From Sally's Desk... Groom Expo is right around the corner. Don't miss it this year. We have such a dynamite program, and it is so well rounded. I am surprised at how many groomers are taking the Animal Behavior program. I am glad they are availing themselves of a terrific educational opportunity. Animal behavior is such a fascinating topic. As groomers, we do many things the hard way, often because we don't know any better. We have little knowledge of animal behavior, even though we work with pets day in and day out. We often have to depend on our instincts instead of our minds. We don't really pick up on all the little signals that animals offer that could make our day go better and give the pets in our care a much more pleasant experience. I hope that you will get a chance to learn from one of the world's top people in this area. Our booth space is sold out! That is a first at our show. We have so many new and exciting booths this year. We have even opened up a new exhibitor area. Look inside Groomer to Groomer and see some of the great specials and new products that will be at Groom Expo this year. It is overwhelming! I hope to see you there. Telling it like it is For some reason I am getting calls from distraught owners of pets that were killed or injured in a groomer's care. I have gone years without one direct contact. Now, I have heard from several. One Minnesota woman called to tell me that her cat was severely injured while being dried. It was burned on the chest and needed skin grafting to save it. I try to get to the bottom of it. I couldn't understand how the cat's chest got burned but not its face. Did she mean "clipper burned?" No, indeed the cause was a cage dryer (that hangs on a cage.) I used that kind safely for years. The cat would just go to the back of the cage and would not really be harmed, I suggested to the owner, trying to understand. "Oh, no." she stated. "The cat was tied to the front of the cage door, so that it couldn't get away to the back of the cage. The dryer kept pelting the poor animal in the chest with hot air, and the groomer didn't bother to check on it. Indeed, she went out to lunch, leaving the pet struggling in the shop alone. When the owner was told to come quick, that the "cat was shedding it's hair in clumps" she was not only left to take the cat to the vet herself, but was left with the bill, too. Later, when she went back to talk to the salon owner, she was notified that since the groomer was an "independent contractor," the groomer would have to pay the bill. Of course, the groomer had moved onto another salon by now and could not be tracked down. This owner was doubly assaulted by the groomer who damaged her pet, and the salon owner who would not take responsibility for the damages. What can I tell them? What idiocy! I agree with the owner. I tell her that we are trying to get licensing in, and ask if she will help us. I tell her to contact her local government and demand that laws get put on the books. We have a law that we can send to her, and her local government, that is good for the pet owner and good for the salon. But, sadly, I have to add that because groomers will not unite, it is going to take pet owners, like herself, to demand a change, city by city. In the area of licensing, we are a sad group. We are not united on this issue, and until we come together, pet owners will have to roust their local governments to do what we, as a profession, will not do. So, we continue floundering along while other professions enjoy the benefits of licensing in their industries. Meanwhile, by our apathy, we allow bad groomers to move from shop to shop, not taking responsibility for their actions, and reeking havoc on us as an industry. If you would like to encourage licensing in your state, request Reader Service Card #1247 for more information. Getting the real poop! I had quite a chuckle today. And I needed it. A well-known groomer called, and we discussed some business issues. After that, we talked of many things and stumbled into the area of illegal drugs. Marijuana, to be specific, and our lack of knowledge of these things. Both being in our late 50's, we grew up in a different world. It reminded her of something that had happened. Ms. X, as she will be known, was walking her dog on the beach with shovel in hand (for pick up, don't you know.) She saw a lone, but starkly beautiful plant growing along the path. Always a sucker for a spindly plant, she dug it up and took it home to shower love and affection upon it. She planted it among the ornamentals on her front lawn. The bright green plant flourished under her watchful eye, until a friend in law enforcement, dropped by for dinner. "Come out here," the officer/friend said. "What is that plant that you are growing?" he questioned. Showing her lack of knowledge, she shared how she found the little struggling plant being whipped by the ocean breezes, and brought it home to take an honored place in the ornamentals. "You have marijuana there," he said, "and I suggest it disappear right away." The shocked groomer dug up the plant, packed it in plastic bags and put it in the trash. We laughed at the absurdity.The moral to this story could be what we don't know CAN hurt us or just keep your shovel in the poop and you will stay out of trouble. God bless you, Sally sally@barkleigh.com     New Products to be Debuted at Groom Expo! There are many exciting new products on the market for pet pros, and lots will be featured at the Groom Expo Trade Show in Hershey, Pennsylvania Sept.10-12. Come, shop for show specials, free samples, and product demos! You won't be sorry you did! Alpen Schatz Introduces All Natural Pet Cosmetic Line Schaussi's Alpen Schatz, a California based company formed to bring unique, high-end European pet products to the North American market, today announced the immediate availability in the United States of Armoni Naturali, an Italian line of all natural clay based shampoos, conditioners and parfums. The collection includes 100% natural Italian clay based shampoos, vitamin enriched conditioner balsams, and alcohol free Ylang-Ylang based parfums for our furry four-legged friends. The line is known for its rich, nurturing, dermatological properties, guaranteeing to keep troubled coats soft and silky, while it naturally absorbs, balances, and repairs even the most sensitive skin and coats. Alpen Schatz is delighted to have been chosen by Anubi Shampoos of Italy to be the exclusive distributor of the Armoni Naturali line in North America. Alpen Schatz will be formally introducing the line at the Groom Expo in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in September. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1248. See New "IceBones," A Product Guaranteed to Make You Your Dog's Best Friend! "IceBones" is an exciting new product that is guaranteed to make you your dog's best friend. This unique tray makes all natural frozen fruit or vegetable pops in different sizes. Just add any flavoring that your dog loves, like bananas, peanut butter, carrots, apples, bacon, salmon, liver, ham, beef and chicken bullion into the unique IceBones tray along with water and freeze. Another plus for pet owners is that with IceBones, there's no more hassle in giving your dog its vitamins or medication. Just crush up the pills into powder form, add hot water to the tray with a flavor pack and freeze. IceBones is not just for pets. You can also use IceBones to cool your soft drinks at your next party. People of all ages will love these fun IceBones, too. They will make a great gift. IceBones is the coolest new product around. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1249. ChewZyme™ Dental Spray Treat for Dog and Cat Chew Toys American Animal Health, Inc., introduces ChewZyme, the first and only Dental Spray-On Treat for dog and cat chew toys. Turns every chew toy into a dental aid! Makes old toys new and new toys better! Satisfies pet's natural desire to chew. Encourages chewing to promote healthy teeth, gums and fresh breath. Chewing helps reduce plaque and bacterial build-up that may cause tooth decay. Pets love the great flavor! Mist rope or other chew toys with Chew-Zyme and watch them go for it! Ropes and chew toys may be washed and re-misted as needed. Natural chicken flavor is highly appealing. ChewZyme ends bad breath and makes pets nicer to be near. Comes in an attractive 4 oz. white plastic bottle with fingertip sprayer. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1258. Professional Drier with a built-in Water-Suction System Schaussi's Alpen Schatz, a Colorado based company, formed to bring unique, high-end European pet products and grooming appliances to the North American market, today announced the immediate availability of the world's first combination water suction/warm-air dryer. The Air-Combo offers many advantages, such as the quick removal of water from the animal's coat (up to 90%), before the actual blow-drying/styling process. This process also eliminates undesirable animal odors. The secret behind the Combo-Dryer is that it does not simply dry water on the animal's coat, but rather removes it initially via suction, resulting in a softer, shinier and more natural coat. An additional benefit is that it removes lime scale build-up along with the water during the suction process. The Air-Combo is significantly quieter than traditional driers and uses less energy to operate. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1259. Aromatherapy for Pets ­ Aromacare Shampoo Series Calming Lavender Shampoo calms and soothes the "savage beast"! Infused with natural essential oils of lavender, ylang ylang, jasmine and sandalwood, which together create a truly pleasurable and relaxing bath-time. Revitalizing Eucalyptus Shampoo for Dogs and Puppies cools and invigorates with the natural essential oils of eucalyptus, lemon grass, and fir needle - providing a refreshing and uplifting bath-time. Soothing Chamomile and Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs and Puppies contains the natural botanical extracts of chamomile, cactus and calendula, along with essential fir needle oil, colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera. This luxurious shampoo gently conditions and balances the skin while deodorizing and conditioning the coat! Groom Expo attendees, please visit Profession Pet Products Inc. to learn more about our exciting show special ­ "Buy Three ­ Get The Fourth One Free"(Mix and Match)! For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1261. Wahl Clipper Corporation Announces New Clippers The Animal Products Division of Wahl Clipper Corporation announces the new Chromado and Bravura. A part of the "Medallion Series", these clippers are designed to raise the standard in professional clipping. They combine the unsurpassed cutting performance of the Arco SE with the latest innovative technology, and the Bravura features a constant speed control, enabling the groomer to achieve the results that professionals demand. Professionals desire products that are powerful, quiet, and lightweight. For the professional, Wahl created the Chromado and Bravura, two new extreme clippers with style. While grooming, the Chromado and Bravura battery level can be checked by simply glancing at the indicator on the body of the clipper. Powerful and quiet, these clippers both offer DC motors with low vibration and noise muffling. The cord/cordless Chromado and Bravura come with a detachable blade set that can be adjusted five ways, from a #9 to a #40. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1262. Boutique Beads to Launch Collars at Groom Expo Boutique Beads will be launching their new glamorous, safety (stretch) pet collar product lines for dog and cats at their Fifth Avenue booth at Groom Expo. These "people jewelry for pets" collars are hand made in the USA from high quality Swarovski crystals, crackled glass, synthetic and natural stone (some semi-precious), silver &/or gold-tone beads that mirror today's modern fashions, from posh Rodeo Drive, through glitzy Las Vegas to funky New York styles. The collars are made from a patented, modern stretch filament and are sized based on the animal's weight. The collar simply stretches over the pet's head. Should the dog or cat collar become caught, the pet can easily pull out of the collar. Please visit them on Fifth Avenue at the Expo and see the exciting new product lines! For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1264. Davis Offers Great Groom Expo Special! Buy one gallon of Davis Quick-Dry™ Shampoo at the Hershey Groom Expo for only $10 and receive a 32 oz. Davis Quick-Dry™ finishing spray FREE! Davis Quick-Dry products cut grooming time in half by speeding up the lathering, rinsing, and drying processes. Pets will be clean, dry as a bone and beautiful in record time and clients will marvel at the speedy turnaround time! Visit our booth for more show specials and discover why customers say we are the one-stop shop for all their professional grooming needs. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1265. "Lifting Made Easy" by CritterLifter After grooming for six years and struggling with the large dogs in a rural farm area, Laurie Rodden developed back problems. Knowing that not accommodating the large pets would affect her business, she invented the Critter Lifter. This product lifts large pets comfortably and easily places them into the tub. You don't have to worry about the weak hips and heavy bodies, because the harness allows the groomer access to work on them. Trimming feet, under thighs, hip area and nails are easy. It's easy for one person to use. It's mobile and fits through household doors. Safety Load tested and approved to 500 pounds.. See this new product at Groom Expo in Hershey, PA in September. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1266. Ear Magic... All Natural Medicated Ear Cleaner E-Z Groom has developed a new revolutionary medicated Ear Cleaner to help maintain proper ear hygiene in your pets. E-Z Groom's All Natural Ear Magic contains emulsifying surfactants that break down ear wax and debris to allow a complete cleansing of the ear. One of the primary ingredients is Tea Tree Oil, known to be effective to sterilize wounds and prevent infection. It has been utilized as an external parasite repellent. Oil of Wintergreen and Aloe Vera are the ingredients known for relieving skin irritations and reducing inflammation and minimizing discomfort, while promoting healing to the skin. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1271. No More Tear Stains!!! Eye Envy introduces an externally applied safe, non-irritating, effective cleanser and beautifier for removing unsightly tear stains and inhibiting dark staining production for cats and dogs. This safe and reliable formula may also be used to help eradicate most feet and mouth stains. The Eye Envy cleaning system comes in a range of sizes in Original and Herbal formulas and is safe for use on kittens and puppies. Eye Envy does not contain any bleach, peroxide or steroids. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1272. Nature's Specialties... the Natural Choice of Groomers Nature's Specialties announces two new products! Lav-N-Derm is a gentle soothing and cleansing antiseptic shampoo that aids in the relief of burns, itching, abrasions, various skin problems, and hair loss due to stress. It has a lasting fragrance, and the dilution is up to 50 to 1. (Use stronger as a medication.) Foo Foo Mystic Lavender is a special blend of surfactants, lavender oil and other essential oils. It has a long lasting, soothing and calming fragrance. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1273. New Mink Easy Cut Shears Mink International proudly introduces its new Easy Cut Shears for groomers. These are great quality shears at an affordable price. They feature smooth action, durability, and a limited lifetime warranty. Easy Cut Shears are available in 7.5", 8.5", and 10" straight and curved. Each shear comes with a free custom case. Prices are $49 for 7.5" and 8.5" straight or curved, and $59 for the 10" straight or curved. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1274. Stazko Introduces Another Winning Product! Stazko's Soothing Oatmeal Shampoo is formulated to provide relief from itchy, scaling and sensitive skin. It also contains emollients to restore natural moisture to the skin and coat. This is a hypoallergenic formulation. Oatmeal Shampoo dilutes 7 to 1, and works well in all shampoo systems. When using a power bathing system (pump action) one ounce per gallon of water is all that is needed. A detergent and soap free formulation, this shampoo can be used as often as necessary and will not strip the coat. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1275. NaturVet Enzymes Processed pet foods are deficient in digestive enzymes, which break down food into nutrients to be utilized by the body. Newly introduced NaturVet® Enzymes can maximize the nutritional value of any pet's diet by improving digestion and the absorption of nutrients. This product contains the digestive enzymes most recommended by veterinarians: alpha-Amylase to hydrolize starch, protease to break down protein, cellulase to reduce cellulose (fiber) to sugars, and lipase to hydrolize fats. These enzymes are all derived from plant sources. Plant enzymes are active over a wider range of pH conditions than enzymes from animal sources, making them more useful throughout the digestive tract. Also included are probiotics (lactobacillus acidophilus), beneficial bacterial that reside in the intestines and promote normal bowel health. Recommended for any pet, NaturVet Enzymes are especially helpful for older animals and those suffering from stress, illness or degenerative processes. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1284. PetLift Creates the Smartway Hair Trap PetLift, never forgetting the grooming industry, has now made under-tub cleanouts a thing of the past! Another innovative idea, the Smartway Hair Trap, has allowed the groomers to bathe their heavy-coated dogs, with no hair globs accumulating in under tub hair trap. Clean-up is a snap with the Smartway Hair Trap, catching hair in the top of the tub. Less cleanout downtime, or expensive Roto-Rooter service. Simply remove the hair catch cylinder from the strainer and place the hair globs into the waste-basket, all from the top of the tub. For more info about Smartway Hair Trap and other PetLift products, please request Reader Service Card #1285. New Groomer Safety™ Collar Easy to use for both felines and canines SmartPractice introduces new Groomer Safety™ Collar from SOFT PAWS®. Super lightweight at just 2 oz., bowl shaped collar can be worn comfortably by animals as long as needed. Patented swivel design allows for fast and easy application that provides an effective barrier between animal bites and groomer hands. Reusable and durable, the Safety Collar is available in two sizes: clear for felines; lavender tint for small canines. Visit the SmartPractice booth at Groom Expo for a demonstration. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1287. Wonder Balm Pet Trend has added Wonder Balm to its Spa Paws line, the all-natural aromatherapy grooming and skin care line for dogs. Wonder Balm is a shea butter and beeswax balm with 100% essential oils to help condition paw pads, as well as treat dry, scaly patches or other minor skin irritations. Spa Paws contains no harsh chemical detergents, like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate. The ingredients are all natural and products are packaged in dark blue containers to protect the natural ingredients from damage from light. Along with Wonder Balm, the Spa Paws line includes shampoo, conditioner, alcohol free spritz and soy wax candles in three popular fragrances. Each fragrance provides true aromatherapy with the use of 100% essential oils, which have benefits from the botanical sources they are derived from. The approach is holistic and has a positive effect on the skin, body systems and temperament. Formulations available are Serentiy, a lavender blend, Renewal, a citrus blend and Harmony, a patchouli blend. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1288. Talyn Shears Goes Tropical Talyn Shears, already known for their Three-Finger and Swivel-Thumb shears, now introduces their Tropical Shear. Brilliant colors fused into metal give a vivid contrast against fur. The colors will not chip or flake. Tough and sharp, Talyn expects great things with this mix of fun colors, quality steel and a special introductory price of only $100, which includes presentation case and lifetime warranty. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1289. Ruff Remover Pet-I-Cure Files For Pet Grooming UFP Technologies, Inc. is offering Ruff Remover Pet-I-Cure Files, a new home pet care product that provides a safe alternative to nail trimmers and clippers for pet supply stores, dog groomers, and novelty/gift stores. The dog bone-shaped nail files feature a highly abrasive surface for dog grooming that is less likely to cut into the nerves and blood vessels surrounding a dog's nails. The Ruff Remover can be most effective when used as a maintenance tool; that is, when it is used to file a dog's nails every few days rather than waiting weeks until actual cutting becomes necessary. Ruff Remover Pet-I-Cure Files can be sold in retail locations in display form or individually packaged. The product can be also personalized to serve as an attractive point-of-purchase (POP) advertising vechicle. Please request Reader Service Card #1290. Grooming Time Savers K.A. Blower Dryer This dryer has more velocity than a K9-2 and more CFM's than 20 K9-2's. It draws less current than the K9-2 with only 12 amps. The K.A. blower dryer air speed is in excess of 100 m.p.h. at 800 C.F.M. There are no brushes to change. H.E. continuous run motor is 120 volts. The K.A. Blower Dryer is made of non-rust poly housing and has a 25 ft. heavy-duty power cord. It weighs about 37 pounds. Available options are a hose 3 inches in diameter and 7 feet long. Also available is a twin cage manifold. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1291. Stylist Wear Announces Show Special! While exhibiting at Groom Expo in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Sept. 10-12, 2004, Stylist Wear will be offering a show special of $10 on their black utility vests. They are one size fits most, button front with four pockets. Each pocket has a protective flap with a button closure. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1292. Revolutionary Clipper Vacuum System Scissor Man introduces his revolutionary Clipper Vacuum System. It's extremely light-weight with a quick connector with removable suction head, which allows you to easily use clippers with or without the vacuum. An easy-to-operate button release suction head and adjustable air flow for the precise amount of suction you need for the job. This is a convenient and versatile, state-of-the-art system composed in aviation aluminum. Patent pending. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1293. Natural Cortisone Alleviates Skin Disorders Quadruped's All In One Tearless Yucca Shampoo's natural cortisone alleviates skin disorders. Yucca's water softeners penetrate the shells of fleas and ticks, causing their instant safe elimination. Gentle, but deep cleaning, moisturizers and conditioners add strength, life and luster to coats. It's safe for puppies and kittens. Quadruped's All In One Conditioner Leave-In Rinse substantially cuts time required for the brushing out of undercoat, mats, and snarls. Drying time is considerably reduced. Conditioners and Brighteners add luster, body, and vitality to coats. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1297. Removes Odors and Stains Urine-Off removes odors and stains on hard and soft surfaces permanently, even on old deposits. Urine-Off removes the non-soluble salt crystals contained in the uric acid that produces urine's pungent aroma. The formula attacks only the offending substances and leaves a pleasant citrus fragrance without harming the fabric, floor covering or other hard or soft surface cleaned. It is non-toxic, non-pathogenic and biodegradable for safe use in any environment. The product works on any type of urine stain, even those that are highly concentrated or very old. Urine-Off is available in a 500ml bottle. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1299. PetalCleanse™ ­ Safe Pet Allergy Relief from Europe Now available in professional size for groomers and vets - Great Add-On Service That Works! New in 2004: New, easy-to-read packaging for the American market, clinical studies, independent efficacy testing, more testimonials from happy pet owners and groomers, lower wholesale/retailer pricing, award-recognition in the UK, pending award-recognition in the US by the Allergy Foundation of America, and soon to be on TV nationwide. Allergic2Pets.com - Treating the cause of pet allergies...not just the symptoms. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1300. ExemaCleanse™ ­ for Animals Who Suffer from Skincare Problems The ExemaCleanse™ line of products is formulated for pets with skincare problems. The main active ingredient is Leleshwa, a rare oil from Kenya with well-known properties that include an extremely effective antiseptic - antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, a natural detergent, and disinfectant. An added bonus is that the oil is a natural tick and flea repellent that soothes the nerves of the distressed pet! The product is available from Allergic2Pets.com in a shampoo, conditioner and essential oil size. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1301. Purina Pro Plan Offers a Sizable Difference for Dogs New Pro Plan brand Small Breed formulas offer seven products that include both wet and dry foods for overweight and senior small breed dogs, as well as products for healthy puppy and adult small breeds. The dry products offer a smaller kibble for easier chewing, and all of the products offer optimal protein levels to meet the high metabolic needs of small canines. Among large dog owners, top health concerns include maintaining good joint health and mobility and a strong heart. New Pro Plan Giant Breed Formulas, the first products on the market for giant breed dogs, are specially formulated with guaranteed levels of natural sources of glucosamine for joints and taurine to help maintain a healthy heart. The six new products are also sized appropriately for a giant appetite, offering large 22-ounce cans in the wet product and a significantly larger kibble in the dry product, to encourage slower eating. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1303. Rescue Rover Pet Alert Fire Rescue Decals Save Lives Here's a simple way to help protect your family pets in the event of a fire or emergency. A company specializing in PET Safety has created an eye catching Pet Alert Safety Rescue decal to be placed on windows to alert Firefighters or Police to save their pets inside in case of fire, floods or any immediate disasters. The vibrant bright red and white decals with a Dalmatian dog mascot named "Rescue Rover" wearing a fireman hat say: "PET ALERT" Fire Rescue "Please Save our Pets" in big bold, bright white letters. "Rescue Rover" Pet Alert Decals are made of a strong durable static cling vinyl material that will adhere to any glass window surfaces and can easily be put on or removed and reused again anywhere anytime. Pet Alert Decals can also be an added deterrent to unsuspecting burglars that see the bright red and white Pet Alert decals on windows, thinking twice trying to break into your home, knowing that there are pets inside that might attack or alert them of their presence. For more information, please request Reader Service Card #1304. Holiday Gifts from Ann Clark Ltd. This Pet Products Collection features Kitty Treat, Doggie Treat and Horse Treat mixes. Each sixteen ounce mix comes with its own cookie cutter attached. Pets will love these tasty treats - and you can feel good knowing that they came from your own oven! Ann Clark Ltd. also offers a Doggie Baking Kit and Kitty Baking Kit which come packaged in a beautiful wooden crate with mix and three cookie cutters. Request Reader Service Card #1305. Whitman's Non-Hazardous Blade Wash Introducing the first and only patented non-hazardous blade wash. It's the professional's choice for a multi-purpose formula that cleans and lubricates grooming equipment without kerosene or hazardous products. It safely cleans clipper blades and scissors of harmful debris that contains bacteria and safely lubricates equipment, reducing blade heat. The blade wash extends the life of the sharpened edge, which reduces the need for excessive sharpening. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1306.     Joe Meeks... A Legacy of Shampoo by Sally Liddick Joe and Mary Meeks were a twosome, in and out of work. Mary, the groomer, dreamed of shampoos and conditioners that would excel in her salon. Joe, the chemist, designed them to her specifications, and a business was born, Nature's Specialties of Corona, California. It is the stuff of fairy tales and grooming salons. They married and the grooming world, including Canada and Asia, has been better for it. But sadly, Joe passed away peacefully at home on June 4th. Joe could be seen at many grooming shows working with his wife, answering serious questions about formulation and application. Joe didn't need to revolutionize the shampoo industry. He was already famous and successful in chemical worlds. He developed the machinery and formulation for Igloo coolers, Nerf footballs, Morey Boogie Boards and more. Joe was always on the cutting edge of adventure. At thirteen, he was 6'4" and lied about his age to join the armed forces. He was a veteran of World War II and was promoted to Sergeant, before his little "age lie" caught up with him. He was discharged promptly. Later, at a proper age, he served in the Air Force as a Full Bird Colonel, and later graduated from Penn State University as a Polymer Chemist. "He was never afraid to take a chance. He could fix ANYTHING!" says daughter, Pamela Mohr. "He loved to fish, cook, eat new foods and 'shoot the s-t.' He was a very intelligent man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it." "Joe was a man of integrity whose word was his bond," says Ricardo Ramos, distributor of their products. "He was a straight arrow, a keen observer and fine person." In the past few years, a bad heart slowed him down, so he bought a sharp red scooter, and confronted me regularly to a "scooter dual." I would, of course, decline, due to the numbers of groomers who might be hurt in the course of our challenge. I knew that I could beat him and didn't want to put him to shame. "In the end, his greatest treasure was the time he found to spend with his family," says Mary. "He wouldn't allow anyone to walk past him without his 'tentacles' (arms, as she dubbed them!) reaching out for a hug." The night before his passing, he was enjoying time with his family. (Those of us who know Mary will not be surprised to hear that she interrupted this time to go to her home office and work.) "The tentacles reached out," says Mary, "and Joe said, 'No. Take fifteen more minutes to enjoy your grandbaby before she goes to sleep.' After the baby was asleep, Joe said, 'Now aren't you glad you took that time?' Who knew it would be the last night Joe would have?" Perhaps after all the shampoo, and Igloos and Nerf footballs, Joe's greatest legacy is his daughters, Pam Mohr and Sharon McCann, step-daughter Tana Gebelin; grandchildren, Tanner and Rosie, Amy, Kevin, Samantha and Chloe; and of course, wife, Mary. God bless you, Joe. We will pick up that scooter challenge one day in Heaven!     The Groomers Round Table The opinions expressed by the writers do not necessarily reflect those of Barkleigh Productions, Inc. I get a lot of Spaniels for a once a year shave filthy and matted beyond belief. Is there a particular brand of clipper that is recommended for shave downs? Something with enough power? I have tried the #8-1/2 blade, but it doesn't make a dent. Sometimes I have to make an opening with the #30 or #40 blade to get started with a #15 or a #10. My clippers always seem to bog down. I swear by my beloved Double K Clippers (the big blue cable-driven ones.) They cut through anything, and are worth their weight in gold! They take a bit of getting used to, but, I highly recommend them for those dreaded once a year strips. Tracy Tannen, Bark Avenue Mobile Pet Grooming, Bakersfield, CA I have found that the old Oster clippers with detachable heads works best. They are work horses and I am still using the first set I ever purchased [second hand] in my shop today. Easy to maintain and clean. I recommend having at least 5 extra heads. Using each for a period of time and cleaning when finished. #10 blades are the safest to use and will make the smoothest clip. I mount a #30 and 4 #10's and leave them until "brush " season is over. B. J. Darnell I've had good success with Andis (the square one) and Laube Mini Micro. I always use a 10 blade for these jobs and let the owner know the dog will come back "pretty short". If they don't agree, I don't take the dog. I go out of my way to take good care of my blades and frequently lubricate/clean them as I'm clipping. I also use a Clipper Vac, which keeps the blades cooler and cleaner. Christie Monacos Oster clippers are for me the most powerful for stripping, but even a husky is a challenge and I dread those jobs. I rarely use anything below a 7F for stripping. This will leave a little more hair for protection. Cheryl Shearer, Clip Art Grooming I did buy myself a good pair of the Oster that is for mats, and so far I'm having good luck with them. I have even considered buying a pair of sheep clippers. I personally believe Laube clippers are the best for heavy jobs. Although they are expensive to maintain, they work wonders. I have four different pairs of Laube alone, even though they are not my everyday clippers, solely for that reason alone. Clipping down matted dogs with more ease comes in time, but those will definitely help you. Deana Magliano I use Andis Super 2 Speed with a #9 blade to buzz off matted yucky once- a-year coats. I do all strips using this blade where the coat is a big mess. In fifteen minutes you can have most of the coat stripped down. The Andis clippers are good and require very little maintenance. If you are not familiar with the #9 blade, you must be careful using it around the flanks and tuck-up, and definitely do not use this blade under the armpits. This blade is only for buzzing the body hair and running it down the legs with care. Use your 10 to finish in the delicate areas. Debbie Lane I prefer a Laube Micro or an Andis Super 2 speed. Very sharp blades. Charge a ton on these (grooms), as you will have to sharpen your blades often. Be sure your blade lever is square, not rounded. I have to replace mine every 6-8 weeks. Deidre Edder, Groomer to Go Spaniels have such a tough coat that it is sometimes very hard to get any blade through a non-matted dog, much less one that hasn't seen a brush in months. I would try one of the high speed clippers, such as the Andis Super 2 speed, which has a cutting stroke of over 4000 cuts per minute and requires very little in maintenance. Start clipping on the body with a #7 skip tooth blade. These skip tooth blades are wonderful for this type of matted coat as they can get down under the mat to cut. They need to be used with extra caution though, as the teeth are set farther apart than on the finishing blades and will more easily grab and cut skin. Make sure that when you start to clip down the dog's back that you pull the skin taunt. This will help the blade cut through and keep the finish smoother. After you bath and dry the dog, card through the coat with the back of a 30 or 40 blade or with a stripping knife if you have one. Carding is sort of like combing with a really, really fine comb. This will remove the dead undercoat and allow the 7F blade to clip more evenly and not leave a lot of track marks. Diane Betelak I use an Oster A5 Turbo 2 speed clipper with a skip tooth #7 blade. It works wonders on even the thickest, matted down Chow Chows. If they are really bad, also try using a #10 reverse. This will sometimes get under the mat. That is the main secret of mats... getting under them to get them out. Good Luck. Erin Nordquist, Fluff Cuts Grooming, Largo FL I have found out the hard way exactly what you are doing is the only thing that works. In regard to the clippers, only a set of Oster A-5's have the power you need for this type of work. I have used Andis and Laube and Oster but only Oster will work for this job. For business expansion and your sanity, you might want to think about driving a little further to a larger town so you can get more exclusive with your clients and get rid of these once a year strips that are back-breaking and not very profitable for all of the physical labor exerted. I, too, live in a rural area and the nearest town is 35-45 miles away, but I make the trek every day so I can get the "good" clients. Those are small dogs with repeat business. I am 44 years old and cannot physically handle those types of dogs you are doing. I don't know your age, but you might want to listen to this advice or you'll not be grooming for very long. Good luck to you. Lynne Lawson, E Z Groom Express Mobile Pet Salon, Elon, NC The clipper I had for those once-a-year "projects" was the Double K power clipper. Because the speed is variable, you can adjust it to run through thicker, messy fur or easier less dense fur. The hand piece does not get hot because the motor is separate, but you do have to keep an eye on the temp of your blades. They do heat up quickly when running clippers faster. The clipper is expensive, but well worth it. I even had a pair of horse clippers that I used on very matted, filthy Newfies and OES. Took the work out of stripping. Faith Prophet I know what you mean about the Spaniels! I have used Oster and Andis clippers, and when it comes to shaving down messes one is about as good as the other. When they get as bad as you say, I tell my customers that the dog is going to be very short, as in stripped, with a 10 or 15 blade. Having a good blade sharpening guy and having several 10 or 15 blades seems to work best. I find that if I rotate blades every few minutes so that they don't overheat at all, and use two sets of clippers, alternating them as well, so they do not overheat the clippers themselves, I can make quick work of it. I hope you are also charging them a lot more for those shave down messes. Glenda I use the Double K cable driven clippers for coats like that, once a year dogs, dirty and heavily undercoated. They are a little hard to learn to use because of the cable, but the power is unbelievable. I can cut down a Chow with this clipper in under 30 minutes. Watch the blade, as it gets really hot. (unsigned) The best clippers that I have found are the Andis AGS Super 2-speed. It may not be your clippers that are the problem. I know that I have found it very difficult to shave a dirty dog. The blades, even when sharp, seem to have difficulty getting through the hair. There is a procedure called "Wet Shaving", that has worked wonders for me. What you do is bathe the dog... mats and all, towel dry very well, then shave. You will be amazed by this procedure. The blades go through the hair... including the mats, just like butter! Usually you have to re-bathe the dog when finished to make sure he/she is really clean. It's so worth it. Try it! If you go to http://www.Groomers.org, the lady that invented this procedure is out there, and has a whole article about it. Laurie We love the Wahl KM1. This is the best clipper I have ever used, especially for those summer clip downs. We even have a pet name for them. We call them our "diesel." They are POWERFUL. Sheila Smith, Dog House Grooming Salon, Florence, Alabama I do more Chow Chows, Australian Shepherds and Spaniels than Poodles, many once a year dogs with thick, matted coats. I find the skip tooth #7 is usually the way to go. Then after the bath I will use either the #7F, 8 1/2 or 9 to finish. If I can't get the 7 through, I will often use the #10 wide blade. It is excellent. As for clippers, Andis is my favorite, but sometimes I think Oster is a little stronger. The most important thing is to keep your blades well sharpened. JoAnna Acosta, The Groomer, Kimberly, Idaho Try the Laube. I use them daily in my shop because I do a lot of big dog shave downs and once a year shave downs. I use a #7 blade to shave it off. I change off between two #7 blades during the shave down. That is what I use and it works out great. Jackie I have found in my school that the 2 speed Wahl clipper works the best. I also use a #7 blade and use only the corner of the blade (1/2 of the blade to peel off the matted hair.) I also take a shears and slide it under the mat in the middle of the back and cut a part up the back. You can then pull it apart and start your clippers under the matt. Cutting a wet dog works great to get under the mats. Jan's Grooming School. Working at the vet's office I saw some of the stinkiest, filthiest coats you can imagine. One day I had to do a shave down on a Chow that was one of the absolutely most disgusting cases of animal neglect I had ever seen. (maggots, etc.) I grabbed the vet's Oster Clip Master ( not Groom Master) large animal clippers. They are designed for horses and cattle, but I was amazed at how they zipped right through the matted Chow Chow coat. The shave down took me about thirty minutes. Julie Alderman For information about the products mentioned in this article, request Reader Service Card #1277 for Double K, #1278 for Andis, #1279 for Laube, #1280 for Clipper Vac, #1281 for Wahl, #1282 for Oster. Salon Planning, Design and Set Up by Kathy Rose Whether you are relocating an existing business or striking out on your own for the first time, creating a successful pet styling salon requires careful consideration and planning. Locking into the wrong location or signing a commercial lease that you don't fully understand, may not only cost you thousands of unnecessarily spent dollars, but can spell disaster for your business. In this article, we will look at some of the terminology and strategies that will help you to find the right location and assist you in successfully negotiating a commercial lease. Choosing the Right Location... Location, location, location: this is a popular saying among those in the real estate business. Although not important for some businesses, location can be an essential component contributing to the success of your salon. Here are a few things to consider: · How much rent you can afford to pay? For online information about writing a business plan: http://www.petgroomer.com/MENU/businessplan-start.htm · Determine your square footage requirements. Remember, you can pack a lot of business into a small amount of space, if you design it wisely. · Is the area zoned for the services you plan to provide? Different zoning laws may affect your business, such as placement of signs, waste management, noise, water quality, and, the use of pesticides. Look under "Planning" or "Zoning" in the Government section of your phone book. · How easy or difficult is it to find and access the store or plaza? · Is there adequate parking for your customers? · Is the location pet friendly? Your customers will need a place to exercise their dogs at drop off and pick up. Remember you will be responsible for the waste that pets of thoughtless customers leave behind. · Research the area market ­ This will not only tell you if you can afford this particular area, but may give you bargaining leverage with the landlord. Understanding and Negotiating the Commercial Lease... Now that you have chosen the location for your salon, you may begin negotiating the details of the lease. There are no standard forms and most leases are customized to the landlord's needs. It is important to remember that the terms and language of a commercial lease, almost always favor the landlord. However, it is crucial to remember that the terms are almost always negotiable. As a prospective tenant, you should become familiar with some basic concepts of the commercial lease. There are basically two types of leases. A gross lease usually means that rent includes items such as real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance of the property. A lease that is referred to as a net lease, generally means that the landlord sets a base rent and then charges the tenant additionally for these expenses. Usually the base rent is calculated by multiplying a dollar amount by the square footage. It is imperative to understand precisely what space is included and how the landlord determines the square footage. The landlord's description of the rentable square footage may include the thickness of the walls and common areas, such as hallways. Additional fees are referred to as pass- through expenses. Pass-through expenses are sometimes broken down further, and referred to as CAM, which is Common Area Maintenance and RET, which is real estate tax. It is critical to understand that pass-through expenses can significantly increase your monthly rent payment. According to Nancy Leach, the VP of Karl Corporation, a Florida reality firm, "One of the most common mistakes that prospective tenants make, is to not fully understanding the financial impact the cost of leasing commercial space will have on future profits. Specifically rent escalations, including pass through expenses." Make sure you understand what the increases will be and the method of computation. Pass-through expenses are potentially limitless so ask for an expense history and know your audit rights. In addition, you can ask for a Cap on these expenses. A cap will limit the amount of the increase on controllable expenses. There are a variety of different methods for determining rent increases. One method uses the Consumer Price Index called CPI. This method is based on cost of living increases and can vary from year to year. If this is the method used, ask for a cap here as well. Another method commonly used by landlords, is a set increase based on a percentage of your rent. Two, three and four percent are figures commonly used by landlords to establish rental increases. The length of your lease and termination requirements should also be established. A short term lease, with options for renewal, may be safer for a new business. However, if you are already established, a long term lease, along with options for renewal, may provide more security and offer more bargaining leverage with the landlord. Be sure you understand when the lease begins, when it ends, and how much notice is required for renewal or non-renewal. Define the security deposit requirements and terms of refund. Be sure that your lease spells out what the permitted uses are. If you are planning to board pets overnight, even if you have the proper zoning and permits, if the landlord excludes it, you will not be able to do it. It is also a good idea to ask for an exclusivity clause. This will prohibit the landlord from renting space to a similar business. You may be able to obtain some concessions from the landlord in the way of free or reduced rent, called rent abatement. In addition, many landlords will agree to deduct a decorating allowance, from your rent, to offset the cost of renovations referred to as the build out. There are some less obvious items which are often hidden in the language of a commercial lease, which unless you are particularly familiar with the legal terminology, you may have difficulty deciphering. According to Ms. Leach, The most important thing for a prospective tenant is to, "understand the terms and conditions of the Lease document itself and how it will impact all aspects of your business." Ms. Leach advises, "It would be prudent to obtain legal counsel. Attorneys can protect tenants against legal issues that may impact the operations of their business." A commercial lease is a legally binding contract that you can not easily break and there are few commercial consumer protection laws. With your livelihood and possibly, a substantial amount of money at stake, you should choose your location wisely and seek the advice of an attorney and/or real estate broker before signing any commercial lease and locking into a location. Look for Part Two of Salon Planning, Design and Set up: "The Build-out" in the next issue of Groomer To Groomer. Ea$y Money - Preppie Puppies by Mary Faith Moore The sun is setting on summer and canine college is out. Best intentions of pet parents have been put on the back burner as family vacation season ramps into high gear. It is not easy to kick-start that old ambition and realize as quickly as you can unload an SUV, school will be back in session, with Rover securely tucked into his car seat, headed for your front door. It's time to trade your Oakleys for a set of reading glasses and start plans. While your favorite clients are romping in the north woods, or bouncing down the river on an innertube prepare for a retail rebound. In the rush to discover this year's "must have" school-wear, your autumn window displays will serve as a colorful reminder that Back-To-School for Jane means it's Back-To-Grooming for preppy puppies. Cool down summer before the novelty wears off. An autumn make-over's a refreshing change from wood ticks, sticky marshmallow dust, and burr-filled picnic blankets. What a reminder that these are the same pesky trinkets they will soon ask you to remove from Rover! Muted colors, such as minty greens, Tuscany yellows and French blues will complement the crispy browns, reds, and golds of the changing season. Think hunting (it's coming up) and bring some of nature indoors with a woodsy camouflage theme. Corn stalks and haystacks make great backdrops for retriever rolls, canvas dummies, and camo vests. Remember, fall is prelude to Super Season, so set the stage! Transform Camp K-9 into a festive fall market, brimming with toys, treats and canine gear. Fill a wheelbarrow with rawhide! Hang leashes and collars from ancient yard tools! Fill baskets with maple leaves and assorted scents! With a few changes, today's retail will blend comfortably with autumn leaves. Here are some tips for stepping lightly out of summer retail: Canine clean up: Wage a Canine Cleanup Campaign! Tempt Fido with a delightful fall "make-Rover," featuring a clean-scent package (include bath, scent and conditioning treatment) for a onetime (ridiculously low) price (with haircut); or dollars off a fresh fall style! Highlight pamper-your­preppy-puppy retail, such as shampoos, scents, t-shirts, and stylish collars. Other options may include a pawfect nail package, deodorizing bath, or lo-shed treatment. Offer a Safety Campaign: It's time to introduce your annual fall Canine Safety Program. Offer retail solutions for such hazards as; early nightfall, Halloween pranks, poisonous houseplants, and pet's home alone. For a safe romp, suggest reflective gear, collars and leashes; highlight first aid kits and travel crates. Advertise your autumn assortment accompanied by safety reminders on the signs; reinforce caution with informational flyers or brochures. Invite dog-lovers to your shop to attend a Canine First Aid class or a short session on dog-proofing the family household. Hunting Hounds: To the rugged outdoorsman (or woman), Back-To-School means Back-To-The-Hunt. Yard gates open, turning packs of feverish canines loose in the great outdoors. The keeper of the hunting hound is sometimes regarded as a one season customer, but if you have the gear they will come (and spend!). Redress your summer camping products in bird-dog style. Bottled water, and traveling canine products appeal to the pointer set. The weather may be cooler, but hardworking hounds still appreciate a gulp or two of fresh water, and a soft bed under the stars. Travel rolls, sleeping bags, tents and mobile water dishes are hunting "must-haves". Whether the family canine is turned loose for a season of frenzied flushing, or is simply joining the family indoors after a long dusty summer, your services will be in demand. By Labor Day be prepared to feature practical, down-to-earth services, such as nail trims (Offer a free camouflage bandanna); low maintenance grooms (feature the sporting dog), deodorizing baths (termed low scent, or odor killer, aromatherapy without the fluff) and de-shedding packages. You may opt to keep your offers "down-home" and simple, with an emphasis on "no fluff" or play the fluff to the hilt! Sporting Dog Special: Offer a complimentary deodorizing shampoo with any Bath or Full Grooming Service Super Odor Slayer: This will appeal to the dastardly dog returning from a weekend forging swamps and battling skunks. If you highlight your deodorizing service, your shop will be the first stop out of the woods. No Frill Field package: Prepare the manly canine for the hunt with a low maintenance trim and an odor remover. Feature no fuss! Promise that cologne and bows will NOT be included! All Frills Package: Preppy puppies demand top splush! Highlight canine coiffures; and designer doggie wear. For the Back-To-Canine College Set feature a Preppie Spa Special: aromatic deep moisturizing bath and conditioning treatment, with light massage and paw-di-cure (nail trim with polish) for one special price. Complete the picture with a designer (like) bandana. School Pics: Rover's school-age masters (already primping for yearbook pics) will adore readying Rover for his Back-To-School shoot. Own a digital camera? For a nominal fee, offer a shot of each client's canine pal, with every full service groom or bath. This is a great coupon item if you are pulling together print advertising! Again, it's the retailer's curse! You have not even taken your own vacation photos to Wal-Mart. Autumn is blowing in, the summer solstice only a memory. Forget the nostalgia and put that raft up on the beach. Too much sun isn't healthy anyway! Prepare for the harvest! As the crisp autumn winds blow away the last traces of summer humidity, canines, sun-soaked and kennel-bound will come. Back-To-School is Back-To-Grooming. Canine College is back in session!   The Grooming View - Finding And Keeping The Customer by Marea Tully Most all of us would like more customers, but where do we find them? They are everywhere, of course. We just need to convince them that they should be coming to us and not going elsewhere. We need to MARKET ourselves! Yes, that's right, we pet stylists and groomers need to market ourselves. How do we do that? We consider the four P's, Product (or service), Place (location), Promotion (advertising) and Price. PRODUCT - is what you produce (your grooming) the very best it could possibly be? Do you go to grooming seminars or take lessons from experts in their breeds to be the best possible stylist? Do you own and know how to use the best possible equipment? Are your grooming and customer service of the highest quality and do you offer options to your customers? Options such as weekly baths, carding and comb outs, doggie day care which may or may not include play time, retailing, pick up and delivery service, horse and/or ferret grooming, tattooing, teeth cleaning, overnight boarding, customer pet care seminars, and pet photos, which are appreciated anytime of year. Color enhancing is another real option and money-maker. When those older dogs are no longer black or brown, a wash out rinse (avoiding eye's and tender parts) will do wonders for the dog and the owner. Think about it, how many of your customers color their hair? PLACE - Obviously the location of your establishment is very important, but it is just as important to make sure the signage is easily visible and that the PLACE is clean and bright and smells fresh. Everything inside and outside of your shop should be clean and welcoming, including the surrounding walks and grounds. A place to "potty" the dogs should be provided with a sign leading to the area with plastic bags and garbage can available. To keep the smell at a minimum on grass or gravel, sprinkle with the lime that you put on your lawns. PROMOTION - would definitely include advertising, which can get expensive. When you first open your business, your local newspaper would be a place to start. Then you want to look for inexpensive or free advertising. You could sponsor a rabies clinic, in cooperation with your vet, at your shop and put posters in the vet's office, the local grocery or department stores that have public billboards and the humane society. Volunteer to groom a dog once a week at the Humane Society and animal shelters, and when the dog gets placed in a home, the local paper will run a picture of the dog with its groomer and name of the shop. Join breed clubs so people will know you and send their puppies to their new homes with your business cards. Leave your business cards at every vet in town and any animal related business such as feed stores, training centers, and animal shelters. If you are a competitor, have a picture made at the show with your trophy and your judge and submit it, along with a press release, to your local paper and they will run it for free. Speaking of press releases, the Atlanta Pet Fair gave out sample press releases to all attendees at their show. If you're not a competitor, compete and see what happens! You could win third place out of three entries but the readers of the newspaper don't have to know how many people were competing, right? That's some great free advertising. PRICE - Since I've done two articles on this subject recently suffice it to say, be worth what they Pay and Get Paid what you're worth! Now that you've found your customers, how do you keep them coming back again and again? Do you offer them "Two Fers" (two for the price of one)? NO WAY, JOSE! Do you give discounts of multiple dogs from the same owner? NO WAY! Does your hairdresser give you a break if you take three kids in for a haircut or does he or she charge you for three haircuts? The only time a business person should offer a discount is if they have marked the price up enough, that the discount will not make them lose money. The way to keep your customers is simple ­ treat them well and put your best foot forward! Make sure your appearance is totally professional right down to your shoes, hair and makeup. (Sorry Guys!) No bare feet, no hair hanging in your face along with hairs of some other breeds. No raggedy jeans and t-shirts, wear a professional grooming smock or tunic. No smoking. Go outside where customers cannot see you or smell the burning tobacco. Make sure you're telephone etiquette is of the highest quality. Make sure you always sound friendly when answering the phone and don't answer it if you've just been bitten or a dog has given you a real hard time. Don't yell into the phone because all the dogs are barking and you can't hear your customer. Barking dogs are a turnoff to a new customer. It sounds more like a zoo! Keep the noisy dogs in a different area than where the phone is located. Greet the returning customer by name, and with a big smile. Get down on the dog's level to greet dog by name. Always greet the dog first and have a compliment for the owner or their dog. Ask about their welfare and that of their dog. After a longer association, mention whatever they talked about last time. This should take no more than two to three minutes time while you put the dog in a crate and give them a pick up time. After their first appointment send them a Thank you card addressed to the dog with a reminder of their next prebooked appointment. Write the dog's birthday on your file card and send a birthday card when appropriate. Send Christmas cards addressed to the dog with a photo that you took earlier in the year. For cards, request Readers Service Card #2020 for Barkleigh Productions Catalog. Nothing impresses grooming clients like a spotlessly clean shop with soft music playing, some scented candles and a bouquet of flowers from the grocery store placed on the reception desk. Keep outside areas illuminated, free from ice and snow, clean and swept. They need adequate parking space. Inside areas should be as large as possible, well-lit, clean with bright walls, floors and cages. You can use large floor to ceiling mirrors and paint the walls with light colors to give the illusion of a larger space. No hair should be seen anywhere except under your table if you are currently working on a dog. For those dogs that like to lift their leg the minute they enter your shop, I would grab that leash or pick him up if he's small enough and rush him to the nearest Vari Kennel. When the owner comes to pick up the pet, have them pay the bill and ask them to step outside. You bring the dog out to them so he doesn't get so excited when he sees them and cause any embarrassment. Hopefully I've given you a few ideas that you can use. If you can add to the list, please email me or snail me through Barkleigh Productions. Thanks for all your emails! I really appreciate them. Keep them coming! See you on the road, Marea mareatully@yahoo.com PS. One lady I heard from charges $1.00 a pound for the large breeds. Now that might keep a bunch of dogs a lot healthier, don't ya think??? Wonders of Grooming - Please Leave a Message by Bonnie Wonders Remember when you first got an answering machine in your shop? I recall the old days vividly, when every other caller would hang up without leaving a message. All of the elderly people were scared of them, and the only request I had for callbacks were from the younger set. How times have changed! I have gone from receiving those people who would wait until the outgoing greeting was over and instead of just leaving me their message already, they went off on a tangent. "I got one of those damned answering machines again," the wife would say. "What?" the husband would ask. "I said I got one of those recorders," she would say again. "Well, did you talk to it?" the husband would ask. "No. If she can't pick up the telephone, then I'm not talking to a machine," the wife would declare. "Why isn't she answering the phone herself?" the old man would query. "I don't know. I guess she's just too independent," the wife would practically shout into the phone. Then BAM the receiver would be slammed down. No, if they would have bothered to listen to the message, they would have figured out that they were calling after hours. But no, they would just fly off the handle. Well, long gone are the good old days of those kinds of phone calls. Now, they are more like this Mr. Long politely leaves the message that Rustler needs a grooming. He leaves his number, the day he would like an appointment, if possible, and an added "you take care now," just before he hangs up. However, either the phone missed its cradle, or he forgot to take it off speakerphone. Shortly I hear Jeopardy in the background and Mr. Long is right in the thick of it. I don't hear the question, but I hear Mr. Long plain as day. "Wild Boar," he informs the contestant. Apparently the person who was actually on TV didn't quite hear Mr. L. I hear the buzzer come to an end and the guy on TV gives an answer of Mountain Lion. "You dumb horse's ____! I told you it was a WILD BOAR!" my customer was telling the poor guy. The next question is fired off and I hear my client shouting "Romania. Romania ROMANIA!!! Say ROMANIA already!" he is yelling at his TV. I can just picture him on the edge of his couch, face red as a beet. I sit and listen to several more minutes of the question and answer game, and then suddenly, without any warning, Mr. Long bursts into his very own rendition of "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys. Now, you have to understand that he is probably in his early 70s or so. Not that there is anything wrong with his liking, knowing or singing the tune. Or rather, TRYING to sing it. I will admit that he had the words down-apt, but yeech by the time he got to "that's where we want to gooooo way down to K-o-k-o-m-oooooo," I though I was going to bust a gut. Right about that time MRS. Long's voice came into the picture. "Fred, you've still got it," she was saying. Exactly what "it" was, I don't know, but I assumed she was talking about his singing ability. You know, the older you get, the less you have the ability to judge tonal quality. I was wishing I was in MY 70's at that precise moment, so that I would be able to appreciate the full spectrum of "it." I listened absent-mindedly as I wrote out a few bills. There wasn't much of anything that was too intriguing after the one-man concert, so I skipped by the rest of the message. A few more phone calls later and I received another that caught my attention. "I need a price on grooming my dog. Please call me tomorrow at 123-4567. Or I'll call you back or you could call me if you want if you are busy I understand, and I'll call you later but if you are free, then please call me first or I could try you in the morning early. Like what time do you get in? Should I call you after you're there?" Now, WHAT kind of message was that to leave, I wondered as I sat back in my chair. I admit that I was so confused by the request that I was contemplating calling MYSELF, to find out what time I would be in. Personally I felt that the caller was decidedly OUT way out. There really are times that I feel pretty intelligent and this was one of them. I skipped by this message. I did, however, return Mr. Long's call. I made him an appointment and on the scheduled day he arrived with Rustler. "Do him up real short this time," he instructed me. "We're going on vacation for two weeks and I don't want him to get too hot," he added. "Oh, lucky you! Where are you going this time?" I asked. "To the islands," he said, smiling broadly. "Hmmmm," I responded. "I heard something the other day on my answering machine that reminds me of those kinds of places," I said. "Oh?" He looked up at me with one eyebrow peaked. "Yeah. I heard someone singing this Beach Boys' song," I said. "Okay," he said, with not much interest. "Yep. This man was serenading me on my machine 'Aruba, Jamaica ooohhh, I wanna take ya Bermuda'" I trailed off. "I gotta go," Mr. Long said, looking about as embarrassed as he could possibly be. That man couldn't reach the door handle fast enough. As he went through the door, he turned to look at me "Hey, did you think the guy had a sexy voice at least?" he asked. "Just groovy," I said, winking at him you do what you can to keep 'em happy. Ya know? Liz Paul Wins Best In Show at NDGAA Carolina GroomFest The National Dog Groomers Association of America recently held its 2004 GroomFest in Charlotte, North Carolina. Grooming competition was keen at this GroomTeam sanctioned contest. Best in Show was captured by Liz Paul of Pampered Paws, in Satelite Beach, Florida. Vero Da Sylva, of Twickenton, Dedham, Massachusetts, won Best All Around Groomer. The list of winners follows: Poodle Class (Div. A) Vero Da Sylva, Sueson Watson, Judy Hudson (Div. B) Komako Tanaka, Jill Kaplan, Kristi Vaughn (Div. C) Christy Nelson, Nicole Murphy, Debbie Slocum Sporting Class (Div. A) Alicia Bismore, Misty Fowler, Vero Da Sylva (Div. B) Komako Tanaka, Kimberly Turbyfill, Christy Kilz (Div. C) Billy Hodges, Nicole Murphy, Debbie Ramseur Terrier Class (Div. A) Lisa Leady, Vero Da Sylva, Steven Madonna (Div. B) Kimberly Turbyfill (Div. C) Nicole Murphy, Christina Cox, Sandra Phillips Mixed/Misc. Class (Div. A) Julie Ostoski, Vero Da Sylva, Liz Paul (Div. B) Komako Tanaka, Kristen Byrd, Lori Deal (Div. C) Nicole Murphy, Debbie Slocum, Lindsay Eanes All Other Purebreds Class (Div. A) Liz Paul, Kimberlie Snyder, Julie Ostoski (Div. B) Kimberly Turbyfill, Jill Kaplan (Div. C) Nicole Murphy, Debbie Slocum, Sandra Phillips Best In Show (Div. A) Liz Paul Best All Around Groomer (Div. A) Vero Da Sylva Best Groomed Dog (Div. B) Komaka Tanaka (Div. C) Christy Nelson Best All Around Groomer (Div. B) Komako Tanaka (Div. C) Nicole Murphy   Capitalize on the Boutique Trend By Trina Milito Spa treatments. Dental products. High fashion. While these products are trimmings associated with everyday grooming for men and women, they are increasingly being used for pets. In fact, groomers are seeking to distinguish themselves from the competition, namely the pet superstores, by offering unique, boutique-like items, whether it's top-flight hair care products or high-end doggie robes. To be sure, there are many ways groomers can improve their revenue stream by adding creative, boutique-like items to the mix. There are five steps pet groomers should consider in order to capitalize on this unique and boutique trend. Identify manufacturers who provide unique products. The key for groomers is to identify distributors or manufacturers that provide product lines that you can't find anywhere else. For example, if groomers notice that a growing number of dogs and cats have eye problems or are experiencing buildup in pets' ears, then they should consider carrying ear and eye wipes. Although groomers should focus on their core strengths, they should not overlook the ancillary products that can help grow their shop. Carry Products Not Found in Big Chains... Groomers need to make sure that their products can't be found in pet superstores. There is nothing more disconcerting to groomers than to know the big box department store or pet store carries all of your products. For example, any pet store will offer pet crates, but if you have a particular style of crate, you can differentiate yourself from the crowd. It also provides a sense of business relief, knowing that you can reap rewards and not be undercut by a competing store. Develop a Niche Market ... Do what is unique to your store. Consider a few questions: What's your target market? What is your specialty? Do you focus on large or small dogs? Those questions are crucial because it helps to develop focus. If, for instance, you groom smaller dogs in a spa setting, you could invest in apparel such as sweaters and accessories, such as nail polish. If you groom older dogs, perhaps you should carry items such as glucosamine biscuits, which help to ensure good health for your furry friends. The trend is for groomers to really begin thinking of themselves as full-service spas. And the more they operate as spas, the more successful they are. Groomers would do well to think about all the accessories and extras they can now offer. Some groomers are venturing into partnerships with acupuncturists or masseuses. The bottom line: Successful groomers are now thinking of themselves as operating a full-service business and not simply as groomers. Be Whimsical... One of the most important things groomers can do is have fun. With their products. With their pets. With their customers. Groomers should consider stocking quirky items such as dog robes with embroidered images and special collars and leads with rhinestones. Granted, pet owners don't need to lavish their animals with such frivolity. But in a world that is fast-paced and demanding, it is satisfying to be able to slow down and provide pets with something that makes you feel good. It's also another sign that pet owners more and more are treating their pets like family members. And that's a good thing. Stock Items That Increase Margins... Groomers need to start thinking about how they can add margin for each store visit. If you have items that can increase your sales margins, then you will add to the bottom line. In some cases, stocking particular items can mean thousands of extra dollars each year. It may also allow you to have more freedom to take vacations and do other personal projects that you otherwise would not be able to manage into your busy schedule. Trina Milito is vice president of sales for PetEdge of Topsfield, Mass., the leading source of pet supplies for pet care professionals and independent retailers. (For a PetEdge catalog, request Reader Service Card #2021.)   Christmas Is Just Around the Corner! Hello, Readers... Around the first of October, I updated my client cards with the customer. I then address their Christmas card, putting all the envelopes in alphabetical order. This way I am only addressing five or six a day, instead of a couple of hundred at one time. I then mark their client card for that year. This way I'm accomplishing three things at once. The client card gets updated, the Christmas card gets addressed and I don't get writer's cramp. Cathy Love, Love's Touch, Knoxville TN Dreaming of Groom Expo! I always wanted to do the Amish Fling! This will be a really good thing! We'll see a horse and buggy, too. And learn how they make a quilt for you. It gets cold and dark at night. Do they make candles, for some light? Country ham and Shoo Fly Pie... It's so yummy, I could cry. Fried chicken, ice cream and buttered noodles, We'll eat so much, oodles and oodles. I'll sleep good tonight And dream of pink Poodles! Dawn Omboy · dawn@petstore.cc Wahl Clipper Corporation Now Accepting Nominations for 2004 Groomer of the Year The Wahl Clipper Animal Products division announced that they will begin accepting nominations for the Groomer of the Year award. The award will be presented as part of the Annual Show Dogs of the Year Awards Ceremony at the Westminster Show in New York City, sponsored by Nature's Recipe, Dog World, Dog Fancy and Wahl Clipper. The Groomer of the Year Award recognizes an extraordinary individual who has set a high standard for outstanding achievements in the grooming profession. This individual must have the ability to arouse curiosity and be able to stimulate independent learning, thus furthering the development of the profession. The initiative for leadership and the ability to provide exceptional service and support for others is essential. The recipient must also have achieved honors in activities of recognition, as well as bringing honor to the grooming profession. This individual must have made significant contributions of themselves to the profession. This includes the willingness to help others, outstanding sportsmanship and possess the ability to give back to the industry. Through a lifetime of interest, enthusiasm and commitment, the recipient will have demonstrated the true spirit of grooming and set a fine example for all who follow. "Wahl is proud to be associated with the show dogs of the year awards and the Westminster weekend," stated Ryan McCarty, National Sales Manager for the Animal Division at Wahl. "We continue to have wonderful groomers win the award and expect increased nominations for this year. It is great to be able to give this type of prestigious award to a market that supports Wahl and our products." The winning groomer will receive an all expense paid trip to New York City, including two night stay in downtown New York, round trip travel and $300 travel cash, along with free Wahl products and subscriptions to Dog World and Dog Fancy magazines. Request Reader Service Card #1269. MARKETPLACE Grooming Tip For Scheduling Appointments I schedule all my clients that are on a regular routine (be it every four weeks, six weeks or whatever) for a six month period. I give them stickers to put on their calendars and a reminder call the night before. This way, they can examine the dates and determine if there's going to be a conflict ahead of time and we reschedule accordingly. If I have any spare time, I know that I can take on new clients. Most people really appreciate having it all set up and not having to worry about remembering to call for their next visit, which they usually do too late to get in when they need to! Deb Koser-Smith, Deb's Dapper Dogs and Cats, Oregon City OR (For Calendar Paw Samples, request Reader Service Card #1312.) Finish Front First! Finish the head grooming first (scissoring, bows, ears, etc.) when you know a client is due for pick-up. Then finish the legs and feet. The dog seems to hold still better when the owner walks in and you are not fussing with the head grooming. Lorraine Tayeb, Clearfield UT Barkleigh Christmas Postcards Bring Business in January and February! Last year I received an e-mail sometime before Christmas about postcards offered by Barkleigh Productions. I had ordered some already, but took an idea from the e-mail. I gave $5.00 off groomings in January and February and noted this on the Christmas postcards that I sent out to my clients. I had a great response. I sent out about one hundred seventy cards and received thirty-four back for appointments. Only about four or five were clients I would probably not have seen this winter, but several thanked me for saving them money. One nice person brought the card to the shop, but told me to keep the $5.00 because I do such a great job with her dog. I live in a small town in southern Vermont and money is tight for most of my clients. Getting them in on a regular basis is hard, but I am going to try booking my "A" clients several appointments in advance, and try sending out some Barkleigh reminder cards, as well. Thanks to others for all your great tips. Marianne Lawrence, Paws to Claws Pet Grooming, Brattleboro VT For Barkleigh Productions' Christmas Card samples, please request Reader Service Card #1315. Calendar of Events ALABAMA OCT. 22-24. Southeastern Grooming Show Birmingham AL. Contact (303) 629-3022 Request Reader Service Card #1117 COLORADO Oct. 22-24. Groom West 2004, Denver CO. Contact (303) 629-3022 andelt2@mindspring.com. Request Reader Service Card #709 August 8. Grooming Sensations featuring Marlene Romani, Denver CO. (847) 364-4547 mink@kc.rr.com Request Reader Service Card #1082 FLORIDA October 17-21.Groom Boat to the Bahamas, Port Canaveral FL. (717) 691-3388 www.barkleigh.com · info@barkleigh.com Request Reader Service Card #1062 October 17-21.Clicker Cruise to the Bahamas, Port Canaveral FL. (717) 691-3388 www.barkleigh.com · info@barkleigh.com Request Reader Service Card #1183 ILLINOIS October 8-10. Pet Industry Christmas Trade Show, Rosemont IL. (312) 663-4040 hhbacker@hhbacker.com Request Reader Service Card #491 October 8-10. Celebration of Style Grooming, Rosemont IL. (312) 663-4040 hhbacker@hhbacker.com Request Reader Service Card #491 IOWA October 16-18. Iowa State Prof. Dog Groomers Assoc. Des Moines IA. (800) 532-1466 Request Reader Service Card #1184 MINNESOTA October 24-25. Total Look 2004, Shoreview MN Contact: (651) 770-3792 or (651) 487-0077. ljbrya@chartermi.net or annamette@ comcast.com. Request Reader Service Card #1294 November 19-21. America's Family Pet Expo, Novi MI. Request Reader Service Card #488. MISSISSIPPI February 4-6, 2005. Gulf Coast Grooming Rodeo & Trade Show, Biloxi MS. Contact: (228) 831-3566. w.dewberry@worldnet.att.net. Request Reader Service Card #1295. MISSOURI October 10. John Stazko's Grooming Seminar, Earth City MO. (941) 322-0226 www.john@stazko.com Request Reader Service Card #1082 NEVADA Sept. 22-23. ProGroom Las Vegas Seminar and Grooming Contests Las Vegas NV. (717) 691-3388 www.barkleigh.com · info@barkleigh.com Request Reader Service Card #1061 Sept. 22-23. SuperZoo, Las Vegas NV www.wwpsa.com Request Reader Service Card #1088 OREGON Oct. 13-16. American Boarding Kennel Assoc. 2004 Convention, Portland OR. Contact: john@abka.com. Request Reader Service Card #598. PENNSYLVANIA Sept. 9-10. Animal Behavior Conference 2004, Hershey PA. www.off-lead.com · info@barkleigh.com Request Reader Service Card #854 Sept. 9-12. Groom Expo 2004, Hershey PA. Contact: Barkleigh Productions, Inc (717) 691-3388 · www.groomexpo.com Request Reader Service Card #51 RHODE ISLAND November 6-8. New England Pet Grooming Professionals, Warwick RI. (508) 799-6176 · nepgp@aol.com Request Reader Service Card #1185 TEXAS November 13-14. Groomerpalooza, San Antonio TX. Contact: (210) 590-0550. Request Reader Service Card #1296.   BARKLEIGH SHOW DATES 2004 September 9-10, 2004 Animal Behavior Conference 2004 Hershey PA September 9-12, 2004 Groom Expo 2004 Hershey PA September 22-23, 2004 Progroom Las Vegas Las Vegas NV October 17-21, 2004 Groom Boat to the Bahamas Port Canaveral FL October 17-21, 2004 Clicker Cruise to the Bahamas Port Canaveral FL 2005 January 21, 2005 Hawaiian Pet Pro Cruise Honolulu HI January 22, 2005 ProGroom Hawaii Honolulu HI February 10-13, 2005 Groom & Kennel Expo 2005 Burbank CA July 14, 2005 PetQuest Expo, Lansing MI August 4-6, 2005 Progroom South, Atlanta GA (In conjunction with SuperZoo East) September 15-17, 2005 Groom Expo 2005 and Animal Behavior & Health Expo, Hershey PA 2006 February 17-19, 2006 Groom & Kennel Expo 2006, Burbank CA September 14-16, 2006 Groom Expo 2006 and Animal Behavior & Health Expo, Hershey PA 2007 September 4-6, 2007 Groom Expo 2007 and Animal Behavior & Health Expo, Hershey PA Contact Barkleigh Productions, Inc. (717) 691-3388 · Fax (717) 691-3381 www.barkleigh.com · www.groomexpo.com · www.off-lead.com

Click Here to Subscribe to Groomer to Groomer!

Sally's Desk New Products To Be Debuted at Groom Expo Joe Meeks... A Legacy of Shampoo Groomers Roundtable Salon Planning... Design and Set-up Easy Money ­ Preppie Puppies The Grooming View... Finding and Keeping the Customer Wonders of Grooming... Please Leave A Message Winners at Carolina GroomFest Capitalize on the Boutique Trend Calendar of Events Back to Home Page

Sally's Desk New Products To Be Debuted at Groom Expo Joe Meeks... A Legacy of Shampoo Groomers Roundtable</