Vol. 22 / Ed. 8

From Sally's Desk...

"Would you like to be our guest in Ogden, Utah, in September?" questioned Tanna from the Ogden Convention and Visitors Bureau. What did that mean? It meant that the folks in Ogden, Utah, would pay for Gwen and me to fly and stay in Utah for three days. They would wine, dine, and chauffeur us to all the sights of this exciting western town.

"If you see someone who wears a cowboy hat in Utah... he is a real cowboy," said Tanna. All they hoped was that we would find a nice facility in Ogden to hold an upcoming Off Lead Training Expo, ProGroom and Natural Pet Expo.

Ogden, north of Salt Lake City, was indeed a possible site. The time was right. We had to make a trip to Del Mar, California, anyway to check out our upcoming event, the Off Lead Training Expo, ProGroom and Natural Pet Expo, near San Diego in December.

Groom Expo was over and we were ready for a little R & R at someone else's expense. FAM trips, as this type of trip is known in the travel industry, are not as glamorous as they seem. Yes, the hotels and Convention Bureaus roll out the red carpet for you, but the trade off is that they keep you stepping from sun-up to sun-down and you hear a lot of sales pitches. It has its perks, too. One recent FAM trip had me dining at the Von Trapp Family Lodge with one of People magazine's fifty most eligible bachelors, the handsome Von Trapp grandson and heir to the fortune. Darn. And I had to meet him when I was fifty-six!

Ogden didn't have any bachelors for us to meet, but we did find an absolutely excellent venue for a future event with some of the most beautiful scenery that God ever created. We will be doing an Ogden show in the future. They promised to rename the town in our honor for that weekend. Ogden will be known as DOGDEN, Utah. How do you like that?

After our Ogden venture, we decided a nice ride across the desert would be refreshing. We needed to see our Del Mar (San Diego) location before the show. Since we were so close... 1200 miles, we decided to drive and weekend in Vegas on the way.

"Are you going to visit Best Friends?" questioned Tanna before we left. She was speaking of the famous and miraculous no-kill animal shelter.

"Where is it?" I questioned enthusiastically. Kanab was the town, and it was right on our way. We would indeed see it.

Our first night on the road caught us in Moab, a small town where we were lucky to find a hotel. The Best Western recommended a local restaurant, Lisa's Country Kitchen. It didn't look like much... but neither did Moab. So, we stopped.

"Look at that," I said, as I pulled into a parking spot. A dirty man stood motionless, with his head down, leaning against the window. He wore a brown sweaty cowboy hat, white shirt, jeans and had a "six shooter" on his hip, complete with bullets in the belt. His dirty cowboy boots were worn and blistered. Working boots, no doubt.

"Should we go in?" I questioned Gwen quietly, as if he could hear us, gesturing toward the cowboy. "I thought he was a statue," she returned. We pondered... our hungry stomachs or being caught in a real western shoot-out? Hunger won out, and we quickly walked inside past the cowboy. Fresh-faced young girls waited on us and served us delicious home-cooked fare. The cowboy now sat near us, straddling a counter stool with his well-used six-shooter glistening from his holster.

I looked at him out of the corner of my eye. He was a local, I could tell by the neighborly chat. Can you believe in the year 2003, that cowboys still roam the West? They do, and I felt lucky to have encountered one. I wish we had spoken. He's the type with many a good story... a dying breed.

Slightly off the beaten track on the trip to California were two national parks that we wanted to see. You never hear much about Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, do ya? Well, I say that they are almost as spectacular as the Grand Canyon .

Bryce has the "hoo-doos." Hoo Doos are huge rock monoliths that look like hundreds of red rock totem poles. And when the setting sun strikes them, they look almost iridescent and the rock formation color is spectacular.

The next day, we drove to Best Friends, nestled in the red rock canyons, famous from all the old westerns filmed in this area. Angel Canyon, entrance to Best Friends, featured tan rocks that almost looked as if they were splashed with rust-colored paint, The color was intense and as beautiful as anything that we had already seen.

We were directed by darling cartoon signs to a fascinating gift shop to request a tour of Best Friends. Landscaping and ponds decorated the entrance. I remember reading about its humble beginnings and the miraculous opportunity to buy Angel Canyon. Just over a decade old, the shelter was an animal oasis for abused, abandoned and neglected pets and horses.

Michael Mountain and his friends wanted to provide a safe haven for animals and created this no-kill shelter. Its humble beginnings have been transformed. For now, this place houses over 1800 pets in modern, beautiful buildings.

I have always had a problem with no-kill shelters. I love the concept, but they are often run by well-meaning, but overzealous volunteers. They quickly fill to capacity, make you feel like you are adopting one of their children with their house inspections, etc., and then close their doors to the pets needing help because they refuse to place pets except to persons whom they find totally acceptable. Generally, people like themselves. I oversimplify, I am sure, but I know of one shelter in our area who would not adopt to working persons.

Such is not the case with Best Friends. They adopt three fourths of their residents. And they place lots of difficult to place animals. Their goal is not to kill, but also to educate and eradicate the problem... unspayed and unneutered animals. They are big on education and action in this regard. I applaud them.

In the car we followed the guide vehicle to Cat Town. I was shocked at the size of the ranch. We drove past beautiful horse pens tucked into natural rock overhangs. Finally, we arrived at a collection of beautiful one story adobe-type buildings just past Bunny Village and Bird Haven. First we visited the feral cat enclosure. The cats had lively walk areas and large outdoor fenced areas. Visitors were encouraged to interact with the cats, but not to touch them. Feral cats are unpredictable. They look like your neighborhood tabby, but could quickly take a swipe at you.

I waited for the group inside the Special Needs cat unit. A black and white feline gazed dreamily on the window sill inside. I took a chair to wait. The place looked almost like a home. It was pretty and clean, and smelled pleasant. A few cats moved around freely. I was given a cat toy to play with a local resident. This smallish gray kitten loved to bat at the feather stick, but didn't react normally. "She is recovering from a severe liver condition, and she has some neurological damage," said a middle-aged staffer. "When she is well, we will find her a home," she said confidently.

Another cat rocked to try to get footing on the slippery floor. She picked her up and told me her story. This cat had severe neurological problems, probably from abuse, which reacted like cerebral palsy. They have found a good home for her with carpeting, and the staffer was quite certain that she would do well. That is their philosophy. They help the creatures that God gives them and in the Angel Garden respectfully bury the ones that they cannot help.

Then it was on to Dog Town, a series of octagonal buildings that were well designed with runs radiating out from the buildings in a circular form... a great design. Each building had a core treatment and an indoor run area.

"Please bear with me, as I may be a little bit upset," said our tall, twentyish, brunette guide. "I have to say good-bye to an old friend," as she brushed away quickly forming tears.

Thinking she meant a staff member who was leaving, one of the visitors inquired about it. No, she meant that one of the long-time canine residents was going to be put down later that day due to the ravages of age. The dog was not eating or drinking and its time had come. Here every animal had a name and a personal identity. Many tour group members were touched and came from the building, brushing away their own tears.

We left that day for Zion National Park, impressed with the success of this unbelievable no-kill shelter in the middle of nowhere, which impacted the world with a sensible philosophy and a successful program. This would be a great place to combine a vacation and a few days of volunteer effort.

Zion was totally different, though only a short distance away. When entering from the St. George side, it was like nothing I have ever witnessed. We drove through huge mountainous rock formations with swirls all over them. Formed by water, they almost looked like colored sand castles. It is amazing that water and wind can create such beauty.

On the way, Gwen spotted Coral Sand Dunes National Park, and we turned off for a short side trip. I didn't know that there were beautiful coral sand dunes in the mountains of the West. But these moving waves of sand were a spectacular sight.

We ventured into Vegas. I have wanted to see the beautiful Bellagio and the Venetian. I hadn't been to Vegas in several years. Even though there are changes, Vegas is very much the same. The Venetian was elegant and I enjoyed it immensely. I was able to kick it up a knotch in one of Emeril's restaurant... the Delmonico Steakhouse. BAM! Yes, he can put a dinner together. I was Emerilized, as he puts it.

We stayed at the Venetian because they were hosting Lord of the Dance. This wasn't Gwen's bag. "Tap dancers and foot stompers," she called these phenomenal Irish dancers. I have wanted to see this production ever since I first saw Michael Flatley, the lead dancer, who proclaimed himself on 20/20, as "the greatest dancer of all time," Though I might have thought that too, I felt that I should see him soon before lightening strikes him dead for his huge ego. The show was wonderful, but Michael wasn't in it. No doubt, putting salve on lightening wounds.

"Let's see Sigfried and Roy at the Mirage," I said, but it was too late to get tickets. We opted for a visit to their Secret Garden, a beautifully landscaped enclosure, where some of the team's white tigers are kept. As I stood watching the gorgeous cats, sleeping like kittens just ten feet from me, suddenly one jumped up, grabbed a piece of carefully laid sod about 3' x 8' long from under another sleeping tiger, and dunked it unceremoniously in the nearby crystal pool.

The sleeping tiger bolted for the other end of the enclosure. I was stunned by the tiger's seemingly placid appearance one moment and electric activity the next. I began scanning the fencing at this point to see if it were strong enough to contain these massive cats.

Only a week later, Roy, of Sigfried & Roy fame was tragically mauled by one of his exotic beauties. I wish that we could have seen one of their last performances .

We left the next day for a six hour trip to Del Mar, driving toward San Diego's beautiful Pacific. We arrived tired and cranky ten hours later due to the Sunday exodus from Vegas. Take a plane the next time was the mental note I made to myself.

It was a wonderful journey that I hope you will experience sometime. When you go to a grooming seminar, add an extra day or two to visit God's wonders.Take time to enjoy the blessings he has given us.

God bless you.
Sally

Colin Taylor - Intergroom International Groomer of the Year
BY KATHY HOSLER

Colin Taylor didn't plan to become Intergroom International Groomer of the Year, and although he always knew he wanted to work with animals, the idea of being a groomer never crossed his mind.

"My original plan was to be a zoo keeper," recalls Colin, "and to specialize in working with primates."

But one day while the teenage Colin was working at a pet store in London, England, a customer came in to buy some nail clippers. She told him she was a pet groomer. That was the day that Colin first thought about being a groomer.

"After all, I always brushed and cared for my own dog. Maybe I would like to learn grooming," thought Colin.

Colin began his grooming education by attending the London Academy of Grooming owned by Jill East. The very first day of school they put a pair of scissors in his hand and had him scissor a Poodle leg. "It looked awful," Colin admits, "but I liked it, and I took to grooming very quickly. My teacher entered me in a grooming contest in my third month of schooling, and I won that contest with a hand-stripped Cairn Terrier."

That experience gave Colin the taste for competing and made him eager to learn more. "I'm a very competitive person," states Colin. "Whatever I do, I want to be the very best I can possibly be at it!"

Colin immersed himself in his grooming career, fine-tuning his skills until he mastered every challenge before him. His dynamic personality and desire to excel, drives Colin to give 110% of himself in everything he undertakes. And, although he has earned the distinction of being the Intergroom International Groomer of The Year, Colin's pursuit of perfection continues.

"To me, competing is still a learning tool. I learn something from every person I meet!" shared Colin. "And, I tend to burn out easily. Competing gives my self-esteem a real boost."

Believe it or not, International Groomer, Colin, describes himself as "a nervous wreck" when he competes.

"About three weeks before a competition, I continuously make a photo image in my mind of how I want my dog to look! I start to get a nervous feeling," confesses Colin. "The night before a competition, I'm so nervous that I can't sleep. When the competition begins, the first ten minutes are like a nightmare. I'm sweating and stressed, and I feel like I'm dying a thousand deaths! Then, when I get into my scissor mode, I calm right down. I am totally focused on my dog and nothing else exists. Scissoring comes down to concentration," states Colin emphatically. "It's not just your hands. You have to use your brain, too."

So many people who have seen Colin's work are in awe of his legendary scissoring skills. With the precision of a master sculptor, Colin can take a shapeless mound of hair and carve it into a masterpiece of perfection.

In addition to his grooming career and competing, Colin also judges and lectures. Colin loves to train people and places great emphasis on educating the customer. He has some strict rules for his salon clients on topics such as matted dogs and being on time for their appointments. His clientele have learned to respect his rules and to treat him as the professional that he is.

"I think one of the biggest problem groomers have (myself included)," states Colin, "is that we are very artistic when it comes to making a dog look beautiful, but not real good in business!

"One of my pet peeves is groomers who don't go to shows and seminars because they think they have a successful business," continues Colin. "I urge them to attend. Their business can only get better!"

With his busy schedule of grooming, contesting, lecturing and judging, you might assume that Colin Taylor eats, sleeps and breathes dogs, but his life has blossomed into other fascinating ideas as well. Colin loves the theatre and is taking acting classes. He is an accomplished singer and does Karaoke twice a week.

Almost every week Colin is involved in a fund-raiser or a benefit for Cancer, Aids or some other deserving cause. His favorite project is called Rain Bear. It's a camp for children with Aids. Colin adores children and finds special joy in helping them.

Colin Taylor is a "people person." He loves to entertain and to see people enjoy themselves. One of Colin's dreams for the future is to own his own bar/restaurant. And, he most likely will. As evidenced by his grooming and competing career, Colin can achieve anything he puts his mind to.

This incredibly gifted man has made his mark in the grooming world and has touched the lives of many. His deep love of the grooming industry and of people is abundantly clear as Colin Taylor answers the question, "What does being named Intergroom International Groomer of the Year mean to you?"

"Being Intergroom International Groomer of the Year means that I have worked very, very hard in my career, and that I am proud of what I have accomplished," Colin states. "It also means that I have to keep going to shows and seminars to help others and to give back to the industry.

"The grooming industry has given so much to me," he continues, "that I feel the need to say a huge 'thank you' to Dina Perry, Chris Pawlosky, Shirlee Kalstone, Sue Zecco, Jay Scruggs, and to the many show organizers who put on these wonderful educational events."

The grooming world is blessed with many, many people who unselfishly give of themselves, by contributing of their time, talents and visions for the betterment of the industry. Colin Taylor, The Intergroom International Groomer of The Year, is unquestionably one of them!

Wonders of Grooming
by Bonnie Wonders

Weddings

We all get the requests for something "special" to be done to a customer's dog when they are going to be included in a wedding. Two such requests come to mind immediately. The first is the case of a Yorkie. Now, nobody ever told the little guy that he would be playing the part of an Indian in his lifetime, but sure enough, the groom-to-be came in requesting a "Mohawk."

"Just do his body like a Cocker, but give his head a mohawk," he instructed.

His finance was shaking her head. "I told him that I would let him do it this one time. Wouldn't you know he would pick two days before our wedding to do it?" she said in an exasperated tone. "There he'll be, walking down the isle looking like some freak on MY wedding day," she added. "Will the dog look like a freak... or will he?" I said, jerking a thumb toward her betrothed. She smiled... he just looked bewildered.

"You know it IS MY wedding day, too," he blurted out, coming to life.

"What-Ever!" the future Mrs. said, flipping her hand.

The couple left and I did as per my instructions. Cocker cut on the body and I carefully shaved down both sides of the little guy's head and left a perfectly formed path of hair to run down the center. I scissored it to stand up just beautifully (if I do say so myself... and I will) to complete the requested trim.

Upon the happy couple's return, I went out front. "So how's it look?" the guy asked. "Well, it turned out very well. The hair definitely stands up," I told him. "Good!" he said, very pleased. I went into the cage room and returned with his "Best Man."

"Oh, my gosh, he's sooo cute!" the girl burst out. "Yeah, he looks really good... but..."

"But, what?" I looked at him. "Well, his hair is standing up on top of his head like a.... a....." He was at a loss for words. "It's standing up like a Mohawk, you idiot," his woman sneered at him.

"But it's shorter on the sides of his head than on the top," he said defensively. "That's exactly what you told her to do," the girl defended me. "THAT'S what a Mohawk is. Short on the sides, long on the top," she added, as she gave him a loving "thwap" on the back of his head. Young love....

The second request came in the form of an Afghan Hound whose owner had long blonde hair. She came in and asked if I could put banana curls in her dog's hair so that it would match her own style for her wedding day. Thinking this over carefully, I decided I could do this only after a trial run. "I don't know that this would come out as you have it envisioned," I told her. "After all, your hair is much thicker than your dog's, and I'm not sure what to do with the legs," I told her.

"I just want curls.... lots of them," she insisted. Since she was giving me so much advance notice and was prepared to pay a premium price for this, I decided to give it a go. Greed cometh before poverty, I told myself. I had some time ago purchased those "solar" roller things that are skinny foam- filled things that you wind the hair around and twist like a bread tie to secure. Of course, they are for human hair, but I figured they would do the trick.

I put enough gel into her fur to last through a 50 mile per hour wind. I combed and I combed. I wound hair and more hair, and more hair around those rollers. The dog definitely looked as if she would pick up Channel 9 by the time I finished putting them in.

I then gently blew the dog dry at a comfy 78 degrees for about 20 minutes. She looked happy enough standing there... like Phyllis Diller's clone from way back when.

I carefully extracted the curlers from her hair. It was the wildest looking thing that I had ever done and actually got paid for. The curls down the center of her head looked just like a human's. It really was a striking look and I spent hours getting it combed into just the "right" position. I sprayed and I sprayed.

Julie came in a few weeks later with pictures of her wedding. There was the dog... in all her glory, under the lighted archway adorned with flowers with Julie in her long banana curls, next to her new Italian-looking husband. In front of them was the Afghan in her new "do," along with HER new husband... an English Bulldog.

What a pair! I hope all live a long and happy life. I've yet to get an invite to a baby shower from either of the happy new "couples." Personally, I think the Bulldog just had high hopes. The Afghan seemed a little out of his "reach" if you know what I mean. Sigh....

What You Always Wanted to Know About Coloring Dogs...
But Didn't Know Whom to Ask!
by Kathy Hosler

Have you ever looked at the magnificent winner of the creative grooming contests that appear on the cover of Groomer to Groomer and wonder how they are transformed from everyday dogs into amazing works of art? Did you ever want to try your hand at this expressive art form, but hesitated because you didn't know where to start? Well, help is on the way!

Donna Holtzer, Tammy Vranich and Dawn Omboy, experts in the field of coloring have graciously consented to share their special techniques and coloring secrets with the readers of Groomer to Groomer.

Donna Holtzer of Holiday, Florida was the Level 3 winner of the Barkleigh Creative Styling Contest at Groom Expo 2002. Her favorite product for coloring dogs is a semi-permanent product called Punky Color, available at Sally's Beauty Supply. Donna takes a spray bottle of warm water, adds the Punky Color a bit at a time until she gets the shade she wants and shakes to mix. She applies the color by spraying it on a clean, damp coat and brushes it in with a slicker brush to ensure even color. Then she blows the hair dry.

With a chuckle, Donna strongly cautions, "Do NOT use a high velocity dryer, unless you want everything in your shop to be the same color that you are making the dog!"

The key is to mix enough color at one time to do the entire dog," adds Donna. "Work on the dog section by section, and if you want a deeper, more intense color, just keep applying more color from your spray bottle.

The same technique can also be used to color a dog with food coloring or unsweetened Kool Aid. However, these are temporary colors, and if you are using them on a client's dog, advise them that, if the dog gets wet, the color will come off.

Donna often finishes her creations with a quick application of hair spray, followed by a generous sprinkle of pixie dust on the dog. Pixie dust is a very fine glitter that is available at many beauty supply stores.

Tammy Vranich of Wild Wynd Mobile Grooming, Huntingdon Beach, California, uses various techniques and products to achieve her coloring goals. Tammy often uses artists' pastel chalk to color dogs. "You must apply chalk to a clean, dry coat," explains Tammy. "You work it into the coat with your hands, applying more until you achieve your desired color. The color will smear, so take care not to get it on any areas that you do not wish to color."

Tammy says that she loves to use a Blo Pen. It's a non-toxic pen, available at WalMart. It applies color like an airbrush and comes in vivid colors. "It washes out well," Tammy shares. "You simply spray it on a clean, dry, clipped coat and allow it to dry."

For a more permanent color, Tammy uses Manic Panic, available at any beauty supply store. She applies the color to the dog in the tub, lets it sit, then rinses it out. When doing multiple colors, Tammy puts plastic held carefully and gently in place with rubber bands on the parts she doesn't want to color.

Dawn Omboy (The Queen of Color), from Columbus, Georgia is a multiple winner of the Barkleigh Creative Grooming contests. Dawn uses Crayola sidewalk chalk, with an application techniques a bit different from Tammy's. "I like to soften the end of my chalk a bit by putting it in a cup that has about one half inch of water in the bottom," explains Dawn. "I apply the chalk to a dry coat, working it in with a comb until I reach my desired color. I also love to use Clairol Jazzing, and Manic Panic, both available from Sally Beauty Supply. I apply the vivid colors to a dry, clipped coat by putting the product in a spritzer bottle containing water," she continues. "I leave it in for about twenty minutes, then rinse out and dry the coat."

Dawn also finds lots of uses for the spray cans of temporary hair color that you can buy, especially around Halloween. "They are easy to use when stenciling, or just to spray on a quick temporary color!" exclaims Dawn.

All three of these creative coloring artists like to acces-sorize their spectacular creations with rhinestones, glitter and holiday-themed decorations.

So, now it's your turn. Take the plunge into creative coloring and hear the "ooohs" and "aaahs" of your clients as you dazzle them and turn their little darlings into walking works of art.

Groom & Kennel Expo... A Groomer Tax-Deductible Vacation!

IJA Sanctioned Grooming Contest Planned with Huge Cash Prizes and Trophies

Hollywood. Palm Trees. Warm sunshine. Beautiful desert. Mountains. Strawberries. And Pet Professionals from around the world! That's Groom & Kennel Expo 2004, February 13 -15th. Where will you be when we are enjoying three jam-packed days of education, demonstrations, shopping, contests and entertainment?

Exciting Location...
The location is the Hilton Burbank Airport, in Burbank, California. The California-based Expo poses the perfect opportunity for your heavenly escape from cold temperatures, a chance to recharge your winter batteries. Best of all... it's tax deductible!

Exceptional Educational Programs...
The seminar begins Thursday with a series of exceptional educational programs. Education continues throughout the weekend with seminars running concurrently, with topics on grooming, boarding, animal behavior and health. World-renowned grooming speakers and pet behavior experts will be showcased during the event.

Exciting Grooming Competition...
The International Judges Association will host some of the hottest regional, national and international competition in the country. Groomers from novice to expert will compete for thousands of dollars in prize money.

Groomers from all over the world share a common language in creativity. During the Barkleigh Creative Styling Competition, this language is communicated loud and clear! Whether you plan to observe or participate, your imagination will spring to life as this colorful event unfolds! So find a pretty pooch, color 'em and enter him in this exciting event.

Trade Show...
Remember your checkbooks, business cards and the plastic money! With over fifty exhibitor booths bursting with bargains, power shopping will be on your agenda! Vendors will be on hand to demonstrate state of the art equipment and new products.

There will be many more details to follow about this exciting event!

An Exceptional, Unforgetable Show!
Last year, 821 pet professionals attended Groom and Kennel Expo, making it one of the year's best attended pet pro events. As details of the Expo unfold, groomers, kennel operators, pet trainers, retailers, and pet sitters are entering the dates in their day planners. You owe it to yourself to be among the attendees! Groom and Kennel Expo promises to be an exceptional event you will never forget!

Q & A

Q. Client file security has been a major issue. What can I do to protect it and still offer more service hours when I am not there?

Q.By diversifying services, I find I'm stretched too thin. Any suggestions? Maryann Loze, Erlanger KY

A. I have always had problems drying the ears and cheek areas of dogs, since they usually do not care for that area to be blown out.

The last few months I have tried (after towel drying) wrapping a small towel around the head fairly tightly and pin. Blow dry rest of dog as usual. Remove towel. Head and ears are almost dry and you can lightly blow out or comb through. A side benefit is that it helps to block noise. Works on all breeds. Fold ears back on Spaniel types. Joy Chapman, Scruff to Dandys JOY of Mobile Grooming, Attica MI

Q. Hello! I am in in-home groomer in Miami, Florida and have been in business for twenty-one years. I read your survey results, and was horrified to realize how far behind the times I was. My prices are FAR lower than even the lowest on any item, and in some cases, there is a difference of five to fifteen dollars! The only one I'm even close to is the nails only (charge six dollars for an additional dog if that's all I'm doing, or eight dollars if it's one dog, nails only). When I do have an increase (about every two years), it's two dollars or four dollars. My question is what do I do? I can hardly just up the prices five to ten dollars all at once. Is it possible there is a regional difference that would account for the disparity? I have a good business, lots of long time, regular dogs and constant referrals from satisfied clients. Now that we are heading into the holiday season, I don't want to risk alienating them. Thanks for any advice. Laura Schrier, Laura's Pet Grooming, Miami FL

Q. Has anyone out there ever opened a third shift shop?

Q. My drying system is antiquated. I use old crates, dryers, and large fans to move air. This works, but looks less than great. Because we have 95% of our clients coming in between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., we need a minimum of twenty-five cages (sm/med/lg) available. How can I update without becoming bankrupt? It looks less than grand!

Q. I like to show my dogs, but I need to keep my shop open with the economy the way it is. I have no one currently working who is willing to accept the responsibility in my absence. Any ideas? Maryann Loze, Erlanger KY

Q. What are the positives of becoming a mobile groomer?

Q. What is the best way to market self-service? I put a freestanding sign in the grass near the road. It worked, but the city made me remove it. Our marquee is high and hard to read while driving. M.A. Loze, Erlanger KY

Send questions and answers to Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 6 State Rd. #113,
Mechanicsburg PA 17050. E-mail: sally@barkleigh.com

Scrubbing Bubbles with Less Trouble
by Mary Faith Moore

Calling all Groomers! Time moves on. It is no longer acceptable to use an 'out house' in preference to indoor plumbing nor to scrub denims in a wringer washer or pump drinking water from a well in the backyard instead of using the kitchen sink. This raises the big question: why do you still shampoo dogs by hand?

For more than a quarter century, pet pros in the know have been saving big time, energy, and money through use of a bathing system. Suds machines are economical, time saving and environmentally friendly. They are a staple for pet professionals with a desire to improve quality, productivity, and profits. In case you just haven't had time to look into the question, we invite you to read on and get the latest news on this year's top machines, designed to suds, rinse and (sometimes) dry your canine clients to pawfection.

Hydrosurge
A leader in grooming technology and a household name in the salon, Hydro-Surge® has been making the pet bathing process less time consuming and more profitable for over twelve years. Pet Pros across the nation applaud the popular HydroSurge Power Bather (a recirculating bathing system that reduces shampoo and water costs up to 75%) and its companion HydroSurge Power Dryer (a unique two speed, sound reduced, high velocity dryer).

Recently debuting at the giant Groom Expo was HydroSurge's latest technical innovation, Bath Pro VariFlo, a revolutionary animal bathing system. Groomer friendly Bath Pro VariFlo utilizes patented InjectAir™ technology, a unique fusion process which produces a sudsing, combing action spray that easily penetrates through the hair, down to the skin, enlisting pressure to actively remove the dirt while bathing. A quick turn of a dial, activates a fresh water cycle for a final clean rinse. Non-electrical Bath Pro VariFlo sports two showerheads (gentle or power sudsing), and requires minimal water flow to operate efficiently. "We've had a great reaction," says Kimberly Sorenson, HydroSurge. "VariFlo can be used in shops with water flow that could not accommodate a shampoo system before." Exciting, new Bath Pro VariFlo is available in three models, allowing use of up to four different products. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1014.

Prima Bathing System
Prima Bathing Systems are good for pets and good for business," says Keith Faulkenberg, of Prima.

Indeed Prima offers economies across the board with a bathing system designed to bathe each dog or cat in a fraction of the time with a reduced portion of shampoo, of water. Pets love the air injected high-pressure shampoo applicator, which creates a scrubbing action massaging suds deep into the coat. Prima's patented second pick up line allows groomers to access a multitude of specialty shampoos without interrupting operational flow. Several groomers may work from the same station without losing valuable pressure. Easy to operate, Prima requires no special plumbing or lengthy installation. Simply fill with shampoo of your choice, plug it in and turn it on. Within seconds, Prima is ready to use! For more information request Reader Service Card #1015.

Star Jet Wash
"I designed Star Jet Wash to accommodate my busy grooming and boarding kennel," explained Ted Penzimer, owner and developer of the original Star Jet Wash. "We were always ordering shampoo. With Star Jet Wash, we saved time and dollars." Billed as one of the most powerful pumps on the market today, Star Jet Wash generates eighty gallons of water flow every ten minutes. The recirculating system features a super wide spray nozzle (distributes shampoo faster) with a durable rubber hose for flexibility (no need to turn dog around).

"There is no maintenance," says Penzimer. "It's a simple heavy duty machine." Cost savings extend beyond this super sudser's low to mid price range. "Shampoo savings are astronomical!" says Penzimer. "Using Star Jet Wash we bath five-hundred dogs with every gallon of shampoo!" For additional information, request Reader Service Card #1016.

Cosmos Corporation
Since 1985, Cosmos Corporation has revolutionized pet bathing by providing a unique shampoo system, guaranteeing pet professionals an efficient cost effective alternative to hand bathing. Cosmos operates from air pressure; shampoo is dispensed directly to a high-pressure sprayer, massaging suds directly into furry coats.

"My father introduced Cosmos to a groomer in Missouri," recalls Don Kassebaum, Vice President. "Word spread quickly. John Nash asked us to install a system at his school (Nash Academy in New Jersey). Before we knew it, we were furnishing systems throughout the country." Today Cosmos units serve over one thousand grooming facilities nationwide.

"We personally install and customize equipment for each shop," says Don. "We have a maintenance crew on the road to maintain and service each unit. I am not aware of any other company that does this."

Furthering their ingenuity, Cosmos Corporation offers a distinctive rental program. Shop owners have an option to rent the Cosmos system for as little as $17 a month! "Of course, we also sell our systems, but our rental program is very popular," says Don. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1017.

Angel Touch Bathing Systems
Angel Touch offers a recirculating bath system with a unique feature, two showerheads! "Both heads are sturdy, powerful and relatively indestructible," says Susan Supinger of Angel Touch Bathing Systems. "Our gentle head is excellent for cats, puppies or to wash muzzles and ears. The power head is a real time saver. Its vigorous spray eliminates much pre-grooming. I don't wear out my blades because almost any breed can be bathed first!"

An active competitive groomer, Susan knows of what she speaks. "Our system enhances medicated, flea and specialty shampoos with soothing components that appeal to ailing and arthritic pets," says Susan. Portable Angel Touch has a combination of features and savings not to be missed if you are a shop owner seeking affordability and efficiency. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1018.

Senproco The Bath Master
Senproco Inc., master manufacturers of Coat Handler shampoo products have expanded further into the grooming industry. "We are dedicated to providing quality tools that work very well at a price groomers can afford," says Dan Dressen, President of Senproco. Consistent with its mission, Sen-proco introduces a formidable contender in pet bathing systems, The Bath Master.

Priced under $350, The Bath Master is a non-electric bath and rinse system designed for convenience and economy. Intended as the ultimate in canine efficiency, The Bath Master washes, rinses and conditions the average size dog in less than three minutes. Shampoo does not have to be pre-diluted, or mixed," explains Dressen. "Pets are washed, then rinsed with one hose. Once set, water temperature stays consistent throughout the day"

Bath Master is manufactured with industrial grade hoses and connections, and is adaptable for use of up to four products at once. "I buy it right and sell it right," says Dressen, "products and tools we are proud to put the Senproco name on." For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1019.

Shampette Pet Shampooer Massager
Automated bathing is in the palm of your hand with Shampette, an innovative and economical pet bathing system. Designed with the pet companion in mind, groomers on a budget find Shampette a convenient and cost effective alternative to hand bathing. No electricity required! Simply attach Shampette to your water supply, and this twelve inch dynamo shampoos and massages happy canines with a soothing stream of fragrant suds.

Twelve inches of shower power, Sham-pette provides massaging action for weary canine joints, sporting an adjustable dial for suds control and a therapeutic (massaging fingers) brush head. Purchase one for every tub! This mighty midget is priced under $50!

"We saw a need for an easy-to-use shampoo system," recalls Audrey Metcalf, President. "Shampette is very popular." For more information, request Reader Service Card #1020.

Ultimate Groomobiles Inc. Power Shower
The purveyors of Ultimate Groomobiles have developed an all salon friendly bath system targeted for mobile units. The Power Shower was invented fifteen years ago when Bruce Kasper, mobile manufacturer and entrepreneur sought to design the ultimate bath system for his Groomobiles. "Mobile groomers face many challenges beyond those in a stationary grooming salon," explained Bruce. "We must consider limited space and water supply. We discovered bath systems on the market were appealing, but not adaptable to our mobile units."

Power Shower is a portable re-circulating bathing system, with an adjustable pressure valve and a GFCI (ground fault interrupter system) to protect groomers and their pets from equipment malfunction. The pressure valve reduces water flow for small pets, yet, with the touch of a finger, is strong enough to massage medicated shampoos into hair follicles, blast fleas off furry hair shafts and is renowned for tick removal. A convenient companion to the Power Shower is the Shower Curtain System, three connecting curtains with an apron front guaranteed to keep water in the tub and off the groomer. Competition! Dog Shows! Field Trials! Portable Power Shower is a choice for groomers on the go! For more information, request Reader Service Card #1012.

Whether your specialty is Bulldogs or Borzois, Pekes or Portuguese, Lakelands or Lhasas, the shampoo masters have designed a system perfect for your school, shop or mobile unit. It's a pre-holiday gift that every busy groomer deserves! The Happy Holidays will be even brighter when you decide to give yourself a gift that makes each day easier and more profitable.

For information for any of these prodroducts, Request Reader Service Card number at info@barkleigh.com

The Grooming View - Customer Price Sheet
by Marea Tully

Hi, Guys! As you have read in Sally's editorial, we have changed the name of my column from The Contest View to The Grooming View so that my topics can be expanded to include most anything groomers might be interested in.

Since I just finished reading the Pet Groomer.com results of the 2002 Grooming Survey regarding prices, I thought I would comment on part of the survey. After all, it is a subject that nearly always comes up whenever groomers around the country get together, and most especially when we're eating lunch at a seminar.

It's understandable that groomers do not want to give out price sheets, but not for the reason that other groomers might match or lower prices in order to get more customers. I fail to understand the logic of lowering prices in order to get more customers. What is the point of bragging about how many customers you have when you're not making enough money? Isn't the point of being in business to make money? So often when I sit at a seminar luncheon, one of the first questions I am asked is, " So, how many dogs do you do in a day?" I always answered "five," and others would tell me they can groom seven to nine dogs a day. They would look at me as though I were nuts. First of all, I call a dog a complete groom on small or medium sized dogs with a haircut which means I bladed the body and scissored the legs, not shaved them. I also brush-dried every dog that had to be scissored. A Standard Poodle would be considered two dogs in my book, and a carded Shepherd or a Lab would be half a dog.

To call around town to other grooming shops to find out what everyone else is charging and then charging less to get their customers is an exercise in futility. For example, let's just say you charge an average of forty dollars a dog and you do five dogs a day. That would equal two hundred dollars a day. But, if you charge twenty dollars a dog, now you have to groom ten dogs a day to make two hundred dollars. So, why would you lower prices? I couldn't possibly do ten dogs in a day, not even when I was twenty years younger, at least not in an eight hour day with a lunch break.

"EIGHT HOUR DAY? LUNCH BREAK AWAY FROM MY SHOP?" I can hear many of you laughing from here. I'm well aware of the unbelieveable hours many of you work and that lunch (if there is a lunch) is something eaten over the grooming table. One of the reasons may be that you just aren't charging enough.

I have operated my business in three different states. Each time I moved I called around to find out what groomers were charging and then promptly set my prices five to ten dollars higher. Each time I ended up with a very successful, busy, financially rewarding business. Remember people won't call you for a price if they are happy where they are. You are like a pediatrician is to their children. You are their friend, their confidant, and their doggie loves you. Why would they go down the street? People check around for prices when they are unhappy where they're having their pet groomed. When people asked me why I charged more than anyone else in town, I would tell them it was because I used expensive equipment, and supplies. Also, my shop is big, bright and smells nice. I am the only award-winning pet groomer within twenty miles, and I will do a better job. Therefore, I'm worth more. When I first started out, I would even tell them that if they didn't feel the job was any better than the last place, they could pay me the same price as they paid the other groomer, but they couldn't come back to my shop.

Getting back to the price sheet... does the plumber or the carperter give you a definite price on the phone before he has looked at the job? So, how is a groomer supposed to do that? If you quote too high, you may lose before you start, and if you quote too low, you will still lose. So, it's a mini Poodle. How long since its last haircut? Do they want it brushed out or shaved? Is it thin or thickly coated? Is it good or bad on the table? All these things, and more, affect the price of the job. Can you do the dog in an hour or will it take two hours? If you groomed a matted dog, did the job for whatever your price sheet says and added a "whopping" five dollars to the bill for an hour of dematting, you are losing money big time.

I believe in charging by the hour and not by the breed for all the reasons stated above. This way, dogs in the best condition are charged the least, and ones in the worst condition are charged the most. The people who are charged the least will come back more often and the ones charged the most will probably leave, and that's okay because now you have more time and less work to groom the easier dogs.

Yes, I know that when you first start out, you have to do everything you can get your hands on, but after a year or two, you should be able to weed out the ones who drive you crazy. By crazy I mean the nasty dogs, the badly mis-behaved, the ungrateful or routinely rude customer. You should love your job and look forward to it every day. If you don't, you need to make some changes!

So, how do you change over from charging by the breed to charging by the hour? Find out in next month's column!

See you on the road...
Marea
mareatully@yahoo.com

Linda Claflin Captures Championship at ProGroom Vermont!

ProGroom Vermont was held recently in Burlington with exciting day-long educational programs and an Andis sponsored three tier grooming tournament under the direction of the International Judges Association. Exhibitor demos highlighted the two day Trade Show.

Speaker Teri DiMarino offered a Brusher/Bather Certificate Program, covering everything from what's in those bubbles to new and better ways to demat.

Berno Bekebrede spoke about The Art of Grooming; Teri DiMarino covered Camouflage Grooming; and Marlene Romani treated attendees to The Accomplished Groomer.

Winner of the grooming competition was Linda Claflin with a black Cocker Spaniel. Level 2 Best in Show winner was Anne Francis, and Level 1 winner was Kimberly Woolwine.

Grooming and Natural Pet... what an Event!

Are you tired of the mundane? Break out and come to one of the biggest, boldest events of the year!

You could call it a SUPER SEMINAR or maybe even a TRIPLE HEADER EXPO. Whatever you call it, it will be Colossal! And it will be held in Del Mar, California, near San Diego on December 5-7, 2003.

Natural Pet Expo...
Did you ever wonder if you could substitute natural products for the chemical ones, but didn't know what to use? Are you hurting yourself with the overuse of harsh products when a natural one will do? Now you will have a chance to find out.

This three day natural event will feature Wendy Volhard, who will help you to understand dog food, discuss the new concepts about feeding cooked or raw for optimum health, and tell you how to check pets for allergies. She will also discuss Homeopathy, teaching you what homeopathic remedies can work for emergencies. Wendy will also present a provocative and different approach to solving behavioral problems.

ProGroom San Diego...
At ProGroom San Diego, you will have the opportunity to learn from Teri DiMarino, Marlene Romani, Connie Schauermann, Marea Tully and Therese Backowski. Teri will offer secrets and tricks of the trade in the Brusher/Bather Workshop. Great for you and your staff.

Listen to Marlene Romani impart her homespun wisdom in The Accomplished Groomer. Pick up ideas that will improve your grooming, handling, business and your people skills.

This special weekend will also include Therese Backowski with The Gentle Groomer, Connie Schauermann with Customer Pleasin' Cocker Grooming. Marea Tully will present her exciting program, Minding Your Own Business that will put your salon on solid footing and keep it there. ProGroom San Diego is in conjunction with the Natural Pet Expo and Off Lead Training Exposition. You will be able to take a mix of subjects according to your interest.

Plus, there will be exciting grooming contests. Saturday and Sunday will feature the Andis IJA Sanctioned Levels 1, 2 and 3 Grooming Tournament with groomers vying for big prize money and trophies. The Oster Career Start competition, sponsored by Oster Professional Products, will be held on Friday, providing a platform for new groomer to compete, learn new techniques, and prepare for their future.

Off Lead Training Expo...
Clicker training guru, Gary Wilkes, Off Lead editor, Therese Backowski; and Obedience Trainer extraordinaire, Jack Volhard, will be featured speakers in the Off Lead Expo.

You can bring your dog, too! Sit and learn while he lies at your feet or enroll him in a mini-workshop so your pet benefits from "hands on" experience. This is the training industry's most unique Expo.

You can participate in some activities, such as an Agility Confidence Course; Novice, Intermediate and Advanced Obedience Training; Obedience Ring Handling; Class Instruction; Business Management; Flyball; Clicker Training; Frisbee and more!

What More Could You Want?
Discover why you went into a dog profession in the first place. You will find yourself smiling at all the exciting dog sports events. Take a vacation with your favorite pooch. Concentrate on training, grooming or natural products and therapies, and enjoy a tax-deductible weekend of fun.

BIG Trade Show...You'll get to shop, too!
Grooming equipment, products, apparel, training supplies, collars, leashes, clippers, brushes, combs, head halters, supplements, foods, toys, beds... the list is endless! Come with the plastic money and be prepared to take advantage of lots of great stuff under one roof.

Treat yourself to the Triple Header! Boost your grooming, knowledge and handling skills all in one weekend. For more information, request Reader Service Card #854, call Barkleigh Productions at (717) 691-3388 or e-mail at info@barkleigh.com.

Ea$y Money - Grinch Proof Holiday
by Mary Faith Moore

It's Super Season! For pet pros December is a furry frenzy. Listen to grooming clippers hum and sing along with rhythmic ringing of the cash drawer! We groom, we sell, we sell, we groom. Prepare for a shop keepers dream. Times change. Today, pet professionals don't hold the dog by the tail. A price slashing competitor seems to pop up in every corner; a Grinch darkens the holidays, dazzling our clients with promises of more products for little money in less time. For a dose of retail reality, step outside the din of holiday howls to get a glimpse of who is competing for your dog doting clients. Stroll the mall. Explore a nearby super mart. Even giant food markets offer a drive aisle for doggies. Keep Rover on the holiday shopping list and out of the festive claws of the Grinch. How? Try Grinch Proofing!

Begin by walking in the front door and viewing your shop through a pet lover's eyes. Is it festive and inviting, or is a Grinch peering from dark corners? Do you feel the yuletide magic that will charm dog fans off the street into your festive pet friendly domain? Does your storefront offer a real invitation to perspective shoppers? Don't fret! This is not the ghost of Christmas past! It's not even Thanksgiving! This is the eve of the great feast, the perfect opportunity to add a festive touch. In the twinkle of a canine eye, transform ordinary into extraordinary, dull to bedazzling. Create easy-to- execute ideas for holiday enhancements certain to enchant clients and keep the wayward Grinches at bay.

Welcoming Windows: Create warmth with miniature twinkling lights, branches of evergreen and giant plaid bows. Rescue three pine stumps from a tree vendor and anchor them under the fur boughs. Then arrange unique merchandise items on each. Or locate a used sled or toboggan (try thrift stores or your local antique dealer). Stuff a burlap bag with newspaper. Then layer festive foil or fabric (velvet or satin adds warmth and depth) across the top. Top the bags with a colorful grouping of doggie items and place the "sacks on Santa's sleigh." For a super season's greeting, add a plush dog adorned with reindeer ears.

Merry Merchandise: An ancient dresser doubles as a fireplace mantel when the top is removed and mounted to a wall. Its surface provides an excellent back drop to display seasonal (one of a kind) items (statues, coffee cups, picture frames). Underneath (on the hearth) hang doggie stockings stuffed with treats and toysDecorate a bag of economy biscuits with white carob icing colored red, green (Christmas) or blue (Hanukah). Stuff doggie delectables in a giant jar (with a frilly bow) or load them on a Spode cake plate. Christmas Cookies are big impulse items so keep an extra batch (or two) on hand! Load a red wagon with dog toys; fill a pine tree with pet ornaments. Create a gift aisle to feature seasonal products.

Seasonal Sentiments: Discover holiday tunes that relax and encourage pet lovers to shop till they drop. Chose instrumentals spiced with sentimental vocalists (such as Bing, Elvis or Frank) occasionally mix in a pet friendly tune (such as the Chipmunks).

Discover candles, aromatherapy, atomizers that offer a distinctive seasonal but calming scentuse and offer the fragrant items for sale. Spice up your grooming area with shampoo and cologne designed for the holiday. As you suds Rover, season sensational scents will waft into your store front (offer retail sizes for sale) return pets to their masters with a holiday glow.

Drape a curtain on the chaos. Find a smile and a sparkling holiday apron to cheerfully transition from super groomer to super customer helper. Encourage your elves to follow in your merry footsteps. An upbeat greeting brings a promise of canine cash and chases the Grinch away.

Grinch Proof. Guarantee that this super season your fur friendly domain will be irresistible to the pet lover, a shopping environment that secures Rover's rightful place at the top of Santa's list (again).

Melissa Lentine Wins Show Championship at ProGroom Great Lakes!

Exciting things happened at ProGroom Great Lakes held recently in Lansing, Michigan. Three hundred eighty-four groomers were treated to a Trade Show complete with a state-of-the-art Mobile Unit and many show specials.

Three day long educational programs took place during the weekend. Teri DiMarino offered a Brusher/Bather Certificate Program, with topics ranging from what's in those bubbles to new and better ways to demat. Marlene, Romani, presented The Accomplished Groomer, which included information on grooming the forgotten BIG dog and "reverse grooming."

Sharpen Your Skills was a program including Berno Bekebrede, Teri DiMarino and Marea Tully, Groomer to Groomer's own Grooming View columnist, that wowed attendees with demos and business topics to improve their grooming and business acumen.

The Andis Grooming Tournament, under the direction of the International Judges Association, complete with three levels of competition boasted top prize money. Show Champion was Melissa Lentine. Levels 2 and 1 Best in Show entries were Stacie Juratovac and Catherine Strnad, respectively. Cary Widdowson won the IPG Image Award, and Karen Cooley won the IPG Kindness Award.

PROGROOM GREAT LAKES COMPETITION RESULTS

Show Champion · Melissa Lentine
Best In Show (Level 2) Stacie Juratovac
Best In Show (Level 1) Catherine Strnad

Poodles
Level 3 (BIC) Melissa Lentine, (P) Karen Van Pelt, (T) Melissa Lentine (D) Frances Penn Level 2 (BIC) Stacie Juratovac, (T) Stacie Juratovac, (D) Chelsay Paul, (P) Tara Bernard Level 1 (BIC) Catherine Strnad, (P) Catherine Strnad, (T) Regina McClish, (D) Richard Detzler, Jr.

Mixed & Other Purebreds Class
Level 3 (BIC) Christine Lietzau, (D) Suesan Watson, (P) Christine Lietzau, (T) Lisa Leady Level 2 (BIC) Teresa Dreese, (D) Ingrid David, (P) Joy Chapman, (T) Teresa Dreese Level 1 (BIC) Lisa Baxter, (T) Lindsey Berry, (D) Beverly Ashcraft, (P) Lisa Baxter
IPG Image Award Caryn Widdowson
IPG Kindness Åward Karen Cooley

Click Here to Subscribe to Groomer to Groomer!