Tears FORSHEARS
Michelle Knowles
Adriana Welckle
Melissa Hall
Melissa Dominice
Joslyn Williams
TheFurryPhoenician
COVER PHOTOGRAPH
12 WEEK OLD
TOY POODLE
GROOMER
KAT PENA
SALON
GILBERT FLUFF BAR
EDITOR
MERCEDES SCHENK
ISSUE SPONSOR
ALL THINGS PAW
UPCOMING EVENTS
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 9
PHOENIX ZOO MEETUP
SUNDAY MARCH 9
HAYMAKER, PEORIA
SATURDAY APRIL 5
BEDILLONS CACTUS GARDEN CASA GRANDE
FRIDAY APRIL 25
SAN TAN FLATS MEETUP
MAY 2 - 4
SPRING SOCIAL WEEKEND
SUNDAY JUNE 1
SUMMER KICK OFF POOL PARTY, LAVEEN
SUNDAY JUNE 22
VACAY DAY AT ROUND ONE
FRIDAY JULY 4TH
TASTE OF AMERICA POTLUCK
AUGUST 13 - 15
SUPER ZOO LAS VEGAS
KAYAK/PADDLEBOARDING LAKE PLEASANT SUNDAY AUGUST 31
GHOST HUNT SEPTEMBER TBA
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GROOM EXPO ARIZONA, MESA OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 2
Michelle Knowles ICMG
Adriana Welckle
Mercedes Schenk
Malissa Conti-Diener
MEMBER
Joslyn Williams
ADVICE PRESIDENT
Melissa Dominice
Melissa Hall CFMG
Mercedes Schenk CFMG
LOVE YOURSELF THIS VALENTINE’S DAY:
A GUIDE TO SELF CARE
Valentine’s Day is often associated with grand romantic gestures, red roses, and heart-shaped chocolates But this year, why not flip the script and make February 14th a celebration of the most important relationship in your life--the one you have with yourself?
Practicing self care is not just a trend; it’s a necessity, especially in today’s fast-paced world Whether you’re single, partnered, or somewhere in between, here’s a guide to making this Valentine’s Day all about self-love
START THE DAY WITH INTENT
Set the tone for a loving day by dedicating the morning to yourself Light a candle, brew your favorite coffee or tea, and take a few moments to meditate or journal Reflect on what makes you feel happy and fulfilled Starting the day with mindfulness helps create a positive mindset and sets the stage for intentional acts of self-care.
INDULGE IN YOUR FAVORITE TREATS
Who says Valentine’s Day indulgence is limited to couples? Treat yourself to that decadent dessert you’ve been eyeing or prepare a special meal just for you Don’t hold back--you deserve to savor every bite If cooking isn’t your thing, order take out from your favorite restaurant
PAMPER YOURSELF
Transform your home into a personal spa Draw a warm bath, add some scented bath salts or essential oils, and let your worries soak away Follow up with a skincare routine or a soothing face mask If baths aren’t your thing, try a DIY manicure, pedicure, or even a scalp massage The goal is to indulge in a little luxury
UNPLUG FOR AWHILE
Give yourself the gift of a digital detox Turn off notifications, set aside social media, and focus on activities that bring you joy Read a book, take a walk in nature, or try a new hobby like painting or knitting Disconnecting from the constant noise of the digital world can help you reconnect with yourself
CELEBRATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS
Take time to recognize how far you’ve come and what you’ve accomplished Write a list of things you’re proud of, big or small Celebrate these wins with something special, like buying yourself flowers or a small gift that brings you joy
MOVE YOUR BODY
Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your mood and show your body some love Whether it’s yoga, dancing around your living room, or going for a run, find a way to move that feels good to you Physical activity releases endorphins which can leave you feeling happier and more energized.
END THE DAY WITH REFLECTION
As the day winds down, take a moment to reflect on how you cared for yourself Write in a journal about what you enjoyed and what you’re looking forward to Give yourself credit for prioritizing your well-being and remind yourself that self-care is an ongoing journey, not just a one-day event
PRACTICE GRATITUDE
Gratitude is a powerful form of self-care Write down three things you’re grateful for They can be as simple as enjoying a sunny day or as profound as having a supportive friend Gratitude helps shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life and fosters a deeper sense of contentment
CONNECT WITH LOVED ONES
If self-care for you means sharing time with others, reach out to friends or family members Schedule a virtual coffee date, write a heartfelt note, or have a movie night with loved ones Connection is an essential part of well-being and can fill your heart with warmth
This Valentine’s Day, give yourself the love and attention you deserve When you nurture yourself, you not only feel more fulfilled but also build a stronger foundation for all of your relationships Because at the end of the day, the greatest love story begins with you
STAY CONNECTED WITH UPCOMING EVENTS AND GROOMER NEWS! JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP TODAY!
TEARS FOR SHEARS:
MENTAL HEALTH IN THE PET GROOMING INDUSTRY
When most people outside of our industry think of our jobs, the first thing that comes to mind is usually, “Aww! I wish I could play with puppies and kitties all day! That must be such a relaxing and cool job!”
As seasoned professionals, we tend to roll our eyes at the very phrase whenever we inevitably hear it from a client, friend, or family member
Our job is not exactly a walk in the park like some people tend to think It is riddled with stressful days, phone calls, walk-ins, appointment deadlines, feces, urine, throw up, bites, scratches, expensive equipment, training, and not to mention the customer service skills that come along with it There is a burn out that tends
to happen when you are responsible for all of these things along with the safety and wellbeing of someone’s beloved pet
Unfortunately, the pet care industry as a whole seems to have a glaring yet almost unspoken issue--mental health It is not uncommon to hear from fellow colleagues; stories of others who have unfortunately taken their own life, attempted to, or are struggling through some kind of depression or anxiety that is compounded by the type of work we take on In fact, overworking yourself and never taking a break is celebrated as a flex and glorified in most online groups and forums
It is no wonder why so many seem to be dealing with such issues at an alarming rate According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) workers who deal with pet welfare (rescue, veterinary, grooming etc.) have a five times higher rate of committing suicide as opposed to individuals in other job industries
You have to admit it Five times higher is quite an alarming statistic
One might be thinking, “Well, if it is such a high statistic, why isn’t it widely known?” Maybe it is time we start to raise awareness, and take the steps to recognize the warning signs Maybe we learn how to take on less and give ourselves more
According to the Mayo Clinic, many of the beginning warning signs of a depressive episode vary All warning signs should be taken seriously as some people may have different symptoms Some of the most notable symptoms of a depressive episode include:
Irritability
Loss of Interest
Tiredness
Feelings of being Worthless
Guilt
Sadness
However, there are many more key behaviors to look out for that are lesser known such as:
Increased or Decreased Appetites
Anger Outbursts
Severe Anxiety
Unexplained Physical Ailments
Think of these symptoms and ask yourself, do you know or have known someone who has displayed these warning signs? As a professional, I have encountered many groomers in my time who have definitely shown these symptoms but no one really knew what to do at the time or if they should say anything
As a fresh nineteen year old groomer trying their best to “fit in and impress” the older more experienced women in my salon, I sure didn’t know what to do Behaviors were usually chalked up to, “they just aren’t cut out for this type of work” or hushed whispers in the break room, which we can all agree is damaging
These groomers need support and care Oftentimes we do not know the circumstances in the background, we just see what is happening at work Kindness and compassion can go a long way for all individuals, especially those fighting internal battles Small things we do make such a huge difference in the lives of others We never know the positive impact we can have on someone, even in a fleeting instant that can change, or save, their life
Showing up to support someone who is struggling with mental health can be challenging for some, but it is the difference between life
or death Even a simple act of telling someone “I’m here for you, and I love you” can mean everything to someone who has no one
Little gestures such as buying their favorite candy, offering to assist when they seem stressed or struggling, letting them leave a few minutes early, or asking them about what is bothering them can show them that you care Sometimes just simply knowing and feeling like they have someone to lean on can really help them out Communicate that it is okay to feel frustrated, hurt, or upset, and it is okay to want to seek help Normalize taking medication and going to therapy We are all human beings with complex feelings, emotions, and brains
When I was a new groomer, I had just graduated from a corporate grooming academy and was still very much a teenager I had just found myself pregnant and in a not-so-healthy relationship I felt like I had the weight of the world on my shoulders, and I felt like such a loser Here I am, supposed to be learning my craft, which is quite frustrating at first, getting overwhelmed with hormones and emotions almost every single day Panic attacks over dogs, my partner, and my financial situation The only thing that kept me going was my unborn daughter, Zoloft, and my cats Things continued to go downhill My pregnancy began to have complications and the woman who raised me, my wonderful grandmother, passed away when I was five months pregnant I felt like my whole world had crashed around me, surrounded by people but I was alone I wanted to die I often thought how I could even be a good mother if I can’t even feel like myself anymore? I was struggling to even get up and live my life
I ended up having to take an early medical leave to focus on myself and the health of my child as the anxiety and depression was causing severe complications in my pregnancy I did not return for almost seven months after giving birth Covid played a supporting role in my isolation, allowing me the ability to focus on myself, my art, and being a new mother That mental break, saved my life
This doesn’t mean to say that mental health and depression “magically go away”, but the struggle in more recent years is eased by having a great support system
Now I understand that many people do not have the luxury of taking extended periods of time away to focus on themseles or heal It’s a tremendous challenge to figure out how to even take a day off for most of us!
We tend to feel the pressure of overworking ourselves and fitting in “just one more groom”. We need to make ends meet, and essentially it’s making the choice to turn down money Our personal lives do indeed matter Our family matters Our hobbies matter We matter
We were not put on this planet to please every single person we meet There’s going to be some bad days, some bad reviews, some rude customers, and some pets that break your heart But that is okay Our craft is an art form; it takes so much skill, effort, soul, and time to do the things we do on a daily basis Give yourself the same love and care that you to do the animals you groom
GROOMER BURNOUT
FINDING WORK LIFE BALANCE
Passion is often portrayed as an open flame, so it makes a lot of sense why we refer to those Sunday Scaries, that soul-crushing anxiety, the bitter resentment, and spiraling negativity as burnout. Passion is a live flame that needs to be fed, stroked, and have life breathed into it
You’re a human being. Not a human doing.
Now this is true for every industry, no doubt However, there’s a special type of burnout that happens for individuals who work with live animals As groomers, we play a critical role in their care and repair, but have little to no control Sure, we can recommend a schedule that prevents painful matting and other areas of concern but we aren’t able to guarantee that they will do what we suggest It’s an industry wide dilemma We’re working with animals because of our passion but then a client keeps cropping up with some type of problem Perhaps they’re someone whose pet is always pelted
Someone who makes you feel small, under-appreciated, or is just downright disrespectful Someone who is always cancelling, rescheduling, or having something to complain about Someone that, when you see their phone number pop up on that caller ID you feel an immediate and overwhelming sense of dread
Professor Anna L Cox of the University College of London describes a Work-Life Balance as “feeling in control of how you balance the various demands of all aspects of one’s life to support and enable wellbeing In this context, wellbeing is more than just trying to avoid being ill, it also encompasses feelings of happiness, fulfillment, and job satisfaction ”
Essentially, work-life balance is the balance between the time and effort you put into work and other aspects of your life It is about
finding ways to manage your professional life and the demands/time it requires while still ensuring you have the time and energy for the things you want to do
Signs your Work-Life Balance may be unhealthy include:
Feeling pressured to take on more work
Feeling drained
Having little to no time off
Working too much for too long
Lack of motivation
Decreased productivity
Absenteeism (calling out frequently)
Increased anxiety
Feeling cynical
Burnout can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues It can also affect your physical health as well Not to mention the negative effects on your relationship and social life It can also damage your professional reputation. When you work with live animals, the last thing you want is to be cynical or resentful of the pets in your care It is the breeding grounds for mistakes and cruelty
Now, there are laws in place for The United States and Arizona to help protect employees from reaching that point There’s no laws to protect us individuals who are self-employed, or working at shops who may be illigitimately run Not everyone has the privileage or ability to change shops, adjust schedules, or cherry pick their desired clients So how do you find your work life balance?
According to Mental Health America, there are several things you can do both at work and at home to help even out your Work-Life Balance Here are a few practical steps we can all take to loosen the grip that stress has on us and win back the balance in our lives:
WHILE AT WORK
Set manageable goals each day Being able to meet priorities helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and control The latest research shows that the more control we have over our work, the less stressed we get So be realistic about how many pets you’re wanting to take in a day
Be efficient with your time at work When is the last time you brushed up on your grooming education? Learned better tricks for cleaner more efficient prep? Tips and tricks to achieving the desired work? Our industry is always growing and making sure you’re on top of your game will help you be faster and more efficient
Ask for flexibility Research shows that employees who work flexible schedules are more productive and loyal to their employers What’s your pet goal for the day? The financial goal for the month?
Take five Small breaks at work or on any project will help clear your head, and improve your ability to deal with stress and make good decisions when you jump back into the grind Of course, don’t leave a dog on the table unattended!
Tune in Listen to your favorite music at work to foster concentration, reduce stress and anxiety, and stimulate creativity Studies dating back more than 30 years show the benefits of music in everyday life, including lowered blood pressure Be sure to wear headphones on the job, and then pump up the volume and your productivity
WORK BALANCE CONTINUED
Communicate effectively Be honest with colleagues or your boss when you feel you’re in a bind Chances are, you’re not alone But don’t just complain suggest practical alternatives Looking at a situation from someone else’s viewpoint can also reduce your stress In a tense situation, either rethink your strategy or stand your ground, calmly and rationally Make allowances for other opinions, and compromise Retreat before you lose control, and allow time for all involved to cool off You’ll be better equipped to handle the problem constructively later
Give yourself a break No one’s perfect! Allow yourself to be human and just do the best you can
WHILE AT HOME
Divide and conquer Make sure responsibilities at home are evenly distributed and clearly outlined you’ll avoid confusion and problems later
Don't over commit. Do you feel stressed when you just glance at your calendar? If you’re overscheduled with activities, learn to say,” no ” Shed the superman/superwoman urge!
Get support Chatting with friends and family can be important to your success at home and can even improve your health People with stronger support systems have more aggressive immune responses to illnesses than those who lack such support Are you an official Guild member yet?! Join us for one of our constructive meet ups and socials!
Stay active Aside from its well-known physical benefits, regular exercise reduces stress, depression and anxiety, while enabling people to better cope with adversity, according to researchers It’ll also boost your immune system and keep you out of the doctor’s office Make time in your schedule for the gym or to take a walk during lunch Have some fun!
Set Clear Boundaries. Home time is not the time to check your schedule, check your voicemails, advertise, update your work social medias, or take phone calls While some of these tasks may be completed from home, set yourself up for success for having dedicated work time that does not bleed into personal time
Get help if you need it Don’t let stress stand in the way of your health and happiness If you are consistently overwhelmed, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional Asking for help is not a sign of weakness taking care of yourself is a sign of strength
Treat your body right Being in good shape physically increases your tolerance to stress and reduces sick days Eat right, exercise and get adequate rest Don’t rely on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes to cope with stress; they’ll only lead to more problems
Unplug The same technology that makes it so easy for workers to do their jobs flexibly can also burn us out if we use them 24/7 By all means, make yourself available especially if you’ve earned the right to “flex” your hours but recognize the need for personal time, too.
When I first opened up my own grooming business, there was no rest I was hyper-focused on not just getting clients but establishing a brand and cultivating a healthy and positive reputation The slightest vibration from my phone would pull all of my focus from my family and for the first year I kept saying, “it’s a new business” which slowly evolved to, “But its my business ” I was burning myself out not from lack of clients or success, but simply because I had become addicted to living in that kind of chaos In some ways we can burnout without even realizing it Some of us get so immersed into that unhealthy cycle because we are successful so it feels like we are doing the right things We think, this can’t be burnout--this must be what owning your own successful business feels like This is just what it means to be a business owner
It’s never a poor choice to invest in yourself
A MOMENT FOR OUR INCREDIBLE COMMUNITY AND THE RESOURCES WE HAVE GATHERED THUS FAR
DELIVERY DROP OFF FEBRUARY 6TH accepting donations until February 5th
ONE MONTH TO FALL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF
A GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONAL GROOMERS
As a professional pet groomer, most of our days are filled with happy tail-wagging lovable pets and the deep satisfaction of transforming these pets into their best selves. Remember--I said most of our days.
Some people and pets can make our jobs really frustrating and overwhelming, making us question our choice of career But amid the hustle of caring for others, it’s easy to forget to care for ourselves
Grooming can be physically demanding, mentally draining, and emotionally taxing. That’s why dedicating a month to self love and self care is not only beneficial, but essential.
This guide outlines practical tips across four key areas-- nutrition, exercise, stretching, and mental health Reconnect with yourself and fall in love with the person in the mirror
WEEK 1: FUEL YOUR BODY with proper nutrition
The first step in self-love is nourishing your body with the energy it needs to keep up with the demands of our profession Groomers often skip meals or rely on quick, unhealthy snacks during busy days, which leads to fatigue and poor performance When you aren’t hangry, you have an easier time working with people and pets
Plan Ahead fror Healthy Eating
Dedicate an hour or two each week to prepare balanced meals that include lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables!
Use portion-sized containers for grab-and-go convenience. Keeping energy-boosting snacks like nuts, fruit, yogurt, or granola bars in your work area can help you avoid relying on sugary treats Carrying a reusable water bottle and setting reminders to stay hydrated throughout the day can help prevent fatigue and brain fog Caffeine dehydration is a real thing! Limit your caffeine intake, and substitute water whenever possible!
Small changes in your diet can lead to big improvements in your energy levels and overall well-being
WEEK 2: MOVE YOUR BODY on purpose
Grooming is physically exhausting with long hours spent on your feet, bending, lifting, and handling animals Regular exercise helps build endurance, strengthen muscles, and prevent injuries We are strong, but we neglect to move other parts of our body that aren’t used for grooming It is important to support all the muscles, tendons, and connective tissues in our body
Breathe When we are tired, frustrated, and concentrating, we tend to hold our breath Our body needs oxygen to function properly When exercising, be sure to breathe and allow your stress to follow the flow out of your body with each exhale
Cardiovascular Workouts - Aim to walk 20-30 minutes of moderate cardio exercise 3-4x a week Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can improve your heart health and stamina, making it easier to get through busy days
Strength Training- Building strength to handle heavy or squirmy pets keeps you and the animals safe! Focus on your arms, shoulders, and core, as these areas bear the brunt of grooming work
helps reduce inflammation, improve joint health--crucial for repetitive tasks
SUPER FOODS FOR GROOMERS
Bodyweight exercizes include squats, lunges, and push-ups. To incorporate intensity and muscle development, you can add dumb-bells or resistance bands
Stretching- Is a powerful tool for maintaining flexibility, reducing tension, and preventing repetitive strain injuries Groomers frequently experience discomfort in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and wrists 10 minutes of daily stretching can alleviate these issues!
Neck Stretch
Shoulder Rolls
Wrist Stretches
Back Stretch
Hip Stretch
Even on your busiest days, incorporate micro-movements You need to prioritize movement. Stretch during your breaks, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or even walk in place while waiting for clients! Exercise doesn’t have to be time consuming Consistency is key
WEEK 3:
MENTAL-HEALTH AND SELF-CARE PRACTICES
Grooming can be mentally and emotionally draining. Working with animals, managing clients, and maintaining high levels of focus can sometimes lead to burn out Week three of your self-love journey emphasizes prioritizing your mental health and practicing self-care
Mindfulness and Meditation - Stop the doom scrolling! This could be done before work to set a calm tone for the day or in the evening to unwind Meditation helps reduce stress, anxiety, and improves emotional resilience
Guided apps like Headspace or Calm are great starting points for beginners Be accountable for your health and well-being It all starts with your thoughts
1 Journaling - Writing down your thoughts can be incredibly cathartic Start a daily journaling habit where you reflect on the day Note what you’re grateful for or about any challenges you faced Journaling helps process emotions and creates a healthy outlet for stress
2 Set Boundaries - It’s easy to become overwhelmed by client demands Learning to set boundaries is essential to avoid burnout Establish a clear schedule, communicate availability, and remember it's okay to say no when necessary Creating clear and consistent boundaries through your policies and procedures allows you to stick to your guns when customers want to manipulate or bully you Stand up for yourself and don’t allow others to dictate your business
3 Prioritize Sleep- Sleep is fundamental to mental and physical recovery Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night Create a bed time routine that helps you unwind Turn off electronics, drink herbal tea, or read a book to signal to your brain that it’s time to relax Make a pact to slow your mind down and allow yourself to drift off without the light of screens in your face I know it’s not easy, but this is about creating new routines to better yourself You can do it
5
4 Seek Support- If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to talk to a friend, family member, or therapist Sometimes discussing your struggles with someone else can provide a new perspective and help you process your emotions Join up with other groomers in your community! Get together and vent, share ideas, and give yourself the space to see that other people are walking this road with you Community is an important part of allowing yourself to decompress and share Don’t take the bait to argue and fight in social media groups! Step back and think whether this response is necessary Is it helpful? Institute the 5 Second Rule Breathe and count for five seconds and then decide if you really want to engage
Taking care of your mental health ensures that you remain calm, focused, and motivated during your workday and in your down time as well.
WEEK 4: MOTIVATION AND POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
As you enter the final week of your journey, it's time to focus on motivation and reinforcing positive habits When you feel good about yourself, you’ll naturally perform better in your work
Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small! Take a moment to appreciate your efforts boosts motivation!
Visualize Your Success
Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself succeeding in your grooming career! Positive visualization can help boost confidence and reduce stress!
Surround Yourself with Positivity
Surround yourself with supportive people and positive energy Follow uplifting social media accounts, engage with colleagues who share your passion for grooming, and eliminate negativity from your life as much as possible
Keep Learning and Growing
Invest in your professional development
Attend workshops, read groomingrelated articles, learn new techniques to improve your skills Growth fosters a sense of accomplishment and keeps your work exciting. Incorporating it into your grooming practice will help your customers see the value you place on your business and education
Affirmations and Self-Compassion
Each day, speak kind words to yourself
Practice affirmations like, “I am skilled and capable,” or “I deserve to feel good about myself ” Self-compassion can help you overcome any feelings of inadequacy or burnout and create a positive mindset
YOU ARE LOVED
By focusing on taking care of yourself, you are giving yourself the permission needed to see the value of self love When you feel supported and appreciated, we tend to let the small stuff fall away and focus on the big picture Don’t let the self saboteur voice in your head take control Find an accountability partner to help you and them stay on track This is a journey, and any adventure is more fun with a friend If you are not super social, you can still walk through this month by being your own accountability partner If you can see the beauty and amazing talent you bring to the table, start sitting at a new table Take time each day to nurture your body, mind, and spirit, and you’ll be amazed at the positive changes that follow
GISELLE BAHENA
WE SEE YOU, GIRL
Giselle Bahena is a talented groomer of five years and the proud owner of The Dusty Puppy LLC!
Giselle’s love for dogs began when she was working in doggie daycare facilities that also had grooming. She would sit and watch the groomers working their magic, filled with awe It was then that she decided she wanted to be a dog groomer as well
Giselle’s favorite dogs to groom are anything with a double coat! She is an expert when it comes to desheds and carding for that nice smooth finish!
Did we mention she also gives them the cutest bubble butts?
When it comes to color, Giselle is the best in the west! Her most famous creative designs have been her Lisa Frank inspired Frenchies It is seriously too good!
Giselle has competed in the Arizona Professional Groomer’s Guild Howl-O-Ween Creative Groom of 2024, turning her standard poodle Sisu into a zombie Spider-Man You can truly see her artistic side shine whenever she gets an opportunity to be creative! As she says, “When in doubt, color it rainbow!”
“I honestly can’t imagine my life without some form of dogs in it. Being a dog groomer has allowed me to express my love for dogs by making them feel and look their best.”
When I asked her what was her favorite part about creative grooming, she said, “Creative grooming is definitely my passion There’s something about making a dog look like a leopard, zebra, or unicorn that just boosts the serotonin!”
Grooming has not only allowed Giselle to spend time doing what she loves with dogs everyday, but an opoprtunity to make new friends
ADVICE PRESIDENT
5 HEARTFELT WAYS TO SHOW YOUR EMPLOYEES YOU CARE
As a salon owner and someone who leads with love and passion, I truly believe that a workplace should be more than just a place to earn a paycheck--it should be a space where each person feels valued, supported, and motivated to bring their best selves to work
It's important to foster an environment where your team members not only thrive professionally but also feel genuinely cared for on a personal level
As a pet care professional, I understand firsthand how physically and mentally taxing this job can be Dealing with different temperaments, handling stressful situations, and maintaining focus during long stimulating hours can take a toll on your mental wellbeing Here are 5 heartfelt ways that you can do as a salon owner to strive to make your employees feel loved and valued with care
SHOW YOUR EMPLOYEES THAT YOU CARE
SHOW APPRECIATION REGULARLY
Believe in the power of recognition It doesn’t feel good when your hard work goes unnoticed When an employee goes above and beyond, make a point to express your gratitude in ways that feel personal and meaningful Recognize not just the tasks they complete, but the energy, creativity, and passion they bring to the salon. Big or small gestures help create an environment where everyone feels valued Whether it’s their favorite snack or a new tool they can use!
BE PRESENT AND FOSTER OPEN COMMUNICATION
Create a culture of listening Actively seeking their ideas, concerns, and feedback fosters trust and mutual respect Open communication is the essential foundation to building trust, addressing challenges, and ensuring we all move forward together In our fast-paced business industry, it's easy for us to get caught up in the day to day tasks It’s important to remember to take the time to check in with your employees whether it's a small check in or scheduled meeting Create an atmosphere where everyone feels heard and the communication flows freely to help keep a unified team that helps prevent miscommunication as the business evolves
INVEST IN THEIR GROWTH AND DREAMS
Employees value leaders who take an interest in their long term success Providing access to seminars; training programs, grooming expos, and mentorship opportunities, demonstrates a commitment to their future and helping them grow Celebrating their achievements, whether it's a promotion, new skill, or certification reinforces your dedication to their progress Ultimately, the growth of your employees is directly tied to the growth of your business
BUILD A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
Building a sense of community within the shop is just as important as delivering top notch grooming services to your clients The bond we create with our clients and their pets is central to our success What is equally important is fostering a supportive, collaborative environment within the team Recognize that each of your employees brings something different and special to the grooming table Whether it's working with anxious dogs or going slow and steady for our senior friends An investment in relationships and trust not only makes the workplace more enjoyable but ensures that the love and care we show to the dogs we groom translates into everything we do. When a sense of community is in place, it elevates every aspect of a business and strengthens everyone’s ability to serve pets and people with a full heart
FOSTER A POSITIVE WORK LIFE BALANCE
Support your employees as they navigate their personal and professional lives It will help prevent burnout by establishing early expectations and boundaries Offering flexible schedules, delegating tasks, using technology to help streamline your day and reduce mental clutter, offers employees (and employers) an opportunity to fully disconnect after hours It communicates a respect for everyone’s time, and helps find a healthy rhythm where employees can stay passionate about their craft without sacrificing their health or happiness Lead by example and prioritize self-care to recharge yourself so you’re not running on empty
A FUR-EVER KIND OF LOVE
The New Year started with our family and community having to say goodbye to an old friend Any death of a pet is painful, but every once and awhile you lose someone that touches your soul A cat like George, leaves a loss that’s felt not just within our hearts but the hearts of our local community and even in the students that have traveled here internationally I write this as a reminder not just to myself, but a reminder to all They are here for such a short time but our love lasts forever. Take time for yourself after your pet passes. Grief carries itself along side us, not caring how busy our work schedules are or how cluttered our minds are When loss greets us, we need to recognize the pain and accept the sorrow It’s okay to take a break It’s okay to retreat into ourselves and simply feel and heal They mattered, and we matter too The connection we have with our animals, however brief, is powerful and deserves the time and space to reflect and feel
“Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.”
- -- R. Stevenson
for George
STUDENT MEMBER UPDATE
I am a self-taught artist and practicing groomer at EVIT! Being an animal lover runs in my family, but after volunteering at a local pet shop in 2020, I discovered my love for grooming To mix my love of art and animals, I strive to become a professional creative groomer!
MILO
JOIN THE GUILD
The Arizona Professional Groomers Guild a non-profit organization comprised of professional pet groomers in the state of Arizona Originally founded in 2022; it began as a social club, establishing a strong community first before collaborating into an association to better support each and every groomer To be a member of the Arizona Groomers Guild is to prioritize competency and compassion through continuing education and community
There is no license or certification required to groom in the United States The APGG recognizes the importance of continuing education and the impact professional development has on individuals and the animals and people we serve
Working with live animals can be an emotionally taxing career, and compassion for oneself as well as the animals we service is vital The APGG prioritizes whole health for both humans and animals and actively seeks to find methods in bettering everyone’s overall well-being
Our organization is founded on community and mutual collaboration We pride ourselves in open discussion to learn new skills and ways of thinking Together we develop, support, network, advocate, and connect to enhance not just our industry but to grow professionally
Memberships
The Furry Phoenician was a dream I had when I first began participating more in the Grooming Community and Groomer Education. My fondest memories of my youth were flipping through various magazines at my mom’s work. When I think back to those moments I remember feelings of empowerment, awe, inspiration, and humor. In many ways those magazines shaped my passions and imprinted on me the kind of job opportunities I could one day have. I felt connected to communities I didn’t have access to Those are the same feelings I hope are invoked as you begin journeying along with us
Arizona is blessed with so many talented, brilliant, and incredible educators that I knew I wanted to foster a place where everyone’s voices could be heard A place where everyone felt represented, whether they are just entering the industry, seasoned, or retired I wanted something beyond the typical tips and skills of the trade--something that fostered the whole human behind the clippers. So it is with the greatest joy and greatest love that the Arizona Professional Groomer’s Guild presents our very first magazine edition of The Furry Phoenician.
I want to thank the incredible women who hear my wild ideas and instead of discouraging them they help bring them into fruition The women who took the time, energy, and love to share information with all of you--for free--to keep it accessible to everyone Michelle Knowles, Adriana Welckle, Malissa Conti-Diener, Joslyn Williams, Melissa Dominice and Melissa Hall Thank you for bringing this issue to life
February is a time of flowers and chocolates and pretty words Its crowning holiday encourages individuals to express their love to others. Well, the Guild and I encourage you to spice things up a little bit and express that same flattery and flowers on yourself. Because you are beautiful, you are wonderful, and you are worth it. xox
MercedesSchenk
APGG PRESIDENT
