Top Training Tools for Dog Grooming Success typography
Hand Stripping: Not Just for Show Dogs typography
Is It "Allergies" or Something Else? typography
Creating a Policy for Conflict Resolution typography

September 2024

“The Grooming Industry’s Trade Magazine!”

Contents | September 2024

30

6 Essential Stretches for Groomers to Improve Flexibility & Prevent Injuries article graphic

by Kelsey Ann Sexton

52

Butterfly Ears: Not Just for Papillons! article feature
by Blake Hernandez
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
Copyright September 2024. 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

Correction

Elizabeth Johnson’s placement in the ‘Wire Coated’ category was misplaced from the 2024 Northwest Grooming Show Contest Results in the July 2024 issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine.

Wire Coated

Sponsored by HICC Pet

Elizabeth Johnson

1ST ENTRY

Elizabeth Johnson

Mary’s Musings
Optimism VS Realism:
vector illustration of a smiley faces, gears, and a person holding a large pencil
The Importance of Preparation in the Grooming Salon
by Mary Oquendo
There are two wolves inside of me. One is the optimist and the other is the realist. The optimist assumes life is but a bowl of sunshine, while the realist accounts for thunderstorms. And it’s all good to think that nothing wrong will ever happen to you, but it can be overwhelming to face challenges when you have not prepared for them. The optimist hopes I never have to use my planning; the realist is glad I have it.

Why is it overwhelming to react to a situation you have not prepared for? The keyword here is “react.” When you don’t have a plan, you can only react to the circumstances because your body is dumping endorphins such as adrenaline in your body. Adrenaline is responsible for fight, flight or freeze—there is no thinking; only reacting. However, taking a deep breath to force oxygen back up to your brain and getting the “If This Happens, Do That” checklist to follow will take thinking out of the equation.

Insurance
After a problem occurs is not the time to find out what your insurance covers and, more importantly, what it doesn’t cover. Schedule a meeting with your Insurance Specialist at your insurance company—not your insurance agent—to review your policy in detail.

Your policy is only in effect as it appears on the insurance company’s end. Don’t make assumptions. It’s also important that your insurance company knows if you are changing your business structure, such as going from an LLC to a C corporation; otherwise, you don’t have insurance coverage.

First Aid
Keep well-stocked first aid kits in multiple locations around the facility. If you service species other than dogs, you should have separate kits for each. For example, cats lack many of the enzymes that people and dogs have, which prevents them from metabolizing certain things that are dog- or people-safe, such as certain wound rinses and antibiotic ointments. Saline solution makes an excellent wound rinse and is safe for all animals. As a precaution, use the single-ingredient antibiotic cream on cats instead of the triple.

Take a hands-on human and pet first aid class at least every two years. Hands-on programs create muscle memory in the body. You are more likely to remember those skills when faced with an emergency because your body remembers the motions.

Emergency & Disaster Plans
Your business needs written and practiced emergency and disaster plans that include checklists for what to do in the event of a shelter-in-place or evacuation. Additionally, you’ll need supplies for both instances and client waivers regarding the care of their pets during such an event.
Waivers & Terms of Service
Waivers and terms of service set boundaries. Client paperwork should include rates and policies for no-shows, right of refusal, drop-offs, pick-ups, etc. Waivers should be legal and enforceable in your state. A local business attorney can help you develop forms that meets your state’s criteria.
Cameras
Cameras will protect the business. Cameras should be everywhere and, most importantly, you need to know how your system records, where the footage is stored and for how long it is stored.
The most crucial part of check-in is knowing when to say “no.” You should say no to a pet that is a bite risk or has a medical concern that you don’t want to exacerbate, or a client that is not respecting the boundaries of your business by trying to dictate what you will do.
The most crucial part of check-in is knowing when to say “no.” You should say no to a pet that is a bite risk or has a medical concern that you don’t want to exacerbate, or a client that is not respecting the boundaries of your business by trying to dictate what you will do.
Check-In Procedures
Check-ins should be thorough and you have to make the time to do them. The alternative can devastate your business if you take a pet you should not have. Here are some things to look for:

  • Watch them walk. Do they appear to be favoring a limb that may be painful? (Bite risk)
  • Walk in front of them. Are they tracking you or do they appear lethargic? (Sick, possibly contagious, or drugged pet)
  • Discharge from the nose. (Highly contagious respiratory illness)
  • Run your hands up the body, watching for subtle changes in body language. They may indicate a pain response. (Bite risk)
  • Look for matting. (Possible open wounds or irritations underneath)
  • Discharge from ears. (Infection)
  • Gum color. Anything other than pink or normal mottled gums should be sent home. (Pale gums indicate poor blood flow; possible heart condition. Yellow gums are a jaundiced pet; liver failure. Blue gums are poor blood flow or trachea issues. Red gums indicate heat stroke.)

The most crucial part of check-in is knowing when to say “no.” You should say no to a pet that is a bite risk or has a medical concern that you don’t want to exacerbate, or a client that is not respecting the boundaries of your business by trying to dictate what you will do. A thorough check-in also opens up the lines of communication between yourself and owners.

My personal philosophy of assuming the best (optimist) but preparing for the worst (realist) allows me to stay strong and take on any challenge that comes my way in my business.

Derm Connection
Is it “Allergies” or Something Else? typography

by Dr. Cliff Faver

Allergies, allergies, allergies…everyone is talking about their pet’s allergies! So, what does that mean, and how do you diagnose allergies in a pet?

First, an allergic reaction is when the individual (pet or human) has an overreaction to normal stimuli. This needs to be differentiated from a normal reaction to a toxin or irritant. If the pet is exposed to a strong acid, toxin or spoiled food, then any animal would react to that. This is in contrast to a pet being exposed to pollen or a certain diet, where only a rare few would have an adverse reaction. However, it is important to note that a pet can be allergic to anything. In practice, I even had a dog react to a cortisone shot, which is what we treat allergies with!

In the grooming world, there is often talk of hypoallergenic products (food and shampoos), which usually signifies that some of the known common allergens (substances that cause an allergic reaction), like scents or certain proteins, are removed to minimize reactions. We must realize that this does not mean some pets will not also react to these products.

When a pet is sent to a veterinarian for a skin or digestive issue, the most common complaint is that the pet is “itchy” (pruritic). Several diagnostics can be run to try to define the problem, including skin scrapings, skin impression smears, tape impressions, bloodwork, skin cultures, blood and skin allergen testing, and biopsies. Most of these can detect parasites and define secondary infection, but which one proves the dog is itching due to allergies? Actually, none of them!

The diagnosis of allergies is a guess based on very limited information. However, the tests can show a rise in the eosinophils (blood cells that rise with allergies and parasites), the biopsy can show an inflammatory response, and the allergen test can show that the individual may be allergic to certain things but does not guarantee the dog is itching due to these allergens. The allergens they are positive for may not even be in the pet’s environment.

The major rule-outs that most veterinary dermatologists use in working with itchy skin are environmental allergies, food allergies and parasites. Common sense says they have overlooked the most obvious rule-out—dry skin! But why is this left off the list? Mainly because we are not directly taught this in school or seminars. In almost all teaching platforms I have attended, they talk about the need to repair the skin barrier (sebum or oil layer), but yet in their treatment protocol, rarely is this addressed.

In order to replace hydration and oils back to the hair and skin, we must be able to condition the coat with products specifically designed to do that—and shampoo is not the answer. Shampoo is made to strip oils, not add them back. Some shampoos may include oils, but the function of the shampoo is to strip off at least the top layer. This means the detergents and the added oils would work against or negate each other.

Groomers commonly complain about their dry, itchy hands and skin every spring and fall, and they will often say their lips are very dry and chapped. Does that mean all these groomers have allergies? Unfortunately, if you went to a dermatologist and said you have itchy skin, there is a good chance that “allergies” would be their diagnosis. Why bring this up? Most consider spring and fall allergy seasons. My question is, is it truly allergies, or have we been missing the boat all along? This is also the time of year when the seasons change, which can have a drying effect with the transition of heating/cooling systems, pets swimming (hunting or pools), changes in humidity and temperatures, etc.

A strong skin barrier is an amazing thing and often the answer to the successful treatment of "allergies". typography
As a groomer, you can play a major role in minimizing or preventing these “allergies.” If they are true allergies, there have been studies done by the Mayo Clinic on humans that conditioning the skin prior to the allergen exposure would minimize or even prevent the issue altogether. If this is just dry skin, you should be able to return the skin to health by replacing the barrier. In some cases, as discussed previously, we may need a little extra help in the “drier” times of the year.

In order to deal with either of these conditions, it is important to be aware of the time of year these problems occur within your area and plan to get a jump on it. My typical recommendation is to start with a super-hydrating (humectant) conditioner a month before the “allergy”/dry season. I also encourage groomers to shorten the grooming cycle during this time. Instead of every four weeks, consider every two weeks. Because if the reaction is associated with pollens, by shortening the cycle, you can remove them before they create too much inflammation. Remember, the solution to pollution is dilution.

Educating the client and preparing them for the next cycle is a vital aspect of the process. This little extra work on your part may save the client thousands of dollars with the veterinarian. In this scenario, veterinarians often treat “allergies” the same as they did last year (which didn’t work) and expect different results this time, all at a price.

A strong skin barrier is an amazing thing and often the answer to the successful treatment of “allergies.”

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.

Grooming Matters

Heather Roozee’s Journey to

Hand-Stripping Mastery
by Daryl Conner
Photos provided by Heather Roozee
H

eather Roozee began grooming twenty-four years ago and has owned and operated A Groomery Pet Grooming in DeKalb, Illinois for twenty-one of those years. However, she made a name for herself in the grooming industry by competing with her Airedale Terrier, Zeppelin, in grooming contests nationwide.

This team of two has won many Best in Show awards, including twice at Intergroom and at Groom Expo, earning a coveted Groomer to Groomer magazine cover shot. In 2017, Heather was named the number-one Hand Strip Groomer in the U.S. Outside of the grooming industry, Heather also competed in AKC conformation shows and achieved the title of Grand Champion with Zeppelin.

The technique of hand stripping is widely used by pet groomers in Europe but seen far less commonly in shops in the U.S. When done properly, it is not uncomfortable for the dog, and it preserves the correct texture and color of wire-coated breeds, while promoting healthy skin and maintaining proper breed characteristics.

“Honestly, once I learned that hand stripping some dogs was even a thing, I wanted to learn the skill,” Heather shares. “I didn’t want grooming to be a job; I wanted it to be a career. I fell in love with terriers, Airedales specifically, and once learning they were a hand-stripped breed, I had to learn how.”

So, in 2005, Heather began her quest to master the technique.

Heather Roozee poses with her dog, proudly displaying a ribbon, showcasing their bond and achievement together.
“I fell in love with the breed back when I was just starting to groom,” she continues. “I was watching the Westminster Dog Show and the Airedale came out for group judging. He was like no other dog I had ever seen, and I didn’t even know Airedales were a breed. I grew up in the horse world, so seeing this dog shaped like a horse just grabbed me, and I knew I had to have one.”

Her first Airedale, Layne, was the dog that started her down the path towards perfecting her skills.

“It was a lot of trial and error,” Heather confesses. “I started competing with him in a strip-and-clip-type trim way back in the day and got critiques to get me going in a better direction. When I got Zeppelin, my second Airedale, his breeder helped me learn, as did some tricks and tips from handlers like Adam Bernardin at dog shows.”

“I didn’t want grooming to be a job; I wanted it to be a career. I fell in love with terriers, Airedales specifically, and once learning they were a hand-stripped breed, I had to learn how.”

– Heather Roozee
Her third and current Airedale, which she brought home in 2017, is Grand Champion Timberwyck The Rock. Although his many friends know him as Hudson.

“I waited two years for the right puppy from Susan Kuhn, Timberwyck Airedales,” Heather says. “She knew I wanted a dog I could attempt to have a successful specials career in the show ring with. We have far exceeded every goal I wanted to achieve. I never dared to dream of winning a National show, much less our National at Montgomery. And he won our floating National just a few months prior to that. I still find it hard to wrap my head around such incredible wins.

“I am most proud of his two National Specialty wins,” she continues. “Which is what we call winning ‘The Bowl’ in his breed because of the exquisite traveling trophy, and his All-Breed Best in Show. He also accomplished two All-Breed Reserve Best in Show wins and many regional specialties wins over his career.”

Heather does all of Hudson’s grooming and handles him in the show ring. The bond between the two of them is apparent because he is not only a show dog, but also a daily companion and cherished pet.

Heather Roozee in a red suit sits on a bench, accompanied by a dog, enjoying a serene moment outdoors.
Heather encourages other groomers to practice the art of hand stripping by offering seminars and online tutorials. Followers on Facebook see her weekly reminders, such as her “Flatwork Wednesday” posts with photos of Heather working on Hudson’s neck and forechest.

“Hand stripping is so unlike all we are taught while learning to groom pets,” she says. “You don’t cut hair to length; you have to pull hair to get hair, and it’s a lot about timing and consistently working the coats. But for any groomer wanting to have a niche, it’s a great skill to learn. If you learn and are adequate at it, the clients will come. I hear all the time, ‘No one near me wants their dog stripped.’ Simply not true. They just can’t find someone to do it. Learn it and they will come.

“There are so many options now for anyone wanting to learn hand stripping,” Heather continues. “When I was starting to learn, options were few and far between. Now, we have so much on the internet—webinars, hands-on classes, hand-stripping groups on Facebook, and many more knowledgeable people who are willing to teach.

“Hand-stripped terrier breeds are double coated. Cutting their coats is no different than cutting double-coated Arctic breeds, Golden Retrievers, etc.,” she adds. “The coats are ‘ruined’ just the same, and they lose the ability to have a double coat that insulates and protects. While this isn’t going to cause a health issue in either instance, it does make the coat ‘ugly,’ with a loss of color and texture. Carding out the coats before and after clipping can help unclog follicles and keep the skin healthy. Every pet groomer should know how to card and should be doing so to the appropriate breeds as part of every groom.”

So what’s next for this talented duo?

“We are enjoying being home! I am a homebody by nature, so these last few years were a lot,” Heather says. “We did some barn hunt last year, and he titled up through Open (RATO) in just a few trials with no prior training. He loves it, and we are going to do some more of that for fun. He gave me so much for three years in the show ring, now it’s time to let him be the perfect pet he is and enjoy all kinds of fun.”

Top Training Tools for Dog Grooming Success; dog sitting on desk with a green chalkboard in the background
by Melissa Viera
Clippers and shears are important for achieving the desired style, but what about tools and equipment for addressing the behavioral side of dog grooming? Experienced groomers, confident in their ability, often choose the right tool for every step of executing the perfect groom; however, it’s also crucial to know which tools to use for training support.

Tools and equipment used to aid in behavior are not always straightforward. While there are a few that are commonly used, others might be more surprising. For example, when working with a dog that exhibits problematic behaviors during grooming, a well-fitted basket muzzle might be conditioned as a part of the training plan. But other items such as reward pouches and even target sticks that are commonly used in animal husbandry training are becoming more frequently seen in training dogs for grooming, too.

Training dogs for grooming involves motivating owners to work with their dogs at home. However, most pet owners lack professional tools and should not attempt certain techniques. An excellent skill asset for dog trainers is the ability to come up with easy-to-find items and teach pet owners how to use them to improve their dog’s behavior during grooming.

Bathing
There are several reasons why dogs may be difficult to bathe at grooming salons. Dogs that frequently escape from their owners during a bath at home may expect to do so at the grooming salon. Owners who would like to wash their dog at home without them escaping the tub and help the dog form a positive association that will carry over to the grooming salon can try a food enrichment mat to keep the dog busy.

Loaded with a lickable dog snack, the mat makes pairing bath time with something the dog enjoys (food) simple. While every case is different, this tool might be helpful for trainers to suggest when providing homework specific to training dogs for the bath. The method and plan for implementing the enrichment mat, such as whether it will be phased out, all depends on the individual dog’s case.

The best way to prevent an aversion to the dryer is teaching puppies about it as soon as possible within the optimal windows.
Drying
Drying is an essential part of grooming. The best way to prevent an aversion to the dryer is teaching puppies about it as soon as possible within the optimal windows. While trying to convince puppy owners to put a professional dryer on their shopping list is unnecessary, there are a few other options for introducing puppies to dryers. A cell phone can provide a low-level introduction to the sound of a dryer. Or, recording the sound for puppy owners is a good start, although not as effective as a real dryer. There are also smaller, at-home dryers available for purchase.

Trainers offering group classes should consider investing in a grooming dryer to be used during classes. A networking idea for groomers is to reach out to trainers in the area who don’t have grooming services available at their location. They can discuss the advantages of having a grooming dryer for training purposes and offer a complimentary demonstration of the drying process to their students. The groomer can do this in exchange for leaving cards for the puppy students. This could be a great way to connect with new puppy owners looking for a groomer.

Nail Care
“She lets me touch her paws all the time,” an owner reports, confused about why the groomer said the dog could not have her nails trimmed that day. Touching a dog’s paws and trimming nails are different tasks. Prescribing frequent paw-handling is not enough to change a dog’s response to nail care. Fortunately, a few other methods can make a difference.

Many dogs react to the sound of the nail trim. With each clip, their anxiety seems to build. Using ear protection to muffle the sound, many dogs will immediately react less to the nail-trimming process. Pet owners at home may hesitate to trim their dog’s nails. However, they can introduce more helpful paw-handling by touching each nail while exposing the dog to the sight and sound. A wooden skewer works well for this. You can clip the skewer with nail clippers, which will sound just like a nail being clipped. Use inexpensive nail trimmers or ones that are already dull to save good nail trimmers from becoming dull.

Another sound of nail care involves the nail grinder. While nail-grinding solves the problem of sharp nails, not all dogs are cooperative during the process. To practice at home, owners can use an electric toothbrush. The toothbrush sounds like the nail grinder and it helps acclimate dogs to the feeling of one as well. It is a useful tool for trainers in puppy classes, showcasing successful nail-care preparation for puppies.

Brushing
While at-home brushing is simpler compared to professional drying, bathing and nail care, it can still lead to problems that might impact the grooming salon session. Using the wrong brush or using a brush in the wrong way can cause an aversion to brushing.

One tool trainers can use to help teach dogs how to behave for being brushed, which they can teach to owners, is a brush with the pad of pins removed. This is an easy way to teach dogs to settle for brushing and teach puppies that the brush is not a toy. The key is for the owner to practice brushing without using a brush on the coat.

Dogs and puppies should learn to be brushed without inspecting the brush. Many owners feel the need to show their dog every tool. This can become problematic if the dog continues to sniff and follow the tool. Presenting a brush to a puppy is too similar to presenting a toy. It is more helpful for the puppy to learn to look forward instead of following the movement of the brush. 

Not all grooming training tools need to be obvious. To find the best tool, it’s helpful to think about the end goal and take into consideration the behavior of the dog. This will tell you at what level the dog needs to be introduced to the aspect of grooming that is being addressed. Helping owners train their dogs for the grooming salon can be a challenge but is well worth the reward.

Grooming Gab
Are They Out To Get
YOU?
One Groomer’s Story of
Identity Theft
by Kathy Hosler
It started out as one of the most wonderful times of her life. Groomer Mindy Hammond had just had a beautiful baby girl and she was looking forward to enjoying her maternity leave. But soon, things started going wrong…very wrong.

“I believe that everything that happened to me was because hackers were able to get into my Yahoo account,” Mindy shares. “A few days after I had my daughter I noticed a weird sign-in on my Yahoo account. I immediately went in and changed my passwords.

“The next morning, I was signed out of my Facebook account and I couldn’t log in. My Facebook also had my business page attached to it. I had over 2,000 followers. Because THEY got into my Yahoo email account, THEY were able to take over my Facebook account.

“For Facebook, if you say you forgot your password, the email account they have for you is where they send the reset information. THEY were able to reset my password and take over my Facebook.

“Once THEY got control of my Facebook account, THEY started to message my husband on Facebook Messenger and also to call him. THEY told him that THEY were going to delete all my content and pictures (I had 16 years worth of pictures) if THEY did not get a certain amount of money. We knew better than to send them money.

“At that point, THEY messaged my friends and family saying, ‘Hey, I’ve locked myself out of my Facebook account. I need you to help me out by confirming my identity. Click on the following link and tell me the code they send you.’ I had to call and warn everyone not to click on the link because it could open them up to being hacked, too.

THEY were able to get into my phone system and began texting and phoning my customers trying to get them to send THEM money. My older customers who were not very tech-savvy were the most vulnerable. I lost a lot of customers because of that.

“When THEY hacked my Facebook business page, THEY changed my salon phone number to THEIR phone number. When new customers would message an inquiry, THEY would tell them that they had to put down a deposit to get an appointment. Someone inquired about boarding and THEY had her send a $200 deposit, and later, others told me they called me and I never returned the call. This all really hurt my business.

@YOURFRIEND?<br />
'HEY, I'VE LOCKED MYSELF OUT OF MY FACEBOOK ACCOUNT. I NEED YOU TO HELP ME OUT BY CONFIRMING MY IDENTITY. CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK AND TELL ME THE CODE THEY SEND YOU.'; WWW.INFO-STEAL.COM/SCAM
“All this time THEY were also going through my Yahoo account, and I got locked out of it. Since COVID, everyone sends all their information through email, so THEY were able to get a lot of private information from mine. I had just sent emails with my driver’s license number and my social security number and other information when filling out forms for my new daughter. THEY had all my passwords and everything when THEY hacked into my Yahoo account. THEY were able to log into my square account and were actually working on taking loans out.

“I had to call and shut everything down—my credit cards and banking accounts. I was unable to pay my employees for a week. I had to contact Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian and put freezes on all my credit.

“The only account that was not hacked into was my Groomsoft account. I called Groomsoft and talked to a real person. They were great! I told them what happened and they helped me. They changed my email and secured it down. They changed all my passwords and fixed it so I was able to send a mass message to all my customers telling them what happened.

“Facebook was no help at all. There’s nobody at Facebook to contact. My account and business page were reported many, many times and the account is still up. I tried for months to get the account back. I had 16 years of pictures on my Facebook page that I’ll never get back. I don’t have any of my wedding pictures. When we got married, there was no money for a professional photographer, so we just got pictures that our friends and family took and I uploaded them into an album on my Facebook page.

“I called our local police department and had to file reports. I was told there wasn’t much they could do since most of this kind of crime is being committed by people who are overseas. THEY are using our internet and our phone systems to hack us, but since THEY are not in the United States, it is very difficult to locate and prosecute them. These people just sit behind a computer in another country and have no fear of repercussions.

“I had to have a police record of having my identity stolen, which I had to send to the Internal Revenue Service in case the hackers try to use my social security number in the future to file and get my tax refund. I was unable to change my social security or driver’s license numbers. I was told they would only change them in the most extenuating circumstances, and, apparently, having your entire identity stolen did not qualify.

IDENTITY THEFT IS REAL AND CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE.
“It was the saddest time in my life, because I was helpless. Nobody could do anything to fix it or help me. It’s such a violation of privacy. It happened two years ago and I still cry over it. To this day I have panic attacks. My daughter was six days old when I went back to work. I didn’t get a maternity leave at all because of this situation.

“Now I have super-encrypted passwords that I have to write down because I don’t trust saving them to my Google account or my phone. I’m still worried about it happening again. Because THEY have my social security and driver’s license numbers, I have to watch all of my accounts like a hawk.

“It took months and months of phone calls and messages to try to restore my accounts and try to mitigate the damages. My business suffered because of being hacked and also because I had to reschedule dogs to deal with all of this. I still don’t know how THEY got into my Yahoo account, but that opened the door for them to do everything else,” Mindy concludes.

Mindy’s story is a real wake-up call for all groomers. Identity theft is real and can happen to anyone. She urges you to take every precaution possible to keep yourself and your identity safe—because THEY may be out to `get YOU!

illustration of man engaged in yoga pose
Essential Stretches for Groomers to
Improve Flexibility & Prevent Injuries
by Kelsey Ann Sexton
As a dedicated dog groomer, you spend hours each day bending, lifting, and reaching to ensure the furry companions in your care look and feel their best. And while your focus is on the wellbeing of your four-legged clients, it’s crucial to not neglect your own physical health. Incorporating regular stretches into your routine can help prevent injuries, reduce muscle tension and improve overall flexibility. The following are some essential stretches specifically tailored for dog groomers:
1. Neck Stretch:
illustration of woman stretching neck from side to side
  • Slowly tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear towards your shoulder.
  • Hold for 15-30 seconds and then switch sides.
  • Repeat 2-3 times on each side to release tension in the neck muscles.

2. Shoulder Stretch:

illustration of woman bring arm across body to stretch shoulder
  • Bring one arm across your body and gently press it towards you with your opposite hand.
  • Hold for 15-30 seconds, feeling the stretch in your shoulder and upper back, then switch sides.
  • Repeat 2-3 times on each side to loosen up the shoulder muscles.
3. Wrist and Forearm Stretch:
illustration of woman holding arm out and pulling hand back
  • Extend one arm in front of you with the palm facing down.
  • Use your other hand to gently press your fingers up and back towards your body until you feel a stretch in your wrist and forearm.
  • Hold for 15-30 seconds and then switch sides.
  • Repeat 2-3 times on each side to alleviate tension from repetitive motions and gripping of tools.
4. Lower Back Stretch:
illustration of woman sitting down while reaching forward towards feet
  • Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you.
  • Slowly reach forward, aiming to touch your toes or grasp your ankles.
  • Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, feeling the release in your lower back and hamstrings.
  • Repeat 2-3 times to improve flexibility and relieve tightness in the lower back.
5. Hip Flexor Stretch:
illustration of man in a lunge
  • Kneel on one knee with the other foot flat on the floor in front of you, creating a 90-degree angle with your knee.
  • Gently push your hips forward until you feel a stretch in the front of your hip and thigh.
  • Hold for 15-30 seconds and then switch sides.
  • Repeat 2-3 times on each side to counteract the effects of prolonged standing or bending.
6. Calf Stretch:
illustration of woman pushing against wall while in a lunge position
  • Stand facing a wall with one foot forward and the other foot back, keeping both heels flat on the floor.
  • Lean forward, bracing yourself against the wall, until you feel a stretch in the calf of the back leg.
  • Hold for 15-30 seconds and then switch sides.
  • Repeat 2-3 times on each side to relieve tension from constant standing and walking.
Taking a few minutes before and after grooming sessions to incorporate these stretches into your daily routine will go a long way in caring for your body. Remember to breathe deeply and never force a stretch beyond your comfort level. By prioritizing your physical wellbeing you’ll not only prevent injuries, but also enhance your ability to provide top-notch care to your canine clients.
Groomer’s Guide
Hand Stripping: Not Just For typography
leashed dog sitting in front of its owner; dog laying on owner's lap while they hold a coffee cup; Show Dogs typography
by Jennifer Bishop Jenkins
We see it everywhere at grooming competitions or in the dog show ring: beautifully hand-stripped wire-coated dogs. Hand stripping empowers the naturally rich pigment and characteristic hard texture of this most distinctive dog coat type to function just as designed, which is to keep their working terrier bodies protected in the ground as they do the work they were bred to do.
A Brief History of Terriers
The word “terrier” comes from the Latin word terra which means “earth.” These “earth dogs” have been serving humanity for centuries. All but two AKC-recognized Terrier Group breeds evolved in the rocky nations of the British Isles. But their unique skillset has made them invaluable worldwide.

While we don’t have exact data, historians speculate that it is likely that we human beings owe much to the terrier whose talent for digging, and their tenacity in going after rats, mice, moles, voles and other vermin, has no doubt saved many human lives and enhanced our food supply. Terriers are often credited with dramatically reducing the vermin population of Europe that carries disease. They were also used in the trenches of World War I to control the rat population, which limited the spread of rat-borne disease, saving hundreds of thousands of lives.

What Makes Wire Coats Different
Sadly, these same hard-working, hard-coated terrier breeds are now often seen coming out of many pet grooming businesses without their protective wire coats, which have been clipped off. This raises an important question for our pet grooming industry: Are we obligated to care for the natural coat type of the dogs brought to us? Or are we only required to perform what we would consider the easiest groom for us, or even what the uneducated client asks for, without considering the long-term consequences?

Pet or show, no wire-coated dog groomed with any clipper blade length will get what is needed for their best health with this unique coat type.

Some would argue that a “pet” dog doesn’t need stripping because they aren’t being shown, even clipping them way too short with a #7 blade on their vital jacket or upper-torso areas. But pet or show, no wire-coated dog groomed with any clipper blade length will get what is needed for their best health with this unique coat type.

At first, clipping leaves the paler, thinner, softer mostly undercoat hairs. Later it can cause itchiness, discomfort, thinness and even comedogenic bumps, sometimes called “canine acne” or “schnauzer bumps,” which are caused by clogged hair follicles.1 Over the years, if the clipping is repeated, it can clog and eventually kill the entire follicle, leaving some wire-coated dogs virtually hairless on their backs later in life.

The Role of Follicles
Science has proven the longevity of the hair follicles in all breeds of dogs. Follicles in mammals can be thought of as permanent, functioning miniature organs; a vital part of all skin. The hairs inside the follicles come and go but the follicles remain, usually for life. Follicles are even more vital to dogs than to us humans, since dogs have thin skin and much thicker hairs, and many more follicles with many hairs per follicle. Wire-coated breeds also produce many more hairs inside a single follicle than any other canine coat type. This major difference with this coat type that we call “wire,” “broken,” “rough” or “hard” in dogs and their deeper, more complex follicles signifies the necessity for hand stripping.

Wire coats evolved to be much tougher than other coat types. Even their skin is thicker, especially in the outer layer of the epidermis called the stratum corneum. This also means that, compared to other coat types, the follicle in a wire coat is deeper, further from the surface of the skin. This is why keeping the follicle healthy requires a little gentle tugging on the wire hairs to get them to come out.

The most critical difference in the grooming requirements of this extraordinary coat type is that, because of these bigger, thicker, more voluminous hairs sitting inside a deeper follicle in thicker skin, they do not shed out when they reach the telogen phase without some help. They will sit inside the deeper follicle, sort of stuck, unable to fall out because of their size, volume, texture and depth, unless they are gently pulled out. This is called a “blown coat.”

digital illustration of hair follicle with clipper line and then after years of clipping
When you take a short blade on a clipper to their backs instead, this leaves the roots of their many hairs in each follicle trapped down deep inside the follicle, unable to fall out as they die and detach. Eventually the follicles become clogged with the cut hair bits and start to die as well. The follicles that remain then begin to produce wooly hairs, mostly undercoat or secondary hairs, lacking pigment and texture. Now what was once the topcoat or guard hairs are just wooly and soft like the undercoat. This causes the coat to not aerate as well, making the dog much less comfortable and the coat less functional in the various kinds of weather. Later in life, the clipped terrier may end up with much less coat as the follicles clog and die.
Carding and Stripping
Carding and Stripping are different techniques. Carding is using a stripping knife like a comb, but held at a 45-degree angle to the skin, combing it through the coat in the direction of the lay of the coat, with no plucking with your thumb. Some groomers use a regular greyhound-style metal comb but with a rubber band wound tightly between the tines closer to the skin, which helps grab loose dead hair. Or, there are “fine de-shedder” tools that will grab and pull the loosest dead undercoat hairs while leaving firmly rooted topcoat.

Hand stripping involves holding the stripping knife at a 90-degree angle to the coat and, while maintaining a straight back and using your arm in a row-boat-like motion, you lightly allow the knife to find and feed into your thumb the longest hairs. You then brace those hairs lightly against the blade with your thumb and, holding your wrist flat, pull back from your elbow to remove them. This is a light, easy motion that takes no more work than holding a full-sized clipper and moving it over the dog’s body.

The critical area to pull is what the coat needs to be most protective; where the weather hits the dog on the top and sides of the upper torso, or what we call the “jacket” area of a dog’s body, and the top of the head and the top of the base of the tail. All other areas can be trimmed generally without permanently damaging the skin. Fine de-shedding tools with ergonomic rake-like handles can effectively card out hair on the legs, underbelly, etc., on a pet wire-coated dog. Pet wire-coated breeds or mixed-breed dogs that come in with a wire-like feel to the coat do not need to be stripped all over their bodies like show or competition dogs, though they should be at least carded all over.

These descriptions are no substitute for a hands-on class. All groomers need to be trained in person in proper hand-stripping techniques. If you have questions about what coat type a particular breed is, you can read their AKC breed standards.2 Each breed standard has a link to the parent club for that breed which almost always gives great information on that breed’s grooming requirements.

Restoring a Clipped Coat
If a wire-coated breed comes to you for grooming already clipped, it still is possible—no matter the stage of life for the dog—for you to improve the dog’s coat. Focus on the dog’s upper torso or jacket area. It’s the easiest to groom and the most important to the dog’s health.

Start by letting the coat grow a little longer. For example, only use a ½” or ¾” guard comb instead of a blade. With enough length you can use fine de-shedding tools and carding techniques to start pulling dead hairs out of the follicle. Carding, de-shedding and stripping should be done before the bath because it will release dirt and oil, making a clean coat dirty again.

Expert Advice
The great hand-stripping expert, Scott Wasserman, known affectionately throughout our industry as “Mr. Terrier,” has been grooming, breeding, showing and judging wire-coated breeds all over the world. When asked to define the uniqueness of the wire coat in dogs and why it has special grooming needs, he gave a brilliant definition of this coat type that I think says it all: “You have to pull dead to get live.”

All dogs deserve to have their groomer care for their skin and coat with the same high standards for a pet dog as they would for a show or competition dog, especially our unique wire-coated breeds.

Scott goes on to point out that the effort in pulling out the dead detached hairs still sitting in the wire-coat follicle can vary with the breed. Broken coats are less wiry and less work than most rough-coated wire coats. Scott says that, for example, Border Terriers and Irish Terriers are easier to pull than other breeds.

Another expert and educator in hand stripping, Heather Roozee, who has been owner/groomer/handler of wire-coated breeds for a long time, powerfully articulates an important point that hand stripping and carding are not just for show dogs: “Carding can benefit all wire-coated breeds, even if clipped. It helps to remove the undercoat and clear the follicles, helping skin to remain healthy.”

All dogs deserve to have their groomer care for their skin and coat with the same high standards for a pet dog as they would for a show or competition dog, especially our unique wire-coated breeds.

References:

  1. Schnauzer Comedone Syndrome. (2018, November 27). Veterinary Partner. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=8814015
  2. AKC. www.AKC.org
Better Cat Grooming
From Rushed to Relaxed: Time Management for Cat Groomers
digital illustration of man running inside of hamster wheel like gear
by Lynn Paolillo
A s a professional cat groomer, time management is one of the most crucial skills you can develop. From handling multiple appointments to maintaining a clean and safe environment, your ability to manage your time effectively can significantly impact your success and wellbeing. Here are some practical tips to help you master time management and ensure your grooming business runs smoothly.
checked box icon
Prioritize Your Tasks
Start by identifying your most critical tasks. Grooming cats is not just about the physical act but also involves client communication, administrative duties, and cleaning and maintaining your equipment. Categorize tasks by priority and what should be done in-between appointments, at the end of the day, and then weekly/monthly/quarterly tasks as well. Be realistic with your effort level at different times of day and spread out the lower-frequency tasks so that they don’t become overwhelming.
clipboard check list icon
Create a Schedule
Having a well-structured schedule is vital for managing your time effectively. Use a planner or digital calendar to allocate specific time slots for each task. Include buffer times between appointments to accommodate unexpected delays or additional tasks. Consistently adhering to your schedule can help you stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Also incorporate time for non-grooming tasks like taking pictures, documenting notes and services, following up with client emails and messages, engaging with comments on social media posts, taking inventory, ordering supplies, planning promotions and marketing schedules, etc.
Block scheduling can be helpful for making time for rotating tasks. For example, a one- or two-hour block for “marketing” tasks can include writing and scheduling social media posts, creating a content calendar, or researching local events to attend or businesses to partner with. A “maintenance” block can include weekly deep-clean tasks, but also time for planting and tending to flowers for the front of your salon, touching up paint, installing new wall art or doing a walk-through of your business to make a list of repairs needed. This flexible scheduling means that tasks can be added where needed without having to constantly create space in your schedule.
gears icon
Delegate When Possible
As a groomer and business owner, you might feel the need to handle everything yourself; however, delegating tasks can free up valuable time for you to focus on grooming. Consider hiring a receptionist or virtual assistant for administrative tasks or managing your social media accounts. A cleaning company can help with deep cleaning your salon or mobile unit.

Delegating can also provide relief in your personal life, like meal planning or delivery, wash-and-fold laundry services or lawn care. Taking tasks off your plate not only helps you manage your time better but also ensures that all aspects of your business are well taken care of.

computer and pencil holder icon
Utilize Technology
Leverage technology to streamline your tasks and save time. Use booking software to manage appointments efficiently, send automated reminders to clients and keep track of your schedule. Online scheduling is a great option and many programs allow you to control or limit how clients request appointments; meaning you can maintain a high degree of control over your schedule. Even just a calendar app can help with personal and business reminders, inventory management, staff records and financial tracking, reducing the time spent on administrative tasks.
man in front of pinwheel with various daily routine icons
Effective time management not only boosts your productivity but also ensures a better experience for your feline clients and their owners.
bed and moon icon
Take Care of Yourself
Managing your time effectively also means taking care of yourself. Ensure you allocate time for breaks, meals and rest. Grooming cats can be physically demanding, and taking care of your wellbeing is essential to maintain your productivity and health. Regular breaks can help you recharge and stay focused throughout the day. Working yourself to the bone while dangling a carrot of the occasional vacation isn’t solving the issue of burnout. Managing your personal and family time outside of the business week to week will do more for your mental and physical wellbeing.
dumbell icon
Continuous Improvement
Lastly, it’s important to continuously evaluate your time-management strategies and look for areas of improvement. Reflect on what worked well and what didn’t, and adjust your approach accordingly. Staying adaptable and open to new methods can help you refine your time-management skills over time.

Time management is an ongoing process that requires attention and adaptation. By prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, creating a schedule you will actually use, delegating tasks and using technology when possible, you can maintain a good work-life balance while giving your professional skills room to flourish. Effective time management not only boosts your productivity but also ensures a better experience for your feline clients and their owners.

vector illustration depicting man view from the back holding his hands up to two oversized left and right boxing gloves; the left glove is purple with the letter CONF and the right glove is light blue with the letters LICT all above the word Resolution in large purple letters

by Louise Dunn

Conflict happens…even in the best of teams. The problem is not necessarily conflict itself but rather how conflict is handled. To make the process easier, team training sessions should be conducted about conflict and communication techniques, and a roadmap (aka conflict resolution procedure) should be provided for the team to follow.

Conflict has many sources, including the following:

  • Dispute about inequities or preferential treatment
  • Competition for resources or battle for supremacy
  • Unfilled expectations
  • Different personalities or attitudes
  • Different goals or priorities, or different methods to achieve goals
  • Resistance to change
  • Unclear job expectations
  • Poor communication
  • Poor work habits
  • Toxic work environment
  • Personal problems
  • Differences in perceptions and values (e.g., upbringing, culture, education, socio-economic class, previous experiences, etc.)
The extent of the list varies with the scope of one’s internet search. However, discussing a list of conflict sources can help the team when a conflict arises. Often, the nature of the problem is not even considered; instead, people fall into nine common responses that only escalate the level of conflict:1
  1. Enter into combat mentality (want to see a winner and a loser).
  2. Oversimplify the problem (because it is too difficult to tackle several issues at once).
  3. Lack of respect (lack of respect for the other person and perhaps even yourself).
  4. Lash out or shut down (respond aggressively or rush to smooth things over).
  5. Thwarting ploys (threats, stonewalling, sarcasm, silent treatment, etc.)
  6. Hooked and sucked into conflict (found your weak spot, where you are vulnerable and lose control).
  7. Rehearse a script (play it out in your mind, don’t listen and just recite the rehearsed script).
  8. Make assumptions about intentions (assume the other person has ill intentions).
  9. Lose sight of the goal (winning the argument is not the goal; you must have clear, realistic outcomes).
Any of the nine listed responses are not part of an appropriate treatment plan for the conflict and will only make the condition worse. When the cause of the conflict is considered, moving to the next stage of communicating through the problematic situation becomes more manageable.
To quote author Stephen Covey, “Seek first to understand and then to be understood.” Communicating through conflict does not mean speak loudly and have the last word. Educating the team on conflict communication tools gives them what they need to address it instead of avoiding it or escalating it. Give the team a few scenarios and let them explore responses using the following tools:2,3
  • Use “I” instead of “You” to express your feelings (“I understand…,” “I feel…,” “I want…,” etc.)
  • Pay attention to body language since 55% of communication is body language (7% is words, 38% is tone of voice).
  • Ask questions trying to understand the other person, including how to improve the situation.
  • Define the problem; do not assume intentions.
  • Create a follow-up plan.
  • Validate their feelings (“I’m sorry this hurt you.”)
  • Explain the consequences and the benefits of the actions taken.
  • Explain how the actions conflict with your values or are hurting you or others.
Giving the team a few communication tools empowers them to first discuss the conflict before going to management to handle everything. This brings up another essential tool: following a process of dealing with conflict, when to involve management and what steps can be taken to move through a resolution process. One document to use is a Conflict Resolution Policy that outlines the process:
  • Manager meets with both parties involved in the conflict. (Set the ground rules, each person completes the standard complaint form and summarizes his/her point of view.)
  • Clarify the disagreement and conflicting views (reflect, reframe and listen).
  • Describe specific actions each party would like to see the other party take to resolve the differences. (Stop doing, start doing, do more of, do less of, etc.)
  • Get a commitment to making changes and monitor follow-through.

Other formal policies to create are Anti-harassment and Complaint Procedure, and Code of Ethics and Business Conduct. For a complaint procedure, steps should include:

  • Outline the steps to go through the process (as noted above).
  • Include the standard complaint form.
  • Have a statement about guaranteeing protection from being retaliated against.
  • Be specific about time frames for processing (e.g., acknowledging complaints within three days of it being filed).
Having procedures in place may curtail aimless complaining or griping because it shows that management takes complaints seriously. It will also ensure consistent and fair handling of all complaints.

Conflict has a reputation for being negative—impacting productivity, morale and the wellbeing of pets being cared for. Having a procedure for conflict resolution can help nip negativity in its early stages. It can also turn it into a positive experience by managing the discussion and working toward a resolution. Put the tools in place to effectively handle situations and turn negative conflict into positive growth.

References:
  1. Faludi, O. (2014, July 9). Difficult Conversations: 9 Common Mistakes. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140710032505-55905022-difficult-conversations-9-common-mistakes/
  2. Miller, E. Creating a Conflict-Management Plan. Systems Thinker. https://thesystemsthinker.com/creating-a-conflict-management-plan/
  3. Strategies for Managing Conflict – Communication Tools. https://www.vistacampus.gov/strategies-managing-conflict-communication-tools
Elevate Your Grooming
Butterfly Ears: Not Just for Papillons! typography
a light brown yorkie with large long haired ears stands on a grooming table before their cut
a light brown yorkie with large long haired ears stands on a grooming table after their cut
butterfly graphic
by Blake Hernandez

N ow of course we have gorgeous Papillons named after their distinctive butterfly ears, but what about giving other dogs this cute and expressive look? Here I’ll demonstrate this ear style on a yorkie, but it can also be executed on other breeds that possess long, flowing coat on the ears.

Fig 1) Start by tipping the ears, but less is more here. You basically want to shave less than ¼” down the tip of the ear. Here I’m using a #15 blade.

Fig 2) Make sure not to edge the ear into too pointy of a shape. A curved ear tip grows out a little cuter than a pointy ear will, which will be more foxlike.

the left ear is tipped and trimmed
the tip of the right ear is shown with the surrounding hair held out of the way
Fig 3) Use small scissors so you can see the length of the entire blade. Always scissor away from the dog’s head.

Fig 4) Next you’ll create a clear delineated line that separates the head from the neck. Here I’m using a #7F in reverse on the throat latch.

the right ear is trimmed with small scissors
the head is held upward as clippers are ran along the center of the neck
Fig 5) This is the key part. Use your clipper down the cheek in a straight and clear line that sets the ear back. Do not try to blend in front of the butterfly ear; you want a stark line.

Fig 6) Here you can see the distinct line with the ear pulled back.

clippers trim a straight line down the left cheek
the ear is pulled back to show the distinct line down the left cheek
Fig 7) Using a #40 blade, come from the lip corner to outline the lip line, clipping against the grain.

Fig 8) Use a fine-toothed comb to lift the hair towards the eyes.

clippers are ran along the left lip, against the grain
the head is held up with the lip and nose hair combed back toward the eye
Fig 9) Then use a thinning shear at a 45-degree angle in front of the inside eye corner before connecting through the stop.

Fig 10) To finish, thin the face down and blend it together. Think short and smooth like a Papillon’s face because that will help the ears to pop.

thinning shears at a 45-degree angle connect the trim from the inside corner of the eye to the stop
thinning shears shorten and blend the face hair

This works great on yorkies, of course, but I find a lot of terriers kept in pet trims can grow ear hair like this, too. Most may be more wiry and not as flowy but the shape and expression still remain. Give it a try!

Yes, Dear…
the large German Shepherd Blitz wearing dragon wings and horns while sitting in front of a fantasy forest background
vector illustration of Blitz typography in renaissance style font on a banner flying over a large castle

by Anjie Coates
Photo by Anjie Coates

  • Blitz is a German Shepherd I have groomed since he was a puppy. He always enters the salon with his tail wagging in anticipation and his owner in tow, trailing behind him.
  • Scissors
    “Hi, buddy!” I greet.
  • Dog
    Blitz’s entire body breaks into fitful, joyous wags: “Spa day! It’s spa day!”
  • Scissors
    “It is! Alright, c’mon, let’s get you set up so your mom can go to work,” I say.
  • Dog
    Blitz dashes toward the half door as his owner tries to say goodbye.
  • Scissors
    “Buddy, your bed is already set up for you. It’s not going anywhere,” I assure him.
  • Dog
    Blitz runs to his usual crate that he dives into as if jumping into a pond: “My bed!”
  • Scissors
    “Happy now?” I ask.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “Yeah. This is good.”
  • Scissors
    “OK, why don’t you take a nap? When it’s your turn, one of us will wake you up and take you out,” I tell him.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “OK, but no touching other dogs.”
  • Scissors
    “Buddy, I have a lot of dogs to groom today; you’re not the only one, I’m afraid,” I say.
  • Dog
    Blitz gives me a side eye but lays down and begins to doze off.
  • Scissors
    When I finish the dog I was working on, I return them to their crate with a smooch on the top of their head.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “Hey! You can’t smooch on him! Only me!”
  • Scissors
    “That’s not really fair. He’s a good boy, too. He can have smooches,” I tell him.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “I don’t like him.”
  • Scissors
    “You don’t even know him!” I counter.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “So?”
  • vector illustration of a sitting dragon
  • Dog
    Finally, it’s Blitz’s turn. Just before I go to get him, someone walks by with another dog, and he startles them both by barking at them.
  • Scissors
    “Why do you do that?” I ask.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “I like to see them jump.”
  • Scissors
    “C’mon, let’s get you finished,” I say with an eye roll.
  • Dog
    Blitz bounds to the table in three hops and plants himself into a sitting position: “Finally!”
  • Scissors
    I call my assistant Angie to be his emotional support human while I get his nails done.
  • Scissors
    Angie rubs his head and mutters sweet nothings into his ear and I chuckle as he rests his head on her shoulder.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “It’s awful! Just awful!”
  • Scissors
    “It’s a nail trim, buddy. We do this every single time. You’re going to be OK,” I reassure him.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “I think I need treats. I don’t know if I can do this.”
  • Scissors
    I stifle a laugh as Angie gives him a treat, and he wags.
  • Scissors
    “Does that make it better?” I ask.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “Yes.”
  • Scissors
    “I love you, buddy, but you’re big on the drama regarding nails,” I tell him.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “It’s terrible.”
  • Scissors
    “Your nails are done. You’re going to live,” I say as I pat his head.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “I think I need another treat.”
  • Scissors
    “You are a huge goof,” I tell him as I brush him out.
  • Scissors
    When he’s finished, we head into the picture room.
  • Scissors
    “OK, what do you want to be?” I ask as I offer him a few costume options.
  • Dog
    Blitz: “A fierce dragon! I’m very brave!”
  • Scissors
    I hide my grin thinking of the nail trim and get his dragon costume on as I utter,
  • Yes Dear typography on a banner in Renaissance style text
Barkleigh Show Schedule with colorful illustration of the United States of America map
Pet Pro Cruise – Western Caribbean
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