May 2015

61

BEHAVIOR CLIPS

by Gary Wilkes

ELECTING YOURSELF

‘DOG CATCHER’

T

here is an old insult that states that so-and-so is so unpopular that ‘he couldn’t get elected dog catcher’. The insult is especially nasty because dog catchers are rarely the most popular people in a community and the job itself is generally undesirable. After about five years working in shelters I got hired to do what most people wouldn’t. Being a dog catcher gave me three intense years of learning how free-range dogs behave – something my shelter years hadn’t taught me.

By the time I was done I was a much better handler, all around. Over

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

the years I’ve used my skills many times to get a stray off the streets, including dogs hit by cars or in the process of becoming what dog catchers call DOA – dead on asphalt. As someone who used to pick up DOA dogs for a living, I rarely turn away from an animal on the streets. When I do it, I do it with the same level of commitment I had when it was my job.

NOT EXACTLY A ‘NEED-TO-KNOW’ SKILL Street handling isn’t something you truly need to know as a groomer.

You rarely have to get a dog off the

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street because their owners bring them to you. However, there are two good reasons why you should at least know a thing or two about life outside the salon; your clients look to you for advice on a broad range of dog topics and as a dog lover you may decide to help a lost, frantic dog someday. In that spirit, here are some street-smarts that I learned the hard way. They may help you or someone you know save a life and live to tell the tale.

ONLY THE SMART SURVIVE The most important thing about safely catching a stray dog is focusing

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

11

on traffic. You are likely driving a car when you see a loose dog. As you move rapidly down the road your mind is firing on all cylinders in two different directions. Your heart says slam on the brakes. Your mind imagines the potential hazards of what you are about to do. Do you drive past or safely (emphasis on safely) navigate to help the dog?

The pressure is mounting. It’s now or never. OK, you decide to go ‘all in’.

Here are some tips to get you through the process after you make that critical decision.

BEING A SELF-ELECTED DOG CATCHER Take a deep breath, check all your mirrors, look at the oncoming traffic and turn on your blinker. Safely find a place to park where you can see the dog. On rare occasions it is safe to simply pull over and pop open the passenger door and invite the dog into your car.

CAUTION: I did that with a Corgi once in traffic and once in, he tried to bite my legs. He almost hit the gas pedal. I had my target leg on the brake

– hard. Don’t forget you have an emergency brake. About two months ago I did this with an older female poodle in very bad need of good grooming. She was a dream to rescue. Not many are like that. This is a dangerous undertaking – don’t forget that. You can be killed or severely injured if you don’t pay attention.

Make sure you have some way to control the dog if you get close enough.

I have a nylon slip-lead in the glove box of all my cars. I can use this as a quick muzzle if the dog is injured, create a loop and possibly lasso the dog or slip it on once I’ve made contact. (Once a dog catcher, always a dog catcher.) A long shoe-lace makes a great muzzle, costs little and can stay in your car’s console for years. I have used shoelaces for that purpose several times over the years.

Try to position yourself between the dog and the most obvious danger.

For instance, if you are on a side-street and you know there is a thoroughfare two blocks north, don’t start following the dog from the south. Get north of the dog and work south.

Many strays are disoriented and unlikely to just walk up to you so don’t move fast toward the dog. Sometimes the best strategy is to be on the other side of the street and appearing completely unconcerned about the dog’s presence. If you need to get in front of the dog to turn it away from a big street, this is a great way to not alarm the stray.

Call to the dog in a happy tone of voice while studiously avoiding eye-contact. Turning sideways makes you less of a threat, as does sitting down. Emily Johnson, a dog catcher of my acquaintance, always carried a stainless steel doggie bowl with her.

She would sit on the curb and pretend to be eating out of the bowl. It often worked. Most strays aren’t interested in food but the sight of a person with a dog bowl may cause them to seek out something familiar.

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At any point in the rescue the dog may try to bite you. Have your groomer-sense on full alert. No eye-contact.

Do not grab the dog at the withers or a hind leg. This is where your years of handling dogs in a salon may backfire.

This dog may never have been handled in its life and the things an oftengroomed dog may love could trigger a bite. Also, no bending over the top of the dog. Work from the ground if you can. Do not bend over and extend your hand or fingers toward the dog’s mouth. Letting the dog come to you is a better idea.

If you have a slip-lead, keep it out of sight. The dog may have experience with real dog catchers. If you are wearing a hat or dark classes, take them off.

Dark glasses look like big, staring eyes.

It may cause the dog to bolt.

Pat your leg a few times. Many

dogs know that as a signal for ‘come’ – far more than actually know the word ‘come’. Puppy talk is good but don’t get too enthusiastic. If the dog comes up to you, try saying “sit” in a normal tone of voice. It may work, it may not.

If it does, try to gently touch the dog’s chest with your hand holding the sliplead. Try to gently rub the dog’s ears and sneakily slip the loop of the lead over the dog’s head. Let gravity make it snug, then hold tight to the end of it with your fist. If you startle the dog at this point, it’s gone. (If the dog has a collar and you have a leash, do not try to use the clasp end to connect to the collar. Feed the clasp through the hand loop and make it into a slip lead.)

Not all dogs know how to walk on a lead. Be prepared for some bucking.

Walk the dog back to your car, open the door and then stop for a second.

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Invite the dog to get in. This works more times than not. Once inside you are on your own but a good idea is to try to keep the dog in the passenger foot-well. Be very careful that the dog doesn’t interfere with your driving.

A heavy blanket is a great tool for wrapping up injured animals and staying safe at the same time. A good rescue kit should have towels, blankets, slip leads and phone numbers of local animal control agencies – in case you end up watching the dog high-tail it into the distance instead of riding with you, in style.

Last but not least, stay safe. You have people who love you. Your dogs love you. They need you to come home safe and sound. Remember that you can push a dog into a dangerous situation. Be willing to walk away and call the real dog catchers. ✂

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 5 • May 2015

15

SPLASH TECHNIQUE E by Kathleen Sepulveda e

CREATIVE GROOMING’S NEXT BIG THING?

W

hen most of us think Creative, we think “Poodle” or “lots of fur.”

Allow me to introduce you to Fiona, a 3 year old Harlequin Great Dane who is making it big as a living work of Art. Her personal Artist is owner Summer S. Wilson, owner of So Cal Grooming.

I met Summer through a class I gave at her salon and loved what she and those attending had already produced with basic knowledge in creative grooming. I fell in love with her big Purple Poodle so much that I invited her to participate in a TV show being filmed at Art Of Fur Academy. Summer brought a bevy of beautiful dogs, and friends, and the show moved into the season finale!

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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During my class and during the TV filming, Summer noticed I was able to keep dye on the short coated legs of my Japanese Chin, Magnum. She loved the shading effect from yellow feet, orange middle to red top! Summer was intrigued as she had a lovely Harlequin Great Dane she had tried to color at a young age, but the color did not take.

She studied the application process and decided to give it a try.

What started as just a coloring of the legs has turned into one of the most exciting looks of the year for creative. Ask any colorist with an empty canvas and a bit of extra time, what happens. You keep going and filling your canvas! Fiona enjoyed the extra attention and stood the entire time unrestrained on the table. Once the legs were complete, Summer just kept going, adding colors alongside other colors that complimented each other.

Here is how she did it: • First she cleaned Fiona to remove anything coating the fur that could prevent color from being deposited.

• Start with the color and/or area that will take the longest to process.

This was the yellow on the foot.

• Apply with a medium stiffness Toothbrush and scrub color onto desired area.

• Start time once all color is applied, process time is 1 hour.

• Rinse with cool water, one area at a time, very quickly to prevent colors from bleeding into each other.

• Dry dog completely.

• Leopard spots were first added with black Chalk Crayon but these only last 24 hours.

• Bigen Blue Black was applied with a stiff paint brush for the Leopard spots. Set for 45 minutes, or when it turns dark black, and then add 10 PHOTOS BY JENNIFER O’DELL PHOTOGRAPHY

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I asked Summer when she realized she had created probably the hottest trend of the year? It settled in when Angela Kumpe came over to thank her for talking her client into coloring her Harlequin Great Dane. more minutes to set in. Rinse with cool water, one area at a time and very quickly.

• For a shimmery effect, apply glitter to your chalk pen immediately. This will also set the chalk pen.

Summer put a few photos up on her FaceBook page and the crowd went wild! I asked her to get professional photos ASAP and bring her, and friends, to Art Of Fur Academy booth at Pasadena Groom Expo. Good thing we had an end cap, as the crowd never ended! Fiona had Rock Star Paparazzi following her!

I asked Summer when she realized

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

she had created probably the hottest trend of the year? It settled in when Angela Kumpe came over to thank her for talking her client into coloring her Harlequin Great Dane. Angela had tried for years to talk her client into something but after seeing Fiona on Facebook, the client called Angela!

Then Angela asked to have her photo with Fiona. Well, Summer floated the rest of the weekend.

Fiona has inspired artist K. Forstner to create a “Splash” series of paintings, seen on etsy.com/shop/ KForstnerArt. She has also been approached by an animal talent agent

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for future engagements. Fiona then inspired Summer to approach the shelters most unadoptable dogs, who pass a temperament test, and “Splash” color them. This gets them in homes fast!

Now that Fiona is getting the same amount of grooming time as the Standard poodles (Danes are usually wash and wear), does it bother her?

Nope, Fiona is loving the limelight!

Check out her Instagram page @famousfiona.

Lastly, Summer wanted Fiona to show that you can simply take any area of grooming talent and make a difference in the life of a dog. ✂

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 6 • June 2015

21

TRANSFORMING THE

GROOMER / VET RELATIONSHIP E by Michelle Knowles e

I

t’s the same old story: Charlie the cocker comes in to your shop every week with sticky, stinky skin and you are handed a prescription shampoo meant to make him better. Except he never gets better. He always stays the very same. You have the knowledge and skills to help him but you feel like your hands are tied by the client’s unwillingness to go against the vets orders and the vet’s unwilling-

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

ness to try something different.

This has been going on for decades in pet salons all over the country. The definition of insanity is when you do the same thing over and over again expecting different results. Good skin care is the groomer’s domain. There are virtually no issues that cannot be improved by the practice of proper grooming and skin care. I dream of a better world where the pathways

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of communication between vets and groomers are paved with respect and knowledge instead of ridicule and mistrust.

Historically, vets and groomers have been on opposing sides of the skin care issue. Groomers may think that vets don’t know anything or are just out to make money. Veterinarians may think that groomers are ignorant and uneducated and are typically

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There is something beautiful that happens when both sides begin a communicative, professional relationship. Questions can be asked and answered by both sides and solutions to problems can be discussed. dismissed when it comes to dermatological care of pets. It is time to stop the madness. Groomers today are educated, savvy, career professionals that care very much about the pets in their care. Veterinarians are largely unaware of this fact. Here are some steps you can take to form a lucrative partnership with veterinarians in your area: ASSEMBLE A PORTFOLIO This means you should have before and after pictures of every groom you do as well as what products you used and what the issues that the pet had

when you were working on it. When working on a pet that requires therapeutic skin care, good documentation is the key to impressing a veterinarian.

BOTH PARTIES SHOULD BENEFIT If you want vets to refer cases and clients to you, you have to be willing to refer cases to them.

KNOW YOUR MEDICAL VOCABULARY A large portion of the miscommunication between vets and groomers is not being able to talk on the same level. Vets are medically trained professionals that use the medical terms for conditions and anatomy. This information is free for the taking if you are willing to do some research.

DO NOT DIAGNOSE Not only is it dangerous for the pet but it is illegal in most states. Vets go through years of college to have the knowledge needed to diagnose conditions and administer medications.

Teach them in a humble way that you will not play at being a vet and they should not play at being a groomer.

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FEED THEM Take them to lunch or pay for an hour of their time. It will be the best investment in your business that you can make. Vets love free food and they enjoy an ego boost. Approach them humbly and you will be rewarded with the beginnings of a great partnership.

This is your opportunity to ask them questions, show off your portfolio and let them get to know you in a professional manner.

Remember, it is always better to know your vet ahead of time in case there is an accident, for example: SITUATION A) You have a wiggly pet on the table and he licks the scissors. It is more likely that the vet you call for the repair already knows you and realizes that accidents do hap-

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EDUCATE YOURSELF Make sure you have the latest information on pet skin care from the most reliable sources you can find and stay current on the newest technology.

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pen and will be easier on you when it comes time to pay for services.

SITUATION B) You have a wiggly pet on the table and he licks the scissors. Now you call the vet who only knows you as the careless groomer that nicks dogs. This is more likely to be charged at full price as the vet has no relationship with you and no reason to give you a break.

There is something beautiful that happens when both sides begin a communicative, professional relationship.

Questions can be asked and answered by both sides and solutions to problems can be discussed. There is a place in the veterinary profession for true skin technicians. Skin cases (or derm cases as they are called) are very frustrating for vets who only have 3 days to 2 weeks training on the skin itself during their college years. Vets are just as frustrated with skin issues as groomers are with the ineffective treat-

ments that are routinely prescribed.

Topics such as nutrition, steroids, vaccinations and a long list of other treatments and maladies can be discussed without animosity when the vet is your friend. It is time for us groomers to garner the respect we deserve within the medical industry but in order to receive this respect, education has to be our top priority.

There is no benefit for either side to continue fighting against one another, because in the end, these relationships raise the value and respect of both professions. ✂ Michelle Knowles, Master Groomer and a certified Pet Medical Aesthetician, has apprenticed, volunteered, worked, owned and managed in salons, kennels, zoos, and veterinary hospitals across the country. A professional pet stylist with 25+ years of experience, Michelle is Spa Director of The Tender Paw Day Spa at

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Animal Health Services Surgical and Diagnostic Center in Cave Creek, AZ. She has an ISB certification in skin and coat care, extensive experience with fear and trauma recovery, elderly pets, and a focus on managing allergic/dermatological disorders. In 2011 Michelle became the first American instructor for the Iv San Bernard Pet Aesthetician certification program and is a valuable participant in developing the much anticipated ISB American Grooming School. Michelle is also the US product consultant for Iv San Bernard pet products.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 6 • June 2015

25

SURVIVING THE H3N2 EPIDEMIC A

E by Jennifer Bishop-Jenkins, ICMG e

t first it seemed just a tough bout of kennel cough, so we updated Bordetella vaccines. Yet every day we got worsening information. Was it the canine influenza (H3N8 virus)? The usual flu vaccines were the only treatment available. Symptoms were a distinctive cough, lethargy and inappetite.

Dog grooming businesses were in the national news, not in a good way.

This broke at maximum contagion time – Spring Break. Boarding kennels were packed full. The mysterious highly contagious airborne canine flu spread rapidly through the Chicago area.

A long-standing client came home from vacation to find her beloved Maltipoo, Rocky, hacking hoarsely. She

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

was told every one of the 200 dogs in the kennel caught it that week.

Then came the news that 5 shelter dogs had died at an emergency vet.

The official death toll was likely underreported. Most were stressed, unhealthy dogs in shelters, older or younger. Sick dogs were now front page news - on television stations every day. Soon headlines of “Outbreak in Chicago” were appearing nationally.

Chicago groomer Hollus Gessler of Wigglyville, who maintains a close relationship with veterinarians, began posting warnings earlier than most.

She said, “Customers did not seem to be too concerned until the news media reported on the growing problem.”

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Veterinary research facilities mobilized to study this virulent strain.

They isolated a new sub-strain of the H3N2 virus - never before seen in dogs. It was a mammalian mutation of the Avian Flu that had killed millions of birds in Asia after 2006.

Veterinarians emailed clients instructing them to keep their dogs at home and not to take them anywhere there would be other dogs - no kennels, no dog parks, no daycare, and NO trips to the groomer.

Veterinarian Hospitals required owners to keep their dogs outside in the car during checkups. Shelters temporarily closed their doors. Daycares shut down. Big box stores ceased boarding services. Images of staff

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27

disinfecting dog care facilities were broadcasted all over Chicagoland. The financial toll, and the toll on dogs, especially those needing shelter services, was devastating.

Established vaccines for H3N8 were not going to help with this virus.

And worse, dogs were found to be most infectious before showing symptoms, even if they never developed symptoms. There was no treatment – only isolation.

My shop’s appointments dropped by half within days because customers were worried to the point of frantic.

I started posting signs, making calls, screening clients, and intensive disinfection. Some groomers closed their doors. Unconfirmed reports circulated that a few grooming shops may have even closed permanently, unable to weather the financial collapse.

In late May, cases of the H3N2 were appearing in Indiana, Wisconsin, and as far away as Texas and Atlanta.

The virus has also been found in cats, guinea pigs, and ferrets. USA Today featured the problem on their front page, quoting scientists calling it an EPIDEMIC.

Dr. Robert Parrish of Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine was one veterinary researcher who has been studying the H3N2 virus to determine its origins and to identify ways to treat or prevent infection.

He said in April 2015, “There is no evidence the virus can infect humans”, while others wondered how far the mammalian mutation of the virus could go.

While extremely serious, the virus was usually not deadly to dogs.

Healthy dogs survived it, even becoming “inoculated” against relapse. Saliva, identified as the easiest way to transmit the virus, led us to pull up all the community water bowls and stopped allowing ANY physical contact or close proximity between dogs.

Life changed for us overnight, hitting commission-based groomers the hardest. It’s a cautionary tale for our entire profession.

As we watch now and worry how far this will spread, the good news is at least we now know what we are dealing with. Other cities will not go through the deadly period of uncertainty that Chicago did.

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I developed protocols that kept Love Fur Dogs completely free of the H3N2, and that I believe will help groomers everywhere: COMMUNICATION Plan on taking lots of extra time to communicate fully with each individual client. All staff should be prepared with talking points, especially answering phones. Be current, sound knowledgeable and “on top of it.” If you have mass email capacity, you should be out front of the media, to be the source of information so your clients don’t have to come to you frantic about what they “have heard.”

Give detailed descriptions of your screening, isolation, and disinfection protocols. Be clear how seriously you take the illness. I never questioned veterinary advice. Despite the financial cost, I dismissed no one’s fears; commending their decision to

postpone grooming.

ISOLATION We spread out our intake intervals and scheduled fewer dogs. We posted signs on our door and expanded our hours to have fewer dogs over a longer day. While I had never allowed customer dogs to wander freely in my shop, we ended ALL dog to dog proximity, even that passing sniff in the lobby. If two clients missed their scheduled time and happened to be coming in or checking out at the same time, we used body blocking and leashes to prevent any close encounters, moving dogs quickly in or out.

Our shop is fortunately spacious, so we spread out. Though 17 of my clients got sick at boarding kennels over Spring Break, none of them entered my shop until weeks later after being cleared by a vet.

DISINFECTION We always use a top professional disinfectant, its effectiveness against the H3N2 was uncertain. We switched to a bleach solution because, as one vet told me, “bleach kills everything.” It is also hard on skin, nasal passages, and equipment; and doesn’t mix well with urine, for those with daycare businesses.

We quadrupled our cleaning protocols. Hand sanitizers everywhere and used between every dog.

Smocks washed repeatedly. No comb, brush, tub, or table went unbleached as we went from dog to dog. Nothing touched a dog that wasn’t bleached before the next dog touched it. The most costly step I took was to install a UV light on our HVAC system which kills viruses, molds, fungus and bacteria in the air. Diligent disinfection will remain a permanent fixture in my shop.

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SCREENING Our wonderfully patient clients were thoroughly interviewed as each appointment was made - where have they been, at least 48 - 72 hours away from any other dog contact and vet cleared if they had any symptoms before we would allow them in. Only dogs who had been isolated in their homes were allowed to come in for grooming.

HOME GROOMING As a brick and mortar store without mobile capacity, we had to develop in-home grooming capability.

One mobile groomer called us offering to take our clients for a few weeks.

While we appreciated her truly helpful sentiment, we took it on ourselves.

We groomed on kitchen counters and in basement utility sinks. We carried smaller dryers along from the shop

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 6 • June 2015

29

and we sent groomers to the homes of some of our regular clients that had dogs most at risk, and who could not delay grooming. We tacked on a $20-$30 extra fee to partially cover the time that such grooms took. Our clients noted our extraordinary effort.

They saw in deeds, not words, how much we cared.

FINANCIAL PREPAREDNESS All of this effort and lost business was costly. Our income in April was down one third. We still felt the effects of it in May, even though our clients came back. We tightened our belts.

Our savings account alone saved us but we burned through our financial safety net. Every one of my wonderful employees suffered and made sacrifices personally and professionally.

Are you setting aside some of your income each month to help you

through a drop in business? Embrace this self-discipline - even a little bit at a time helps. We don’t know how bad the H3N2 will get nationally, but it could have a significant impact on our profession. This is an important time for us to help each other.

Whether it is the H3N2, or some other natural disaster, professional groomers have to be prepared at all times for some external force hitting us in ways we might never imagine.

I worked to live the mission of love in my shop’s name, putting the dogs’ well-being ahead of our own at all times. This meant letting go concerns about making money, and instead remembering why I became a groomer - because I love dogs and want to aid in their well-being. Dogs I know and love were sick. Nothing else mattered.

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2015 marks her 30th year as a Certified Master Groomer. Jennifer has bred and shown a wide diversity of dogs, as well as Himalayan cats. She is also a prominent activist for crime victims’ rights. A career educator and retired high school teacher, Jennifer’s accredited vocational training program for groomers combines her award-winning career in dogs with her award-winning teaching skills.

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31

GROOMING

MATTERS

by Daryl Conner

THE 60 MINUTE SPANIEL

T

he old expression “time is money” certainly applies to the job of pet styling.

Groomers walk a fine line, trying to groom pets in an efficient manner, without cutting corners or rushing in a way that can cause stress or accidents.

After more than three decades in this industry, I have learned to streamline the way I work so that I groom pets rather quickly. Since newer groomers often are looking for ways to increase their speed and efficiency, I thought I’d record a step by step groom on a random pet dog. Maybe you will get some ideas from my techniques that will work for you. In this case, the

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

dog was a 35 pound Brittany spaniel mix. Here is how the hour I spent with her went: 9:00 AM- Chloe and her owner arrive at my grooming studio. I have groomed his other dog previously, so I didn’t need to get any contact information from him. I greeted him, and his dog. I asked her name, petted her, and did a quick assessment of her coat and general condition. We discussed how he wanted her groomed. His instructions were, “We like the way she looks, but want her to be neater.” I asked if he wanted her trimmed up all over and he said, “Whatever you think is best.”

I love these sort of instructions!

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9:05- I lift Chloe into the bathtub, slip a safety loop over her head, and turn the water on. I have every tool that I need ready and in easy reach.

While the water was warming up and the tub filling, I cleaned her ears and trimmed her nails. Then I put two pumps of shampoo into the warm water, and turned on my recirculating bathing system. Bathing systems help groomers work faster because there is no need to pre-wet the dog.

Also, because the shampoo is perfectly diluted, rinse time is abbreviated.

Bonus points: bathing systems save on shampoo and water usage - a win for the wallet and the environment.

Warm, sudsy water moves through the coat, quickly removing dirt, dander and excess oil. This dog was not particularly dirty, and one bath got her very clean. For some pets I will drain the tub and give a second (or even third in extreme cases!) shampoo. Her skin and coat were healthy and normal and I didn’t feel that she needed a conditioning treatment, but I did refill the tub just enough to make the recirculating pump work and added a few ounces of Results Rinse. I pulsed this through her coat, let it sit one minute, and then rinsed well.

I towel dried the dog, squeezing as much excess moisture from her coat as I could. Total bath time? 7 minutes.

9:12- I have an absorbent bath mat and a fitted cover on my table top.

This not only makes for soft, comfortable footing for the pet, but it absorbs moisture as I dry and reduces the

sound that the air from the high velocity dryer makes when it hits hard surfaces such as table tops. I put a Happy Hoodie on the dog to help protect her ears and begin to absorb moisture from her head and neck. True confession time: I dislike the drying process.

I try to make it as swift as possible.

Wearing hearing protection myself, I turn the high velocity dryer on. Starting at the dogs lower, rear section, I begin to methodically dry, working up and forward. I use a condenser nozzle or a flat nozzle (depending on coat type) to push as much water out of the coat as possible. When the dog is nearly completely dry, I remove the nozzle and go over the coat to “fluff” it.

I remove the Happy Hoodie and lower the volume of air I am using (I have a variable speed dryer but if I didn’t I would use a stand or hand held dryer on the head). While protecting her

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ears with my hands, I dry her head, face and neck area. Total drying time on this dog was 13 minutes.

Next, I remove the padded top and cover from the table and get ready to groom the dog.

9:26- Over the years I have developed a set routine that I rarely waver from as I proceed to groom each dog.

This pattern helps ensure that I do not forget some part of the groom. Once the dog is dry, I do the following: Mist the coat lightly with the coat spray of my choice. This will help make brushing and dematting easier, reduce any static, as well as gives the coat a light conditioning treatment and added luster.

Brush the dog all over with a brush appropriate to its coat type. In this case I used a slicker brush.

Comb the dog from nose to toes, making sure every last bit of clumpy

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

33

undercoat and any tangles are removed. This dog had some spring undercoat, but most of it blew out as she was dried. She had a few thick spots that required a bit of extra attention, but overall was in excellent shape.

9:36- When these steps are complete, I am ready to begin clipping and scissoring. Again, I have a routine I follow: Using a trimmer, I tidied up eye corners if necessary, and if the ears on the dog I am working on will be trimmed with clippers I do that now.

This dog had very tight mats, about the size of a quarter, behind each ear.

I opted to use the trimmers to remove these at this time, as she had plenty of coat to hide the spots, and the mats were so tight they would have been tricky to deal with any other way.

Next I trimmed the undersides of her paws, double checking as I did this to make sure the nails were all trimmed, and that I didn’t miss a ran-

dom dew claw.

With the trimmer still in hand, I clipped the “sanitary” areas.

9:39- Once I have done everything I plan to with the trimmer, I put it away and get my clipper out. I use a vacuum system, so most pets are groomed using a #30 blade and a snap on comb. In this case I decided to use a #1 comb on the dog’s body. Vacuum systems allow groomers to work far more efficiently in a variety of ways.

In most cases, going over the pet just one time achieves a uniform appearance, so there is no need to back brush and re-clip the coat. Also, the vacuum system gives a plush, scissored look to most areas of the dog, so scissoring time is reduced in many pet cuts.

Another bonus is that clean up time is drastically reduced.

After going over the entire dog with the #1 comb, I put the clipper down, fluff the dog quickly with my comb, and scissor any “sticky outies”

that appear. I back brush the feet with my slicker brush and trim them with 6” curved scissors. I tidy up the edge of the tail with those scissors as well. Then I use chunkers or blenders to neaten up around the edges of the dog’s ears.

9:58- After one final combing to remove loose hair, I apply a spritz of cologne and add a whimsical bow to complete the “just groomed” look. I put Chloe’s collar back on and settle her in a crate with a pat and treat. I vacuum up my area, replace my table pad, and clean and ready the tub for the next pet. When Chloe’s owner arrives she is clean, sweet and ready for a ride. I am ready to greet my next dog and make it pretty, too, in just about an hour.

The 60 minute spaniel. Using tools that allow me to work safely and efficiently, and having a routine and rhythm to the work I do helps me to achieve my grooming in a timely, safe, manner. ✂

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E by Dawn Omboy e www.queenofcolor.com

MEMOIRS OF A HAIR THIEF

W

FIG. 1

FIG. 2

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

ho hasn’t looked at the pretty flowers that Creative Groomers have been designing on their dogs and thought “boy would I like to learn how to do that, but I don’t have a dog to try it on” Well you don’t need the whole dog, just the hair!

Admittedly, I am a hair thief. My coworkers always know that I am up to swiping switches from unsuspecting clients when I leave the nice long parts on dogs that we would otherwise clip off before bath time (Fig. 1). I believe I have mentioned in a previous article that a great way to test hair color products is to save hair from the dogs you are clipping down by banding it near the skin and then cutting it off, after it is clean, dried and brushed of course (Fig. 2).

This way you can use them to test color products and have on hand to show clients the different color choices.

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But product testing is only one use for those switches; another is practicing making flowers, bows and other shapes from the saved hair. Just last week I had a client who was a bit down when she brought her dog in for grooming and when she returned to pick up Bandit I handed her two small flowers I had made from the hair I removed from the dogs tail. She was touched.

This year at Atlanta Pet Fair I wore a beautiful white flower adorned with rooster feathers and rhinestones in my hair. Just a day earlier it had been on the backside of a Great Pyrenees, yes I wore butt hair in my hair, but as groomers we have worn much worse than that!

With your hair ready to practice on, you will need a flat iron or curling iron and a firm holding hairspray.

My favorites are Freeze It and Got2b Glued, both can be found in most stores that carry beauty supplies and

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to the desired shape (Fig. 3). The result will make you smile as though you just got a flower delivery. I have a video on how to do this on Learn2Groom if you want to take a peek. It’s a great way to practice, so start saving those switches. ✂

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are around 5 to 6 dollars a can.

Start by taking a small amount of hair near the center of the switch and give it a spritz of hairspray on both sides. Then use the flat iron to stiffen and flatten the hair petal. Repeat this step until you have shaped and flattened all the hair in your switch.

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37

C A LCU LA T E

YOUR COMPETITION W E by Michelle Robinson e

hen I first went mobile, I immediately got involved in several social media groups to help me understand the new beast that I was involved in. It helped me learn some of the do’s and don’ts in the business, but ultimately, I was the one who had to make the decision of what I wanted to do. After all, it was MY Business. I sat down and determined what I needed to pay my bills and set my prices according to the number of dogs I wanted to do. I never called around to see what my “competition” was doing, because it really didn’t matter. If they are not working for me

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

and helping me pay my bills, what difference did it make?

Time after time again I would read the fear of a new shop or mobile opening up in town. The immediate question would always be “should I lower my prices to match theirs?” or “Are they going to steal all of my customers?” All too often, I have seen good groomers give deep discounts eroding their bottom line; driving them to work harder for less money.

That just doesn’t make sense to me. I understood early on, that every customer was not MY customer, but that is another story.

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I am a numbers person. When I started looking at the cold hard facts, it just doesn’t make sense why some groomers spend so much time and effort trying backstab another for customers when there isn’t a shortage!

Ride with me for a moment while I share a few things with you.

I live in a town of 70,000 people.

I am surrounded by at least 8-9 towns that have a population of at least 30,000 people each. Let’s look at a smaller town just for wags and wiggles!

If you have a town with 30,000, the norm is that about 10% of that population owns pets. That would leave

3,000 people. Out of the 3,000 let’s say that about 1% own non-grooming pets. 3,000 minus 300 leaves 2,700 dogs and cats that need to be groomed. Another 10% will groom their pets themselves, 2,700 minus 270 equals 2,430 dogs and cats that need to be groomed. Let’s say that at least 20% of those pets go to big box stores for their grooming needs.

That would leave 1,944 dogs and cats that need to be groomed. If 20% of those pets go to local shops and vet’s offices, that leaves 1,555 dogs and cats that need to be groomed. On average, one mobile unit can do about 200 dogs a month, maybe more. Just to throw a monkey wrench in the entire plan, please note that all of your customers may not come from the same town! Isn’t THAT a flea bite?

Remember I told you that I am surrounded by 8-9 other towns that are loaded with a population of 30,000+ people! I also share this space with at least 7 other mobiles, 6 big box stores that offer grooming, vet’s groomers, various shops and home groomers, and my phone still rings! When the hounds are snapping at your heels and you see a new shop or mobile open it is easy to hit the panic button. Yes, you have bills to pay! Yes, you may not be able to afford to lose customers.

If you are good to your customers and give them good service, most aren’t likely to jump ship. Why make a job that is already physically hard on your body more demanding both physically and financially? We are all in the same game - to do what we love and make a decent living at

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39

it. Why do you need to fight each other for a piece of the hair when there is enough for everybody?

Everybody has a different skill level. Everybody has that one breed or service that they just knock out of the box. When I attend grooming competitions I understand that the competition is really about that person trying to give it the best that they can. It should never be about trying to drive another groomer out of business because they dared to venture into “your territory.” Nine times out of ten, if you weren’t grooming that customer’s dog before, you may not have ever gotten their business anyway.

I have been mobile for 4 years now. There are people that I service who have neighbors with dogs. They see me every month. Every month I smile and wave as I am leaving my customer’s house. Every month they scoff

and scowl at me as they strut little fluffy by, that now looks like a bald rat.

This past summer one of the Lemon Girls (as I affectionately call them) approached me as I returned to the truck.

She explained to me that she would be having surgery in a month and asked if she could get on my schedule.

When she asked my price I thought she was going to have a heart attack!

She spurted back, “that was NOT what you quoted me before!” Ma’am that was 3 years ago! “Well MY GROOMER only charges me $35.00 and she has NEVER gone up on her prices!” When I returned and groomed the dog, she scoffed and scowled about what she didn’t like about the groom. The next month she stopped me again to let me know how pleased she was with the service. That it had taken her a while to get used to the different style. I asked her who her groomer was and

called her later to let her know what I had done that the customer liked.

My service is not in her price range. I understand that, but what I did was change a negative about how groomers treat each other, and the customer appreciated that. Now, when I come by, Lemonade Girls smile and wave back! They have referred a few family members to me in the process!

I love my job, but working smarter and not harder is my goal. I embrace the fact that the only person I compete with is myself. I want to be the best at what I do for me and my customers.

When I am done with a pet and I can step back and make that little scrunchy boo-boo face and say... awwwww! I am happy! That’s it! Period! Competition over! ✂

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SHAKE, RATTLE & ROLL E by Bernadine Cruz, DVM e

B

lame it on being a veterinarian. Most people would conjure up images of Bill Haley and His Comets or the movie Footloose when they hear the phrase ‘Shake, Rattle and Roll’. I envision quivering cockers and trembling tabbies. Admittedly there are pets that truly seem to enjoy coming to my office, so I don’t take these panicky pets personally. I would however love it if all of my patients and their caregivers

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didn’t quake in their bobby socks when they entered my hospital.

It is not just a visit to the veterinarian that can give rise to these seismic displays; groomers, boarding facilities or a trip to a relative’s home for the holidays can also elicit the same reaction. Are these pets cowards? Do they have bad owners? Do they just need a firmer hand? Should the pets just ‘buck up’? These tremulous creatures are demonstrating fear. It can

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be demonstrated as panting when it is not hot, ears held tight to the head, tail between the legs, avoiding eye contact, excessive lip licking, whining, eliminating on the reception room floor, vomiting and growling – and these are just the signs the humans demonstrate – you should see what the pets do!

Why do these pets react so fearfully? Often it is a matter of less than optimal early life socialization. Each

pet is unique and responds to their environment differently. Puppies and kittens need gentle exposure to novel situations, especially around 7 to 12 weeks of age. If they were ‘only children’ in a litter; had limited encounters with potentially unnerving situations; or had owners who (with the best of intentions) reinforced fearful behavior, they may never grow into confident adult pets.

What is so bad about being timid and fearful? It can easily become a vicious cycle with each episode only confirming what the pet already suspects…a trip to the groomer will assuredly result in drowning or dismemberment by a pair of scissors. Fear increases stress hormones. It weakens the immune system. It can also lead to aggression.

You can empower a pet to welcome original situations, people and other pets, by slow, gentle reinforce-

ment of the behaviors you want. In particular for dogs, don’t lord over them. Bending over them can be intimidating. Get down to their level, don’t grab at them and avoid staring at them. Don’t force them to do anything and most importantly have patience with them and yourself. Don’t expect great things, hope for good. Perfection is overrated. You aren’t perfect and neither is your pet.

Reward small incremental positive steps. I have found that if a pet is very nervous during an office call, I will ignore them, sit on the floor and proffer yummy tidbits into their carrier, near them as they cower next to their owner or under the exam room bench.

Treats are often bits of marshmallows, a touch of tasty canned food or other savory morsels. If the pet is extremely fearful, I won’t even lay a hand on them. I will just chat with the owner.

I’ll have them return as frequently as they can for ‘happy visits’. They come into the office, sit and relax and get offered a treat then leave. The positive response in their demeanor can be dramatic and swift.

There are some situations when compassionate cajoling and positive reinforcement are not going to work.

This is not the time for brute force. It will only make matters worse. The best options are a consultation with a veterinarian, possible pharmaceutical assistance and/or an appointment with a board certified veterinary behaviorist or certified applied animal behaviorist.

How to have a well adjusted, confident pet? Start early, show gentle compassion, go slowly and consistently and when in doubt, ask for professional help. ✂

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LOW COST AND NO COST

ADVERTISING IDEAS E by Kathy Hosler e

W

hether you are just opening your business, or you are trying to increase your client base — you have to find ways to get people through your doors, and advertising is an effective way to contact prospective customers.

Advertising doesn’t have to be expensive. Many entrepreneurs view their advertising dollars as a wise investment that pays off in a big way.

Whether you own a salon, are an

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independent contractor, a house call groomer or a mobile groomer, one of your first priorities should be to have business cards designed and printed.

Your business card tells people that you are a professional. You should have a supply of business cards with you everywhere you go – and hand them out at every opportunity.

Visit the Veterinarians in your community; introduce yourself and tell them about your grooming busi-

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ness. (It never hurts to take a gift of some home baked cookies or donuts to the staff.) Ask permission to leave a supply of your business cards at their check-in desk. Go to any pet stores in your area that don’t have their own grooming department, and where dog licenses are purchased. Leave a supply of business cards there too. Make some eye-catching posters and place them on community bulletin boards, local laundromats, and grocery stores.

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Word of mouth is the best form of advertising you can have. A satisfied client can and will tell all of their friends and family about your business.

If you are just opening your business, or if you are introducing new services, write a press release and submit it to your local newspaper. Also, you can contact the newspaper or a local television station, and possibly be interviewed. In all of your advertising you want to make yourself instantly recognizable. Have a logo designed and place it on all of your advertising pieces, your business cards, and your signage. Use a slogan or catch phrase that people will identify with your

business; for example: “We have warm hearts for cold noses”…or… “Pampering your pets is our business”.

Invest in some promotional materials like pens, t-shirts, magnets, pet bandannas, or leashes – all printed with your salon logo and contact information. Then go to a local dog park or any community gathering and hand them out. Make sure that all of your advertising includes your phone number, email address, business address, and website address (if you have one).

Make it easy for a prospective client to contact you. Your vehicle can be a rolling advertisement for your business.

You can have professional looking magnetic signs made and placed on all of your vehicles.

HERE ARE A FEW OTHER IDEAS TO GET YOUR NAME OUT THERE: • Participate in community events • Do pro-bono work • Offer a free groom to any pet that is adopted from the local shelter

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or rescue group • Participate in community events, doing anything from giving free pet nail trims to handing out bottles of water at a 5k race • Always wear a company t-shirt, hat or other clothing that identifies your business • Go to career day at the local school or daycare • Give free pet care classes.

The internet can be a low-cost and very effective way to bring you clients. An informative, professional looking website can be a great way to build your business. It should tell about your business and all the services that you offer. You can create a business blog and start a business email newsletter. Other social media sites like Facebook and Twitter can also bring you new clients.

Word of mouth is the best form of advertising you can have. A satisfied client can and will tell all of their friends and family about your business. You may want to institute a referral rewards program that will encourage your existing clients to

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recommend you to others. As an example, you might reward their pet with a special spa package for every new client that they bring you. And, as a bonus to you, they may continue to purchase the spa services for their pet.

To encourage repeat bookings, attach a promotion to every invoice.

Perhaps it’s a free bag of dog treats or an upgraded service that you offer (such as a blueberry facial). Once you get a loyal client, you want to make that client a ‘superstar’ of your business. You want to get (and keep) their pets on a regular schedule of grooming appointments. That helps you plan your schedule in advance; the pets come in to your salon in better shape, pets that are in better shape often take less time to groom, and that can help boost your profits.

It will take some time and effort on your part to implement new business building techniques, but it will really pay off. Eventually, you will have a full appointment book and may never have to advertise again! ✂

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ERGONOMICS E by Mary Oquendo e

I

decided many years ago that I wanted to be that old lady that zip lines, jumps out of an airplane, and dances to the wee hours of the morning. But, in order to be in a position to do so, I have found it will be far easier to maintain my good health now than trying to repair decades of damage later on.

While there are many ways to maintain your wellness, this article is going to discuss ergonomics.

Ergonomics is defined as the study of work. It is the science of adapting a job to fit the worker. Its purpose is to reduce or eliminate musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

Musculoskeletal disorder affects the parts of the body responsible for movement such as: muscles, tendons,

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

ligaments, nerves, vertebrae, blood vessels, and bones.

A short list of examples of MSD’s include: • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Epicondylitis • DeQuervain’s Syndrome • Degenerative Disc Disease • Digital Neuritis • Herniated Disc • Ligament/Muscle/Tendon Strain • Rotator Cuff Tendonitis • Tendonitis • Trigger Finger/Thumb • Ruptured Disc According to the Bureau of Labor: Musculoskeletal disorders are responsible for close to 30% of all workers’

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compensation costs with an average price tag of about $15,000.

Musculoskeletal disorders begin when the muscles in the affected area become fatigued and are not allowed sufficient time to recover. Over time, when this fatigue/non-recovery time cycle is repeated, a disorder develops.

There are work related risk factors, as well as individual risk factors. Both contribute to the threat of musculoskeletal disorders.

Let’s start with individual responsibility. It’s poor overall health habits that are the culprit. They include, but most certainly are not limited to: Smoking. Not only does smoking contribute to MSD’s, but to a host of many chronic medical conditions. Quit

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Adjust tables to a comfortable working height, as well as add grates to tubs to raise smaller pets so as to not consistently bend over.

In addition, instead of bending around the pet to work on them, raise or lower the table or walk around to the other side of the pet. smoking. There are many options to help you quit today that were not in place 30 years ago when I kicked the habit.

Alcohol consumption. Excessive alcoholic drinking taxes the liver making it harder for your body to process those foods that cause inflammation.

Reduce the amount of alcohol you consume on a regular basis and drink a glass of water in between alcoholic drinks. Alcohol is a diuretic and water helps to prevent dehydration.

Lack of sleep. Inadequate sleep disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm,

which causes hormonal imbalances.

This, in turn, affects the function of your organs and their ability to do their job. Going to bed at the same time every night, as well as turning off all electronics at least one hour beforehand, may improve your sleep patterns.

Diet. Diets high in sugar, caffeine, saturated and trans fats, omega 6 oils, refined carbohydrates, MSG, gluten and casein, and artificial sugars increase inflammation throughout the body. Eliminating or reducing these

types of food will reduce inflammation that may cause pain.

Dehydration. Dehydration damages organs. The basic rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces everyday.

Physically unfit. Regular exercise strengthens your muscles, which reduces the required recovery time from work fatigue.

Obesity. Carrying extra weight puts a burden on the entire musculoskeletal system.

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There are five primary work related risk behaviors.

Highly repetitive tasks. This would include scissoring, brushing, combing, drying, and clipping. To minimize the fatigue caused by these actions, take breaks as well as properly fit tools for your body type. In addition, learn how to use the tool in the manner for which it was designed. This is one of the reasons I love to go to trade shows. I can try out equipment, see how it fits and feels in my hands and the manufacturer representatives are on hand to demonstrate their proper usage.

Forceful exertions. Improperly lifting heavy dogs or moving heavy equipment can cause damage to your musculoskeletal system. Install ramps, use electric tables, and/or request help from a co-worker.

Awkward postures. This includes working at incorrect heights. Adjust

tables to a comfortable working height, as well as add grates to tubs to raise smaller pets so as to not consistently bend over. In addition, instead of bending around the pet to work on them, raise or lower the table or walk around to the other side of the pet.

Vibrating tools. On the basis of a 1983 National Occupational Exposure Survey, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has linked the use of vibrating tools to Raynaud’s disease.

As a profession, we need to use clippers. However, we can test clippers at trade shows before buying to feel the vibration, talk to the manufacturers’ representatives about the vibrational levels of a particular clipper, as well as take breaks while using clippers.

Sustained postures. Sustained is standing or sitting in one position for any length of time. Change up your positions instead by alternating between standing and sitting. In addition,

adding floor mats will reduce stress on your body. Look for restaurant grade mats. They tend to be more expensive.

However, they will last longer and are far more effective than their inexpensive counterparts. Quality shoes can also reduce stress on your body if they are fitted for your foot type. Your foot arch should determine the type of shoe best suited for you. There are three types of arches: neutral, low (flat feet), and high. Stores that specialize in walking or athletic shoes tend to have more knowledgeable sales staff regarding the right shoes for you.

The earlier you begin to make changes in your personal lifestyle, as well as in work habits, the easier it is to mitigate or even reverse the damage that has been caused by years of neglect. Come join me o n that zip line! ✂

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PROFESSIONAL GROOMERS’

HISTORY PROJECT A E by Teri DiMarino & Shirlee Kalstone e

few issues ago, I devoted this column to the subject of the history of the professional grooming industry. Shirlee Kalstone and I have collectively wondered

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why no one has ever attempted to document how far the art of grooming has advanced in the past few decades from their modest beginnings. Shirlee recalls years ago in the mid-1970’s,

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while at the All-American Grooming Show in Chicago, that she was shocked to read a blurb in one of the Chicago papers that in the scheme of things “dog groomers were placed slightly above garbage collectors” who were on the bottom of their list. She regrets never cutting out that article to save and she wishes she had it in hand now!

I would have liked the opportunity to contact the writer of the article and show him or her how our industry has expanded and matured!

In this day of Google, we have the ability to find just about anything we need to know. While this is true for most things, very little has been written specifically about our industry. Shirlee has always been extremely interested in history and one of the web sites she checks regularly is the Poodle History Project (www.poodlehistory.org), edited by Emily Cain, a pet Poodle owner. Even if Poodles are not your favored breed, this is a “must see”

11/18/14 8:28 AM

In this day of Google, we have the ability to find just about anything we need to know. While this is true for most things, very little has been written specifically about our industry. site as it is so chock-full of information about a variety of subjects, including some history on the evolution of trims and trimming.

One section that will interest our readers is Hair Do’s Through the Ages, which includes a history of Poodle grooming tools and a section on Traditional Clips going back as far as 1900 and accompanied by a Sporting Clip illustration by Gervais Markham in 1621. A section on Professional Dog Groomers includes a favorite illustrated historical article, originally published in The Royal Magazine in

1900 titled A Dog’s Toilet Club: an old time reference to grooming. It’s fascinating to see what the groomers accomplished with a hand-operated clipper! And while this information is wonderful, it still doesn’t begin to cover the evolution of what we all now recognize as our modern pet grooming industry with its publications, trade shows, competitions and products.

It has puzzled us as to why there has not been any historical project to document the events and people that have changed our industry to make grooming a truly appreciated profes-

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sion and not one of “the least admired” as that long-ago article stated. Two years ago, Shirlee and I talked at length about starting such a project and I offered to make this endeavor part of my Groomer To Groomer column.

The Celebrity Rescue Makeover, held at Intergroom last year, brought out many old-timer contestants and showed the crowd that, while most of the contestants have been out of the ring for several decades, they still have it! Over $3,500 was raised for the local rescue and everyone had a great time! But many of the spectators did

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As Shirlee’s note-taking increased, every time she couldn’t remember the name of a winning groomer of long ago, she would think ‘I’ll just ask Jerry. He’ll know.’ not know who many of these groomers were, much less what they have contributed to the industry. We have had conversations with other groomers and early competitors who have been around for a while and they have all agreed to contribute. We were all very enthusiastic about the prospects of this project. But, we all were so busy that it became a project that got put on the back burner… until now.

Shirlee and I began making notes about the first grooming contests and associations as well as noted groomers of the time. We set up an outline of where to start, what to cover and how to proceed. While the Poodle History Project is a great start, we began look-

ing into the beginnings of our modern educational trade shows and contests.

Several regional contests had been organized in the very early 1970’s by the Southern California Groomers Association with the help of Betty Brown and Barbara Baillargeon, as well as another show held in central Florida, where Mario Migliorini (a mover-andshaker of the time), was the judge. If any of our readers know the actual origins of these shows, we would love your input. Then, very shortly thereafter, Jerry Schinberg had the foresight to produce the first national event, The All-American Grooming Show in Chicago. Last year at Intergroom, Jerry and Shirlee talked about being the two

SAVE

oldest people still active in the industry. As Shirlee’s note-taking increased, every time she couldn’t remember the name of a winning groomer of long ago, she would think “I’ll just ask Jerry.

He’ll know.”

When Jerry passed away so suddenly last summer, it became important to get this project started as soon as possible. With that being said, Shirlee probably now holds the title of THE oldest active person in our industry (with a very positive nod to Sam Kohl, of course). We both want this history to go forward before any more of us are sharing stories and sipping martinis at that great bar in the sky with the likes of Jerry Schinberg,

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Sally Liddick, John Nash and Liz Paul.

Much of what is happening now is based on events of the past, such as the founding and evolution of professional organizations like NDGAA, IPG, ISCC and, of course, GroomTeam USA. There are, and have been, so many remarkably creative people in grooming over the years who stand out for their achievements. While publications like Groomer to Groomer are extremely instrumental in keeping the industry aware of what is going on now, the past is something we must document or it will, out of pure apathy, be lost.

Future columns are being formatted. Putting together as accurate a history as possible requires participation from as many people as possible that have something to contribute.

Here is our request: Early information has already been provided by groomers like Romaine Michele. If any of the following people reading this article

TM

have information that they would care to contribute, please send a short message with what you would like to share, to either to Shirlee Kalstone at Kalstones@aol.com or Teri DiMarino at teri@barkleigh.com. We would love to hear from you! Also, please be sure you include your contact information.

Here is a partial list of some of the groomers we surely will want to hear from in the near future, as we are sure they all have “good stuff” to add: Karla Addington-Smith, Jackie Bowman, Judy Breton, Diane Betelak, Christine DeFilippo, Mario Di Fante, Linda Claflin, Hazel Christiansen, Sarah Hawks, Linda Kay, Lisa Leady, Loretta Marchese, Ann Martin, Vivian Nash, Julie Ostoski , Christina Pawlosky, Val Penstone, Dina Perry, Sue Pratt, Kathy Rose, Gail Rudowicz-Schroll, Jay Scruggs, Gwen Shelly, Pat Snyder, Ann Stafford, John Stazko, Marea Tully, Melissa Verplank, Joey Villani, Suesan

Watson, Sue Zecco and SO many more.

If you don’t see your name here please do not be slighted, as there are so many who remember the origins of our industry. We know there are many more that should contribute to this project and we want to hear from you.

We plan on taking this world-wide, as many of our overseas friends, like Kitty Dekeersgieter, are already offering their help. We would like to hear from groomers like Paola Acco, Anita Bax, Shaunna Bernardin, Jackie Bolton, Mijo Klein, Umberto Lehmann, Denys Lorrain, Sheila Morris, Colin Taylor, Mirjam Van Der Bosch, Jetty van der Hulst, Bea van Zanten, Peter Young and many others who helped shape our industry internationally.

Please join us to make the Professional Groomers’ History Project a reality. And, please keep in mind that, one day we will all part of today’s newcomer’s history. ✂

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BREAD & BUTTER GROOMING:

FAST & EASY PET TRIMS FOR THE SALON

by Kathy Rose

BIKINI TRIM P oodles are arguably one of the most versatile breeds with regard to trim styles.

Many of these styles are adaptations of show trims that retain the “Poodly” look without the high maintenance of a long coat.

One such trim is the “Bikini” Trim, also referred to as the “Miami”, “Clown”, or “Summer Cut”. This trim style is a short all over trim, with pompoms left on the lower legs, tail and topknot.

Fig.1) Shave the Feet using blade length suitable to the dog’s skin sensitivity. Grasp the bottom of the leg while pushing the coat downward toward the toes. Use a #40 blade to trim the excess coat, creating a cuff.

Fig.2) Shave the face and throat using a blade length suitable to the dog’s skin sensitivity. Clip against coat growth direction, creating an inverted

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“V” at the stop. Trim down the top and sides of the muzzle. Clip under the eyes and from the outside corner of the eye to the ear.

Fig.3) Clip the necklace. The “U” in the necklace should be placed downward from the under jaw, the approximate length of the muzzle or slightly longer.

Fig.4) Stretch the flews (lips) back and then clip against coat growth direction, using caution to avoid cutting the flew bumps.

Fig.5) Clip the tail band in the shape of an inverted “V”. The tail set will determine the placement of the “V”. To help improve a low tail set, place the “V” further up on the croup.

Fig.6) Clip the upper inside of the thigh muscle and the sanitary area.

Fig.7) Use a snap on comb to clip the body and leg coat. Start clipping several inches behind the occiput,

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FIG. 1

FIG. 2

FIG. 3

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FIG. 4

FIG. 5

FIG. 6

FIG. 7 creating a “V” shape on the back of the topknot. Follow coat growth direction.

Fig.8) Clip the front legs following coat growth direction down to a little below mid point from the elbow to the foot. Then change direction and clip upward, against coat growth direction, for a short distance to “set” the bracelet pattern. For the rear legs, set the bracelet approximately 1 to 2 inches above the point of hock. To improve the balance of a long bodied dog, create slightly larger bracelets, with the top of the bracelet placed higher on the leg.

Fig.9) Use super blenders to tighten up the shoulder and tidy up stray hairs on the legs.

Fig.10) Tidy the undercarriage following the natural underline of the dog.

Fig.11) Shape the legs by removing excess coat using blenders to form parallel lines.

Fig.12) Create a “bevel” at the “V”

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Pasadena Convention Center Pasadena, CA

February

4 –7 TH

TH

2016

GROOMEXPOWEST.COM Barkleigh Productions • (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com • www.barkleigh.com GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

63

FIG. 8

FIG. 9

FIG. 10

FIG. 11

FIG. 12

FIG. 13

New + Improved ClassiC GroominG Tub

Make our ClassiC

800.444.1579 shor-line.com/grooming

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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on the tail band using blenders.

Fig.13) Comb the bracelet coat downward and then use long curved shears to shape the bottom of the cuff.

Fig.14) Comb the bracelet coat upward and then shape the top of the bracelet.

Fig.15) Comb the bracelet coat outward and shape the bracelet into an elongated ball.

Fig.16) Comb the tail pompom toward the tip of the tail and then scissor the end. The length of the tailbone determines the length of the tail pompom. The longer the bone the shorter the end is trimmed. Shortly docked tails will have more coat length than long tailbones.

Fig.17) Hold the tail up by the tip and comb the coat downward toward the base. Use curved shears to trim the cuff and then scissor into the shape of a ball.

Fig.18) Comb the throat coat over the necklace and trim to create a beveled edge.

FIG. 14

FIG. 15

FIG. 16

FIG. 17

FIG. 18

FIG. 19

Fig.19) Use long straight shears, held at a 45° angle, to trim across the foreface. Holding the shears at an outward angle will help to create a shelf for the topknot and eliminate the “surprise” look.

Trim from the outside eye corner straight back over the ear holding the scissors at a 45° angle. Continue the line over the ear, culminating in a point at the back of the neck. Use long curved shears to shape the coat over the eyes and blend into the topknot.

Blend the sides of the topknot with long curved shears creating a round shape.

The “Bikini” trim is a fast and easy Bread & Butter trim for the client that desires a little bit of style on a low maintenance haircut. The blade length used will depend upon client preference. For this model, a #1 snap on comb was used to leave a short blanket of coat all over with scissored pompoms (bracelets), topknot and tail. ✂

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65

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

TO LIST YOUR EVENT, SEND IT TO ADAM@BARKLEIGH.COM

CALIFORNIA

MASSACHUSETTS

PUERTO RICO

GROOM EXPO WEST 2/4 /2016 — 2/7/2016 Pasadena CA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpowest.com

NEW ENGLAND GROOMING SHOW 10/1/2015 — 10/4/2015 Sturbridge MA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.newenglandgrooms.com

PET PRO CRUISE 1/9/2016 — 1/17/2016 San Juan, PR (321) 368-6622 cruisinglady@ymail.com www.barkleigh.com

NEVADA

NORTHWEST GROOMING SHOW 4/21/2016 — 4/24/2016 Tacoma WA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.nwgroom.com

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO WEST May, 2016 Burbank CA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.pbdexpowest.com

FLORIDA NDGAA FUN IN THE SUN 10/23/2015 - 10/25/2015 Orlando, FL (724) 962-2711 ndga@nationaldoggroomers.com

www.ndgaa.com

ILLINOIS ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/6/2015 — 8/9/2015 Wheeling IL (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.aagroom.com

SUPERZOO 7/21/2015 — 7/23/2015 Las Vegas NV 626-447-2222 info@superzoo.org www.superzoo.org

PENNSYLVANIA GROOM EXPO 2015 9/17/2015 — 9/20/2015 Hershey PA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpo.com PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO 11/10/2015 — 11/12/2015 Hershey PA (717) 691-3388 info@barkleigh.com www.pbdexpo.com

WASHINGTON

Proverbial Wisdom Yanking a dog’s ear is no more foolish than interfering in an argument that isn’t any of your business.

Proverbs 26:17 Living Bible

EVENTS ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW

8/6/2015 — 8/9/2015 Wheeling IL GROOM EXPO

9/17/2015 — 9/20/2015 Hershey PA NEW ENGLAND GROOMING SHOW

10/1/2015 — 10/4/2015 Sturbridge MA PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO

11/9/2015 — 11/12/2015 Hershey PA GROOM EXPO WEST

Read Groomer to Groomer Online!

er.com

www.GroomertoGroom

2/4/2016 — 2/7/2016 Pasadena CA PET PRO CRUISE 2016

1/9/2016 - 1/17/2016 San Juan, PR NORTHWEST GROOMING SHOW

4/21/2016 - 4/24/2016 Tacoma WA PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO WEST

May, 2016 Burbank CA PETQUEST

June, 2016 Wilmington OH Barkleigh Productions, Inc. (717) 691-3388 • Fax (717) 691-3381 www.barkleigh.com www.groomertogroomer.com

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NEW PRODUCTS about this wheel is if the nail has rough edges, this wheel won’t splinter the nail like the paper wheels sometimes do. It leaves a very smooth finish without the vibration the paper wheels are known to do that can scare the animals.

ShearsDirect.com

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PetGroomer.com 2015 NEW SOFTCLAWS RESTRAINT AIR MUZZLE® II

Especially designed for cats and small dogs, the Restraint Air Muzzle II features several innovations designed to calm rambunctious pets and make their handling safer. Its purple vision shield eliminates pet sight-induced anxiety while both the shield and muzzle do not come in contact with the pet’s face. Its innovative design makes it an ideal tool for bath and grooming areas and helps increase personal safety for groomers.

Available at $89.95 with a moneyback guarantee, order the Restraint Air Muzzle II by calling SmartPractice, 1-800522-0800 or visit: www.smartpractice.com/groomer.

22,000 Online Subscribers 21,000 GroomerTALK℠ Members School & Home Study Expert Advice

#1 Classified Ads

Help Wanted & Used Products Ads Are Free New & Used Mobile Vehicles ● Business for Sale Schools of Grooming ● Shampoo & Spa ● Suppliers Home Study Grooming ● Equipment & Tools & More SM

Contests Win $ ● Social Media ● Buyer’s Guide ● Talk Radio Find A Groomer Inc. PO Box 2489 Yelm, WA 98597 360-446-5348

findagroomer@earthlink.net

SHEARSDIRECT DIAMOND WHEEL NAIL GRINDING KIT

This is a diamond coated carbide wheel that replaces the paper wheels.

These wheels are washable, and you can grind the nails right in the tub to keep the dust down. The wheels can be used on small to large dogs, cats, horses, any reptile, and even birds. One unique thing

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CLASSIFIEDS Call (717) 691-3388 ext 206 to place a Classified.

Rates: 25 words or less – $50.00.

Each additional word – $2.00 each.

Classified ads must be prepaid.

Call for issue deadlines.

Agency Discounts Do Not Apply.

BLADES & SHARPENING “YOU NOW HAVE A BETTER CHOICE” We are groomers of 30+ years. Website has FREE videos and articles on equipment care. Steel Blades $5.00, Ceramic $6.00, Regular shears $5.00, convex $10. Certified for many shear brands. WAHL 5-N-1 blades refurbished (new parts, not sharpened) $10. Clipper repair #10 plus parts. Mail-in service has 48 hour turnaround, $5.00 RETURN SHIPPING ALL ORDERS, each order gets a CD_ROM and tip sheet. Website has all information. Est. 1995.

Northern Tails Sharpening Inc, Mobile AL Call 251-232-5353 www.northerntails.com

CALL (717) 691-3388, EXT. 210 TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED. Owner retiring. Well established turnkey grooming salon. Great location. Excellent reputation and solid clientele. Great opportunity for the right buyer. In California. Call 559-706-5149.

GROOMER WANTED Wanted FT/PT experienced groomer. Should be able to get along well with Vets & support staff. Must have own grooming tools. Very nice grooming suite already set up. Commission: 50-60%. Send resume to: info@pqpetclinic.com.

ONLY trade magazine! www.PetBoardingAndDaycare.com Classified Advertisements

GET RESULTS!

BUSINESS FOR SALE Mobile Dog & Cat Grooming Business For Sale.

Established 35 yrs with large clientele year round. New London & Windham Counties, CT. Serious experienced groomers only. Call: 860 456-7918.

Well established Turn-key Grooming Business for sale. Fully equipped with Retail. Great Location. Large Clientele & growing. In Maryland - call 301-824-3371 Northern Maine pet grooming business. Established 27 years at same leased location. scheduled almost a full year in advance. Quick sale at $30,000. Anxious to retire. Call 207-484-8946

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Check out the pet boarding industry’s

EACH blade examined personally, sharpened to perfection, demagnetized and tested. Sockets and springs adjusted, blades individually sealed, READY TO USE. Sole proprietor w/ 20+ years experience. FACTORY-TRAINED to sharpen shears/blades. Customized tip sheet included w/ order - PROMPT RETURN. Clipper Blades $5,Shears $7, S/H $7. PA residents add 7%.

John’s Sharpening, 1213 Middle St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212-4838. (412) 321-1522 JKosakowsky@hotmail.com.

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Groomer & Kennel Sales Slips Make More Money Without Raising Your Prices!

Professional Sales Slips for groomers and kennel operators! Both have space for all the little extras you haven’t been charging for. These 5-1/2” x 8-1/2” two-part NCR forms are clean, with no carbon needed.

Groomer Sales Slip includes space for groomer’s name, skin treatment, next appointment, bows, medicated shampoo, tangling, bad behavior and more!

#623 #624 #625

Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$18.50 $72.00 $117.50

Kennel Sales Slip includes space for salesperson and/or groomer (for easy tally of commissions), number of days, weeks or months of boarding and charges, next grooming appointment and much more!

#627 #628 #629

Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$18.50 $72.00 $117.50

Kenn-L-Kards and Run Kards

Popular Client Index Cards for Pet Day Care and Boarding Facilities!

Kenn-L-Kards offer boarding, medical and grooming profiles. Easy checklist eliminates tedious handwriting. Speeds your recordkeeping. This popular Client Record Index Card has all the information any kennel or day care operator needs. Extender cards double your records space. Just attach to the back of a full Kenn-L-Kard.

Kenn-L-Kard Extenders – White 5 x 8 Kenn-L-Kard – White 5 x 8 #901 Pack of 100 $13.75 #589 Pack of 100 $13.75 #902 Pack of 500 $59.95 #590 Pack of 500 $59.95 #903 Pack of 1000 $99.00 #591 Pack of 1000 $99.00 Run-Kards are completed at each visit and attached to the run. Contains all the up-to-date information you need about the pet. The back contains a boarding release for your protection, which is signed and dated by the owner. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Run Kard – White 3 x 5 #594 Pack of 100 #595 Pack of 500 #596 Pack of 1000

$10.50 $39.75 $62.95

Happy Camper Card Great for Boarding and Day Care Operators!

Kenn-L-Kard Special Get started with everything!

250 Kenn-L-Kard’s 5 x 8 File Box Alphabetical Index Guides #683

KENN-L-KARD SPECIAL $34.95

Now you can grade each pet in your care from an A+ to an F. Time-saving checklist will let your client know that his pet ate well, had fleas or should see a vet... and much more.

Lots of room for your own personal comments, too. It’s a personal way to thank your boarding clients. Plus it’s a great promotional tool! Pet owners will tell their friends. Available in green only.

#906 #907 #908 #909 #910

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$4.50 $9.00 $16.00 $66.00 $95.00

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Top 10 Posters and Counter Signs for Your Salon!

Calendar Paws

Do you get tired of hearing the same old comments from your clients?

This cute framed 24” x 36” poster will stop all those nasty remarks and replace it with a chuckle from your clients. Why not couple this poster with the Tip Sign and turn “lemons into lemonade!”

#6043 #6060 #6058 #6059

Poster with Frame 24 x 36 Poster Unframed 24 x 36 Wall Sign 11 x 17 Counter Sign 8.5 x 11

Appointment Kards

$44.95 $19.95 $19.95 $14.95

Red and white sticky-backed Paw Labels have space to jot the next appointment date and time and will be a real hit with your clients.

They can affix it to their home calendar as an appointment reminder, or just as a general reminder to call. Makes an excellent eye-catching price tag, too! Two great sizes.

Squares Appt. Kard

Bathtub Appointment Kard #1936 Pack of 100 #1937 Pack of 500 #1938 Pack of 1000

$7.95 $29.95 $43.95

Squares Appointment Kard #1939 Pack of 100 #1940 Pack of 500 #1941 Pack of 1000

$7.95 $29.95 $43.95

Tan Appointment Kard #652 Pack of 100 #653 Pack of 500 #654 Pack of 1000

$7.95 $29.95 $43.95

$7.95 $55.00

1” Large Calendar Paws #599 100 Calendar Paws – Large #600 1000 Calendar Paws – Large

$8.95 $59.95

Pet Report Cards

Super Sampler Pack See Our Cards Before You Buy!

One copy of each. Only one sampler per business! #677

70

Super Sampler

$10.00

Available colors: Blue, Pink, Tan

#657B, 657P, 657T #658B, 658P, 658T #659B, 659P, 659T #660B, 660P, 660T #661B, 661P, 661T

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

Available Colors

Like a teacher, now you can grade each pet from an A+ to an F. Did you ever forget to convey important information to your client?

A time-saving checklist of common recommendations is included, with space for your personal comments.

Plus, it doubles as a reminder or appointment card. Great promotional tool, too — your clients will tell their friends about your “caring” pet report card.

Tan Appt. Kard

Giant Klip Kard, Medium Klip Kard, Regular Klip Kard, Groomer Sales Slip, Boarding/Daycare Sales Slip, Kenn-L-Kard, Run Card, Happy Camper Card, Pet Appointment Cards, Pet Report Card, Calendar Paws, GroomOgram, Pet Care Series Brochures, Gift Certificate, Sympathy Cards, PetRef Card, Groomer System Appointment Sheet, Pet Release Form, Door Hanger, Little Angel Award, Reminder Cards, Dental Card... and More!

1” Actual Size

5/8” Small Calendar Paws #601 100 Calendar Paws – Small #602 1000 Calendar Paws – Small

These adorable dogs are printed on quality 2”x 3-1/2” card stock. Great for grooming salons, kennels and veterinarians. Buy only the quantity you need!

Bathtub Appt. Kard

5/8”

GroomertoGroomer.com

$6.95 $13.95 $25.95 $99.00 $159.95

Groom-O-Grams Exciting 8.5” x 11”, four-page newsletter becomes your own Personal Salon Newsletter!

This 8.5” x 11” four-page newsletter contains grooming and health information, stories, and cartoons that present a professional image to your community.

Give them at each appointment. Groom-O-Grams encourage better home care and more frequent appointments.

Use it as a reminder card! Many groomers report a fantastic 50–100% response.

GroomOgrams are a fantastic promotional tool! Your grooming clients will give it to their friends. Leave them anywhere there are pet owners—humane societies, veterinarians, kennels, pet shops, and breeders.

GroomOgrams will keep your clients coming back while teaching them proper “between grooming” care. Over 10 million Groom-O-Grams have been distributed by caring groomers like yourself.

Seasonal issues are available after February 10 (Spring), May 10 (Summer), August 10 (Fall) and November 10 (Winter). Each issue deals with the seasonal grooming needs of pets.

Groom-O-Grams – Current Season Unless Specified #565 25 Groom-O-Grams $10.50 #566 50 Groom-O-Grams $18.00 #567 100 Groom-O-Grams $25.50 #568 200 Groom-O-Grams $49.50 #569 300 Groom-O-Grams $70.50 #570 400 Groom-O-Grams $88.50 #571 500 Groom-O-Grams $95.00 #572 1000 Groom-O-Grams $169.00 #573 2500 Groom-O-Grams $358.00

Standing Order Program Save 15% on your next order of Groom-O-Grams!

Mark your order form. No obligation to future purchases.

Cancel anytime.

Kage Kard Holder

Business and Appointment Cards

For Boarding or Grooming Cards 3” X 5” or 5” X 8” This sturdy aluminum card holder will keep pet information right where you need it. Two popular sizes hold 3” x 5” Run Card or Klip Kard, and 5” x 8” Giant Klip Kard or Kenn-L-Kard. Attaches easily to cage or crate. Has holes for wall mounting near grooming table or tub. Collar and leash holder built in. Practically indestructible, won’t rattle, and holds client index cards securely and cleanly.

Kage Kard Holder 5”x8” #1954 1 holder #1956 10 holders

$7.95 $69.95

Kage Kard Holder 3”x5” #1951 1 holder #1953 10 holders

$5.95 $49.95

Over 10 Million Sold!

High quality black raised printing on crisp white card stock. Choose one of our stock logos FREE (on order form page). Instructions: Circle logo of your choice and print your six lines of type clearly on the Order Form.

Allow three to four weeks delivery time.

#1119 #663 #665 #666 #667

1000 Business Cards 1000 Appt. Cards Extra Line of Type Custom Logo Custom Layout

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com GroomertoGroomer.com

$49.95 $49.95 $2.95 $19.95 $25.00

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Sympathy Cards Elegant 4” x 6” cards in ivory linen or blue parchment with gold ink will tell your clients that you care. Matching envelopes included. Great retail item for your facility.

(INSIDE) ... brings great joy and deep sorrow.

May it be comforting to know that the loss of your beloved pet is shared by those who care.

Gift Certificate

Cards may be mixed in packs of 10 when ordering 100. Indicate style number when ordering.

Great for Pet Shops, Groomers, Kennels, Trainers, and more!

These elegant parchment certificates, bordered with paws, are “just paw-fect” for gift-giving. Great for pet shops, Groomers, Veterinarians and Kennels. A nice way to show appreciation for referral customers, too.

Rubber stamp your business name in the corner. Stub attached for your records. Certificates come with beautiful matching envelopes.

Gift Certificate with Envelope #603 Pack of 10 #604 Pack of 25 #606 Pack of 100

Blue Sympathy Card with Envelope #524 5 cards $12.95 #525 10 cards $23.95 #526 25 cards $42.95 #698 100 cards $125.00 Ivory Sympathy Card with Envelope #6033 5 cards $12.95 #6034 10 cards $23.95 #6035 25 cards $42.95 #6036 100 cards $125.00

$9.95 $22 $75

Stand-Up Counter Sign (FREE with 100 Gift Certificates – indicate when ordering) #6176 Gift Certificate Counter Sign (Christmas) $9.95 #6175 Gift Certificate Counter Sign $9.95

Display Holder Black metal holder will put sympathy cards at your clients fingertips for resale. Includes the header card. Can be used for pegboard or countertop use.

Display Holder for Sympathy Cards #687 Single Holder $5.95 #689 10 Holders $49.95

Sympathy Postcard 4” x 6” elegant postcard printed with rich chestnut ink on buckskin parchment and tastefully embossed with gold foil lettering. Inexpensive and easy to send. Just address and mail, or put it in an ivory envelope for a more personal touch.

(BACK) May it be a comfort to know that we share your feelings and extend our deepest sympathy.

PetRef Kards

Did You Find a Medical Problem?

Attractive 3” x 5” cards are used to note your medical concerns. Clients can take your findings to the Vet. Your clients will appreciate your concern. The vet will appreciate your professionalism. Gray card with blue ink.

#668 100 Cards #669 500 Cards

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$9.95 $39.95

#670 1000 Cards

Sympathy Postcard #518 5 Postcards #519 10 Postcards #520 25 Postcards #696 100 Postcards

$7.50 $12.95 $23.95 $75.00

Sympathy Postcard with Envelope #521 5 Postcards with envelope #522 10 Postcards with envelope #523 25 Postcards with envelope #697 100 Postcards with envelope

$10.95 $19.95 $38.95 $110.00

$59.95

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer System Appointment & Income Tracking Book This loose-leaf binder system permits an unlimited number of daily appointments. Each groomer can have his or her own book, or the salon can work out of just one.

Each groomer can have his or her own appointment pages in one master book as well. Satisfaction guaranteed. System comes with 150 daily appointment sheets, 52 weekly reports, 12 monthly reports, and 4 quarterly/yearly reports. Monthly dividers, services codes and calendar are included.

#6053 #6054 #621 #622

Tip Signs

Groomer System (Complete) 100 Daily Sheets Assorted Reports (One-Year Supply) Calendar in Vinyl Sleeve

8.5 x 11” ready to display Counter Signs answers the question, “Should I tip my Groomer or Bather?” Increases tips dramatically without offending your clients. In plastic standup card.

$59.95 $12.95 $15.95 $3.95

#5009 #6144 #6143 #6182

Dancing Dog Tips Sign Tip Sign For Bathers Tip Sign For Groomers Tip Sign For Groomers - Canadian

$14.95 $14.95 $14.95 $14.95

Pet Release Forms These cartoony Pet Release Forms convey a little light humor for a serious subject. They explain, in a gentle way, the pet owner’s responsibility to the groomer and give you the right to obtain emergency treatment for their pet. One popular television judge even sided with the groomer because she had her client sign a Fuzzy Pet form.

The pet owner lost the lawsuit.

50 forms per pad. Mix and match styles. Indicate styles when ordering.

General Pet, Fuzzy Pet, or Senior Pet Release #614 1 Pad $7.95 #615 3 Pads $22.95 #616 5 Pads $35.00 #617 10 Pads $69.00 #618 25 Pads $149.00

Teaching You to Train Your Dog A Student Guide

Sorry, We

This blue and green guide tells new training students how to prepare for class and have a successful learning experience with their pet.

Great promotional tool, too. Rubber stamp your information on the front. Leave at clinics, grooming shops, pet shops, breeders, pet fairs and more!

Pulls in new students like crazy!

#800 #801 #802

100 Student Guides 500 Student Guides 1000 Student Guides

Mobile Groomer Door Hangers

$17.95 $63.95 $90.00

missed You...

Designed with mobile groomers in mind.

Leave a message for customers who missed their appointment.

#6183 #6185 #6187

20 Hangers 100 Hangers 1000 Hangers

$12.95 $49.95 $299.95

Please Call for a New Appointment.

Phone W1376

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

73

How Often Should

ed?

My Pet Be Groom

tween professional The duration of time be e

tly between dogs of the sam e groomings can vary grea ir type, density, and climat ow breed. Coat condition, ha ables. A lot depends on h are just some of the vari u are willing to offer to much home grooming yo your pet. suggested by grooming Here are some guidelines re

onal groomer can be mo b authorities. Your professi you don’t brush and com specific about your pet. If ier time frame. regularly, choose the earl 3-6 weeks Afghan 6 weeks

Airedale 4-6 weeks Bedlington Terrier 4 weeks Bichon Frise 8-10 weeks Bouvier 8-12 weeks Brittany Spaniel 6-10 weeks Cairn Terrier 4-8 weeks Cocker Spaniel 6 weeks Collie 6-8 weeks

t Terrier Dandie Dinmon 8-12 weeks r Retrieve Golden 8-10 weeks Irish Setter 4-8 weeks Kerry Blue Terrier 6-8 weeks Lakeland Terrier 3-4 weeks pso Lhasa A 4 weeks Maltese 4-6 weeks Old English Sheepdog 6-12 weeks Pekingese 12-16 weeks Pomeranian 4-6 weeks Poodle 6-8 weeks Schnauzer - Miniature 8 weeks Standard 10 weeks Keepi ng your Pet Flea Free Giant 6-10 weeks

In many areas of the cou Terrier ntry, flea control 3-4 weeks Scottish is a year round n ecessity.

Shih Tzu 6-8 weeks

In conjunction w rrier ith continuing premise 4-8 weeks control, Silky Te many perier t owners have great succe ss 6-8 weeks with oraSkye Ter rier l or topighland W hite Ter cal prod ucts that are 6 weeks administWest Hi ered once a mon Terrier th to their pet. T Wire Fox hey 4 weeks come in a variety of brands e Terrier like - Advantage® , Frontline®Yorkshir , Revolution®, and Program® .

There are specific formul ations for dogs and cats, and most are ap proved to use on puppies and kittens six to eight weeks and older.

Read and follow the inst ructions, making sure to use the product that is specified for your pet. These products are e xtremely popular because of their once a mon th convenience, ease of application, and effectiveness. Most are waterproof, allowing your pet to be bathed, or to swim, without decr easing the product’s effectiveness.

Also, keeping your pet flea free with this continuous protection, is far less costly than trying to eliminate an inf estation on your pet and in your home.

Written by Professional Groomers for Your Clients!

These quality brochures not only answer the constant questions you get from pet owners, but they will also help you sell products that work and that you personally believe in—products that you retail. They will teach your client how to care for their pet in between groomings, which will save you lots of time. Great promotional tools as well.

Learning to Brush Your Pet – Ensures success in brushing, which will pay dividends to you over the years. Plus it will point them toward the right equipment that you sell.

#631 #632 #633 #634 #635

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

When Your Pet Needs a Smoothie – Prepares the pet’s owner for what they will see once the matting is removed. This pamphlet will keep this from happening again and will help you develop a regular customer, which means more $$$.

Sweet Success

#1844 #1842 #1843 #1845 #1846

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

Tiny fleas can create huge problems.

By working with your pe t care professional and following their recom mendations about products and their correc t usage, and by diligently treating and pr otecting your pets and their surroundings, you a nd your pets can kiss the ferocious flea goodbye.

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

J872

Your Pet Care Professional

17055 s • Mechanicsburg PA leigh.com #PS-2 Barkleigh Production leigh.com • www.bark (717) 691-3388 • info@bark

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

When Your Pet Needs a Smoothie

Taking care of your Puppy at home…

Between professional groomings, you may need to brush and bathe your puppy at home. Your groomer can recommend and supply the equipment and coat care products that you will need.

She will also be happy to demonstrate the correct brushing and combing techniques that you need to learn to properly care for your puppy.

Mission Accomplished – a Happy Puppy!

Because you and your professional groomer took the time to introduce your puppy to grooming in a step-by-step, gentle, loving way, you made your puppy’s all-important first visit to the grooming salon a wonderful experience that will help him enjoy being groomed throughout his life.

friend who could have aGroomer you Your IfAsk this publication, benefit forfrom a Copy please of pass it on.

Learning to Brush Your Pet Pamphlet

Once It Is Removed, What Should I Do?

Pet Care Series # 2

Cleanse the area around the bite thoroughly PA Productions #PS-3 Barkleigh and apply an antiseptic to it. If you wish• Mechanicsburg to have • info@barkleigh.com • www.barkleigh.com (717) 691-3388 the tick examined by your pet’s veterinarian J590 or your doctor, wrap the tick in a damp paper towel to protect it from dehydration (which could make it very difficult or impossible to identify) and seal it in a plastic bag.

The Ferocious Flea

If you have a friend who could benefit from this publication, please pass it on.

Your Care Series #3 PetPetCare Professional

#PS-4 Barkleigh Productions • Mechanicsburg PA (717) 691-3388 • info@barkleigh.co m • www.barkleigh.co

m

J590

If the tick looks flat, it has probably attached recently. If the tick is engorged, it may mean that it has been feeding for an extended time.

The longer a tick has been feeding on your pet (or you) before being discovered, the greater chance that it will transfer disease. In many cases a ‘bullseye rash’ will appear at the site of a tick bite.

Once the tick has been removed, place it in a sealed container or a small sealable plastic bag.

You can add a squirt of tick spray to kill it, or simply seal the bag or container and place it in the trash. Ticks need humidity to survive and will perish without it. Do not flush ticks down the toilet. They can survive in the water.

If you have a friend who could benefit from this publication, please pass it on.

#PS-5 Barkleigh Production s • Mechanicsburg PA (717) 691-3388 • info@bark leigh.com • www.bark leigh.com

We Are Here to Help You

Ticks are far too dangerous to ignore. Just one bite from these tiny terrors could affect you or your pet for the rest of your lives. Your best defense against ticks and the diseases they carry is prevention.

We can recommend tick removal tools and a wide range of the products you may need to protect your pets and their environment. Please ask for product recommendations that will safely protect you and your pet from these tiny, treacherous predators.

Pet Care Series #5

If you have a friend who could benefit from this publication, please pass it on.

#PS-6 Barkleigh Productions • Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 691-3388 • info@barkleigh.com www.barkleigh.com

#6124 #6122 #6123 #6125 #6126

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

#6440 #6441 #6442 #6443 #6444

Pack of 20 Pack of 50 Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

Great gift for puppy’s first grooming, new clients, promotions and incentives!

Your clients will be thrilled when their pet receives this frameable award. The goodwill generated will be “money in the bank “ to you.

“This certifies that _____ has successfully completed a professional grooming in our establishment. Your pet has exemplified courage when confronting combs, brushes, clippers, and scissors and has shown valor in crossing the waters of shampoo, creme rinse and dip. It is with great pride that your pet has been selected as a Paw-fect specimen of beauty to be held in highest esteem by this grooming establishment.”

74

$9.95 $19.95 $34.95 $149.95

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

Pet Care Series #7

Ick! A Tick! – This brochure teaches clients not only how to identify and protect their pets from ticks but also what to do if they find ticks on their pets or themselves.

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

Blue Little Angel Award #648 20 Awards #649 50 Awards #650 100 Awards #651 500 Awards

A Tick!

Protecting Your Pets and Yourself

Salon Fresh – Your clients need to be encouraged to keep their pets groomed on a regular basis. Give them a pamphlet that will support the reasons for a consistent grooming schedule. This one pamphlet could increase your business tremendously.

$9.95 $18.50 $29.95 $99.00 $180.00

$9.95 $19.95 $34.95 $149.95

Pet Care Series #4

Ick!

Proper Disposal of a Tick

Little Angel Award

Pink Little Angel Award #6348 20 Awards #6349 50 Awards #6350 100 Awards #6351 500 Awards

Puppy’s First Visit to the Grooming Salon

Is There Any Way to Know How Long the Tick Has Been on My Pet?

The Ferocious Flea – Helps your client learn how to protect their pet from fleas and helps you sell retail products you believe in, as well.

#6013 #6014 #6015 #6016 #6017

Your Pet Care Professional

Pet Care ning ar LeProfessiona l to Br ush Your Pet

benefit from this publication, please pass it on.

Puppy’s First Visit – Helps your client prepare their puppy for grooming.

It will offer ways to teach their pet to enjoy grooming. Beneficial before and after the first groom.

#1853 #1852 #1854 #1855 #1856

cause any irritation to himself. Remember that his freshly clipped nails may be sharp and can easily irritate his puppy skin. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your groomer immediately.

One of the most wonderful, caring things you can do for your pet is to spend time together. Make grooming a special bonding time between you and your pet.

If you begin brushing while his hair is short and not tangled, he will be more accepting of it. Start with very short sessions and gradually lengthen them as your pet learns to enjoy daily grooming.

Use treats and plenty of praise to reinforce a positive grooming experience.

Be sure to use the brushing technique that your groomer demonstrated to you, also see the pamphlet Learning to Brush Your Pet. The importance of thorough brushing followed by a complete combing cannot be overemphasized.

This small investment of your time can pay off with tremendous benefits in your pet’s happiness and well being, not to mention his appearance.

Working together with your groomer to obtain the proper products for your pet’s care and to learn how to use them correctly, will ensure that your pet looks at all atimes. best have friend who could and feels his If you

Are there any disadv antages to these products?

Fleas have to come in con tact with the product to be killed. Tha t means that fleas actually have to get on, an d could possibly bite your pet, before they die. There is also a possibility of skin irri tation at the site of application.

Your

Your Pet Care ional fessHappy Pro Pet! Payoff…a The Big

sprays that make brushing easier, will enable you to make grooming time at home an enjoyable experience for you and for your pet.

Photo by: Sherri Regalbuto

Pet Care Series Brochures

GroomertoGroomer.com

Reminder & Klient Postcards Dogs… and Cats, too

MV-1

L❤ ve to be Professionally Groomed!

Just A Reminder for A Very Busy Pet

R-4

R-6

R-8

M-3

HB-2

R-1

Ethel... I think this dog is trying to tell me something!

R-2 W1334

R-9 W1336

Large and Small We groom ’em all!

The Back Says...

MV-1 See you at our new “digs!”

R-3

R-1 Dear___________, You are probably very busy toy-tossing, napping and dining on gourmet canine cuisine. But, I know you like to look your very best. So, I’m sending this little reminder just to say that it is time for you to be groomed again. Please call for an appointment at your earliest convenience. Thank you. Your Groomer.

R-2 Is your pet trying to tell you that he needs to be groomed? If so, please call for an appointment at your earliest convenience, before he finds the scissors! Your Groomer.

R-3 All dogs benefit from regular Professional Grooming. For you pet’s continued good health, please call for an appointment at your earliest convenience. Thank you. Your Groomer.

J1188

Just PAWS-ing...

R-5

R-4 Dear_____________, I know you like to look your very best, smell your sweetest and feel great!

Please remind your “Best Friend” that you are now due for a professional grooming. Thank you.

Your Groomer.

R-5 ...to remind you that your pet is due for professional grooming. Please call for an appointment, at your earliest convenience. Thank you. Your Groomer.

R-6 Grooming is a PURR-fectly wonderful experience... when performed regularly. Call now for your pet’s next appointment. Your pet will PAWS-itively love you for it! Your Professional Groomer.

R-7 Just a reminder that your pet is scheduled for a professional grooming on: _________ at__________. If it’s im-PAWS-ible to keep this appointment, please call at once. Thank you.

R-7

R-8  Does your pet need refreshing? Please call for a grooming appointment at your earliest convenience.  Just a reminder! Your pet’s next grooming appointment is scheduled for _________ at__________  Because the grooming salon is extremely busy now, it is recommended that you allow ____ weeks to obtain a grooming appointment for your pet. Thank you!

R-9 It’s been Paws-itively wonderful serving you and your pet. Hope to see you again soon!

M-1 and M-3 ...but just can’t find “hide nor hair” of your pet. Is your pet okay? Have you moved?

Was your pet’s last grooming satisfactory? You are important to us and we’d like to hear from you.

Please call at your earliest convenience. Thanks.

HB-2 A Happy Birthday! from your Groomer!

M-1

Mix and match in packs of 100 when buying 1000. Indicate style number when ordering. #574 20 Reminder Postcards $10.50 #575 50 Reminder Postcards $21.95 #576 100 Reminder Postcards $31.95 #577 500 Reminder Postcards $127.95 #578 1000 Reminder Postcards $198.00

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com GroomertoGroomer.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

75

From Sally Liddick, Founder of Barkleigh!

Taking a Different Path is a collection of stories by the founder of Barkleigh Productions and publisher of Groomer to Groomer magazine, Sally Liddick.

Each chapter tells of the adventures she encountered while starting up and running a successful business with her lifetime friend, Gwen. Sally has added a humorous and inspirational twist to her experiences. Readers will enjoy relating their own friendships to Sally and Gwen’s and will learn some valuable lessons and strategies to compete in the business world.

#6374

Grooming

and e understanding grooming quickly learn good visits. ing oying their groom Puppy her Gee take you on ting from… g with… and profi y canine a happ while creating

Puppies

omer’s Guide

A Professional Gro

Groomer

Kathy McGee

INJURIES & HEALTH BOYD HARRELL, DVM What Every Successful Groomer should know!

• Safe Grooming Procedures • Pet First Aid • Salon Injuries • Parasites • Pet Health

• Dental and more!

Let Kathy McGee take you on a puppy journey to working with, and profiting from, puppies while creating a happy canine client for life. Examines the puppy experience, especially as it relates to the grooming salon. Learn tricks and techniques to help acclimate a puppy to grooming.

Grooming Puppies

WonderGsrooming of

#6325

Pet First Aid

$19.95

$9.95

Bonnie Wonders

AARONCO Books

Add Some Humor to Your Grooming Day! This publication features over 200 pages of Groomer to Groomer columnist, Bonnie Wonder’s, humorous tales of everyday grooming. Through Bonnie’s eyes and words, you will be able to relate and chuckle about some of your own crazy clients.

Harrowing and hilarious tales of a Groomer by a beloved Groomer to Groomer columnist.

7 9 780979 06761

#6384

Boarding Kennel Management A comprehensive guide to the management of a commercial boarding kennel. Valuable equipment section as well. #1130 Boarding Kennel Management $32.95 The Cat Grooming Guide Grooming books has special emphasis on safe handling of cats. #1131 Cat Grooming Guide $35.95 Client’s Guide to Dog Grooming Styles An aide to show clients what their fully groomed pet should look like. Great for the reception desk. #1809 Client Guide to Dog Grooming Styles $24.95 The Mutt Styling Guide This guide gives groomers the opportunity to see 64 magnificent mutt makeovers plus instructions on how to design creative solutions for challenging mixed breeds. #1133 Mutt Styling Guide $35.95 The Business Guide to Pet Grooming Business guide will everything you need to know to successfully operate a grooming business. #6539 Business Guide to Pet Grooming $35.95 The Mobile Pet Grooming Guide Ultimate reference for entering, upscaling or growing a mobile grooming business. #6475 Mobile Pet Grooming Guide $35.95

$15.95

A fun and informative book. Chapters by Grooming Masters on clipping four feet in three minutes, first aid, grooming old dogs, simple bow making, mobile grooming, coping with coat, rehabilitating a difficult dog and more. Contains full-color creative contest winners and original grooming cartoons.

#5014

GroomertoGroomer.com

Grooming Secrets

$15.95

Books by Melissa Verplank Notes from the Grooming Table and Pocket Pal are the newest additions to the White Dog Enterprises’ line of breed specific grooming instructions. Indispensable outlines and tips for grooming every breed with visuals for each. #6037 Notes from the Grooming Table $89 #6355 Notes – Pocket Pal $40 Theory of Five A one-of-a-kind guide illustrating how to transfer your skills from one pet to the next. Photographs and illustrations walk you through the 124 pages of easy-to-understand terms and techniques. #6067 Theory of Five $32.95 Whiskers Learning Journal – Bow Making Brightly colored bows or bandannas can be one of your best marketing tools. As a finishing touch on a fabulous groom it is a sure way to generate interest. You will learn how to create fabulous bows with simple, clear step-by-step instructions. #6521 Whiskers Journal – Bow Making $15.00

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

Wonders of Grooming

Professional Pet Grooming Secrets

The All Breed Dog Grooming Guide The easiest to use, most explicit instructions and crystal-clear drawings for every groomer. #6512 All Breed Dog Grooming Guide $74.95

76

The most comprehensive guide for groomers… ever! Twenty-one big chapters cover skin disorders, ears, hotspots, allergies, fleas and ticks, toenail and footpad problems, anal glands, infections, nutrition, geriatric dogs, vaccinations and reactions, dental and much more.

Indispensable for accidents or illnesses inside the grooming salon.

Taking a Different Path $19.95

Techniques for Puppy Grooming

#6318

From Beloved Groomer to Groomer Vet, Dr. Harrell!

• Nutrition

Bonnie Wonders

9790676-1-7 ISBN: 978-090000

PET FIRST AID,

Wonders of Grooming

e a Puppy?

incredible ng table, these most n exasperate the

GROOMER’S GUIDE TO

Handy Reference for Groomers!

Starting a Salon?

Grooming leaders offer expertise in naming a salon, preventing accidents, grooming neglected pets, finishing touches, clipper and blade maintenance, grooming and handling tips, correcting faults and much more. 128 pages of illustrations and photos.

#6365

Pet Grooming Salon Basics

Laureen Osborne, Canadian Groomer Editor, has compiled this handy reference. Topics include nail clipping, muzzling, brushing, bathing and drying techniques with lots of practical advice to improve your grooming and work more efficiently.

$12.95

#6383

#5015

Christmas Ideas Book

$9.95

Written by industry icon, Judy Bremer Taxman, this book is power packed with ideas to boost your income and management skills. Topics include how to be the boss, organizing your business, keeping personnel, tactics for keeping your business running smoothly and more. It is totally focused on the pet industry.

#5012

Stopping unacceptable behavior keeps pets in their happy homes and your pet care facility.

Learn things that you can do to help an owner cope with problem behavior in an effective way.

This two hour seminar taped live at Groom Expo tells what it takes to stop the most common canine catastrophes in an effective, safe and proactive manner.

Doggie Repair Kit DVD

$49.95

An indispensable guide for those who want to get involved with service and therapy dogs. Hundreds of contacts. Learn from this husband-and-wife team who have been blind for years and have owned multiple service dogs. Includes health and grooming information.

#5024 #5027

$15.95

MUSH

$19.95

Scent and the Scenting Dog

$12.95

The Difference Between Life and Death for a Lost Person!

How do lost persons behave when disoriented?

Where should you start looking for a child lost in mountainous terrain? How far will an elderly person travel and in what direction? How to use voluntary and professional manpower can make all the difference. This exciting book answers all those questions! This 64 page book is an expansive study of actual case histories and will reveal new insights to aid you... the Search Leader!

#5026

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com GroomertoGroomer.com

$19.95 $5.95

Understand how and why a dog works scent.

Explains the composition of scent, how it works in the dog’s nose, what affects scent and more!

Topics include the sense of smell, anatomy and physiology, theories and odor, the human as a scent source, transmission, atmospheric factors and airborne scent, the ground scent picture, working on dog’s scent and snow experiments.

A Beginner’s Manual of Sled Dog Training by Charlene G. LaBelle

By Charlene G. LaBelle for the Sierra Nevada Dog Drivers, Inc. The complete book of sled dog racing, MUSH! is indispensable to anyone who is thinking about this exciting sport. Topics include buying dogs and equipment, training, riding, traveling, race strategy and more.

Tracking Dog Tracking Trainers Handbook

Scent and the Scenting Dog

by William G. Syrotuck

#5029

#1713

$14.95

A step-by-step easy to follow program, which has resulted in 100% success for his students.

Includes basics of tracking work, training philosophy and terminology, determining behavioral characteristics, tracking training essentials, TD training methods and classical problem solving and more! Also Tracking Trainers Handbook, a companion guide to Tracking Dog.

Partners in Independence

#5041 Partners in Independence

Empowered Employer

The “Bible” of Tracking!

Doggie Repair Kit DVD

#1413

$15.95

A Powerful Guide for Every Business Owner!

Christmas Ideas These fun ideas have been gleaned from groomers as entries in Groomer to Groomer magazine’s Christmas Ideas Contest. Now you can get a wealth of ideas for your clients. Topics include inexpensive Christmas gifts, profitable Christmas promotions, heartwarming experiences and more!

Photos and illustrations included.

Quick Tips

Analysis of Lost Person Behavior

$12.95

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Rubber Stamps #699

#700

#708

#703

#702

#6433

#709

#707

#6434

#6431

#705

#706

#6432

Eliminates tedious handwriting. Add your own custom logo or use one of ours (see order form). Perfect for GroomOgrams, reminder cards, groomer or kennel sales slips, letters, checks, and receipts.

Rubber Stamp #643 Stock Logo (See order form) #642 Custom Logo

$7.95 $7.95

#6045 #6046 #6047 #6048 #6049 #6050

$10.95 $15.50 $19.95 $23.95 $28.50 $32.95

1 Line 2 Lines 3 Lines 4 Lines 5 Lines 6 Lines

ame alon N Your S dress d Your A y, State, Zip it r Your C one Numbe h P r You

#701

Kanine Kookie Kutters Sizes range from 2-3/4” to 4-1/ 2”. Great for breed club treats, fundraisers, sandwich cutouts, treats for your customers’ pets or kids, dough ornaments, and more. Dog Bone Recipes included FREE!

#6435 #710 #711 #6429 #6430

13-Piece Bow Wow Set Bones and Hydrant Seven Dogs and Kitty 7-Piece Set 5-Piece Mini Set Individual (Indicate #)

$31.95 $8.50 $19.95 $19.95 $9.95 $3.95

the

ULTIMATE

Dental Kards

GUIDE SALON Creative

NEW 5” x 8” Dental Kard features a large detailed diagram for notation of cavities, sensitive areas and more. The back provides space for date, cleaning history, charges, technician and reminder sent date.

to

#6352 #6354

100 cards 1000 cards

$13.75 $99.00

by Angela Kumpe

#1-31 Index Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Salon Creative

Ethel... I think this dog is trying to tell me something!

The Ultimate Guide to creative Styling is a must have resource for every salon and mobile groomer. With 192 full color pages packed full of exciting creative add-on services including accessories, temporary coloring, semi-permanent coloring, color lifting, marketing, pricing and more. Step-by-step photos and easy to understand instructions will have your salon or mobile earning more money and have your clients begging for more.

#6548

The Ultimate Guide to Salon Creative

W1336

$59.95

Revolving Reminder System Get your clients in every 4, 5, or 6 weeks with this complete ready-to-use system!

Includes: 5” x 8” File Box, #1-31 Index Guides, 200 of our most popular Reminder Cards (50 each: R-2, R-4, R-5, R-7), instructions for instituting a successful Reminder Program.

#676 1 Revolving Reminder System $59.95

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(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

GroomertoGroomer.com

Banners

Say it in a big way with these attention-grabbing banners!

6 x 2’ and 4’ x 2’ banners cover the gamut of things that you would do in your grooming salon or kennel. Get your clients attention the moment they walk in the door. These banners have grommets for ease of display and will pay back their cost in a day!

Aaronco Posters AARONCO publishes a complete collection of laminated posters that help groomers communicate with their customers by eliminating the confusion due to various grooming styles. Each poster represents one of the seven AKC dog groups, showing properly groomed dogs. The posters are printed in black and white and are laminated for attractiveness and durability, which allows them to be hung with or without framing. They are sold individually and in sets of 9. Posters sold individually ship in their own cardboard tube. Posters sold in the set of 9 ship in one cardboard tube.

6’ x 2’ Banner #6375 Grand Opening #6377 Pet Day Care #6381 Pet Photography #6382 Shed-Less Treatment #6378 Today’s Special #6379 Toothbrushing Special #6376 We’re Moving #6380 Spa Service

$49.00 $49.00 $49.00 $49.00 $49.00 $49.00 $49.00 $49.00

4’ x 2’ Banner #6390 Grand Opening #6391 We’re Moving #6392 Pet Day Care #6393 Today’s Special #6394 Toothbrushing Special #6395 Spa Service #6396 Pet Photography #6397 Shed-Less Treatment

$39.00 $39.00 $39.00 $39.00 $39.00 $39.00 $39.00 $39.00

#1942 #1943 #1944 #1945 #1946 #1947 #1948 #1949 #1950 #6494

Complete Set of 9 Dog Posters Poodle Fashions Poster The Terriers Poster Non-Sporting Dogs Poster Working Dogs Poster The Toys Poster Herding Dogs Poster The Hounds Poster Sporting Dogs Poster Dog Show Poster

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com GroomertoGroomer.com

$69.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $8.95 $6.00

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Klip Kards

Client Index & Extender Cards Extenders stapled to your filled Klip Kard add more record space!

Giant Klip Kard Our most popular card! 5” x 8” Klip Kards feature a dog diagram for notation of injuries, warts and sensitive areas.

Sketch the clip right on the card. Emergency permission included, plus a size chart for easy sales reference.

Includes pet profile checklist with lots of space on the back for date, charges, services, groomer and reminders sent date. Extenders can be attached when back is full. Mix and match in packs of 100 when buying 1000.

Giant Klip Kard – White 5 x 8 #500 Pack of 100 #501 Pack of 500 #502 Pack of 1000

$13.75 $59.95 $99.00

Available Colors

Giant Klip Kard – Color 5 x 8

Available colors: Blue, Green, Yellow, Pink, Lavender

#503B, 503G, 503Y, 503P, 503L #504B, 504G, 504Y, 504P, 504L #505B, 505G, 505Y, 505P, 505L

Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

Giant Klip Kard Extenders – White 5 x 8 #506 Pack of 100

$13.75

#682

$34.95

Giant Klip Kard Special 5 x 8

$15.75 $69.95 $109.00

Medium Klip Kard 4”x 6” Medium Client Index Card offers space for pet description, medical problems, referral, birthday, vet phone and clip. Popular pet profile checklist denotes conditions about the pet. Back has date, services, charges and reminder sent date. Extenders can be attached when back is full. Mix and match in packs of 100 when buying 1000.

Medium Klip Kard – White 4 x 6 #507 Pack of 100 #508 Pack of 500 #509 Pack of 1000

Available Colors

$11.95 $46.00 $75.00

Medium Klip Kard – Color 4 x 6

Available colors: Blue, Green, Yellow, Pink, Lavender

#510B, 510G, 510Y, 510P, 510L #511B, 511G, 511Y, 511P, 511L #512B, 512G, 512Y, 512P, 512L

Pack of 100 Pack of 500 Pack of 1000

Medium Klip Kard Extenders – White 4 x 6 #513 Pack of 100

$11.95

#681

$28.95

Medium Klip Kard Special 4 x 6

Regular Klip Kard Are your client files a disaster? Do you forget to get pertinent information over the phone? These 3” x 5” Client Index Cards will stand up against the daily abuse of any active grooming salon and will provide you with basic information on your grooming client. Space on back for date, charges and reminder sent date. White only.

Regular Klip Kard Extenders – White 3 x 5 #517 Pack of 100 $10.50

80

Regular Klip Kard – White 3 x 5 #514 Pack of 100 #515 Pack of 500 #516 Pack of 1000

$10.50 $39.75 $62.95

#680 Klip Kard 3 x 5 Special

$21.95

(717) 691-3388 • Order online at www.BarkleighStore.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

GroomertoGroomer.com

$13.95 $56.00 $95.00

Klip Kard Special Includes 250 Klip Kards, File Box, and set of Alphabetical Index Guides

#252

•

• • •

For Faster Service, Order Online!

Go to www.BarkleighStore.com

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 34 Ed 7 • July 2015

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