The Unsung Heroes of Pet Care: Celebrating Groomers
Time-Management Tips for the "Chaos Goblin" Groomer
The Skill of Saving Coat
Scissor Drills to Help Refine Your Finishes & Extend Your Career
Groom Expo 2024 Wahl People's Choice Creative Styling Winner Milena Kon
Photo by Animal Photography www.animalphotography.com
January 2025

“The Grooming Industry’s Trade Magazine!”

Contents | January 2025

28
The Silent Hazard of Standing: Avoiding Awkward Posture in Dog Grooming
by Cathy Sitek
34
Time-management tips for the "Chaos Goblin" groomer; Stressed person surrounded by grooming items and a clock, with text about time-management tips.
by Mary Oquendo
Editorial Staff
Editor/President
Todd Shelly
todd@barkleigh.com
Chief Operations Officer
Assistant Editor
Gwen Shelly
gwen@barkleigh.com
Managing Editor
Rebecca Shipman
rebecca@barkleigh.com
WEB MASTER
Luke Dumberth
luke@barkleigh.com
ART DIRECTOR
Laura Pennington
laura@barkleigh.com
SR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Brandi Aurelio
brandi@barkleigh.com
JR. GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Carlee Kubistek
carlee@barkleigh.com
DIGITAL MARKETING
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cassidy Ryman
cassidy@barkleigh.com
Marketing COORDINATOR
Allison Smith
allison@barkleigh.com
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CLIENT RELATIONS
James Severs
james@barkleigh.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER/EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Karin Grottola
karin@barkleigh.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Britany Smith
britany@barkleigh.com
Columnists
Kathy Hosler
Daryl Conner
Mary Oquendo
Lynn Paolillo
Dr. Cliff Faver
Jennifer Bishop Jenkins
Blake Hernandez
Melissa Viera
Copyright January 2025. 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
The Unsung Heroes of Pet Care: Celebrating Groomers typography with pet grooming icons
by Christina Gallagher
The pet grooming industry, I passionately believe, is one of the most undervalued and underrepresented sectors in today’s market. We, as groomers, don’t just work with pets; we work with beloved family members. In a world where dogs and cats are treasured often more than anything else, professional grooming services play a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of these cherished animals.

Consider this: When hiring an electrician or plumber—services that require skill and care—the costs typically exceed $100. This is a standard acknowledgment of the expertise and risks involved in these trades. So, why should pet grooming, a service equally skilled and potentially more challenging, be any different?

In the realm of pet grooming, we deal with live, sentient beings, each with their own personalities and needs. It’s a profession that demands patience, love and an understanding of animal behavior, often underplayed in its complexity. This work can be as unpredictable as it is rewarding, making the expertise of a professional groomer invaluable.

As the costs of goods and services are on the rise, it’s time for the grooming industry to reassess its value. Charging less than $100 in today’s economic landscape undervalues the service we provide.

This isn’t just about grooming pets; it’s about enhancing their lives and, by extension, the lives of their families. As caretakers of beloved family members, a role we take on with pride and commitment, it’s time we are recognized and valued for the vital service we provide.

In conclusion, the pet grooming industry stands as an integral part of pet care, deserving of greater appreciation and value. It’s time to shine a light on these unsung heroes who contribute so much to the wellbeing of our beloved pets, advocating for the recognition and compensation that truly reflects the love, skill and dedication they bring to their work.

Christina Gallagher is a professional dog groomer and the proud owner of a successful pet grooming company. With 16 years in the pet industry, this path has taken her from managing multi-million-dollar big-box pet stores to establishing her own flourishing mobile grooming enterprise.

Groomers Guide

Grooming In the Post-Pandemic World: Life after the COVID Pet Boom typography with a vector image of the Earth with a clock face overlay
by Jennifer Bishop Jenkins
Like everyone else in the world, COVID had a significant effect on pet groomers. Those of us fortunate to have survived the pandemic—the world’s worst in over a century—now live in a world with a severely changed global economy. It was hard for many of our businesses to stay open, and a lot of groomers struggled financially during the shutdown. But, unlike some industries, those in the pet-related sector also experienced significant growth because of COVID.

Pet industry profits soared during some of the pandemic. Lots of people bought or adopted a pet for the first time because they were home more, or they added to those already living in their home. Shelters saw a huge uptick in adoptions. Breeders saw the opportunity and started cranking out more “designer dogs,” charging (opportunistically) enormous sums for mixed breed dogs.

The pet industry made headlines over those years for being one industry that actually grew and made much more money during COVID. Most groomers were trying to hire more help, and lots of us trained new staff, further growing our industry. Once we were allowed to start working again, the money being spent by pet owners kept us in demand and making a higher profit. So, as hard as it was, COVID changed us…in some ways for the better.

Once we were allowed to start working again, the money being spent by pet owners kept us in demand and making a higher profit.
But, for the first time in years, news outlets are now reporting that, while the pet industry is still healthier than most, the COVID bubble is starting to slow noticeably. Forbes magazine had this to report in a recent article:1 “According to Michigan State University, the pet industry had an overall economic contribution in 2023 of $303 billion, an increase of 16% from 2022. According to The Bolen Group, weekly sales of pet care products through February 2024 are growing three times faster than any other category of fast-moving consumer goods, and the largest industry trade group expects industry revenue growth of almost 3% in 2024.

“According to the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute, 98% of pet owners say their pet is an important part of their family, 87% say they experience mental health improvements from pet ownership and 76% say their personal health has improved because of their pet. The trend of humanizing pets makes industry growth understandable and even inevitable. Almost no other industry has growth drivers as strong as these. And yet, a number of factors are cause for concern about the future of the pet business.”

One of these concerning factors was described in a PetHelpful article on Yahoo!:2 “It’s becoming harder and harder for pet owners to support themselves and their four-legged companions. In fact, Shelter Animals Count’s 2024 Mid-Year Analysis3 shows just how big the problem has gotten. They discovered that the number of people adopting pets has started trending downward after several years of trending upward, and it’s left animal shelters and rescues with over 320 thousand more animals than they had at the beginning of the year. So why the sudden change?”

Like most answers to questions like these, it’s the economy. “The answer lies in the net effect of acquisition and attrition,” reports an article from PetSmart Charities. “Households with incomes over $100,000 gained three times as many pet owners (3.9 million) during the COVID-19 pandemic than in the period between 2017 and 2019. This surge in pet ownership in the highest income bracket accounts for the commensurate increase in spending experienced by the retail pet supply industry. Unfortunately, the effects of the pandemic were not felt by everyone equally. Lower-income brackets of households earning less than $35,000 saw a loss of pet owners of 3.4 million between 2019 and 2021 compared to a gain of 264,000 between 2017 and 2019. The difference between renters and homeowners is even more stark. Pet parents who owned their own homes increased by 3.7 million, while pet-owning renters declined by 4.3 million between 2019 and 2021—resulting in a net loss of 600,000 pet-owning households.”4

“Households with incomes over $100,000 gained three times as many pet owners (3.9 million) during the COVID-19 pandemic than in the period between 2017 and 2019. This surge in pet ownership in the highest income bracket accounts for the commensurate increase in spending experienced by the retail pet supply industry.”

– Alex Castelazo, Sr. Manager of Data Science, PetSmart Charities

The numbers are a mixed bag, but one thing we know for sure is that we are no longer in an industry-wide growth boom as we have been in recent years. So, what do we do now?

We are still a healthy industry, but we may be near the apex of our recent explosive growth. Time will tell, but things may slow or level off a bit, perhaps to find a “new normal.” So, for us now, the focus may become more about keeping and serving the clients well that we do have, as opposed to creating capacity for an influx of new ones.

Good customer service means always doing our best for the precious living beings that we are privileged to care for as a way of making a living. We can feel good about that and focus ourselves on delivering the best to our clients. My clients were particularly complimentary about the time I was willing to spend explaining their pet’s breed history, advice I provided on matters related to health, training and nutrition, or an explanation of their coat type and what its unique needs were.

Think about the appearance of your grooming facility, whether it be salon, mobile or from home. Redecorate or try a new paint job. Keep everything very clean and sanitary. Try new add-ons just to change things up a bit. Ask your clients what they think of your service, either verbally or by creating a survey for them to take, and listen to their feedback. Thank them for the good observations and take to heart any suggestions they make for improvement. Now is the time to work to keep the clients we have and serve them well so that they stay our clients.

Another factor to consider is the geriatric bump that may lie ahead. Since we saw a lot of newly purchased younger dogs and puppies in 2020 and 2021, and not nearly as many in recent years, in five or more years from now, our businesses could be caring for a significantly larger percentage of geriatric dogs. And since senior dogs take longer to groom and often require special handling, it would be wise for us all to look at our clientele as a whole—a big picture view from above.

Will we have a larger percentage of senior dogs in a few years, and how do we need to get ready for that? What other demographic changes, if any, have you seen in recent years? What trends might lie ahead that you need to prepare for? What additional training might we need to get? How might we need to adapt our schedules, our staffing and our facilities?

There are lots of great publications and organizations that monitor and report on trends, offering very helpful information for our livelihoods. Read and subscribe to industry magazines, go to trade shows, and try to learn about the industry outside of the grooming sector. There are many great podcasts just in our grooming industry that are filled with information about trends in our grooming community, and also in the wider pet business world. Go to dog shows in your area and meet and talk to other pet professionals. Build relationships. Take time to look outside your own busy life to see the wider world of this amazing industry we are a part of, and be proud of it!

References:

  1. Kestenbaum, R. (2024, April 4). The Pet Industry Is Doing Great. And Getting Worse. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/richardkestenbaum/2024/04/10/the-pet-industry-is-doing-great-and-getting-worse/
  2. LaFrank, G. (2024, August, 21). Number of People Who Have Pets Is Trending Downward in 2024 and One Factor Is to Blame. Yahoo! https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/number-people-pets-trending-downward-162000458.html?guccounter=1
  3. Shelter Animal’s Count 2024 Mid-Year Analysis. https://www.shelteranimalscount.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Mid-Year_2024_Report.pdf
  4. Castelazo, A. (2022, August 23). Did the Pandemic Really Create a Boom (or Bust) for Pets? PetSmart Charities. https://petsmartcharities.org/pro/resources/thought-starters/did-the-pandemic-really-create-a-boom-or-bust-for-pets
Grooming Gab
It’s About Time—Yours! typography
by Kathy Hosler
Demanding clients, equipment breakdowns, endless bills, family issues, looming deadlines, workplace stress—you name it, it never ends. Dealing with work and life can be overwhelming and often you don’t have enough time to get everything done, which leads to even more stress and anxiety, and ultimately to burnout.

Time. If only you had more of it. While you can’t add more hours to your day, you can learn to better manage your time, which will allow you to be more productive, and thereby reduce some of the stress and anxiety that often fills your life.

So how and where do you start?

First you need to know how you are spending your time. To do this, you can make a time log and write down everything that you do in a day and how long it takes you to do it. With that you can accurately see where your time goes. You might be shocked to find out how much of your time is spent on unproductive things.

It’s About Time—Yours! typography
hourglass
Demanding clients, equipment breakdowns, endless bills, family issues, looming deadlines, workplace stress—you name it, it never ends. Dealing with work and life can be overwhelming and often you don’t have enough time to get everything done, which leads to even more stress and anxiety, and ultimately to burnout.

Time. If only you had more of it. While you can’t add more hours to your day, you can learn to better manage your time, which will allow you to be more productive, and thereby reduce some of the stress and anxiety that often fills your life.

So how and where do you start?

First you need to know how you are spending your time. To do this, you can make a time log and write down everything that you do in a day and how long it takes you to do it. With that you can accurately see where your time goes. You might be shocked to find out how much of your time is spent on unproductive things.

For example, do you plan to take five minutes to check your email but instead find yourself scrolling your social media feeds, and before you know it, an hour has passed? Now the rest of the day has you scrambling to make up for that unplanned wasted time.

After you have a chart of the things you are spending your time on, you can begin to take control. Here are a few ways to get started:

  • Plan ahead. Schedule all your day’s activities in advance. Having a written schedule allows you to plan for and be more organized in your work and your personal life.
  • Prioritize. Put your most important projects at the top of your list. As you go down your list, you may find tasks that can be eliminated or delegated to someone else.
  • Get organized. Being disorganized leads to poor time management. When your tools, for example, are organized and within easy reach, you don’t have to waste precious time searching for them. You will be surprised how much this can increase your productivity.
  • Develop a routine. You probably already follow a step-by-step routine for the way you groom a pet, which keeps you moving smoothly through the process and ensures that you don’t forget important steps. A routine in other areas helps simplify and streamline your day. Have a set time to make reminder calls to clients, check and respond to emails, and return phone calls. Once a week check all your supplies and order anything you need.
  • Keep learning and improving yourself. The grooming industry is constantly changing and evolving. Attending shows, participating in seminars and learning from other groomers will help you keep on top of the changes. The more informed and knowledgeable you are, the more you can use time to your advantage. Improving your skills will give you increased confidence and belief in yourself and your abilities.
  • Connect with others. Joining groomer groups, in person and online, will put you in contact with other like-minded individuals who share your trials and problems, and can benefit you in many ways. You will develop a supportive network of colleagues who provide you with camaraderie, friendship and encouragement. You will learn from others’ experiences, gain access to new ideas and perspectives, and engage in networking.
  • Learn to say NO. Your time is valuable and you have to prioritize what is most important to you. Trying to please and accommodate requests from clients or others can lead to you being so overloaded and overwhelmed that the quality of everything you do is affected. Stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation, depression, burnout, eating disorders, and countless other problems can often be attributed to being a “people pleaser” and putting yourself last. It’s time to take care of and make yourself a priority—say no to others and yes to yourself.
Plan Ahead. typography
Schedule all your day’s activities in advance. Having a written schedule allows you to plan for and be more organized in your work and your personal life.
Managing time isn’t just about your work life, it’s about having time for yourself and the things that are important to you. When you apply these techniques and learn to effectively manage your time, your mental, physical and emotional health will benefit greatly. Having more control of your time, and life, can bring increased positive energy and happiness to everything that you do. It’s about time—yours!
Grooming Matters
The Skill of Saving Coat; Dog before and after grooming with tangled fur on the left and neatly trimmed coat on the right.
by Daryl Conner
Photos provided by Daryl Conner
“Please save what you can,” or “Can you please leave the ears (or tail or head) fluffy?” are familiar requests when a pet owner knows, or has just been informed, that their dog will have to have a short trim because of matting.

Many groomers flatly refuse to do any dematting on dogs, even if it means just doing some spot detangling on a pet that they will otherwise clip closely. They argue that they don’t want to put the pet through any discomfort when it is the human’s fault that the coat is matted.

Another school of thought is that by using the proper products and tools, small areas of the coat can often be left longer and fluffier without harming the dog. This results in a more pleasing-looking finished product and happier customers.

Here is an example: For many years, I have groomed an adorable blonde cocker mix every three weeks. Her signature look is her long, luxurious, flowing ears. Recently, she missed her regular appointment because she was in a boarding kennel while her owners traveled. So when she came in next, I gasped a little when I saw her. Framing her head on either side were tennis-ball-sized tangles in her ears.

When I got her into the bathtub, I realized those tangles were even worse than they looked. They were close to the ear leather and hard, not loose. It occurred to me that I might have to shave her ears for the first time. But I didn’t want to do that, as she is an older dog, and there is a chance she might never live long enough to regrow that beautiful long hair. I knew her owners would understand but would dislike the look if I did have to shave her ears.

So, I decided I could detangle her ears by combining appropriate products, specific grooming tools and my experience. The entire process took less than fifteen minutes, and the dog had no resulting irritation from the detangling and never showed signs of discomfort while I worked.

Person trimming a dog's light beige fur with scissors.
Working from the skin outwards, slice (don’t snip; just use one blade and a gentle sawing motion) through the mat to reduce it into smaller segments.
Here are the steps I followed:
1I chose a shampoo and conditioner designed to help smooth the hair shafts and assist in detangling and removing dead coat. I washed her twice, paying particular attention to the ears.
2After rinsing well, I conditioned her and added extra conditioner to her ears, working it deep into those tangles with my fingers. I let it sit for a few minutes and then rinsed her again thoroughly.
3After squeezing the water from her coat and towel-drying her, I sprayed a light mist of dematting coat spray all over her and brushed it in a bit.
4Next, I sprayed her ears with one of my favorite detangling products and worked it deeply into the tangles with my fingers.
5I then wrapped each ear in two sheets of absorbent paper towel and slipped a terry cloth drying hood over her head to help block the dryer sound and keep the paper towels in place. This absorbs much of the moisture and reduces drying time dramatically.
6After drying everything from the ears back, I removed the hood and carefully fluffed the head and ears until they were completely dry.
7I brushed and combed her body coat, then spritzed her ears with dematting spray again.
8I tried brushing with a slicker brush, but nothing much was happening. So, it was time to get drastic with dematting tools. It is essential to know that dematting tools will damage the coat, but since the hair is already damaged by being tangled, it is sometimes a worthwhile effort to achieve the goal of saving small sections of fur.
9The first thing I used was a matt-breaking tool. This tool has an oval handle with a single sharp blade attached. I used it to carefully slice the big tangles into smaller sections. The same thing can be accomplished by using one blade of a short, straight shear. Working from the skin outwards, slice (don’t snip; just use one blade and a gentle sawing motion) through the mat to reduce it into smaller segments.
10Next, I used the slicker brush and made a little progress pulling the dead hair out of the now smaller sections of tangle. But the tangle was still winning the battle.
11I reached for a multi-toothed matt breaker. (These, too, cut and damage coat, but they also save some hair when used correctly.) After a few moments, I could remove most of the remaining matted fur from her ears.
12Another spritz of dematting spray was applied to the targeted to the area, and after that, my slicker brush pulled the rest of the snarls out. Between the products I had used and the technique of cutting a large matted area into small segments, I could comb right to the skin at last.
Between the products I had used and the technique of cutting a large matted area into small segments, I could comb right to the skin at last.
A person grooming a dog's long, cream-colored fur with a comb.
I only spent about ten minutes physically dematting—removing those massive tangles after the products I chose did their part—and the sweet dog on my table never protested the process. Using specifically designed tools and products enabled me to send her home wagging happily, her signature flowing ears intact. The fur there is thinner, to be sure, and if you look closely, you can see where there are shorter areas, but as far as her humans are concerned, she looks the same beautiful way she usually does, and they are pleased.

These techniques will work on most small areas of matted fur. Tails, which generally have slightly coarser hair texture than other body parts, respond particularly well to being dematted. Sometimes trimming an inch or so of length off first, then reducing the tangles into segments, as described above, results in a tail that still has a nice coating of fur rather than being shaved smoothly.

Taking time to save specific small areas, even if tangled, may result in dogs that look much cuter after being groomed and owners who appreciate that their pets still maintain some of their signature looks. Of course, educating the owners on proper coat care is paramount, but sometimes pulling off a quick dematting miracle can benefit everyone concerned.

Derm Connection
An illustration with stylized text reading, "It may be time for a change!" A hand is drawing the word "Change!" in pink cursive, with the letters "A" and "B" in the background, suggesting a transition from option A to option B. The word "INSANE?" appears faintly at the top.
by Dr. Cliff Faver
One definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Do you have parts of your professional career where you do that? We are always quick to see those issues in others, but can we take a step back and recognize when we are doing the same thing over and over?

Let’s take a look at several situations where I see many groomers, and often many businesspeople, doing just that without even knowing they are doing it. First, are you making as much money as you want or need to live? What are you doing about it? We often complain about it, but we do nothing that would change our circumstances. So why don’t we make those changes?

Usually, it is because we don’t see any other way other than what we are currently doing to get out of the rut. Maybe it is time to look at our options. Should we charge more? Should we offer different services? Should we be open longer hours? Do we need to fire someone because they are hurting our business? Should we move the business to a better demographic? Maybe we just need a vacation or to attend a tradeshow so our own attitude or enthusiasm will change.

When we are in the middle of a problem, we often need to get outside help or a consultant/business coach to, if nothing more, get some new ideas. In an ideal world, we should be giving our business a facelift every five years to avoid the rut. Otherwise, some clients will get bored with us and move along.

When was the last time you remodeled your salon? Have you changed the paint? Added something new to the reception area? We also get bored with our own environment if we don’t refresh it occasionally. Often, brightening up your daily routine doesn’t require a lot of money. Sometimes even just doing a deep clean will change your attitude about coming to work.

Text displayed on a cloud background reads, "The earlier we wear out our bodies, the sooner we will get to the point where we no longer can do what we love." The text is in rounded, pink font.
Do you have an employee that is causing you a lot of heartache or anxiety? Have you addressed the problem or are you just ignoring it and hoping it will disappear? Did you go through retraining? Or is it time to let them go? Or maybe it is a client causing you stress because you can never make them happy? What a strategic firing (client or staff) can do for your overall mental health is amazing. We always feel that neither one can be replaced but, amazingly enough, they almost always are.

Some clients and staff have “expiration dates.” They started off as one of your best, but now they have become complacent, and you feel loyal to them because, in the beginning, they were good. The reality is, they may be feeling the same way, and the best thing for both of you is to start a new chapter in your lives. I have had several occasions in my career where employees returned and thanked me for letting them go. After they left, they realized they weren’t happy either. No one was at fault. It was just that things had changed.

Maybe the rut you have found yourself in has nothing to do with money, staff or clients. Perhaps you are just tired of doing doodles or dealing with “red-zone” dogs. Maybe your back can’t take another Great Pyrenees bath. No one says you have to do any of those things, or you could raise your prices on those dogs! One of two things will happen: Those clients will seek another groomer, or you will find that it is not near as much drudgery if you make more money.

It could also be time to invest in a hydraulic tub or a nicer grooming table. We have to remember that investing in good equipment can make a big difference in our wellbeing and ability to groom as we get older physically. Think of it this way: a $1,000-$4,000 investment could allow you to groom another five to 10 years. How much income would you lose if you had to quit 10 years before you were ready to retire? The earlier we wear out our bodies, the sooner we will get to the point where we no longer can do what we love.

One philosophy I have always lived by is, if you work hard, you also need to play hard. If you keep working and never do anything to rejuvenate your mind and your body, your productivity slowly deteriorates, and you usually don’t even realize it. More importantly, the people around you see it and have to deal with your change in attitude, and now life becomes even more difficult. So, make sure you go to tradeshows, date your spouse, do physical activities regularly and take vacations. You will be amazed at how some of those little things will make a big difference in your productivity and, more importantly, your attitude in your daily life.

So if you find yourself in a rut doing the same things but hoping for different results, it is time to be bold and do something different. Changes are not always easy, but if you don’t make them, you may be going down that path to insanity.

Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology/BA in Chemistry before getting a Veterinary degree in 1987. He is the past owner of Animal Health Services in Cave Creek, Arizona and now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard products, teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program, and speaks internationally on hair and skin. His passion is to merge groomers and veterinarians to aid in helping and healing pets. He is also a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, Board member with Burbank Kennel Club, and has served on Novartis Lead Committee, Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and a Veterinary Management Group.

Behavior Breakdown
A woman wearing headphones and a black grooming smock is grooming a large, fluffy black dog on a grooming table. The text above the image reads, "How Focused Grooming Sessions," and below it says, "Support Wellbeing of Dogs and Groomers."
by Melissa Viera
Photo provided by Melissa Viera
Dog groomers know those whirlwind days where time flies and a positive mindset becomes a distant memory. You began the day with the best intentions, leaving for work with a jug full of water and healthy snacks to get you through the morning. You do a few stretches, and then step out the door ready to take on a day of making dogs look their best. 

But by 10:00 a.m., you replace hydrating with water for an extra coffee and your mind is drifting to the next dog on your schedule instead of the dog on your table now. 

Positive mindset challenged. 

Checking in with yourself has migrated to the bottom of the list. You forget to pause, take a deep breath and be present with your work. Your craft. You might work quickly, but working this way too often can cause a disconnection between you and your love for grooming. Even if you are moving fast while doing lovely work, there is something to be said about reminding yourself to groom with a different focus, too. 

Being able to work in a fast-paced environment is a skillset for dog groomers. Dog grooming is physically and cognitively demanding. Pressure comes in many forms. There are challenging dogs and challenging clients. While time management is an important skill, and the ability to remain calm under pressure is essential, it’s also important to stay deeply connected to the work so that the art of grooming and the communication between dog and groomer don’t suffer.

Reminding yourself what it feels like to groom without pressure can help add to your skillset and make you feel connected to your work again. Focused grooming sessions are grooming sessions for you—the groomer—instead of the client. These are the grooms you do outside of work hours. There are no time limits, and no one waiting for their dog to be ready for pickup. 

Text on a taupe background reads, "Focused grooming sessions are grooming sessions for you—the groomer—instead of the client. These are the grooms you do outside of work hours. There are no time limits, and no one waiting for their dog to be ready for pickup." Bolded words emphasize "grooming sessions for you," "no time limits," and "no one waiting."
What a focused grooming session is for one groomer might be completely different for another. For me, focused sessions are listening to music while grooming my own dogs on a Saturday night. It’s not about achieving the perfect result; it’s about bonding with my dogs and taking care of them so that they feel their best.

For someone else, a focused grooming session might be grooming to practice a certain skill, such as perfecting scissor work. It could even be grooming for the wellbeing of animals, such as volunteering to groom shelter dogs. There is not one type of focused grooming session.

Not only do focused sessions vary between groomers, but it can change over time for one groomer. What you need to recharge and feel good about your work does not always have to be the same thing each time. One week might look totally different from another. The primary goal is to spend some time grooming away from the normal grooming routine. 

Focused grooming sessions should not feel rushed. You should give yourself time to enjoy the art of grooming and bonding with the dog you are working on, whether it’s your own or someone else’s. By focusing on grooming, you can connect with the dog in a way that’s easy to miss during the regular business day.

These sessions are great for observing dog behavior. Throughout the groom, notice how the dog responds. Practice reading the dog’s body language. Well-trained dogs will communicate about the grooming process just as much as a dog that is not trained for grooming at all. Even if you are working on your finished champion during focused grooming sessions, you can practice reading your dog. It’s not about how well the dog is trained, but about how well you can read their behavior. You are being present with the dog and creating habits for yourself. 

As a groomer, you most likely set out with the best intentions each day. You try to set yourself up to succeed, and to have healthy habits while taking care of dogs. The fact is, most days do not go according to plan. If you have something to go back to, you might be more likely to maintain a positive mindset while facing challenges throughout the day.

Focused grooming sessions live in your memory, providing you with something to look forward to and draw strength from when you face challenges at work. You love grooming, after all. Why not give yourself permission to groom for fun and to be connected with the incredible dogs you work with?

The Silent Hazard of Standing: Avoiding Awkward Posture in Dog Grooming
Illustration of a person with forward-leaning posture and a curved line over the back.
by Cathy Sitek
In the bustling world of dog grooming, where every snip and trim counts towards the perfect coat, the importance of posture often takes a backseat. Yet, behind the scenes of the grooming table lies a silent danger—awkward posture in standing—that can wreak havoc on the body of groomers, leading to a plethora of musculoskeletal injuries, and even heart disease.

Standing may seem like a benign activity, but prolonged periods of it, especially in awkward postures, can have dire consequences. Beyond a certain threshold, typically around eight minutes, the body starts to experience what is known as “postural sway.” Postural sway is the body’s natural response to gravity, where it tenses up to maintain stability. However, this tension often manifests in locking the knees and hips, setting the stage for a cascade of health issues.

When the knees lock, the calf muscles—often referred to as the “second heart”—are disengaged, impeding the efficient return of blood to the heart. This leads to blood pooling in the feet and legs, increasing the risk of circulatory problems and contributing to the development of heart disease over time. The heart, burdened by this inefficient blood flow, faces strain and may falter in its function, setting the stage for cardiovascular complications.

Similarly, when the hips lock, they induce muscle apathy in the core muscles, which are the very foundation of posture and spinal support. With weakened core muscles, the spine becomes vulnerable to degeneration, as it lacks the necessary support to maintain its natural curvature. This deterioration can lead to chronic back pain, spinal misalignment and a host of related issues that can severely impact the groomer’s quality of life.

Moreover, locked hips impair the body’s ability to pivot at the hips when bending forward, a movement crucial in grooming tasks. Instead, groomers compensate by bending at the spine, placing undue stress on the vertebrae and increasing the risk of herniated discs and spinal degeneration. This improper bending not only compromises the spine’s integrity, but also exacerbates existing muscular imbalances, further perpetuating the cycle of pain and dysfunction.

The repercussions of awkward posture extend beyond the back and legs; they reverberate throughout the entire musculoskeletal system. Weak core muscles not only compromise spinal stability, but also place added strain on the neck and arm muscles. Groomers, often focused on intricate grooming tasks, may inadvertently strain their neck and shoulder muscles as they contort their bodies to reach difficult areas, leading to tension headaches, shoulder impingement and other related ailments.

The stress that groomers experience causes them to pull and tug the dogs closer so they don’t hurt their back, instead of moving to the dogs with proper hip hinge. This improper technique further strains their muscles and joints, contributing to the overall burden on their bodies.

Illustration comparing bad and good posture with labeled silhouettes.
Additionally, this stress can create a tense atmosphere not only for the groomer, but also for the dogs under their care. Dogs pick up on subtle cues like body language, tone of voice and energy levels, and they may interpret these signals as a threat or cause for concern. As a result, rather than remaining calm and cooperative during the grooming session, dogs may become restless, resistant, or even aggressive.

This dynamic creates a vicious cycle where the groomer’s stress feeds into the dog’s agitation, and vice versa. The more the dog reacts, the more frustrated the groomer becomes, leading to increased tension and difficulty in handling the grooming process. In turn, this exacerbates the groomer’s physical strain as they struggle to manage an uncooperative or anxious animal.

Comparison of bad and good posture with silhouette illustrations showing differences in stance and knee alignment.
An innovative ergonomic solution designed to minimize sway and encourage dynamic movement can effectively address the physical challenges groomers encounter. This solution empowers groomers to maintain a balanced stance, enhancing their comfort and reducing strain during grooming sessions. By adopting such techniques, groomers can significantly improve their wellbeing while promoting a more relaxed and pleasant environment for the dogs they groom.

Cathy Sitek is a certified Ergonomist and the driving force behind Human Balance & Stability Systems. With a background in manufacturing as a toolmaker, Cathy faced crippling pain in her back, neck, legs, and feet. Advised to quit or undergo surgery, she pioneered a solution: the StandRite-Pro (www.standritepro.com), her patented ergonomic device for standing workers. As the founder of Human Balance & Stability Systems and the dedicated Ergonomist for her daughter’s dog grooming company, United Dog Grooming, she ensures comfort and optimal performance in the pet grooming industry, prioritizing the well-being of groomers and the pets they care for.

Mary’s Musings
An illustration depicting time-management struggles for a dog groomer. The image shows a stressed-out groomer with a chaotic background of grooming tools, a goblin version of himself, a calendar, and an alarm clock.
by Mary Oquendo
Recently, I was affectionately dubbed a “Chaos Goblin” due to my unscripted approach to podcasting. And I’ve come to accept this label, as it reflects my natural state. However, I’ve spent much time understanding how time management works for me, and I am extraordinarily organized—except when I choose not to be. This acceptance of chaos has been a source of inspiration in my personal journey.

So, fellow Chaos Goblins, how often do you hear, “We all have the same 24 hours in a day,” or “If I can do it, you can too,” etc.? The reality is, everyone’s 24 hours is different. Maybe you’re:

  • A single parent
  • Parents of young children/teenagers who have after-school activities
  • Caring for an infirmed parent, significant other or child
  • Dealing with chronic medical issues
  • Neurodivergent and struggle with time blindness
  • Spending a considerable amount of time on something else.

Now, let’s add attention spans to the mix. I can work for an hour at a time under the right circumstances, but mostly in half-hour chunks. If I try to work longer than my attention span will allow, everything takes longer than if I just set up work tasks in half- hour chunks.

So how much time are you wasting trying to get that one thing done? Or, realistically, what is your attention span, and what circumstances can you create to extend or accept your short attention span and work around it?

In addition, we all have more productive times of day, which can change over time. I remember a time when I was up at six a.m. and raring to go. Now, while I start my day around 11 a.m., I only do tasks requiring brain power after noon and I’m good until around 4 p.m., and maybe another additional hour doing fewer less-challenging tasks.

Another question to ask yourself is, how is my ego hampering my efforts to be more productive? It’s common to think that only you can do the task correctly—you don’t need help; you’ll figure it out eventually. After spending three days trying to troubleshoot a tech issue on my website, I got over this. Now, if I can’t figure out a solution in 15 minutes, I ask for help.

What are you spending more time on because you’ve maxed out your attention span? When you start scrolling your social media feed, it’s time to take a break.
So, Chaos Goblins, how do we fix this?

The hard part is figuring out where you’re spending your time, and that starts with tracking your time. You can’t fix the problem if you don’t know what the extent of the problem is. So grab a notebook or open the notes app on your phone and start writing down everything you do, when you do it and how long you spend doing it. Some things you will pick out quickly, while others will require a deeper dive.

What repeating tasks are able to be consolidated? Conversely, what are you spending more time on because you’ve maxed out your attention span? When you start scrolling your social media feed, it’s time to take a break. Sometimes it’s just getting up, making coffee, and then returning to work. Are there tasks you can outsource or delegate to family or co-workers? Trust me, they can do the task as good as you can.

Here are some tools I personally use to better manage my time:
alarm clock icon
Alarms on My Phone. When I have to be somewhere or do something at a specific time, I set a series of alarms. They may be for when I need to be in my car at a certain time or just to need to be at my computer. Sometimes I will even set “pay-attention” alarms when I know I will be engrossed in a task.
Green planner icon
Paper Planner. This is not to be confused with a schedule book. While a schedule book can be part of a planner, schedule books are not planners. A planner is a centralized location for daily activities, to-do lists and mapping out long-term goals. You can also use a planner to schedule tasks at specific times if you need the structure.
Green purse icon
Accountability Calls/Co-Working Sessions. While these are usually done online, they can also be done in person. You dedicate an hour to work via a Zoom call with other participants. There is no talking, just working. This is what I use to extend my normal half-hour to an hour working session.

One concern about striving to be hyper-organized is that it can stifle creativity. Therefore, it’s important to learn how to manage time effectively while still fostering innovation. That’s why I embrace the Chaos Goblin moniker. But I promise you, taking the time to find the right combination of time-management tools and skills is life-changing.

Better Cat Grooming
cat biting woman's finger with 'Scratches, Bites, Infections, Oh My! Preventing Injuries in the Cat Grooming Salon' typography
For those of us dedicated to cat grooming, handling a variety of feline temperaments is an everyday reality. Cat bites and scratches are considered almost inevitable risks in the industry, yet with the right techniques, tools and preventive measures, we can minimize and manage these injuries effectively. Protecting ourselves from bites and scratches includes reading cat body language to predict possible injuries, improving our handling techniques, and selecting appropriate grooming services or tools to reduce aggressive reactions.
Cat Body Language
One of the most effective ways to prevent injury is to understand feline body language so that you can predict their next move. Cats communicate their discomfort, fear or irritation through various cues such as ear positions, vocalizations, and their overall body position and attention. Recognizing these signs early on can help groomers adjust their approach before a cat feels the need to bite or scratch.

Key indicators of stress in cats include:

  • Flattened ears or ears turning sideways are signs of annoyance or fear.
  • Dilated pupils and wide-open eyes suggest heightened alertness and potential defensiveness.
  • Growling, hissing or yowling are direct signals that the cat feels threatened and may respond.
  • Tense or jerky body movements indicate the cat is uncomfortable with what is currently happening to them.

Remaining mindful of these indicators and responding accordingly—such as allowing the cat a brief respite, adjusting your hold or position, finishing what you’re doing quickly or distracting them—can help reduce aggressive behaviors and lower the cat’s stress during grooming.

Protective Equipment
Wearing protective equipment can create a safer grooming environment for both you and the cat. Always be mindful of your ability to move and change positions so that any protective equipment or apparel isn’t hindering your handling techniques.

Arm Protectors and Gloves
Arm protectors and/or thick gloves can provide a protective barrier that reduces the risk of deep scratches or bites. Arm protectors, typically made from puncture- or cut-resistant materials, extend from the wrist to the elbow, covering a large area that is often vulnerable during grooming. Some groomers may find gloves restrictive when handling delicate areas, so try out different types of arm guards to find what works best for you.

Towels as Restraints
The humble towel is one of the most effective tools for working with cats, both by providing some control over the cat, while also adding a layer of protection between your skin and the cat’s sharp teeth or nails. Wrapping a cat securely but comfortably in a towel—a technique often called “burrito wrapping”—helps to immobilize the cat’s legs, reducing the risk of scratching. A towel can also give the cat a sense of security.

cat wrapped in towel
When using a towel:

  • Choose a thick, large towel that fully covers the cat.
  • Wrap the cat snugly with the towel tucked under the cat, using its own body weight to help secure the wrap.
  • Hold firmly but gently, ensuring the cat can breathe comfortably and isn’t overly restricted.
  • Unwrap sections of the towel to expose the part of the cat’s body that you are working on.

If a cat has jumped or escaped away from you, use a towel to drape over the cat’s entire body and head, then swiftly scoop them up off the floor while holding them firmly in the towel. This approach can significantly reduce risk of injury to you from bites and scratches, and it safely secures the cat to move them back to the grooming table or to put them back in their carrier.

Appropriate Muzzles
Muzzles and collars are invaluable tools for handling especially reactive cats. However, they require careful consideration to ensure the cat’s comfort and safety, as not all muzzles and restraints are appropriate for all cats. When choosing a muzzle for a cat, prioritize comfort, safety and the ability to monitor the cat’s wellbeing throughout the grooming session. Always ensure the muzzle fits securely without putting pressure on the cat’s neck or restricting airflow.

Start by selecting a muzzle that is snug but not restrictive, allowing the cat enough room to breathe comfortably without impeding their vision too severely, as many cats feel calmer when they can see their surroundings. Options like the Air Muzzle, which secure the head gently while allowing the cat full visibility and ventilation, are often beneficial. Throughout the session, monitor the cat’s breathing, watching for signs of increased stress, such as rapid breathing or struggling, and adjust or remove the muzzle if needed.

This careful selection and monitoring help maintain a balance between the necessary restraint for safety and the cat’s comfort. Proper training on the application and removal of these tools is essential, as improper use may cause additional stress or even injury.

Reducing Aggression through Customization
Selecting appropriate grooming services and style options based on the cat’s temperament and history can help reduce stress-induced aggression. The following are examples of adjustments that may need made to better accommodate certain cats.

Shorter Grooming Sessions
Some cats become increasingly agitated as time goes on, especially if they’ve hit the end of their “turkey timer.” Prioritize what is causing immediate problems or discomfort and do not drag the groom on longer than necessary.

Limit Elective Options
For highly aggressive or anxious cats, consider only performing essential grooming tasks, such as nail trimming, bathing, sanitary trims, etc. This includes avoiding or limiting elective (non-matting) shaving on cats that become aggressive. A good bath, blow-dry and comb-out will prevent many of the same issues as a haircut and will be more tolerable for reactive cats than forced shaving or trimming.

Senior and Special Needs Cat Considerations
Older or special needs cats may experience discomfort from prolonged handling. Being especially gentle and mindful of positions and pressure can improve their grooming experience and reduce reactive behaviors.

Proper Wound Care
Despite the best preventive measures, bites and scratches can still occur. Knowing how to respond promptly to injuries is essential to avoid infections or complications.

Bite Care: Immediate Steps and Medical Attention
Cat bites in particular pose a high risk of infection due to bacteria in a cat’s mouth. Follow these steps to minimize risk:

  1. Clean the wound immediately by rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
  2. Disinfect with antiseptic to reduce bacterial presence.
  3. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding if the wound is deep.
  4. Seek medical attention, especially if the bite punctures deeply or shows signs of swelling.
  5. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the full course as instructed. In some cases, a tetanus shot may also be necessary.

Scratch Care: Treating and Healing Superficial Wounds
While scratches are typically less severe than bites, they can leave scars if not cared for properly. Here are a few ways to treat and minimize their impact:

  1. Clean with an antiseptic wash to prevent infection.
  2. Apply a healing lotion or oil, like vitamin E or Aloe Vera, which can speed healing and reduce scarring.
  3. Use wound dressings or bandages for larger scratches to prevent reopening the wound.

Consistent, mindful wound care not only supports faster healing, but also reduces the likelihood of long-term skin damage.

Although injuries may not be entirely preventable, a thoughtful, prepared approach can greatly reduce the risk of bites and scratches. By combining an understanding of cat body language, utilization of protective equipment, improved handling techniques and a customized grooming experience, professional cat groomers can create a safe, stress-free experience for both groomers and cats.

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: The Importance of Caring for
Illustration of a person holding a heart with the letters "Y" and "U" beside them.
by Michaela Schandelmayer-Davis, LCMHC
Repeat clients are great for business. They are the bread and butter of what we do. And to keep customers coming back time after time, the care of their pet must be our top priority. Yet, is there anything you do for yourself as a priority? Something monthly? Bimonthly? Or even just twice a year? Why is it you’re willing to work longer days or squeeze in a Shih Tzu because it’s just a Shih Tzu? Where is the time you take to do something for yourself?

Nowadays, we have become accustomed to feeling guilty if we take time for ourselves. This is largely due to learned behaviors over the years. Yes, someone can be an innate caregiver, but if you take an introspective look, it typically stems from childhood. Taking a glance at our upbringing allows us to understand why we may be more reluctant to enjoy self-care. Whether you are the eldest sibling, a parentified child or come from a deeply empathetic family unit, our caring tendencies have an origin. If you find yourself being a caretaker for others, you may struggle with caring for yourself.

Reminding ourselves—both as an employee and employer—that we are human and need to take time to ensure our wellbeing is paramount.
A lot of us within the grooming community struggle with this. We find ourselves caring so deeply for our clients that it may become difficult to remember we deserve care as well. Being empathetic has its perks, as it allows us to be caring for those around us, both two- and four-legged.

Though empathy for others may come easily, at the same time, when others have empathy for you, it may feel uncomfortable. This feeling often stems from guilt of not wanting to be a burden or that we feel we are undeserving of care from others. In the same breath, if we feel this way, we tend to not put our own care as a priority either for those same reasons. The basics of partaking in self-care can allow us to look at our own needs, which may range from mental, physical, emotional or spiritual health.

As an employer, business is on the brain 24/7 if we do not shut it off. Fear, goals, stress and anxiety may all be factors of prevention to taking a much-needed break from the relentless day-to-day tasks. As an employee, guilt and fear may also run rampant if wanting to take time for yourself. Reminding ourselves—both as an employee and employer—that we are human and need to take time to ensure our wellbeing is paramount.

It is important within the workplace to be supportive and open in communication regarding mental and physical health. Where there is fear, there is distrust and unhappiness. If an employee is fearful or worried about asking for much-needed time off, then they may become burnt out or even seek other avenues of employment. Burnout is real and it’s miserable. When you lose interest in something that you once loved and enjoyed all because you are tired, you become frustrated with yourself, among other things.

Illustration of a red mug with a croissant and purple abstract shape.
Improving self-care can be as simple as giving yourself five minutes to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee—without dog hair in it.
Coming off the holiday season, we all may be running on empty after overworking ourselves to appease our client load. This is a prime time to take an opportunity to improve your self-care. As daunting and time-consuming as it may sound, it doesn’t have to be a whole routine change or new activity. Improving self-care can be as simple as giving yourself five minutes to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee—without dog hair in it.

There are numerous forms of care that many of us lack. This can include additional sleep, emotional expression, healthy eating habits, social support, mindfulness or even exercise. It is important that we put enough pressure on ourselves to implement a form of self-care without making it feel like a chore.

This is often where New Year’s resolutions fail, as so much pressure is put on to keep up with the new habit that it feels more like a chore than something enjoyable with benefits. If you can keep up with something for 21 days, it is likely to become a habit. Forming a healthy habit, such as a new form of self-care, will not only benefit you personally, but in your professional space as well.

Meditating, journaling and breathing exercises are all ways that you can improve your mental health. In the realm of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, these self-care techniques are not only for improving your wellbeing, but also function as excellent coping mechanisms.

Box breathing is a great way to ground yourself. This breathing exercise consists of breathing in through your nose for four seconds, holding it in for four seconds, breathing out through your mouth for four seconds, and then holding it out for four seconds. This is a simple exercise that can be conducted essentially whenever and wherever. If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed in between dogs, take the 16 seconds and reset your breath. You can repeat as needed until the results are in effect.

Grounding yourself in this way has both physical and mental health benefits. By being able to regulate your breathing, you can activate your parasympathetic nervous system. This activation allows for reduced levels of anxiety and stress, while at the same time, it can also improve concentration and performance. You can also try it at the beginning or end of your day to alleviate stress and anxiety that may be looming or have built up throughout the day.

As much as your brain may want to convince you that doing something for yourself is selfish, taking care of yourself is not selfish. We are quick to have our shears sharpened, but it’s time to sharpen yourself. You are the most valuable tool that you have, and we don’t have the option of a replacement. Being a dull blade in life won’t bring you the satisfaction and pride that a sharp one will, so take care of yourself.

Elevate Your Grooming
Text on a peach-colored background reads, "Scissor Drills" in large bold font, with a line underneath. Below the line, smaller text reads, "To help refine your finishes and extend your career."
by Blake Hernandez
With the start of the new year, people often make resolutions to add new activities and habits to their life, and while this is good, we must also remember that perfecting the basics is the key to success. And with pet grooming, it’s even more important because incorrect usage of tools and equipment can lead to injury and a shorter career.

The following outlines some scissor drills that will help to improve your grooming skills and extend the working life of your hand.

A person with a tattooed arm and a smartwatch on their wrist presses the palm of one hand against the open palm of the other, forming a flat hand position.
1.) Place the back of your scissoring hand against the top of your thigh and hold your four fingers down with the opposite hand. While keeping the rest of your hand still, lift your thumb up and down. This will make a stronger connection between your brain and your thumb and allow you to minimize the muscles and joints being overused when scissoring with poor form. 
Two images stacked vertically showing a hand transitioning from an open palm position to a partially closed hand, with the thumb extended upward.
2.) Once you are comfortable with this, release your hand and simply use your brain and muscle memory to keep your scissoring hand still while moving your thumb up and down independently. Be sure to move your thumb in a straight line as you would when it’s in a scissor, not in circles. 
Two images stacked vertically of a hand with the palm facing up, transitioning to a more relaxed, partially closed hand position with the thumb extended.
3.) Continue to progress this drill by lifting your hand into the air while still moving your thumb. This will further train and condition you to only move your thumb while scissoring.
A close-up of a person's hand holding a pair of scissors with cream-colored handles, resting on their leg in a relaxed grip.
4.) Start these drills back over from the beginning while holding a scissor in your hand with only your thumb barely inserted in the loop, opening your scissor to full extension. When going through these drills again, remember that you are not working on speed or strength; you are simply building the direct connection between your brain and your thumb.
A close-up of a hand holding a pair of open scissors with cream-colored handles, positioned horizontally as if ready to cut.
5.) Check in and make sure that your fingers are not going through the finger loops. They should press against the sides of the loops rather than be inserted through. 
A side view of a hand holding scissors vertically with the blades pointing upward, showing the grip on the cream-colored handle.
6.) Next, find a wall and start doing these drills against the wall—but DO NOT touch the wall. The closer you can get without making any contact is how you steady your finish.
A close-up of a hand holding a pair of open scissors with cream-colored handles against a white textured wall. The blades are spread wide apart, and the hand grips the scissors firmly, positioned horizontally.
7.) If you are doing this drill and the tip of your scissor keeps hitting the wall, then you are probably struggling with putting holes in your finish. If your handle hits the wall on the bottom side, you are likely taking too long to scissor, as you are not deliberate with your sweep from hilt to tip.

Your thumb should extend all the way to straight in order to maximize every inch of your blade.

A hand holding scissors with blades open against a white background, positioned horizontally for cutting.
A hand holding scissors with blades open against a white background, angled downward in a cutting position.
8.) Finally, start stretching to elongate your range of motion by doing windshield-wiper motions from inside to outside.

These drills can be taken even further, like scissoring around a metal water bottle and hearing a *ting* every time you make a mistake, or even try scissoring off shaving cream from a balloon to train curved shapes and smooth finishes. Regular refinement of your scissoring form will not only help you achieve a finer finish, but will also provide longevity in your career!

Barkleigh Show Schedule with colorful illustration of the United States of America map
Pet Pro Cruise – Western Caribbean
1/4/2025 – 1/10/2025
Port Canaveral, Florida
www.barkleigh.com/shows
Groom Expo West
2/13/2025 – 2/16/2025
Pasadena, California
www.groomexpowest.com
Intergroom
3/20/2025 – 3/23/2025
Secaucus, New Jersey
www.intergroom.com
Northwest Grooming Show
4/24/2025 – 4/27/2025
Tacoma, Washington
www.nwgroom.com
Pet Boarding & Daycare Expo West
5/5/2025 – 5/8/2025
Las Vegas, Nevada
www.petboardingexpowest.com
Heart of America Grooming Show
5/29/2025 – 6/1/2025
Kansas City, Missouri
www.heartgrooming.com
PetQuest
6/19/2025 – 6/22/2025
Wilmington, Ohio
www.pqgroom.com
Groom Texas
7/18/2025 – 7/20/2025
Houston, Texas
www.txgroom.com
All American Grooming Show
8/21/2025 – 8/24/2025
Schaumburg, Illinois
www.aagroom.com
Groom Expo
9/4/2025 – 9/7/2025
Hershey, Pennsylvania
www.groomexpo.com
New England Grooming Show
9/25/2025 – 9/28/2025
Springfield, Massachusetts
www.newenglandgrooms.com
Fun in the Sun
Coming 2025
Orlando, Florida
www.FitsGroom.com
Pet Boarding & Daycare Expo
11/10/2025 – 11/13/2025
Hershey, Pennsylvania
www.petboardingexpo.com
World Groom Online
See Online Schedule for More Details
www.worldgroom.dog
For More Information
New Products
Container of HICC PET ear relief wipes with a dog image and award badge.
HICC PET® EAR RELIEF FINGER WIPES
HICC Pet® Ear Relief Finger Wipes, now available with Manuka Honey, provide a unique solution for cleaning and soothing pets’ ears. The patent-pending, double-sided textured wipe is designed to fit securely on your finger, preventing slippage and enabling deep cleaning, specifically tailored for pets with L-shaped ear canals. Ear Relief Finger Wipes contain a natural blend of fermented coconut oil, EDI-purified water, oatmeal, witch hazel, and white willow bark. The new variation of Manuka honey offers enhanced antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it particularly useful for pets with sensitive ears. hiccpet.com
Pet product packaging with a dog and cat wearing red collars and tags on a blue background.
ZENPATCH PET STICKERS FROM NATPAT
Each ZenPatch offers consistent calming power, providing all-day relief for a pet’s anxiety and stress. The unique AromaWeave™ technology infuses biodegradable bamboo fibers with a blend of natural essential oils, including Fractionated Coconut Oil, Vanilla Extract, Lavender, Orange, Geranium, and Clary Sage. The patches are made with non-toxic, natural ingredients and are easy to peel off and apply to a pet’s collar, or they can be paired with the ZenPatch Locket, which attaches to the collar like a regular pet tag. No more stressing, no matter where they go! Also available for wholesale. www.natpat.com/collections/pets

CLASSIFIEDS

Retiring owner, after 33 years, busy established dog grooming business

  • Loyal customer base
  • New clientele every week
  • Fully equipped grooming stations
  • Prime location in Chicagoland area
  • Desirable location in upper-middle-class neighborhood
  • Has capacity to accomodate additional groomers; spacious, bright, clean, and open shop
  • Designated, private, cat grooming area
  • Laundry
  • Office
  • Hassle-free parking

Call broker Larry at 630.796.0070, EXT: 1, for more details. Email: lswanson@tworld.com

INDUSTRY NEWS
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AKC Master Groomer of the Year

Kathlena Austin

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Blog, Vlog, or Podcast
of the Year

Another Grooming Podcast

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Thanks for reading our January 2025 issue!