Groomer to Groomer November 2019

“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 38 ED.11 • NOVEMBER 2019

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

YOU'RE A GROOMER:

BE THANKFUL YOU SPEN T

SAFET Y ST EPS

FOR REAR END AWARENESS

HOW MUCH ON

SCISSORS?

ON THE COVER Groom Expo 2019 Best in Show Winner Michelle Breen Photo by Animal Photography

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CONTENTS | NOVEMBER 2019 PEOPLING FOR THE INTROVERT:

SAFETY STEPS FOR

Awareness 28

16 by Daryl Conner

by Michelle Knowles

Customer

THE (CAT GROOMING)

Berry: You are a Groomer: Be Thankful

6 Hook, Line & Sinker: Using Social Media 50 to Reel In Customers

Not IS

David: You Spent How Much on Scissors? 12 Tutorial: What's Up with the Mod Con? 56 See Spot Grooming: Setting the Standard 22 New Products for Communication & Animal Welfare

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Hosler: Cutomer Service: You Get Out What 32 Groomer Humor You Put In

72

"Speaking" Dog

74

38 Calendar of Events

ALWAYS RIGHT

by Deborah Hansen

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“THE GROOMING INDUSTRY’S TRADE MAGAZINE!” VOL. 38 ED.11 • NOVEMBER 2019

EDITOR/PRESIDENT Todd Shelly todd@barkleigh.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Gwen Shelly gwen@barkleigh.com

SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jenn Barraclough jennifer@barkleigh.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS James Severs james@barkleigh.com

JR. GRAPHIC MARKETING DESIGNER COORDINATOR Jenny Thomas Alyx Robertson jthomas@barkleigh.com alyx@barkleigh.com

MANAGING EDITOR Rebecca Shipman rebecca@barkleigh.com WEB MASTER PUBLIC RELATIONS/ Luke Dumberth SOCIAL MEDIA luke@barkleigh.com COORDINATOR CHIEF OPERATIONS Evan Gummo OFFICER evan@barkleigh.com VIDEO DIRECTOR Adam Lohr Jeremiah Strawbridge adam@barkleigh.com jeremiah@barkleigh.com AD COORDINATOR/ ADMIN ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR VIDEO PRODUCTION Karin Grottola karin@barkleigh.com Laura Pennington Becca Tarlo rtarlo@barkleigh.com laura@barkleigh.com

Michell Evans

WWW. GROOMERTOGROOMER .COM

Kathy Hosler Daryl Conner

YOU'RE A GROOMER:

Khris Berry

BE THANKFUL

Michelle Knowles

SAFET Y ST EPS

FOR REAR END AWARENESS

Jonathan David Brittney Valle

YOU SPEN T

Amanda Aaron

ON SISSORS?

HOW MUCH

Deborah Hansen

ON THE COVER

Copyright November 2019. 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

GroomertoGroomer.com

Groom Expo 2019 Best in Show Winner Michelle Breen Photo by Animal Photography

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

5

Be

GROOMING BUSINESS BASICS

YOU ARE

OMER O R AG YOU ARE

by Khris Berry

OMER O R AG

Thankful Like many groomers, I watch the calendar approach November

and December with mixed emotions. The closer we get to “holiday season”, at any given moment, I feel a sense of anticipation, dread, greed, excitement and wonder.

A

ny groomer who has worked through at least one holiday season knows this mental state of chaos. Sometimes you are feeling all of these emotions within the same day, hour and even minute.

But I challenge you to pause before the onslaught of clients, dogs, phone calls and general chaos descends upon your grooming salon. I challenge you to take a moment and be thankful.

If you are preparing for the holidays, congratulations! During the course of 2019, you have likely survived difficult clients and dogs. You

6

have probably explained your pricing structure to Mrs. Smith for the tenth time. You have told Mr. Johnson that you do not offer a multiple pet discount at least that many times. You have defended a bad review on social media or appeased an angry client who did not pre–book her appointments. For this, be thankful for your patience and professionalism.

You may have said goodbye to a favorite client—furry or otherwise.

Groomers invest more than their time into the care of the pets in their client base. They become confidantes

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to pet owners, share in their client pets’ health ups and downs and grieve when a beloved pet passes on. Be thankful for your ability to provide care and love to each animal as if it were your own.

You have worked long hours and taken one extra dog for the sake of that pet. Groomers fill the internet with tales of helping pets overcome neglected coats. Many of you have stayed late, gone the extra mile, edited your schedule and accommodated the forsaken pet because he needed it—more than you needed sleep,

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lunch or rest. In 2019, you have invested yourself emotionally into your clients’ pets and their well–being. Be thankful for your compassion and animal stewardship.

You have risen to the physical challenges of your career time after time. You have lifted, restrained, carried, bathed, dried and scissored.

You have taken more Ibuprofen and Tylenol than you should have, yet you return day after day. You work sick, tired, and many days when you simply shouldn’t for the sake of your clients and their pets. For your stamina and passion, be thankful.

You have been chastised for shaving a neglected coat by an owner.

You have time and again coached new owners on coat maintenance schedules. You have made Pomeranians look like internet stars and Poodle mixes look less like Poodle mixes. You have styled and accessorized. You put a bow on it. You have patiently coached and counselled pet owners on proper skin and coat care. For your education and dedication, be thankful.

You have scissored, clippered, chunkered, thinned, blended and fluffed your heart out in 2019. You have experienced the arrival of a new breed with enthusiasm and excitement. You have been tireless in your pursuit of excellence. For your attention to detail and perfectionism, be thankful.

You have encouraged a fellow pet professional. You took a new groomer under your wing, or hired a new assistant, or taught someone with an interest in a career in pets more about what you do. You have made an impact on the career of another pet professional by giving of your time, knowledge or passion. For your tireless dedication to the grooming industry, you should be thankful.

You have left every pet in your care better than when you met him.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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Your love of the pet, ability to connect and understand his needs, and your willingness to give of yourself on many levels makes you a pet groomer.

For your ability to balance caretaking and service, be thankful.

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Your love of the pet, ability to connect and understand his needs, and your willingness to give of yourself on many levels makes you a pet groomer. For your ability to balance caretaking and service, be thankful.

You have cried at work at least once.

And you have done a happy dance when you received an unexpected generous tip.

You have laughed, you have danced, you have serenaded your furry audience. For your exceptional ability to care for another animal while expressing and balancing your own emotions (as well as those of his owner), be thankful.

You have shown mercy, compassion and humanity when necessary. Be thankful that you have those traits to share with the animals (and people) you meet.

You are a groomer and you have made it to the holidays. For this, you can be thankful. You are a special breed of pet professional. And for that, the pet industry is thankful! &

BUT WHY?

by Jonathan David

YOU SPENT

How Much ON

Scissors?

I have a scissor addiction. There, I said it. And you know what? I’m proud of it! I’m a firm believer that you can never have too many scissors.

B

ut in today’s market, it seems like there’s a scissor for just about everything— and they range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. But why is that?

The answer to that question lies within the materials used and the manufacturing method. Scissors and shears are the same thing, but in the scissor industry, we typically refer to anything six inches and under as a scissor and anything over six inches is referred to as a shear.

There are two methods used to manufacture shears; those that are cast and those that are forged. Let’s start with the method of casting.

Casting is a method of using high temperatures to liquefy certain types of metals and then pouring the liquid

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metal into a mold.

This process uses softer metals because their melting point is lower and the metals are more easily used in the mold of a scissor. The advantage to this process is the metals are lower cost and they can be made on an assembly line with less effort, thus keeping the costs rather low. These are the shears you typically see in a sealed plastic on cardboard package, manufactured in factories and priced rather low. Seems like a great deal, but now come the disadvantages.

Cast metal has a few rather significant disadvantages. First is the quality of the metal. Metals that can be easily melted and poured into molds are not as hard, therefore they cannot hold a sharp edge with extensive use resulting in more frequent

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sharpening. Because these metals are softer, they usually require more grinding with each sharpening which results in a much shorter overall life of the shear.

The second major disadvantage is that cast metals can have imperfections within the metal. Very small air bubbles can form in cast liquid metals making them more prone to breaking if dropped, or revealing the air bubbles along an edge during sharpening, therefor requiring more of the metal being ground down to achieve bringing the edge back.

The third, and in my opinion, most significant disadvantage is that cast shears cannot be rebalanced and realigned if they’re dropped or have some contact issues between the

FORGED SHEARS ARE THE

gold standard

IN SCISSOR MANUFACTURING.

two blades of the shear. If you drop your cast shears and they bend, even slightly, and are no longer cutting well, a sharpener cannot manipulate this type of metal without the risk of the metal snapping.

When we have our shears serviced, the sharpener will not only sharpen the edges, but they also balance the shears and make sure the two blades have a continuous plane

of contact to cut the hair. When the two blades are not making contact, a sign of this is the shears are folding the hair. They will manipulate the shears by hand and bend them slightly so they make contact with one another.

Cast metals are not pliable and the tension caused from trying to manipulate the metal can cause it to snap or can be extremely difficult to

make the two blades make continuous contact again. Typically, cast shears end up in the trash after a drop or several attempts at sharpening them, so you’re out the cost of the shears, the cost of servicing and now the cost of replacing the shears.

The second method of manufacturing shears is those that are forged.

Forged shears are the gold standard in scissor manufacturing. This meth-

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The metals used in this manufacturing process are harder, higher quality metals and the process is an art form. The quality of the shear and the hands– on process to ensure quality add to the overall cost.

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od consists of the various parts of a scissor being cut from a prefabricated sheet of metal and then being welded together. The finger holes, shanks and blades are all made separately and then welded together later in the process.

The advantages to this process are plentiful. First, the stainless steel is blended with other selected alloys for extra hardness, yet remain lightweight.

The sheets of metal are tested for hardness and given a Rockwell rating. The Rockwell rating is an industry standard number to identify the hardness of the metal. Once the sheet of steel is approved, the manufacturing of the scissor begins.

Scissor designs begin on a computer and then each piece is wire-cut from the sheet of steel. The pieces are then welded together and go through a series of steps including grinding, heat treatments (to harden the metal), polishing and flattening—all by hand—and then are finally assembled, honed and sharpened. Each shear is then tested and packaged for shipping to the warehouse.

The metals used in this manufacturing process are harder, higher quality metals and the process is an art form. The quality of the shear and the hands-on process to ensure quality add to the overall cost.

The way I see it is that it’s a better economical decision to buy quality shears. The cost of buying, frequent sharpening and replacing low quality shears over time will far exceed the cost of buying quality shears, even one at a time, and building a strong collection that you’ll have for years and years to come! &

ALL THINGS PAW

by Michelle Knowles

PEOPLING FOR THE INTROVERT:

I’ve seen grown veterinarians, technicians and groomers break down and cry, have to leave for the day or, astonishingly, quit their job over an angry and/or unreasonable client who has lost their sense of self control in the lobby or over the phone.

M

any of us in the grooming industry picked this career because we don’t like dealing with people but really love animals. This tends to leave us at a disadvantage when we don’t have enough communication practice to deal with the wide variety of personalities we might come across

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during our workday.

Making the decision to strengthen your people skills will be one of the best investments of your career. It makes handling the good clients easier and the not so good clients manageable. There are a few things that you can do to lessen the stress of having to interact with someone who is angry or

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critical, and learning the steps to reconciliation will give you a set of tools to work with as you practice.

1. Don’t take it personally.

There are hundreds of reasons why a person might be bent out of shape and you just so happened to be the focus of all that frustration. It might be difficult at first, but will

Think of a small toddler or a puppy.

They are very self– centered, and the world revolves around them, but when they don’t get their way, they may throw a tantrum.

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get easier with practice. Think of a small toddler or a puppy. They are very self–centered, and the world revolves around them, but when they don’t get their way, they may throw a tantrum. Sometimes, as adults, life’s frustrations can be overwhelming and we revert back to the time when we felt like we had no control and throw tantrums. I tend to think of these people as really needing someone to hear their story; after all, the tantrum has very little to do with you. Be patient, provide answers when you can, and patiently ride out the storm of their emotions until it calms down (or the police need to be called). I had a long–time client yell at me in my lobby about something totally unrelated to grooming and come back the next day to apologize.

Frustration happens to everyone.

2. Listen to what the upset party is saying. Many times, when someone gets upset with us, we internalize it and become very defensive. If there is blame to be had, take responsibility for your mistake and try to move forward to a resolution. If you feel you are in the right and the client is wrong, the best thing to do is find some middle ground where both of you can fix your differences. After all, who really wins if one person insists on being right? Attempt to change the dialogue from “us against each other” to “us against the problem” so that both parties can work toward a mutually beneficial solution.

3. Keep on topic. Many arguments can escalate if either party is allowed to use personal attacks, talks about issues other than the main issue at hand, or becomes violent. When violence happens, it is always a good idea to call the authorities, but negotiation might help to prevent this.

4. Forgive easily. When either party has a breakthrough or softens,

While rehashing scenarios in your brain will help to make you more resilient in the future, leaving the angst at the shop is the best way to keep yourself clear of stress so that you can give your full attention to your family. accept this as a sign to back down so the real problem solving can begin.

If you, as the shop owner, can make this happen on your part, this often triggers a sympathetic response in the client and brings the disruption to an end.

5. Leave it at the shop when you lock the door for the day. Sometimes the hardest thing is to not obsess over all the choices you didn’t make while talking with the difficult client and how you could have handled it differGroomer_Washer_Dryer_1_18.pdf

1

ently. While rehashing scenarios in your brain will help to make you more resilient in the future, leaving the angst at the shop is the best way to keep yourself clear of stress so that you can give your full attention to your family.

It is never easy to deal with people who are at their worst. I use the encounter to put myself in their shoes to see if I can better understand how they are feeling. If I am unable to do that, I try to remember that the 1/5/18

10:14 AM

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frustration is real for them so I give my best effort to assist them in whatever way I can. If I cannot reach them, I invite them out of my life with a genuine hope that they find the peace they are looking for.

Just because you might be an introvert doesn’t mean you can’t get better at communicating with people, it just means we have to practice so we get better because, ultimately, we really just want them to leave so we can be with their pet! &

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SALON SPOTLIGHT

by Jen Phillips April

DOG GROOMING

Setting the Standard for Communication & Animal Welfare When two childhood friends reconnected in 2011, they didn’t know they’d marry one another and open a series of dog grooming shops.

However, it all came together quickly and seven years later, they have six salons across two states.

W

illiam Berry came from the banking world while Khris had spent her career with animals as a groomer, dog kennel owner and dog behaviorist.

Khris was tired of the 24/7 pace of running a dog kennel and ready for a change. As the couple spoke about their experiences with pets, it became clear there was an opportunity to apply their combined business acumen to the dog grooming industry.

Khris says, “In an unlicensed, unregulated industry, we’re providing

22

standards. Our approach is groomer centric. We focus on education, training, and plenty of communication.”

A RIGOROUS TRAINING PROGRAM The couple has created processes and implemented a thorough training program for their staff across the six salons.

“We have an apprenticeship program. We train our own groomers to meet our high standards,” says Khris. “The training program is 18 months of training for sup-

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port staff including bathers, doggie daycare staff, and receptionists.

“For groomers, there is another 3–6 months of training as a groomer after the apprenticeship.”

According to William, “We hire people with the mindset they’ll be here 5–10+ years.”

One of the keys to their success is communication.

“We encourage our staff and groomers to be completely transparent. We encourage them to talk with the pet owners and let them know

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“Location is essential. We want to be a convenience. Three locations are in strip malls where they’re surrounded by major retailers in high income areas.”

— William Berry

both the good and bad.”

Khris says, “If a groomer muzzled a dog because the dog was aggressive, we don’t want them to then say to the dog owner, ‘oh, he was great.’ Instead, tell them you had to muzzle the dog because he was being aggressive.”

Their philosophy is when you communicate even “bad news” like this in a professional way, it leads to a stronger relationship with the client because they know you care.

Khris continues, “We teach our staff on proper dialogue. There’s a lot of coaching about how to talk to the client when the dog comes in. We give them a list of questions so they can build a rapport. We want them to know exactly what the customer wants. We also have a consultation process so that the client understands the price, what service their pet will get, and when they’ll get their pet back.

“We have animal handling guidelines. We follow the PPGSA, which is the gold standard. We believe every set of eyes in our building speaks for the animals. If you see something, report it,” adds Khris.

They’ve also created an Animal Advocacy Program outlining the steps to take if anyone sees inappropriate conduct.

In addition to education, professionalism and communication, there’s a fourth aspect to the “Team Spot” success—and that’s location!

LOCATION IS CRITICAL William says, “Location is essential. We want to be a convenience.

Three locations are in strip malls where they’re surrounded by major retailers in high income areas. We also want the salons close enough so they can create a community. We’ve been able to create a strong culture with both our groomers and our clients.”

While the flagship salon is in Louisville, Kentucky, the Berrys opened one in Florida in 2017 when

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Khris’s son and daughter–in–law moved to Florida. Now they have three salons in both states and some staff have gone to Kentucky to work and vice versa.

These cross–training opportunities help the staff get to know another salon and the other members of the staff. When asked about communication, Khris and William both laugh, “We over–communicate. The Florida staff feels like they know Kentucky and vice versa.

We have multiple communication threads and talk daily.”

Khris says, “Dog grooming is a career with a high burnout and injury rate. We want to make it enjoyable and lucrative. The more we support one another, the more we all flourish.”

She also says, “We’ve created a culture of teamwork. If they

26

see someone struggling, everyone helps. One groomer had surgery and couldn’t lift the dogs for a few weeks. So, everyone else helped.”

William chimes in, “We tell every employee you’re going to see us do exactly the same things we ask you to do. We cover lunches, the front desk, daycare, sweep, mop, vacuum. A good team requires open communication.”

A FAMILY–RUN OPERATION Khris says there are five family members involved. She, William, and her son serve as the admin team. They handle billing, scheduling, inventory, HR, etc. Her daughter–in–law is the head of training and her daughter heads the flagship store in Louisville.

Khris says her son and daughter were literally raised in the dog grooming business and have won

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many awards. Collectively, the family’s dog grooming experience adds up to roughly 113 years including son, daughter, daughter–in–law, Khris and William.

When Khris isn’t working in the day–to–day of running the salon, she speaks at industry events.

While William is newer to the grooming industry, he brings his experience in finance and forecasting to the team. “I’m passionate about the business and we’re always looking ahead. My background is projecting 6–12 months ahead. We don’t start the day wondering how we’re going to do it. We’ve already figured that out.”

What’s next for See Spot Grooming & Doggie Daycare? William and Khris have their sights set on growing the brand to ten salons.

We’re sure they will! &

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by Daryl Conner

SAFETY W STEPS FOR

Awareness

When I got my last puppy, I began taking him to Wag It Games classes. These were taught locally, and my dog and I both enjoyed them

tremendously. It was here that I was introduced to the concept of “rear end awareness.”

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ag It Games Master Instructor and judge Tracy Snow–Cormier from Portage, ME explains, “Dogs carry 60% of their body weight on their front ends naturally. And as a dog ages, it gets even more weight to the front end to reduce pain from their hind ends. Most dogs aren’t aware of their back legs.”

As a groomer, this was an important realization for me. So many dogs step one or both back legs off the grooming table. A stylist I used to work with would quip to the dogs, “There IS an end to your world,” when they would swing their hips back and step off into space.

The phenomena seems to be more common in new–to–the– grooming–process puppies and old, frail dogs. Very athletic dogs tended to be more adept at keeping all four paws on the tabletop.

Looking back, I considered the stepping off the edge behavior a strange mixture of misbehavior combined with lack of coordination.

When I learned the rear end awareness concept while training my puppy, a light came on in my sometimes dim brain. The dogs were not being naughty when they danced their fannies off my table; they were simply unaware of that portion of their body.

People who train their dogs in obedience, agility and similar sports make efforts to teach their pet how to be more conscious of the region behind their shoulders. This is important for precision heeling work, as well as maneuvering the types of obstacles found in the agility ring.

Snow–Cormier says, “Your dog’s awareness of his rear end is not only important for skills in dog sports, but also for living a healthy life. A dog that

can consciously control his back legs is less likely to trip and fall, is less likely to put undue stress on his spine and front end, and will learn to improve strength and stability through the hip joints. This is also important in later stages of life.”

So, why is this something groomers should be aware of? Let me tell you about a horrible story I heard many years ago. I’ve never forgotten it, because I can see how easily it could happen to anyone.

A groomer had a large breed dog on the table. She was scissoring its side, with the tips of the shears pointing up towards the dog’s spine. The dog stepped off the table with the hind leg closest to the groomer, and its body slammed downwards for one instant until it regained its footing and stood back up. The groomer then noticed blood dripping. It turned out that when

the dog's body mass dropped, the shears plunged deeply into its belly, then came out again as the dog stood. The groomer never realized this freak accident had occurred until she saw the blood.

This is the sort of potential mishap that gives me nightmares. I have been far more careful and understanding of dogs putting a rear foot off the table since learning of their inability to judge where their hindquarters are.

There are some simple exercises that we can do with our own pets to help them with rear end awareness, but Snow–Cormier had a great idea for pets on our table, too. “A simple trick that might help groomers in the moment is to slip soft, human hair scrunchies around each leg. I was introduced to this idea at a seminar where one student’s dog didn’t know it had hind legs.”

GroomertoGroomer.com

I have been far more careful and understanding of dogs putting a rear foot off the table since learning of their inability to judge where their hindquarters are.

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Stand with the dog’s head lifted. When the dog looks up while standing, the weight is shifted to the rear legs and this will increase strength and awareness of the rear legs.

Snow–Cormier also shared these simple exercises to improve rear end awareness: • Stand with the dog’s head lifted.

When the dog looks up while standing, the weight is shifted to the rear legs and this will increase strength and awareness of the rear legs.

• Walking backwards helps with balance and knowing where the dog’s hind limbs are. You can work on backing up by creating a narrow place such as a hallway or between a couch and a wall. Call the dog to you, then start walking toward them causing them to back up. Praise and reward even the

smallest step backward, until the dog can take several steps. You can lure them by holding a treat low, at chest level (most dogs automatically sit if the treat is held high.)

• Put a ladder on the ground and teach your dog to walk through it. They have to pay attention to their rear feet or they step on the rungs.

• Place random poles on the ground and teach your dog to step over them.

• Teach your dog to back up onto a low stair or similar object.

In your grooming space, you can do several things to keep dogs safer

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

on the table: • Be aware that the dog is not being purposely disobedient when it seems to have no control of its hindquarters.

• Keep your table up against a wall to reduce the area a dog can step off of.

• Use a Groomers Helper tool to assist the dog in maintaining a central position on the table.

• Use a purpose–made support strap under the tuck up and attached to the grooming arm.

• Try tying a ribbon or sliding a hair scrunchy on the dog’s rear legs to help them be more aware of them.

• Engage an assistant to help stabilize the dog if it is moving so much as to be a danger to itself.

• See if the dog’s owner would be willing to practice some of the above exercises at home between grooming appointments.

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GROOMING GAB

by Kathy Hosler

CUSTOMER SERVICE: YOU GET

OUT

WHAT

YOU

I

PUT IN

had driven more than 100 miles when I pulled up in front of the Crile building in the enormous Cleveland Clinic complex.

"This is our first time here," I said to the parking attendant who met our car.

"This place is huge; it's overwhelming."

He greeted us with a warm smile and said, "Don't worry. We will take good care of you here."

We entered the building and a concierge in a red blazer welcomed us and asked how he could assist us. He quickly directed us to the surgeon's office and even showed us where we could get some much needed coffee.

Every person we met with that day—from the receptionists to the surgeon—all gave us their undivided attention. They did not rush us, and answered all of our questions and concerns. As we were leaving, the gentleman who returned our

32

You may be the most talented groomer around, but if you are abrasive, aloof or condescending when you interact with people, they will soon find someone else. car asked if we needed directions or if there was anything else he could assist us with. I was so impressed.

So, what does my Cleveland Clinic experience have to do with pet grooming? Just this: no matter what industry you are in, customer service is a vital part of your business. Grooming is definitely a service industry, making your customer service skills every bit as important as your grooming skills.

You may be the most talented groomer around, but if you are abrasive, aloof or condescending when you interact with people, they will

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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soon find someone else. Besides, if you are not warm and caring towards the owners, why would they trust you with their pets?

That goes for every member of your staff as well. From the moment a person makes an appointment, until they walk out the door with their freshly groomed pet, it's everyone's job to make them feel valued and appreciated.

I once went into a facility that had this sign posted on the wall, “Our customer service manager is Helen Waite.

If you have a complaint, go to Helen Waite”. The owners may have thought

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• Absorbs quickly, and does not leave an oily residue.

• Daily Brushing & Créme Rinse aid in pet DeShedding.

34

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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that the sign was funny or cute, but I won't be able to ask them. They are no longer in business.

First impressions often set the tone for a lasting relationship. Being greeted with a smile and a reassuring, "We'll take good care of you here," really helped calm the anxiety and uncertainty I felt in an unfamiliar place.

It's important to greet every customer promptly with a warm welcome and a genuine smile. Address the people and pets by their names.

(I always speak to the pet first.)

While you are interacting with each pet and owner, they should feel like they are the most important client (and pet) that you have...because at that moment, they are.

Effective client communication and problem–solving are crucial customer service skills. If a customer comes to you with a problem, give them your full attention. Actively listen to them. Focus on making it a positive interaction. If they have a valid concern, find a workable solution. Go the extra mile to be understanding, but if the client is unreasonable, do not allow yourself to be drawn into an argument. Keep your cool. Arguing never leads to anything good. But, successfully resolving a problem helps create a loyal client.

Providing good customer service doesn't mean that you become a doormat who allows people to walk all over you. Learning how to diplomatically handle difficult situations such as missed appointments, chronic cancellations and late pickups can make a world of difference. Move from reactive to proactive customer service. Head off problems before they start.

To help eliminate no–shows and last minute cancellations, do what doctors, dentists and other pro-

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Do not let them bully you into de–matting a pet when you know it's not in the pet's best interest. Have them read and sign a matted pet release.

If they refuse, you can simply decline to groom the pet.

fessionals do. Remind the client of their appointment. Contact them by phone call, text, email or a reminder card. Many salons send out multiple reminders; first a week before the appointment, then three days before and again the day before. Make sure to include your policies on every reminder. For example: “50% of the grooming fee will be charged for missed appointments or any appointment that is cancelled without 24 hour notice.”

An example of another frequent problem we encounter is the matted pet. At check–in, you place the pet on your table and determine that it should have a #10 all over, but the owner insists that they want a fluffy puppy cut. Show them the matting

om w fr e N

GENERAL PET RELEASE FORM

MATTED PET

R EASE FORM CAGE DRYEREL RELEASE FORM

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that every effort will be made to make your pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary

Date Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! safety Because we care about your pet’s Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! you that Pet Name

and well being, we want to assure us. will be made to make your effort your pet is important every to The health, safety and comfort of pet’s visit as pleasant as possible. in conversations We also believe in including you Because your pet is severely tangled about the care of your pet. injury, stress and more or matted, it is at greater risk of The use of a cage dryer is safer and All precautions will be taken. However, we dog, trauma. your comfortable for some dogs. For or after We will problems occasionally arise, during recommend the use of a cage dryer. mental or such as nicks, clipper irritation and when grooming, practices safe following the adhere to physical stress. the dryer is in use: request your permission to In the best interest of your pet, we • Dryers must have working temperature should it become necessary. obtain immediate veterinary treatment gauges and timers. used. be for cage drying will to • Only equipment manufactured this grooming establishment I hereby grant permission to be followed. for my pet at my expense.

• Manufacturer instructions will obtain emergency veterinary treatment during will be properly monitored. have a greater chance of injury • Dogs drying in a cage dryer Also, realizing that matted pets a cage dryer to be used. establishment responsible for • Owner must give consent for grooming, I will not hold this grooming I hereby grant permission to this

treatment should it become necessary.

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

accident or injury to my pet.

grooming establishment to

comfortable drying of my dog. use a cage dryer for the safe and Owner Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Date

Pet Name

Pet Name

Owner Name

and explain how tight the mats are to the skin and how painful it would be to even try to brush them out. Hand the owner the comb and let them try.

Tell them that their pet's wellbeing and comfort are your top priority. Do not let them bully you into de–matting a pet when you know it's not in the pet's best interest. Have them read and sign a matted pet release. If they refuse, you can simply decline to groom the pet.

Some customers are difficult and others are great, but we have to deal with them all. Great customer service doesn't happen by accident. It takes dedication, work and great people skills, but the payoff can be huge. In customer service, you get out what you put in. &

Same Message, SENIORNPE EWT Style.

RELEASE FORM Pet Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that every effort will be made to make your senior pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

I hereby grant permission to this

grooming establishment to

obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Also, realizing that aged pets have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

Owner Name Owner Name

Signature

Signature

Signature Signature #MP-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, #CD-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions,

.com

Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh

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Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh

#PR-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com

#SP-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions,

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Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh

See page 77 for details or visit www.barkleighstore.com

36

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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.com

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DOG “SPEAKING”

E by Lynne Swanson, DVM e

If you were approached by someone

speaking Tamil, Russian or Swedish, would you easily understand them? Would their attempts at communication set you and that person up for success?

W

hat if they used social cues reflecting cultures you didn’t know? Would it make it easy to work together as a team?

Probably not without a little help.

Communication is clearer when parties use the same language and when they follow the same social cues. The more languages and cultures we understand, the more powerful our ability to connect with others.

Some languages are difficult to master, but “dog” isn’t one of them— despite some unique social cues. When people understand canine body language and when we honor canine social rules, we communicate better with the dogs in our care. We also prevent common behavioral issues, including, but not limited to, stranger reactivity, aggression, resource guarding and

38

certain types of barking.

Canine body language is rooted in posture, position, movement and energy, and dogs interpret our posture, positions, movement and energy (in quantity and quality) in the context of their species.

Here are four simple ways to make your posture, positions, movement and energy more canine–intuitive, especially with reactive dogs: 1. Reach straight down (and not out): Even dogs that know you may hesitate to come close if you reach out for them. This is where a slight adjustment in direction and posture can make a huge difference. Turning to face the same direction as a dog before taking a short step away with few taps of your hand against your leg encourages him to approach to your side so you can reach down for him (as

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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opposed to reaching out). With small dogs, crouching helps. Moving to allow side–by–side positioning sends a more inviting and less intimidating message than standing still and reaching out ever will. Add a gentle “Come here” and most dogs will happily approach.

2. Pass small dogs between people back–first: Ask any Chihuahua.

Hand–held dogs hate being passed face–first to other people, and many get quite reactive as a result. Face–first movement pushes a dog into another’s personal space, and it disregards polite canine “smell my butt” social cues.

Passing a small dog back–first avoids these issues while allowing the original holder to be a calming point of reference. It is safer for everyone involved and less confrontational for the dog.

3. Put owner–protective dogs on your team: The concept of being

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When dogs walk or stand side–by–side, the psychology is a lot like a school of fish, a football team or a family. There is the spirit of unity, security, togetherness and of “us” and “them” distinction.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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“on the same team” is important to dogs. When dogs walk or stand side– by–side, the psychology is a lot like a school of fish, a football team or a family. There is the spirit of unity, security, togetherness and of “us” and “them” distinction.

This is especially true of owner– protective dogs, both large and small.

Complicating their natural wariness is often the nervousness of their owners. Walking up to these dogs face–to–face with your hand out for their leash, even with your posture calm and confident, is never the best idea because your position places you on another team.

So, what is the best approach?

Simple repositioning to place the dog and his owner on your team! Passing the leashes of owner–protective dogs while standing side–by–side facing the same direction and having owners walk away to leave their dogs “on your staff ’s team” is so much safer (and canine–intuitive) than reaching for a dog’s leash while standing across from his owner.

4. Play the muzzle game: Some dogs accept handling better when wearing a comfortable muzzle, especially when this relaxes the nervous or fearful energy of the people around them. That said, how we introduce a muzzle can make a huge difference. Do we slip a muzzle over a dog’s nose, snap its clasp, carry on with our work and whip the muzzle off when we’re none? We don’t.

What kind of message would that send to him? How would that set him up to be relaxed around us and happy to wear a muzzle in the future?

When it comes time to put a muzzle on, we should make the experience into a pleasurable game. We use our palmed muzzle as a vessel to feed small biscuit pieces until the dog readily sticks his nose in it to get treats. We rub some whipped cheese on its nose end and,

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sitting or standing next to the dog (not across from him), we let him lick a lot of it off before we slip the muzzle over his nose and take it off with a soft “good boy” and a big smile. We put it on again and then remove it with the same quiet praise. This on/off game is repeated several times until the dog accepts the muzzle in a calm manner, at which point we snap it behind his ears, give him a short massage, take it off and put it on again—this time snapping the buckle for good. We are creating trust and good associations through repetition, the better for him to be comfortable with a muzzle in the future.

With dogs that come to us with very strong negative associations with muzzles, we ask their owners to purchase a muzzle and play our muzzle game at home prior to their trip to the clinic. It changes everyone’s perception of a muzzle from negative to very positive.

42

What is commonly called “socialization” gets dogs used to the way humans do things—such as the way we look directly at others, reach toward them and approach their personal space with a lot of conversation but without allowing time for a good sniff.

“Dog” will always be his first language, with “human” a distant second (and dogs view some of the things we do as quite rude). Using canine–intuitive (nose–first, moving, non–verbal and indirect) social cues will always make dogs more comfortable than using human ones. Dogs don’t have to think about them. They don’t have to “get used” to them. Rather, their relaxed response comes naturally.

The more we, as grooming professionals, learn about canine culture, social cues and non–verbal communication, the more skilled we can become when working with a variety of dogs.

The bonus is, canine culture has a lot

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

GroomertoGroomer.com

to teach us! Rooted in balance (as opposed to drama and trauma and who– said–what–to–whom), canine culture likes to seize the moment, and when the moment isn’t so great, it gets moving, both physically and psychologically, to move on to better things. & Lynne Swanson, DVM is the author of “Learning DOG” and “SMILE! and other practical life lessons your dogs can teach you (while you are training them).”

Together with her Doberman partner, Hiker, she enjoys traveling the U.S. and Canada to speak at conferences and volunteer with the not–for–profit SMILE! Project. This project provides training for shelter, rescue, boarding, training and veterinary personnel (in groups of 30 or more, often networking together), and it raises funds to support dog rescue and the SMILE! pet–parenting library initiative. For more information, call Jan at 252 422 0943.

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For exam e thefegroo f is lid ines su staf elec to fit your -car spec a pl fo ch ise stressful e use to furt hairm blanher n the t el min his gtoes Our ongs ze. and feet,t to noise and his head g ho ro-utthe clippers and n isWe ple, if you style tioof from ehold no lmin to us! s mak timeand d cow us dees. ate, e, crate that pe the niqu to brush don’t have We you have ecrsens man cttoam in the hs l tech , fricova t an yallo thfor pets in iethat w to brushing and is a Your your pets Socialize ears.sche Introducekno as busy eePet him pets barking, bath remel ges , bi hous verwhe andryers, rt other quwate ed love we can set ucts l inst that at home, dule s and Plac inat does it’s hard to w s landleprodthe to • O le, ch time d. play u neThat’s ns even r and up week turaall op combing in fun, important.whe five-minute brushing, Expose fit ever can rs, astool t be really l yoswim e th ly or bi-w catio and maisessions. r pe , thesena bust ntenance re your pet’s ythi ng in - that t, al d pe. Aurquic eekly hom k rub embe thei ed must learn and oving, va ily ’s him some treats appointm star eet, anhim Praise to new be m new people, experiences. and give places, and stylisthim them in uses e stressPets can help Our salo of yo sh d tip-top shap ents to keep as m een fam tothaccept .When you are drying at ca everything n canfor other animals. The earlier you start being l or toa corner that happens le ar e floo take e. In addi if you have caregood. of all your betw uation n peop renalin e of smel tion, in a spec working your them own with during sit hair, him, ial let the the your pet grooming process, better – but, he event plan youlook willatbe any ss. W ch as ad al ’s sens odor of ned, re it’s never too late to be effective. and hear your hair dryer when it sure to get the hold su toan the lvall im stillizethrough ingof it. to st onesand time slot vo An Preparing your pet for his ‘big day is on. Soon the noise and blowing cogn your pet to have a n in horm dies. 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or “s

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Written by industry experts covering at-home pet care tips, safety and upkeep targeted at your clients!

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Customer Not THE (CAT GROOMING)

IS

ALWAYS RIGHT

In the field of grooming, cats tend to bring out emotions and opinions. With strong emotions and opinions on

the groomer’s side, how does customer service fit into your business model?

H

ow do we successfully balance “the customer is always right” verses “humanity before vanity” so we can stay in business?

Growing up, I repeatedly heard “the customer is always right”. When I entered the grooming industry, I began to wonder…are they? We are in an industry whose motto is “humanity before vanity”. When your business focuses on humane

44

grooming of every cat, it becomes impossible for every customer to get what they want. Matted cats will not always go home in full, flowing coats.

Elderly cats will not always go home in a summer lion cut. When “humanity before vanity” is your motto, the customer cannot always be right.

Did I just say that? The customer is not always right? Yes, that is exactly what I said. That leads us to the next question. If the customer is not

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always right, how do we stay in business and keep them as our customers?

Through education!

Education is the key to customer service in a field that focuses on always doing what is best for the cat. We have to educate our clients in order for them to understand why they cannot always have what they want. It is through client education that we get matted cats onto a regular schedule so they can have long,

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You have two choices: you can agree to do what the client wants, or you can tell the client that it is not possible at this visit. If it is not possible at this visit, provide education so the client understands why their vision is not an option for today’s grooming services. flowing coats. It is through client education that we help elderly cats gracefully move into the next phase of their grooming life; from lion cut to comb cut.

When a new client walks in the door, they usually have a picture or some idea in their head of what they want their cat to look like after the groom. Usually coat condition, age, genetics, living environment and/or diet limit what we can do at this first visit. You have two choices: you can

46

agree to do what the client wants, or you can tell the client that it is not possible at this visit. If it is not possible at this visit, provide education so the client understands why their vision is not an option for today’s grooming services.

Providing education makes the difference between never seeing that cat again and that cat getting onto a regular schedule. So, how do we successfully educate a client? We educate by presenting verbal, written

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and online instruction.

That can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially for a new groomer. But remember, any step toward change is a step in the right direction. Don’t get overwhelmed. Start small and move forward at a pace that is right for your business.

Early in my house–call career, I had a call to groom a purebred Himalayan. The current owner was a very successful business owner and the previous owner was a very

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Using your website to refer (link) clients to educational information will not only show your clients you are a professional, but will also help them self–educate.

JODI MURPHY Visit our website to see what other groomers have to say about the Prima Bathing System.

48

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successful politician. After much name–dropping, I was terrified. As soon as I touched the cat, I knew it was not humane to provide the requested service. I also knew the cat was aggressive. I took a deep breath, the cat literally growled, and I started reciting everything I was taught as to why this cat needed a lion cut. To my amazement, the client agreed. To this day, that client is a five–weeker.

The first two years I dreaded his appointment. I always had to tell the owner that his newest request was not an option due to the aggression level of the cat. Since I could explain why I was declining his request, he would grumble and then generously tip me. Over the years, I have been able to slowly use verbal education to help educate him on what is best for his cat. Verbal education is the key that flipped this one–time client to a ten–grooms–a–year client.

About six months after I opened my grooming business, I started providing written information on why cats need grooming, humanity vs vanity grooming, and what to expect after a cat gets groomed. If you can write or gather information that supports these three key areas, it will go miles to helping your clients understand the entire cat grooming process. Written information is a great tool to present to a client at drop–off to help them prepare for pick–up. It will establish you as a knowledgeable professional and will decrease the questions you will receive at pick–up and in the following days.

Online education reaches your clients before you even know they are your clients. Using your website to refer (link) clients to educational information will not only show your clients you are a professional, but

will also help them self–educate.

When your website informs a client that elderly cats will not get a lion cut, then links out to another source, it raises your credibility and also helps build the relationship with your client.

Today I had a new client cat named Lemon. Lemon’s owner had spent extensive time on my website before they scheduled an appointment. From my website, the owner learned that older cats, like Lemon, may not be candidates for a lion cut. After I checked Lemon’s weight and hydration, and spoke on other topics that were not covered on my website, an instant respect was formed, which gave the client confidence that I would provide the best possible grooming services for Lemon.

In the grooming industry, the customer is not always right. We must use education to teach the client why they cannot have what they are asking for, and to teach them the alternative ways to get the desired outcome they were hoping for. Cat groomers should use client education to their advantage. Educating owners before their scheduled appointment by using your website to its full potential, then at drop–off and pick–up, using verbal and written information, will not only build your reputation, but increase your loyal and faithful client base. &

When your website informs a client that elderly cats will not get a lion cut, then links out to another source, it raises your credibility and also helps build the relationship with your client.

Find us on

Twitter!

@barkleighinc

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49

Hook,

Line & Sinker:

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO

W

ith social media, everything you need to show the world who and what your brand stands for is right at your fingertips. You create the content.

You drive the image/branding that you want your company to represent.

You get to decide what the world sees, where your company is concerned. Social media is an institution in society where you have control over what goes out into the world about your business.

Social media gives you the chance to create any image you want for your business. You get to create a brand from the ground up. Social media is your way of telling the world what your brand means in quality, images, aesthetics, etc. It is your chance to shine. It is instantaneous.

The results can be measured. And, unlike advertising that often involves contracts, you can always stop a video, post or messaging campaign when you are ready.

You just have to put your brand out there on the right social media platform with something that catches the attention of the consumer and social media can help your business.

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

E by Tip Campbell e

Producing social media content and social media marketing is like fishing. Use good bait, find the right spot and the fish will be hooked.

50

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Let’s examine the most popular platforms available.

Twitter is for word messages and photos. It is like sending someone a text. You can use this platform to type a message that can be read and digested quickly. It is usually best for shorter messages and for photos. You might “live–tweet” a contest or competition that one of your groomers is in to keep followers abreast of how they are doing and what all is involved in the preparation and competition.

Instagram is visual messaging. It uses photos to tell stories. Here, the

focus is on the photo or graphic, not written messaging. You might showcase your grooms on this platform or show photos of your salon or mobile.

YouTube allows you to do video demonstrations or presentations. It is for video uploads. You could use this platform to also give tours and answer questions, or educate clients through this platform.

Facebook is the most versatile of the platforms. It can function as a combination of the three above.

Using Facebook, you can show your brand and tell your story through photos, videos and written posts.

You can use Facebook live to give tours of your facility or have “coffee chats” about topics in the industry that clients might need to understand or be aware of.

According to the MeyerFoundation.org, 60% of Facebook users are 35 and older. So, you are likely to reach more of your target pet owner groups using Facebook than other platforms.

Regardless of the platform you choose, the most important step is to dive in and begin.

60%

discuss industry books you’ve read to show your clients and potential clients just how knowledgeable you are.

• How did you get started? What was that “a–ha” moment (if you had one) that made you realize that grooming was the right fit for you?

Talk about that and share that inspiration with your clients.

OF

USERS ARE

35 & Older

Like all endeavors, there are ways to improve your social media skills. Learning the ropes can help tremendously.

So, you are likely to reach more of your

DOS AND DON’TS –Do be positive. Always focus on educating the clients. Want them to brush more? SHOW them how to brush properly on social media. Get permission to use a matted dog and let them see how important brushing really is.

target pet owner groups using Facebook than other platforms.

STARTING POINTS If you are just getting started in the world of social media marketing, pick a time, a topic and just START. If you worry too much about achieving perfection, you might never get going.

Here is a list of my favorite prompts: • Write down a list of three things you want your existing clientele to know about your business.

• Pick one at–home skill that you wish you could teach owners. Demonstrate that skill on social media.

• What new product have you started using in the salon? What are the benefits?

• Talk about the educational seminars, conferences and conformational dog shows you’ve attended, and

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51

Tips from the Experts Laura Lee Peterson loves using Facebook contests to get noticed. “We do a ‘Dog of The Month’ and the winner is decided by the most likes. So, people share their dogs to get more likes.”

Mobile groomer, Jennifer Sickels says, “I make sure to include a video (on Facebook.) Videos catch more attention and draw people in.”

Mary Oquendo, of Pawsitive Educational Training, suggests, “Be visible and share your knowledge…without expectations. Establish your authority. Clients need to feel you have the skills to solve their problem.”

–Do talk about your salon and all the good things you have going on. Attending a trade show? Post the continuing education seminars that you’ll be attending. Post a photo from the convention with a speaker or showing you learning about a technique or product. Most vendors and speakers will be more than happy to take a photo with you or help you get a photo to post online!

–Do ask open–ended questions.

In order to get more page/handle activity on Facebook and Twitter, try to stay away from asking yes or no questions. Ask questions like, “Where is your favorite place to walk your dog in Nashville?” or “What’s your dog’s favorite treat?”

–Do be aware of your surround-

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groomersbest.com 605-582-3013

Pet Release Forms Helping you do your job with a modern, professional look!

GENERAL PET RELEASE FORM Date

Pet Name

MATTED PET RELEASE FORM Pet Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! safety Because we care about your pet’s you that and well being, we want to assure your every effort will be made to make pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose e a hidden medical problem or aggravat or after a current one. This can occur during grooming. we request In the best interest of your pet, te veterinary your permission to obtain immedia y. necessar become it treatment should

MOBILE SALON RELEASE FORM

to this grooming establish ment I hereby grant permissio n to treatmen t for my pet at my expense. obtain emergenc y veterinary

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that every effort will be made to make your pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Because your pet is severely tangled or matted, it is at greater risk of injury, stress and trauma. All precautions will be taken. However, problems occasionally arise, during or after grooming, such as nicks, clipper irritation and mental or physical stress.

CAT GROOMING In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

RELEASE FORM

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Also, realizing that matted pets have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

SENIOR PET RELEASE FORM Pet Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that every effort will be made to make your senior pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

PET SAFETY

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

I hereby grant permission to this

RELEASE FORM grooming establishm

ent to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Also, realizing that aged pets have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishm ent responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

Owner Name

Owner Name

Owner Name Pet Name

Date

Pet Name Signature

Signature

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! leigh.com safety ns, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.bark Because we care about your pet’s #PR-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productio you that and well being, we want to assure your every effort will be made to make pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Please understand that due to the will very nature of being mobile we ent occasionally be late for an appointm control (traffic, accidents, weather, due to circumstances beyond our unavoidable time delays. etc.) and cannot be held liable for a hidden medical problem Occasionally, grooming can expose . can occur during or after grooming or aggravate a current one. This we request your permission to In the best interest of your pet, t should it become necessary. obtain immediate veterinary treatmen

grooming establishment to obtain I hereby grant permission to this for my pet at my expense. emergency veterinary treatment

Owner Name Signature

leigh.com

ns, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.bark

#VR-2 © 2017 Barkleigh Productio

Date

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well #MP-2 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 being,©we want to assure you that every effort will be • www.barkleigh.com made to make your pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Cats are creatures of habit and when exposed to a new environment they can experience elevated stress levels. In the event that your cat is too stressed to safely continue the groom, all procedures will stop and you will be notified immediately.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense. Also, realizing that cats have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

Pet Name Signature

for 2018

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to utilize proper restraints for the health and safety of my pet and my grooming service provider during today’s grooming service. I understand and agree that if the grooming establishm ent deems it unsafe or unhealthy to continue for the pet or the groomer, the grooming establishment will end today’s service and I will be responsible for any services rendered.

Owner Name

Signature

Signature

#SF-2 © 2018 Barkleigh Productio

ns, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.bark

Hard–backed pads with 50 tear–away forms per pad.

www.barkleighstore.com

NEW

Because we care about your pet’s safety, we want to assure you that every precautio #SP-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productio n will be taken to provide ns, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.bark a safe and stress–free grooming experience for your leigh.com pet. Due to the intimate nature of the grooming process, or a pet’s tolerance level for stress, strangers, or handling, some pets can become anxious or reactive during the grooming service.

If we determine that continuing the grooming service would present a threat to your dog’s emotional or physical health, and/or the safety of groomer completing the service, we will discontinue today’s service and contact you immediate ly.

We will take every precaution necessary to complete the grooming service safely and humanely including the proper use of common industry safety equipment such as grooming loops, muzzles, and restraints.

Owner Name

#FR-2 © 2017 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

leigh.com

Don't complain or use social media to blast your customers or try to call customers out for matted dogs, bad attitudes or any of the million things groomers encounter every day.

ings when you post audio, video or go live. Background noise and voices can drown out any message you are trying to send. If you have a mess in the background, people will focus on the mess. Aim for a clean, quiet area with others aware that social media filming or posting is happening.

–Do show off your work! You have the chance to show off your talent and build an online portfolio.

Use it! Pet moms and dads will most likely post well–done photos of their pet to their wall, increasing your chance of getting eyes on your posts.

–Don’t complain or use social media to blast your customers or try to call customers out for matted dogs, bad attitudes or any of the million things groomers encounter every day.

An important part of public relations

is keeping the negativity off of business pages. Focus on the positive!

–Don’t forget to ask permission to feature the clients on social media or have a release form in the paperwork.

–Don’t try to be TOO funny or cute. Your sense of humor might not be someone else’s cup of tea. While people want your personality in your posts, remember that personalities vary. So, a good middle ground is what you should aim for.

–Don’t put too much personal information in your posts. It’s ok to do features about your groomers in a “Get to know your groomer” style post. But don’t talk about your personal issues in your posts. Keep it professional.

–Don’t forget to mention your brand in every post. Whether you mention your brand verbally or through a graphic, make sure that your brand is on every bit of content that goes out. If something goes viral for the RIGHT reasons, you want people to know from where it came.

–Don’t be scared! Be confident in yourself, your training and your skillset.

No matter if you’re an old hat at handling social media or if you are just starting to learn the ropes, remember, using social media is like going fishing; use good bait (social media content), check frequently to see if you’ve gotten any bites or if anyone needs follow–up messaging or posts, and follow through with your social content to reel in the customers! &

Find us on

Twitter!

@barkleighinc 54

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STYLED UP

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AFTER

BEFORE

WHAT’S UP WITH THE

MOD CON? T he Modified Continental (MC) trim seemed to come out of the woodwork the last couple of years, yet it has been around for a very long time. The MC has also been known as a Historically Correct Continental (HCC). But why are we seeing it in the conformation show ring and grooming competitions more

56

and more frequently?

The versatility of this trim allows dogs to be shown in conformation or used for grooming competitions without having the maintenance and upkeep of its more dramatic cousin, the Continental trim. This trim allows you to show off the dog’s assets and still allows

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them to participate in performance events such as hunting, dock diving, etc. With the growing popularity of the trim and the viral nature of social media, it’s not long before our clients bring in a picture and start asking for their poodles to look like a poodle.

But maybe this is wishful thinking!

This pictorial will follow Teddy the

pet poodle’s journey from a German trim to his new style in an MC with step by step instructions, as well as recommendations for where more hair can be grown to alter the total outline of the trim.

Fig 1) This shows Teddy after his bath, blow dry and fluff dry. His feet, face and sanitary have been shaved and his nails have been ground. Teddy has been in a shaved face and feet for quite some time so his skin is comfortable with a shorter blade (a #30 was used). It’s always best to start with a longer blade and gradually work to a shorter blade. Teddy also has a fabulous goatee that his owner requested be left—it’s his signature pizazz.

Fig 2) We will begin this trim by shaving the pattern in. We discussed

FIG. 1

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57

FIG. 2

FIG. 3

FIG. 5

FIG. 6

FIG. 4

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the blade length for the face and feet, but since Teddy has been in scissored legs for a while, I opted to shave his legs in a #10 blade. Once he has been in this trim for a while and his skin holds up, we will drop it down to a #30 or #40 blade. Start shaving in an upward motion from about one finger above the hocks.

Fig 3) Shave the top of the leg in the direction from rump to front, making sure to stay well below where our rosette will need to be started.

Fig 4) Set the tail band with the tail up. You will also determine the rear placement of the rosettes with the tail up as well. The rosettes should be out of the path of the tail plume. Keep in mind, since Teddy is transitioning from a German trim to this Mod Con, his tail will need to grow a considerable amount of hair still.

Fig 5) Start shaving the pattern on the front legs with the same blade you used on the rear leg. Measure the height of the bracelet on the back leg to help you set the height of the bracelet on the front leg.

Fig 6) Since Teddy is overall longer than he is tall, I shaved his entire elbow and a little above it to help give him the appearance of more leg. On a well–balanced dog, you could just shave to the elbow.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

Fig 7) Continue shaving the pattern on the side by finding the back of your jacket. I like to start about a finger or two behind the last rib so that I can work my way to the proper jacket placement. On a balanced dog, typically this will be the last rib.

Fig 8) Make a band from one side of the dog to the other to help set the jacket line all the way around.

Fig 9) This is what the dog looks like after the pattern has been shaved in and before we scissor the excess coat off.

Fig 10) Begin by beveling the back of the jacket all the way around the dog. Comb all of the hair down and scissor it off at the shave line at the elbow. This helps bevel your GroomertoGroomer.com

jacket up as well.

Fig 11) Finish off the jacket by scissoring the underline from the back of the jacket to the elbow, and round it up and in.

Fig 12) Begin scissoring the rosettes by first combing all of the hair back and scissoring it off, next combing the hair forward and scissoring it, and then combing the hair down and scissoring it off.

This helps get the excess coat off as well as helps you inch your way to the perfect size and shape rosette. I find it easiest to scissor a “rounded” box on the rosettes and then gently round the corners off. This way you get balanced rosettes that aren’t too small. Remember, it’s best to leave

HAVE YOUR CLIENTS BEEN d r a w A l e Little Agenlg Award Little An at

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FIG. 13

FIG. 14

FIG. 15

FIG. 16

FIG. 17

FIG. 18

Kanintteers

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13 Piece

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#6429

7 Piece Set #6542

4 Piece Bone Set

DOG BONE

RECIPES

INCLUDED!

WWW.BARKLEIGHSTORE.COM

62

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

more hair and be able to tweak it as you step away from the dog to examine than if you accidentally take too much off!

Fig 13) Finished rosettes are balanced, rounded and beveled from shorter on the bottom and fuller on top. This is a detail that commonly gets left out!

Fun fact: Rosettes are optional on the Modified Continental! But before you go shaving off your contest dog’s rosettes, make sure the dog has a great topline and tail set to pull it off “naked”!

Fig 14) Begin the bracelets by combing the hair down and scissor around the foot to trim the excess hair off. Once this is completed, comb the hair up and scissor around the leg in the same fashion. Remember, rear bracelets should be higher in the back and angle down toward the front. The front brace-

GroomertoGroomer.com

lets should be the same height all the way around.

Fig 15) This shows a finished front bracelet beside an unfinished one.

Fig 16) Scissor the sides of the neck tight. This helps to show off the length of neck the dog has. Leaving extra hair here will shorten the appearance of the dog’s neck.

Fig 17) Begin scissoring the top knot by trimming over the eyes.

Fig 18) Scissor the sides of the top knot in. This is one of the major differences between a Mod Con and a regular scissored top knot, and unfortunately Teddy doesn’t have enough hair to demonstrate the proper top knot. It is imperative that the ears blend in with the top knot on a Mod Con. There should be no break above the ears as is common on a regular scissored topknot. That would be an incorrect interpretation of this trim. As Teddy’s ears continue

growing in from his German trim, they will get blended into the topknot and form an unbroken line from the top of his topknot to the bottom of the ear.

Another Mod Con fun fact: You can scissor the top knot like normal, or band it with a bubble as you would the Continental trim—whichever gives your dog the desired expression!

Fig 19) Scissor in the neck of the dog. In order to get a nice transition and not pinch the neck or leave too much hair to create a “hump”, make sure the dog’s head is up and in the correct position when scissoring this part. Blend the neck in with the topline over the shoulder blades, again, being aware that the dog’s head and neck are in the proper stacked position while trimming. If they aren’t, the neck will not have a proper shape.

Again, this is a trim that will need to grow some hair and tweak on the shape of the jacket, tail and top knot areas, but learning where to set the lines and the ins and outs of the trim will really be a great foundation that you can build upon and tweak as the dog comes back into your shop.

A great resource for this trim is the Facebook group, Poodles in Modified Continental. There is a wealth of knowledge and information, as well as experts available to critique.

I hope all of you have clients bringing their dogs in asking for them to be “poodled” and that you rise to the challenge! &

FIG. 19

In order to get a nice transition and not pinch the neck or leave too much hair to create a “hump”, make sure the dog’s head is up and in the correct position when scissoring this part.

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

65

FOR YOUR BUSINESS Giant Clip Cards

Available Colors

Our most popular card! 5” x 8” Clip Cards 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.

Medium Clip Cards

Indicate B for blue, G for Green, Y for Yellow, P for pink, or L for lavender for order.

u NEW LAST

BREED

SIZE

NAME

M

F

Clip Card Reg Special $21.95 Clip Card Med Special $28.95 Clip Card Giant Special $34.95

Giant Feline Clip Cards Just like our most popular Clip Card but specific for Cat Grooming. 5” x 8” card features a feline diagram and exclusive feline checklist including “FIV,” “FeLV,” and “Declawed.” White only.

VACCINATIONS

Giant FELINE Clip Card – 5 x 8 #6766 Pack of 100 #6767 Pack of 500 #6768 Pack of 1000

MEDICAL PROBLEMS In event of an emergency, I authorize this establishment to provide necessary treatment for my pet at my expense.

#

GF GIANT FELINE CLIP CARD © 2018 • Barkleigh Productions Inc. • (717) 691-3388 • Fax (717) 691-3381 • www.barkleigh.com

SIGNATURE

FIRST

PRIMARY WORK PH SECONDARY PH SECONDARY WORK PH EMAIL M

SIZE

NAME

F

BIRTHDATE

COLOR PH

VET MEDICAL PROBLEMS

✓ALL THAT APPLY: EASY FAIR DIFFICULT BITER CAGE SOILER NOISY SHY BURNS EASILY CHECK EARS

BLIND DEAF ARTHRITIC DIABETIC EPILEPTIC MOLES, WARTS, ETC. FIV FeLV DECLAWED FRONT

CLIP

$

CLIP

$

BACK

MFC MEDIUM FELINE CLIP CARDS

© 2018 • Barkleigh Productions Inc. • (717) 691-3388 • Fax (717) 691-3381 • www.barkleigh.com

LAST

PRIMARY WORK PH SECONDARY PH SECONDARY WORK PH

BREED SIZE NAME

M

F

COLOR

EMAIL CLIP

AGE

VET MEDICAL PROBLEMS

FC Feline Clip Cards © 2018 • Barkleigh Productions Inc. • www.barkleigh.com

CHG. $ EASY

NEUT

Clip Card specific for Cat clients! 4” x 6” card features exclusive feline checklist including “FIV,” “FeLV,” and “Declawed.” White only.

Medium FELINE Clip Card – 4 x 6 #6763 Pack of 100 $11.95 #6764 Pack of 500 $46.00 #6765 Pack of 1000 $75.00

Regular Feline Clip Cards

PRIMARY PH

FIRST

$13.75 $59.95 $99.00

Medium Feline Clip Cards

PRIMARY PH LAST

A D D R E S S

Clip Card Special

#680 #681 #682

$11.95

EASY FAIR DIFFICULT

PH

REFERRED BY

Includes 250 Clip Cards, File Box, and set of Alphabetical Index Guides. Available in 3 Card sizes.

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

B – Burn Sensitive Area X – Moles, Warts O – Old Injury, Arthritis

NEUT

BIRTHDATE

BREED

$10.50

$13.95 $56.00 $95.00

FIV FeLV DECLAWED FRONT DECLAWED BACK BITER CAGE SOILER NOISY SHY CHECK EARS BURNS EASILY BLIND DEAF DIABETIC EPILEPTIC

SECONDARY WORK PH

$10.50 $39.75 $62.95

Medium Clip Card – Color 4 x 6 #510 Pack of 100 #511 Pack of 500 #512 Pack of 1000

✓ALL THAT APPLY:

EMAIL

Regular Clip Card 3 x 5 #514 Pack of 100 #515 Pack of 500 #516 Pack of 1000 Regular Extenders 3 x 5 #517 Pack of 100

$11.95 $46.00 $75.00

$

REFERRED BY

3”x 5” Clip 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.

Medium Clip Card – White 4 x 6 #507 Pack of 100 #508 Pack of 500 #509 Pack of 1000

$ SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

SECONDARY PH

Regular Clip Cards

Giant Extenders – White 5 x 8 #506 Pack of 100 $13.75

$

CLIP

PRIMARY WORK PH

VET

Indicate B for blue, G for Green, Y for Yellow, P for pink, or L for lavender when ordering.

FIRST

PRIMARY PH

COLOR

Giant Clip Card – Color 5 x 8 #503 Pack of 100 $15.75 #504 Pack of 500 $69.95 #505 Pack of 1000 $109.00

Available Colors

4”x 6” Medium offers space for pet description, medical problems, referral, birthday, vet phone and clip. 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.

A D D R E S S

Giant Clip Card – White 5 x 8 #500 Pack of 100 $13.75 #501 Pack of 500 $59.95 #502 Pack of 1000 $99.00

FAIR

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

DIFFICULT

Clip Card specific for Cat clients! 3” x 5” card features exclusive feline checklist including “FIV,” “FeLV,” and “Declawed.”

White only.

Medium FELINE Clip Card – 3 x 5 #6760 Pack of 100 $10.50 #6761 Pack of 500 $39.75 #6762 Pack of 1000 $62.95

FOR YOUR BUSINESS MP2

MATTED PET RELEASE FORM

CD2

CAGE DRYER

Pet Name

Date

RELEASE FORM

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that Pet Name Date every effort will be made to make your pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Because your pet is severely tangled or matted, it is at greater risk of injury, stress and The health, safety and comfort of your pet is important to us. trauma. All precautions will be taken. However, We also believe in including you in conversations problems occasionally arise, during or after grooming, such as nicks, clipper irritation and mental orabout the care of your pet.

The use of a cage dryer is safer and more physical stress. comfortable In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to for some dogs. For your dog, we obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become recommend necessary. the use of a cage dryer. We will adhere to the following safe practices when I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to is in use: the dryer obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

• Dryers must have working temperature Also, realizing that matted pets have a greater chance of injury during gauges and timers. grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for • Only equipment manufactured for cage drying will be used. accident or injury to my pet.

• Manufacturer instructions will be followed.

• Dogs drying in a cage dryer will be properly monitored.

Owner Name • Owner must give consent for a cage dryer to be used.

SP2

SENIOR PET RELEASE FORM

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

GENERAL PET RELEASE FORM

MOBILE SALON

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to

Signature

use a cage dryer for the safe and comfortable drying of my dog.

RELEASE FORM

Pet Name

Date

Owner Name #MP-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Signature

Pet Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us! Because we care about your pet’s safety and well being, we want to assure you that every effort will be made to make your senior pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate

u NEW

veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

CAT GROOMING I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to

obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Also, realizing that aged pets have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

RELEASE FORM Owner Name

Because we care about your pet’s safety Pet Name Date and well being, we want to assure you that Signature #CD-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com every effort will be made to make your Pet Name Date pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate Because we care about your pet’s safety #SP-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com a current one. This can occur during or after and well being, we want to assure you that grooming.

Because we care about your pet’s safety and well every effort will be made to make your In the best interest of your pet, we request pet’s visit as pleasant as possible. being, we want to assure you that every effort will be your permission to obtain immediate veterinary made to make your pet’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Please understand that due to the

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

Your Pet is IMPORTANT to Us!

treatment should it become necessary.

very nature of being mobile we will occasionally be late for an appointment

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to due to circumstances beyond our control (traffic, accidents, weather, obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Owner Name

etc.) and cannot be held liable for unavoidable time delays.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

Signature

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense.

Cats are creatures of habit and when exposed to a new environment they can experience elevated stress levels. In the event that your cat is too stressed to safely continue the groom, all procedures will stop and you will be notified immediately.

Occasionally, grooming can expose a hidden medical problem or aggravate a current one. This can occur during or after grooming.

In the best interest of your pet, we request your permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment should it become necessary.

Modern Pet Safety Release Form

I hereby grant permission to this grooming establishment to obtain emergency veterinary treatment for my pet at my expense. Also, realizing that cats have a greater chance of injury during grooming, I will not hold this grooming establishment responsible for accident or injury to my pet.

#PR-2 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com Owner Name

Signature

Owner Name

PR2

Signature

#VR-2 © 2017 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com #FR-2 © 2017 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com

VR2 EXCLUSIVE TO MODERN

Modern Pet Release Forms

FR2

EXCLUSIVE TO MODERN

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

Protect your salon with Modern Pet Release forms! These forms gently explain the pet owner’s responsibility to the groomer and give you the right to obtain emergency treatment for their pet. Designed to help you do your job with an updated professional look. Designs include Matted Pet, Cage Dryer, Senior Pet, and General Pet. Mobile Salon & Cat Grooming designed EXCLUSIVELY in Modern style.

MP2 — Matted Pet Release #6145 1 Pad $7.95 #6147 3 Pads $22.95 #6148 5 Pads $35.00 #6149 10 Pads $69.00 #6150 25 Pads $149.00

CD2 — Cage Dryer Release #6699 1 Pad $7.95 #6700 3 Pads $22.95 #6701 5 Pads $35.00 #6702 10 Pads $69.00 #6703 25 Pads $149.00

SP2 — Senior Pet Release #6151 1 Pad $7.95 #6152 3 Pads $22.95 #6153 5 Pads $35.00 #6154 10 Pads $69.00 #6155 25 Pads $149.00

PR2 — General Pet Release #6156 1 Pad $7.95 #6157 3 Pads $22.95 #6159 5 Pads $35.00 #6160 10 Pads $69.00 #6161 25 Pads $149.00

VR2 — Mobile Release #6714 1 Pad $7.95 #6715 3 Pads $22.95 #6716 5 Pads $35.00 #6717 10 Pads $69.00 #6718 25 Pads $149.00

FR2 — Feline Release #6720 1 Pad $7.95 #6721 3 Pads $22.95 #6722 5 Pads $35.00 #6723 10 Pads $69.00 #6724 25 Pads $149.00

PetRef Cards

Attractive 3” x 5” cards are used to note ANY medical concerns. Clients will appreciate your concern and can take your findings to their Vet. The vet will appreciate your professionalism. Gray card with blue ink. #668 100 Card #669 500 Cards #670 1000 Cards

$9.95 $39.95 $59.95

Assure clients you will take every precaution necessary to complete a safe and stress-free groom on their pet. Clients sign this agreement understanding that you may discontinue service and contact them immediately if the groom presents a threat to the dog’s health.

SF2 — Pet Safety Release #6747 1 Pad $7.95 #6748 3 Pads $22.95 #6749 5 Pads $35.00 #6750 10 Pads $69.00 #6751 25 Pads $149.00

General Pet Release

Modern Creative Color Release Form Encourage clients to get creative with their pet’s groom while still protecting your salon! Inform your clients of the possible color transfer, fading and reactions to creative coloring. Includes an emphasis of the use of pet safe products.

CR2 — Creative Release #6742 1 Pad $7.95 #6743 3 Pads $22.95 #6744 5 Pads $35.00 #6745 10 Pads $69.00 #6746 25 Pads $149.00

Senior Pet Release

DATE:

Cage Dryer Form

PET’S NAME:

The health, safety and comfort of your pet is important to us. We also believe in including you in conversations about the care of your pet.

The use of a cage dryer is safer and more comfortable for some dogs. For your dog, we recommend the use of a cage dryer. We will adhere to the following safe practices when the dryer is in use: • Dryers must have working temperature gauges and timers.

• Only equipment manufactured for cage drying will be used.

• Manufacturer instructions will be followed.

• Dogs drying in a cage dryer will be properly monitored.

• Owner must give consent for a cage dryer to be used.

I hereby give permission to this grooming establishment to use a cage dryer for the safe and comfortable drying of my dog.

Signature of Pet Owner

Sincerely,

Your Professional Groomer

#CD-1 © 2016 Barkleigh Productions, Inc. • 717.691.3388 • www.barkleigh.com

Fuzzy Pet Release

Cage Dryer Release

Classic Pet Release Forms 50 forms per pad.

Classic 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.

#614 #615 #616 #617 #618

1 Pad 3 Pads 5 Pads 10 Pads 25 Pads

$7.95 $22.95 $35.00 $69.00 $149.00

Mix and match styles. Indicate styles when ordering ( S for Senior, G for General, F for Fuzzy, C for Cage Dryer).

FOR YOUR CLIENTS

Little Angel Award NEW Little Angel Award This Certifies that

Thisestablishment.

Certifies that Your pet Has successfully completed a professional grooming in our has exemplified courage when confronting combs, brushes, clippers and scissors, and has shown valor in crossing the waters of shampoo and creme rinse.

PET

REPORT CARD

It is with great pride that your pet has been selected as a Paw–fect specimen of establishment. Your pet Has successfully completed a professional grooming in our beauty to be held in high esteem by this Professional Establishment. has exemplified courage when Grooming confronting combs, brushes, clippers and scissors, and has shown valor in crossing the waters of shampoo and creme rinse.

It is Your with great pride that your pet has been selected as a Paw–fect specimen of Professional Groomer, beauty to be held in high esteem by this Professional Grooming Establishment.

Your Professional Groomer, Pet Name

Date

Date

A I was a LITTLE ANGEL! B I was a PAW-FECT PET! C I was Satisfactory.

D I’ll try harder next time!

F I was a little devil...

LA3 © 2017 8 BARKLEIGH PRODUCTIONS

WWW.BARKLEIGHSTORE.COM

Date LA3 © 2017 8 BARKLEIGH PRODUCTIONS

WWW.BARKLEIGHSTORE.COM

NEW Modern Little Angel Awards

but my groomer still loves me!

I should be groomed in

weeks.

My next appointment is

.

NEW

Back

Front

NEW Modern Pet Report Cards Modern larger sized cards measure 8.5” x 5.5,” printed in full color (front and back) on heavy weight card-stock.

Back allows ample room for additional comments and even space for your salon’s stamp or appointment card.

#6769 #6770 #6771 #6772

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

NEWLY REVISED ARTWORK. Praise well-behaved pups by sending their parents home with a cute certificate! Great to give with a puppy’s first grooming or new clients.

Modern Little Angel Blue #6752 20 Awards $9.95 #6753 50 Awards $19.95 #6754 100 Awards $34.95 #6755 500 Awards $149.95

Modern Little Angel Pink #6756 20 Awards $9.95 #6757 50 Awards $19.95 #6758 100 Awards $34.95 #6759 500 Awards $149.95

$19.95 $33.95 $129.95 $195.95

Little Devil Award This certifies that

Available Colors

Has unsuccessfully completed a professional grooming in our establishment. Though your little devil tried their best to behave, we could not safely finish their groom to our standards.

We still love your pet very much and greatly look foward to seeing them again for another try!

Your Professional Groomer,

Inside

Classic Pet Report Cards Inside features checklist of recommendations and blank lines for your own personal comments.

Lightweight folded card printed on colored paper with matching ink.

5.5” x 4.25” bi-fold.

#657 #658 #659 #660 #661

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

$6.95 $13.95 $25.95 $99.00 $159.95

Indicate B for blue, P for Pink or T for Tan when ordering.

LD1

© 2018 BARKLEIGH PRODUCTIONS

WWW.BARKLEIGHSTORE.COM

Date

NEW

NEW Little Devil Award For a dog who tried his best to behave but was unable to complete a successful groom safely. Certificate reminds the client you still love their pet and look forward to seeing them again!

Little Devil Award #6737 20 Awards #6738 50 Awards #6739 100 Awards #6740 500 Awards

$9.95 $19.95 $34.95 $149.95

Little Angels Award The classic certificate for pets on their best behavior. Charming gift for your new clients or for puppy’s first groom!

Blue Little Angel Award #648 20 Awards $9.95 #649 50 Awards $19.95 #650 100 Awards $34.95 #651 500 Awards $149.95

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

$9.95 $19.95 $34.95 $149.95

Business Name: Owner’s Name: Address: 970 W. Trindle Rd. Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 691-3388 • Fax (717) 691-3381 E-Mail: info@barkleigh.com

Catalog #

#677

Quantity

Color

Zip:

City/St: Phone: (

)

E-Mail:

Item

Price

Total

Check here for Super Sampler Special! Only $10 (Limit one)

NEED PRODUCTS IN A HURRY? (717)-691-3388 or BarkleighStore.com Bad & NSF processing fee: $40

SUB TOTAL

SHIPPING & HANDLING $1 —$25

•

Add

$8

$26—$49 •

Add

$10

$50—$99 •

Add

$15

Over $100 •

Add

10% of total (min. $20)

C.O.D. CHARGE - $9 (USA ONLY) SALES TAX - 6% (PA ONLY) CREDITS BUSINESS CARD - 6 LINES Stock Logo Above FREE - Circle Choice

TOTAL

RUBBER STAMP - 28 letters/spaces per line Stock Logo added to Stamp $7.95$5 - Circle CircleChoice Choice

Satisfaction Guaranteed or Your Money Back!

Allow 3-4 weeks for delivery of stamp or business cards. Logos above featuring a © are copyright protected and may not be reproduced except on cards and stamps ordered from Barkleigh.

Business Card & Rubber Stamp Information: (Please Print Clearly)

C.O.D. Money Order enclosed for $ Check enclosed for $ DO NOT accept American Express Master Card • Visa • Discover •WeAMEX Name on Card: Card Number: Expiration: Save 15% on your next order of GroomOgrams! I would like GroomOgrams delivered each season.

Cancel at any time. No obligation to future purchases.

DO NOT WRITE

For Faster Service, Order Online! www.BarkleighStore.com

NEW PRODUCTS AMAZING NEW HOLIDAY SCENTS FROM GLO-MARR Ahhh, the memory-inspired aromas of the holidays. GloMarr Pet Products has added three yummy new scents to the KENIC holiday pet cologne collection. Introducing Pumpkin Spice, Christmas Candy and Winter Won-

derland (woodsy sleigh ride).

Send pets home smelling festive or set the holiday spirit anywhere with a few squirts as an air freshener. Try them all! KENIC Pet Care Products are made the way Mother Nature intended... natural and effective. Please call for details 800-228-7387, or visit www.glomarr.com

INNOVET PET ANNOUNCES NEW WHOLE FOODS APPROVED ALLIN-1 SHAMPOO LINE Created with natural ingredients in a delicate pH-bal-

Holistic PET GROOMING

THE ART OF

Helping

Pets Feel AS GREAT AS THEY LOOK

Transform your grooming practice into one that reduces stress and promotes the feeling of comfort and security for pets, clients and yourself!

AVAILABLE NOW AT

70

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

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GroomertoGroomer.com

anced formula that's soft on dogs' skin, Innovet Pet says their shampoos go above and beyond traditional shampoos.

Besides removing dirt with a pleasantly scented and rich cleaning, Innovet Pet promises that their new shampoos will deodorize coats and help both skin and coat issues, from soothing irritations to helping with the healing process. Innovet's new shampoo line only uses natural ingredients for a no-tear, soap and sulfate-free formula that's designed to stay gentle on sensitive skin. Tea Tree & Aloe Shampoo and Honey & Oatmeal 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner are currently available on www.innovetpet.com

GROOMER HUMOR

When a simple bath and brush turns into Kung Fu …

Wisdom & Grace

Easy!

This feast will be held at the sanctuary, which will be located at the place the Lord will designate. It is a time of deep thanksgiving to the Lord for blessing you with a good harvest and in so many other ways; it shall be a time of great joy.

Deuteronomy 16:15 Living Bible

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Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

GroomertoGroomer.com

Klip Kards

Client Index & Extender Cards

Regular Klip Kard 3” x 5” Medium Klip Kard 4” x 6”

Available Colors

Giant Klip Kard 5” x 8”

ARE YOUR CLIENT FILES A DISASTER? These 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.

Track injuries, sensitive areas, medical problems, services, and more!

AVAILABLE IN PACKS OF 100, 500, or 1000!

EXTENDERS STAPLED TO YOUR FILLED KLIP KARD ADD MORE RECORD SPACE! Barkleigh Productions, Inc. barkleigh.com • barkleighstore.com • (717) 691-3388

CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALIFORNIA

OHIO

GROOM EXPO WEST 2/20/2020 – 2/23/2020 Pasadena, CA (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpowest.com

PETQUEST 6/11/2020 – 6/14/2020 Wilmington, OH (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.pqgroom.com

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO WEST 4/27/2020 – 4/30/2020 Pasadena, CA (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpowest.com FLORIDA PET PRO EXOTIC WEST CARIBBEAN CRUISE 1/5/2020 – 1/12/2020 Orlando, Florida (321) 368–6622 cruisinglady@ymail.com www.barkleigh.com ILLINOIS ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/8/2020 – 8/11/2020 Schaumburg, IL (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.aagroom.com NEW JERSEY

PENNSYLVANIA GROOM EXPO 9/10/2020 – 9/13/2020 Hershey, PA (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.groomexpo.com PET BOARDING & DAYCARE EXPO 11/11/2019 – 11/14/2019 Hershey, PA (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.petboardingexpo.com WASHINGTON NORTHWEST GROOMING SHOW 5/14/2020 – 5/17/2020 Tacoma, WA (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.nwgroom.com

Groomer to Groomer • Vol 38 Ed 11 • November 2019

EVENTS PET PRO EXOTIC WEST CARIBBEAN CRUISE 1/5/2020 – 1/19/2020 Orlando Florida GROOM EXPO WEST 2/20/2020 – 2/23/2020 Pasadena CA NORTHWEST GROOMING SHOW 5/14/2020 – 5/17/2020 Tacoma WA PETQUEST 6/11/2020 – 6/14/2020 Wilmington OH WORLD DOG EXPO 5/30/2020 – 5/31/2020 Secaucus NJ ALL AMERICAN GROOMING SHOW 8/8/2020 – 8/11/2020 Schaumburg IL GROOM EXPO 9/10/2020 – 9/13/2020 Hershey PA

INTERGROOM 4/2/2020 – 4/5/2020 Secaucus, NJ (717) 691–3388 info@barkleigh.com www.intergroom.com WORLD DOG EXPO 5/30/2020 – 5/31/2020 Secaucus, NJ info@worldexpo.dog www.worldexpo.dog

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

GroomertoGroomer.com

1.800.PRO.WAHL

www.wahlanimal.com

AN N O U CI N G

FASTER SHAMPOO SHIPPING Get it in 3 days or less!

you spoke & we listened We understand you need shampoo to keep your business running. That’s why we’re getting your shampoo to you, faster!

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