MEMBER OF THE MONTH
Joslyn Williams
TheFurryPhoenician
THE DELUXE PUP
LIBERTY THE RED
EDITOR
MERCEDES SCHENK
ISSUE SPONSOR
ALL THINGS PAW
UPCOMING 2025 EVENTS
AUGUST 13 - 15
SUPER ZOO LAS VEGAS MANDALAY BAY
OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 2
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GROOM EXPO ARIZONA, MESA
SEPTEMBER 13 - 16
GROOMER MENTAL HEALTH
CABIN RETREAT, SHOW LOW
MARCH 7 - 10
GROOMER BEACH TRIP
SAN DIEGO, ZOO DAY
OCTOBER 25 - 27
CAT GROOMER RETREAT DISNEYLAND, CALIFORNIA
MAY 2
SPRING SOCIAL SAVE THE DATE
TRAVELING THIS SUMMER?
Pets are often considered part of the family, but traveling with a pet isn’t as simple as just booking a flight or driving across the border They need the correct paperwork to avoid being held up during travel The U S Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has launched a new website devoted to international pet travel which you can access at https://www aphis usda gov/pet-travel
If you are considering taking your pet from the USA to another country, you can contact a USDA-accredited veterinarian as soon as you decide to travel They will help you determine your destination country's pet entry requirements and assist you through the process
All dogs and cats entering Arizona need: Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) Rabies Vaccine PRIOR to Entry (must be 12 weeks and older), Titers are not accepted for entry
State Veterinarian’s Office: 602-542-4293
CVI@azda gov
phoenician the furry
POOLSIDE POOCHES
The summer heat in Arizona can be unbearable and harsh, so naturally, many people opt to cool down by taking a nice dip in the pool Many dog owners like to let their furry friends join them in the swimming pool, as it seems it would cool them down and be a fun summer activity I’m sure you’ve heard it a few times- my dog likes to jump in the pool all the time! But did you know there can be some risks and dangers involved with letting your pet take a swim? Here are some key tips for staying safe this summer!
SUPERVISION IS ESSENTIAL
Do not leave your dog unattended in the pool Many breeds of dogs may be natural born swimmers, such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers, but accidents can always happen Your dog could have a hard time finding the stairs, inhale water, have a medical episode, or get tired and accidentally slip under the water This could easily turn a fun summer activity into an expensive emergency vet trip or tragedy If you have a hard time keeping your furry friend away from the pool, consider a pool alarm or fence for safety
IT’S NOT JUST WATER
Be mindful of chlorine chemicals Generally, chlorine in swimming pools is very diluted and is safe for short periods of time However, extended and repeated exposure may cause skin irritation, ear infections, and eye issues Chlorine is also known to strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle and damaged If your dog already struggles with skin and coat issues, maybe think about limiting their pool time and exposure, and making sure their ears are completely dry afterwards, as this can become the cause for an ear infection Using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, is also recommended to help combat this issue after every swim in the pool
JUST A QUICK SIP
Ultimately, you will want to watch out for dogs drinking the pool water Swimming outdoors in the heat can make you work up quite a thirst, so make sure your furry friend has plenty of fresh water available If your dog drinks chlorine water, they may have some gastrointestinal issues Saltwater pools, on the other hand, pose more serious consequences as too much salt intake while dehydrated can have fatal results Again, it is best to monitor your dog to prevent this from happening
SWIMMING LESSONS
Teach your pet to swim Did you know doggy swim classes are a thing? They sure are! There are great resources for teaching your dog swimming skills when they aren’t a super strong swimmer In an emergency, your pet knowing how to swim and get out of a pool can be a literal life saver You can even opt to train them at home, in your own pool The key is to smart small, in a shallow area, and build confidence Make sure to take frequent breaks so your furry friend does not get too fatigued Using doggy pool toys, positive reinforcement and repetition is recommended to get your doggy more comfortable with swimming in a pool This could turn a scary, unsure activity into a positive, and fun one!
SAFETY FIRST
Opt for a life jacket or float Some dogs are not natural born swimmers, and in other cases, seniors and puppies may have a hard time staying afloat Most pet stores and online retailers sell life jackets and pool floats specifically made for your canine friend Whether it is for swim training a pup who isn’t a strong swimmer, or a “just in case” situation, you can never go wrong with a little extra prevention- just make sure it fits well, and your dog is always supervised!
Swimming can be a fantastic way for dogs to beat the Arizona heat, but safety should always come first With a little preparation, awareness, and supervision, your pup can enjoy the water while staying safe and healthy Whether it's using life vests, limiting chlorine exposure, or just keeping a close eye on them while they swim, these small efforts go a long way So grab those doggy goggles (yes, they exist!) and make this summer fun, refreshing, and safe for both you and your furry best friend
STAY CONNECTED WITH UPCOMING EVENTS AND GROOMER NEWS!
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BOOMS, BARKS, AND BALANCE BOOMS, BARKS, AND BALANCE
A PEACEFUL FOURTH FOR YOUR PUP A PEACEFUL FOURTH FOR YOUR PUP
With the arrival of summer’s most patriotic month comes the excitement of Independence Day celebrations and, of course, fireworks While many of us look forward to the festivities, it’s important to be mindful of how this holiday can affect our four-legged friends Have a safe, fun, and fur-friendly 4 of July! th
LEAVE FIDO AT HOME
If you’re heading out to a firework show, do your dog a favor and let them stay home Fireworks are loud, unpredictable, and confusing to dogs What we see as a colorful sky, they experience as a terrifying explosion Your pup will be much safer and more comfortable away from the action
BURN OFF SOME ENERGY
A little extra physical activity during the day can go a long way in helping your dog stay calm when the fireworks begin Just be mindful of the heat walk early, provide shade, and offer lots of fresh water
CREATE A CALMING ENVIRONMENT
Consider leaving the TV or some soft music on to help mask the noise of fireworks White noise machines or calming playlists created specifically for dogs can also be helpful Dog safe essential oils like lavender can be beneficial Rescue Remedy and Adaptil Pheromones are also useful to help your dog relax
ENRICHMENT FOR THE WIN
Mental stimulation can help reduce anxiety and give your dog something positive to focus on Try food puzzles, frozen treats, or even a DIY snuffle mat A busy brain is a calmer brain!
TALK TO YOUR VET IF NEEDED
If your dog shows signs of severe stress panting, shaking, hiding, or trying to escape talk to your veterinarian There are safe, effective medications and supplements that can take the edge off and make the evening more bearable for your pup.
KEEP ID INFO CURRENT
Accidents happen, especially on noisy nights Make sure your dog’s microchip and ID tags are up to date If they aren’t microchipped yet, now’s a great time Animal shelters see a spike in lost pets on July 5th don’t let yours be one of them.
ROOTED IN PASSION: THE STORY BEHIND THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN GROOM EXPO
A NEED FOR COMMUNITY
My daughters and I were driving back to Colorado from Idaho after attending the first Teton Grooming Expo We were chatting about how wonderful the community was and how unfortunate it was that there wasn’t anything like it in our area
We enjoy attending the big shows, but it seems like we get lost and the large crowds cause us a lot of anxiety We also talked about how nice it would be to have a supportive groomer community that could cheer each other on I suggested, “Why don’t we just start an expo in Colorado Springs?” And my daughters both exclaimed, “Yes! You should!” From there, the idea took shape and before I knew it, Rocky Mountain Groom Expo was a reality!
I found out that there was a grooming expo in the Denver area 20 years ago, so it was time to bring something fresh to the Front Range
THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN
I have a background in graphic design I went to the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver I moved to Mesa, Arizona, and opened my own design company in the late 80s From there, I moved into marketing and publishing and enjoyed publishing two small magazines, “Sun Senior” for the over-63 crowd in Sun City and the surrounding area Then I moved to Laramie, Wyoming, and published Laramie Magazine for two years until we found our forever home here in Colorado Springs, where we’ve raised our four kids. Pet grooming came into my life through my daughters. They were looking for a fulfilling career with animals, as they were raised on a small ranch and have a deep love of animals that developed through the animal husbandry they learned while enrolled in 4-H
THE VISION
As I’ve gotten to know the pet grooming community, I’ve noticed that there’s a real hunger for knowledge People want to keep learning beyond the initial grooming school or apprenticeship or even YouTube videos After attending several big expos with my daughters, I had some ideas for how we could improve the current model and maybe even make some real changes that would benefit not only pet groomers but also the vendors who rely on those businesses and provide amazing products for them I wanted to create something more than just another trade show I wanted to build a forum where groomers and vendors could connect and form relationships I want to help groomers find vendors they can trust so that when they have questions or problems, they know
they’re not just sending an email to an inbox that might or might not get answered The chance to meet the business owner, interact with them and their products, and hear the story behind the company is how we build lasting relationships and trust in products that become part of your service, not just something you tried once
WHY WE ARE EXPANDING TO ARIZONA
The Arizona Professional Groomers Guild asked me why Arizona doesn’t have an expo, and I couldn’t resist the challenge! They’ve been so supportive in bringing this expo to Mesa, and I know they genuinely want to help groomers in Arizona and the surrounding areas continue their education and grow their careers I’m thrilled to meet all of you and bring this event to you all Thanks for your support, and stay tuned for lots of exciting announcements about the show, which will be held from October 31st to November 2nd, 2025 in Mesa Arizona!
SNEAK PEEK AT UPCOMING SPEAKERS
Audi Ryerson
Brad Olive
Candice Kurtz
Chris Anthony
Chrstine + John Trovato
Courtney Garton
Dana Chavez-Rey
Denise Heroux
Dr Cliff Faver
Emily Brunn
Erin Huland
Jennie Smith
Joe Zuccarello
Juanita Harris
Malinda Malone
Malissa Conti-Diener
Mary Oquendo
Melissa Hall
Michelle Knowles
Michelle Price
Dr Molly Rowland
Mindy Diniwiddie
Sarah Perrod
Teri DeMarino
Wendy Booth TINA DAVIS
GET INVOLVED
Interested in becoming a guest speaker or volunteer in the clinic or classroom? Have extra supplies you’re looking to donate? Please reach out to:
MConti- Diener@evit edu
Pet Grooming Instructor
East Valley Institute of Technology Power Campus Mesa AZ
PAWSITIVELY POSH CREATIVE CORNER
Happy 4th of July, my beautiful creatives! This will be America's 249th year of Independence So let that red, white, and blue show! Enjoy the fireworks and shine bright with those fashion-forward pups that know how to stay cool for the summer
Posh pup parents know all about how to keep their dog in fashion while beating the heat for summer It all starts from head to toe with these fashionistas
PAWSITIVELY POSH LIST FOR THE SUMMER
Let's get to the accessories that have Flair! Hair Tinsel adds a touch of shimmer, sparkle, and a dab of dimension to your Posh pups fur It won't go unnoticeable A touch of color like chalk and/or paint pens add pizzazz as well, add a like nail polish, and your Pop pup is ready and stylish for a Hot Pup Summer
COOLING VESTS
Cooling vests are amazing for keeping your pup cool, energized, and happy for that summer activity while still looking fashionable Most cooling vest, you submerge it in cool or cold water until fully wet; you wring it out so it's not dripping It can be re-wet as needed Some vests have areas where you can put ice packs, or the entire vest can be put in the refrigerator or freezer as well Just make sure the vest is the right size for your pup to ensure they are not only cool but comfortable as well
SUN HATS
Sun hats help your pup beat the heat by keeping them a little shaded but also protecting the top of their head and eyes from the sunrays, when you're on a nice waking trail, hike in the mountains or a good ole summer pool party which we know all the Posh pups like to do. There are no lazy couch potatoes for our fashionistas Sun hats come in an array of designs Just make sure it's Posh pup specific and catered to your pups head size
WATER BOTTLE
Water bottles are a must-have, especially in the summer for our Posh pups Let's keep them cool and hydrated with filtered water but also keep them stylish The water bottles come in all shapes, sizes, colors and built to stand for the summer heat fun festivities
Even if you typically prefer a monochrome or more traditional grooming style, adding subtle pastel shades can introduce a unique dimension to your designs The key is choosing colors that complement the overall look while enhancing the pet’s natural beauty
SUNGLASSES
Sunglasses help to provide protection from harmful Uv sunrays for their beautiful sensitive eyes like ours, which will help preserve your pups eye vision in the long run Make sure your sunglasses are specifically made for the size of your pups face and rated for your summer activity If you are on a bike ride on a windy day, maybe use goggles that are shatterproof to shield their eyes from debris and the wind Waterproof ones that are anti-fog are great for pool days!
But we all know our Posh Pups like to be fashionable, so have a DIY party with a little summer cocktail with the besties and creative your own Some flat back cabochons and little glue go a long way to create that Posh pup look without breaking the bank
PAWS UP FOR OUR STAR GROOMER!
Hi there! Tell us a little bit about yourself
I’m the owner and founder of Fluff n’ Buff Grooming Salon in Sahuarita, Arizona I’ve been grooming professionally (on & off - I had a short stint of being a veterinary technician for a few years) for 11 years and started my business from home, growing it through word-of-mouth and a deep love for pets I’m currently expanding into a storefront that will also include daycare and self-wash services It’s been a wild and exciting journey!
What are you most passionate about when it comes to grooming?
I’m most passionate about making pets feel their best Especially those who are anxious, elderly, or misunderstood It’s incredibly rewarding to build trust with animals who come in nervous and leave happy and confident I also love being able to use creativity to bring out each dog’s personality through their style
What’s one thing you always do to keep your motivation high, especially on tough days?
On tough days, I remind myself that each dog I groom is someone’s whole world That alone helps reset my mindset I’ll also throw on some feel-good music, take a deep breath, and focus on why I started, which was to do something meaningful with my hands and heart.
Do you remember the moment you decided you wanted to be a groomer? What drew you to this career?
Yes! Funny enough, when I first started as a bather at PetSmart, I had zero interest in becoming a groomer My manager encouraged me to go to grooming academy, but I was content just doing the basics which were face, feet, and fanny trims Full haircuts felt intimidating, and I didn’t see myself going that route After several years of bathing, I actually left to pursue veterinary technician school I enjoyed it, but over time I realized that grooming offered a better career fit for me One where I could combine hands-on animal care with creativity Once I finally went through grooming academy, everything clicked I fell in love with the process of transforming dogs, not just physically but emotionally Helping them look and feel their best became something I truly enjoyed and took pride in
What would you consider your style of grooming to be?
My style leans toward soft, clean, and balanced with an emphasis on comfort and practicality I love a good teddy bear face, but I also enjoy playing with creative touches when clients want a little RAZZLE DAZZLE
If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?
If I could be any animal, I’d be a unicorn Not because I think I’m rare or flashy, but because I believe in bringing a little extra magic into everyday moments Whether it’s helping a nervous pup feel safe or adding a creative touch to a groom, I try to show up with kindness, creativity, and heart Plus, let’s be honest, a touch of sparkle never hurts
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not busy at work, slaying it?
I love spending time with my family, recharging with a good show or podcast, and dreaming up new ways to grow my business and give back to my community, especially through my shelter grooming initiative, the Fluffed & Found Fund
What’s your secret to success? Any hidden talents we don’t know about?
Honestly, just staying rooted in why I do this. It is to help pets feel their best and build something meaningful I try to lead with kindness, whether it’s with clients, the animals, or my team As for hidden talents I can narrate a full groom like a cooking show, jokes and all. It keeps the vibe fun, even on the busiest days.
If you could have any snack or drink delivered to your station daily, what would it be?
An iced brown sugar shaken espresso (with an extra shot) and Chick-Fil-A chicken scramble breakfast burrito with extra Texas Pete hot sauce- just enough fuel to power through those doodle days!
What’s been the biggest turning point or milestone in your grooming career so far?
Being selected as Groomer of the Month by the Arizona Professional Groomers Guild is definitely a milestone! But also, reaching the point where I outgrew my home setup and started the journey to open a full storefront That is the moment I felt like real proof of how far this dream has come
How has the grooming industry changed since you started? The industry has become more community-driven and supportive, especially online There’s more education, creativity, and collaboration now, and clients are becoming more informed, which pushes us all to be better and stay evolving.
If you could groom any celebrity’s pet, who would it be and why?
If I could groom any celebrity’s pet, it’d hands down be Dolly Parton’s You know that dog is fabulous! Rhinestones, wigs, and probably a closet bigger than mine I’d give her the fluffiest Dolly blowout, a glitter bow, and send her home smelling like sweet tea and sass And if her name’s Jolene? Don’t worry, I won’t take her man, just her mats!
THE FELINE FRONTIER
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WOMEN SET THE STANDARD
Grooming has been a professional occupation for as long as animals have been domesticated for work and companionship. Thanks to archaeological evidence, we can witness firsthand how even ancient civilizations appreciated the grandeur of a polished aesthetic
For centuries, dogs have been cherished as pets, revered as profound warriors in battle, trusted for protection, utilized for hunting, and ultimately cultivated for companionship The significance this species has had alongside man is showcased throughout time, from sculptures, tomb paintings, and mythology to the great literary classics of today We get it Dogs are man’s best friend
Understanding the attention a society weighs into an animal’s health and hygiene is a direct reflection of the importance that animal has to the community When something holds great significance to us, we do our best to take care of it we consider the potential things that can go wrong or anticipate potential needs This is particularly evident in how, as a society, we prioritize the health and well-being of said animal The first veterinary text can be dated back as far as c 3000, where Urlugaledinna in Mesopotamia claims themselves to be an expert in “healing animals ” By 2500 BC, there are veterinary treatises on horses and cattle, with the Eshnunna Code identifying ways to control rabies in Babylonia, 2300 BC Animals here have a heavily significant impact on the community, as they are a direct source of food, warring, and labor
The first canine-centric veterinary text was published in 1576 by George Turbeville, who wrote on various dog diseases By this time, the world had evolved with new methods of protection and labor, and the roles of animals shifted Canines now were not just working dogs, but also sources of companionship At this time, literary texts such as Of English Dogsby Johannes Caius are beginning to emerge, indicating not just a growing interest and documentation of different dog breeds but the beginning of canines reflecting potential social status and importance in art and literature
By 1861, dog grooming is reflected in texts such as John Meyrick’s House of Dogs and Sporting Dogs, and Vero Shaw’s The Book of the Dog in 1879 These texts provided generic advice and techniques for maintaining a well-kept appearance, removing parasites, and bathing By 1895, Rush Shippen Huidekoper wrote The Cat: A Guide to the Classification and Varieties of Cats and a Short Treatise Upon Their Care, Diseases, and Treatment, a book that began to delve into the different classifications and varieties of cats alongside their care, treatment, etymology, and symbolism
However, it wasn’t until 2007 that a single voice reshaped the narrative on feline health and hygiene One woman who stood up and told the grooming industry that, upon further notice, we would no longer be treating cats as an afterthought, an add-on, or anyone’s side gig That the feline species deserved the same consideration and compassion as their canine counterparts It was here, in a small salon in South Carolina, that the National Cat Grooming Institute of America was born
As cats continue to rise in popularity as cherished companions, the grooming industry has been forced to face a long-standing deficit. While canine care has been robustly developed, feline wellness has remained an afterthought From veterinary professionals to salons, cats were often treated as smaller, quieter, “more independent” dogs or worse, overlooked altogether That is, until Danelle German entered the scene
WHEN PASSION BECOMES PROFESSION
In the late 1990s, Danelle was a stay-at-home mom with a passion for Persian cats and an eye for elegance Living in the Pacific Northwest before relocating to South Carolina, she maintained a household while caring for five children and homeschooling, all while occasionally taking on high-end interior design projects But it was in her own home specifically, her kitchen sink where a quiet revolution began
The first cat Danelle German ever groomed was her own: Pojo’s Moving Target of Bara Right in the kitchen sink She used shampoo and tools she picked up from the local big-brand pet store in an effort to keep their coats not just healthy and clean, but show-ring ready As her cattery grew and she began breeding, she taught herself how to shave them
What began as prep for cat shows quickly turned into something more profound As a reputable cattery, Danelle visited her felineexclusive veterinarian regularly for checkups as well as acquiring health certificates for travel During one such appointment, her veterinarian asked if they could give out her number to other clients whose cats were in very poor condition It was here that the quality of her cats’ coat care drew enough attention to be recognized as a credible source of support for others
As Danelle’s cattery grew, her husband converted a portion of their unfinished basement into a mini home salon so she could have a designated space to groom all of her cats The setup was simple, with a Home Depot utility tub, a pair of Andis clippers from PetSmart, and a high-powered dryer she ordered from a grooming catalog
On behalf of the grooming industry and cats on a global level, I think we’d all like to extend our gratitude to Danelle for saying yes to her veterinarian that day
It wasn’t long before her phone was ringing off the hook and people were coming in with cats who were matted, anxious, and in visible discomfort Many had been turned away from traditional groomers or had to undergo extensive sedation to even be attempted It was again here that her compassionate handling and quality of grooms turned a first-time client into a regular By 1999, she had so many individuals wanting grooming consistently that she took her client list of eighty people and opened up her own cat-exclusive grooming salon, The Catty Shack, in Greenville, South Carolina
FROM CONCERN TO CALLING
Danelle’s salon flourished, but her peace was soon disrupted by a newly emerging concern As some of her regular clients moved away to new cities, it became evident thanks to their feedback that other groomers were not experienced enough to safely and successfully work with cats Not only were the cats’ coats poorly finished, but they were actually damaged Previously compliant cats were being so poorly handled that they had become stressed and traumatized It was such a significant difference that previous clients would call back, begging Danelle for referrals that matched her quality of care. Her clients were dismayed, and Danelle was shocked not just by the condition of the cats, but by the lack of training and support available for other groomers “I just assumed everyone had to go to school to do this,” she recalled “I was flabbergasted that so many professionals had no training when it came to cats ”
It was here, in this space, that Danelle German began teaching what she had learned through trial, error, and passion It was here that she began advocating for a safer and more successful grooming experience for the feline species She began attending trade shows and was stunned to discover that there was no standard for cat grooming no specialized focus or education being offered
She began to host workshops Danelle filled classrooms, went to trade show stages across the country, and after speaking at her first trade show in Dallas, Texas interest exploded In 2007, she formalized her efforts and founded the National Cat Grooming Institute of America (NCGI), the world’s first organization dedicated exclusively to feline grooming education She wasn’t just talking about cat grooming in theory but actively demonstrating it through live, hands-on grooming demonstrations, which captivated audiences while showcasing her expertise in real time
To this day, the NCGI maintains a well-established reputation for excellence, upheld by the rigorous standards that distinguish it within the grooming community Its reputation is sustained through a strict commitment to accountability, requiring groomers to demonstrate both technical proficiency and ethical responsibility in feline grooming practices
While some critics may view the NCGI’s program as expensive or demanding, the organization’s commitment to quality is both deliberate and essential Unlike other, less rigorous alternatives, the NCGI rejects the “pay-to-play” model in favor of hands-on education rooted in skill, precision, and a deep understanding of feline anatomy and behavior That’s why in 2010, Danelle German opened up the first and only cat grooming school in the world, because “Grooming cats isn’t something you can master through videos alone You need hands-on experience, guidance, and mentorship It’s a skill that demands presence ”
A GLOBAL MOVEMENT
As Danelle continued to travel globally, speaking at trade shows and championing the importance of feline grooming education, the demand for her expertise grew exponentially Her school, which operated nine in-person cohorts each year, began to fill quickly Word spread fast, and soon aspiring cat groomers were facing waitlists of 18 months or more just for the opportunity to attend
Danelle’s commitment to in-person instruction was rooted in her belief that presence and accountability are essential in mastering the delicate skill set required to groom cats safely and successfully
But with each passing year, it became increasingly clear that the model she had built while high in quality was not sustainable or scalable The grooming industry was changing, and the need for accessible education was growing far beyond what a single physical location could provide Danelle was hearing from aspiring groomers all over the world talented, passionate individuals who lacked the financial or logistical ability to travel globally for extended periods. If she truly wanted to elevate the standards of cat grooming on a global level, she would need to create a new path one that balanced excellence with accessibility, without sacrificing the integrity of her mission
Today, cat grooming education is no longer confined to a single classroom or location Thanks to the evolution of Danelle German’s vision, the National Cat Grooming Institute of America offers a global, multi-tiered educational program that makes high-quality training more accessible than ever before
Students can enroll in a comprehensive curriculum that includes an extensive syllabus, video instruction, mentorship opportunities, and a wealth of resources tailored to developing both technical skills and professional growth
Membership in the NCGI is more than an affiliation it’s a commitment to excellence and continued education For those who wish to take their expertise further, the Institute offers a rigorous certification track, complete with in-person training and a series of nine challenging exams. These aren’t your standard, easy grooming industry tests There are no multiple-choice questions, no open books Certification through the NCGI requires deep knowledge that is retained through practice and passion, with fill-in-the-blank questions designed to be answered from memory
To support accessibility, NCGI certifiers now host pop-up cat grooming intensives throughout the year, offering hands-on training in various global locations For students who can’t attend the traditional 10-day sessions due to time or financial constraints, customized one-on-one training options are available, allowing them to focus on the specific skill sets they want to strengthen Schooling is self-paced, allowing individuals to save financially as needed and allocate their time as able For those who don’t have experience with advanced education or struggle with academics, the NCGI hosts weekly bootcamps to help students pace themselves and offers access to NCGI Academic Coaches who can tutor one-on-one
Exams are professionally proctored in person for accountability, and once they are submitted, they undergo careful review not just for the technical outcome, but for the finesse, safety, and empathy shown in feline handling Final evaluations are conducted by what I affectionately refer to as “The Cat Council” a trusted group of experts ensuring every credential awarded reflects the highest standard of care, knowledge, and professionalism
For some, the price tag associated with the NCGI’s education may feel daunting at first glance In a world where online certifications can be purchased in a matter of clicks, and where speed often outweighs substance, the Institute’s model stands firmly in opposition. It’s local. It’s accountable. It’s the culmination of decades’ worth of trial, error, experience, and education by Danelle German It’s a legacy of craftsmanship, where every groomer is trained with intention, evaluated by hand, and supported by real mentors and actual cat grooming professionals who are grooming cats daily, currently, and at high volume Mastery does not come cheap, nor should it
The reality is, meaningful education costs more because it gives more The NCGI isn’t selling a certificate it’s investing in the creation
of professionals who go on to build sustainable businesses, elevate the grooming industry, and advocate for feline care at a global level When you step into this world, you’re not just paying for a program you’re buying into a standard, a community, and a promise of excellence
For many groomers, especially those building their careers from the ground up, this investment represents something greater It’s a modern take on the American dream where skill, grit, and education open doors Where a stay-at-home mom of five, working out of her unfinished basement, can become a leader in her field, earning credibility and clientele through merit, not shortcuts
And in the end, that’s the true value of what the NCGI offers: a pathway that’s demanding but deeply rewarding A system where knowledge is earned, not assumed. Where the outcome is not only a well-groomed cat but a groomer whose confidence is matched by competence, and whose success is built to last
At its heart, the NCGI was never just about technique it was about advocacy Danelle helped groomers take ownership of their craft, equipping them not just with tools and methods, but with a mission: to elevate feline care to the same level of respect and priority that dogs had enjoyed for decades She set the foundation for a future that is feline, paving the frontier for us to not just walk, but run
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 are $60 annually.
CHUBB RUB CHUBB RUB
In the ever-growing world of pet grooming, few brands have stood out for truly prioritizing the unique needs of cats Too often, products are designed with dogs in mind leaving our feline companions as an afterthought. But Chubbs Bars is changing that. Since its founding in 2011, Chubbs Bars has placed cats at the center of its mission, creating a grooming solution that’s not only effective but also environmentally responsible and thoughtfully made
It all began with necessity and innovation Founder Danelle German, a pioneer in feline grooming, was frustrated when her favorite grooming soap became unavailable and prohibitively expensive Liquid shampoos dominated the market but they were inefficient, wasteful, and full of unnecessary additives Seeking an alternative that would support her feline-focused grooming philosophy, Danelle began experimenting with bar shampoo What emerged was a gamechanger
SUSTAINABLE FROM START TO FINISH
Bar shampoo isn’t just a clever packaging trick. It’s a thoughtfully engineered tool that enhances the grooming experience for both groomer and cat Holding a bar while supporting a cat allows for safer, more efficient handling And from a formulation standpoint, bar shampoos eliminate the need for synthetic stabilizers and fillers that often plague liquid products
Liquid shampoos are mostly water, requiring bulky plastic bottles, mixing containers, and unnecessary shipping weight Worse, they leave behind residue and waste In contrast, Chubbs Bars are concentrated, long-lasting, and have been a favorite among ecoconscious groomers
MADE IN AMERICA
In a world filled with mass-produced imports and hard-to-pronounce ingredients, Chubbs Bars stands out as a proudly American company, rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and sustainability Every bar is hand-poured in small batches at their South Carolina facility, using ingredients sourced from within the United States That commitment to staying local isn’t just a logistical choice it’s a philosophy
By keeping production close to home, Chubbs Bars supports American jobs, ensures high-quality control, and reduces the environmental footprint that often comes with global shipping and outsourcing It’s a business model that prioritizes people, not just profit
Choosing natural, locally made products isn’t just better for the environment it’s better for our pets, too Cats have delicate skin and highly sensitive systems The fewer unnecessary additives, preservatives, and harsh chemicals they’re exposed to, the better Chubbs Bars keeps their ingredient list intentionally short and clean, offering transparency without compromise
Even the marketing reflects this value system. Led by Kristin Ahlum, the company’s Marketing and Social Media Director, Chubbs Bars emphasizes transparency, education, and community over gimmicks Their minimal-ingredient philosophy while protective of proprietary blends is rooted in a commitment to safe, simple, and effective grooming
Shopping local and supporting brands like Chubbs Bars means investing in real people, real craftsmanship, and a future that values both cat wellness and planet health In short: it’s a choice you can feel good about every time you lather up.
Before it gets weird, it’s important to note that the entire company was actually named after Danelle German’s cat, Chubbs In fact, Holistic Feline Specialists and Certified Feline Master Groomers, such as Mercedes Schenk playfully use the term Chubb Rub to refer to the positive experience cats have while getting bathed, as they can utilize the bar for a pleasurable pressure while lathering
Chubbs Bars goes beyond great grooming products by empowering small businesses to shine Through their custom scent and privatelabel program, professional groomers can create a one-of-a-kind bar complete with a signature fragrance and personalized branding Each custom blend is kept exclusive and confidential, giving groomers the chance to offer something truly unique to their clients
It’s more than just customization it’s a way to build brand identity, boost retail income, and strengthen small businesses in an industry that often favors mass production Chubbs Bars believes that when independent groomers succeed, the whole industry grows stronger
FROM THE EDITOR
This month’s issue holds a special place in my heart It’s a true honor to highlight and celebrate the stories of women in business women who have built vibrant communities around their passions and boldly shared their visions with the world
From our cover feature showcasing the stunning designs of The Deluxe Pup an Arizona-based brand that has grown from humble beginnings to being featured in Anthropologie stores to the inspiring leadership of women like Danelle German, who has built a felinefocused empire, and Tina Davis, who continues to empower and uplift others through education and mentorship, this issue is a tribute to women supporting women
I’m constantly inspired by the collaboration, strength, and generosity within this community Especially in challenging times like these, it feels more important than ever to share stories that remind us of the good of resilience, innovation, and heart. I’m proud to be a part of this industry, and even prouder to help amplify the voices of the incredible women who shape it
And lastly please don’t be mad about the fireworks pug photo It was just too cute not to share and it’s an excellent reminder for us to practice mindfulness about fire safety and pet ownership
MercedesSchenk
APGG PRESIDENT
As always, AZGroomersGuild@gmail.com
