The main product we deal with is our shampoos. They are one of the most misunderstood of all the products we use. The bottom line is, the primary function of shampoo is to clean. It does not hydrate. It does not kill bacteria or fungus (unless you use a specific product type). It is not an anti-inflammatory. It cleans, that’s it. It does so by trapping dirt and removing or stripping oils from the skin’s protective barrier. The amount it strips depends on the harshness of the product used.

Dirt sits on the surface of the skin’s oils, so a mild shampoo that only strips off the very top layer is all that is required to get the pet clean. Using harsh or degreasing products removes too much of the natural oils and can be the source or the start of many skin issues. A good rule of thumb is, if it leaves your hands dry, it is stripping the oils from the pet also. And this compromises the natural protective barrier of the skin.

Accurate books and records apply to the finances. I have a business plan and do my books weekly for my business. My hobby has a stack of receipts somewhere. I keep them to verify when the credit card bill comes or if I have to return something. But let’s be honest; unused craft supplies never get returned.

If you have felt it, then you know exactly what I am talking about. And if you haven’t, you’re lucky. Burnout happens in every difficult job. But, when you work with live animals—especially intuitive animals like dogs—it is crucial you do what you can to avoid it. Dogs sense our frustrations, our disgust for our employers and our inability to deal with the day-to-day stress of grooming, thus creating a perpetual cycle of hatred for what was once your passion. There is no shame in feeling this way. Just know, it’s temporary; however, only YOU can change it. Here are some tips if you are starting to feel trapped by your day-to-day routine.