From Sally's Desk...

It looks like it is gonna be a good year for grooming. We recently completed Groom & Kennel Expo and what a show we had! After fourteen years, of a nice easy going show, it finally exploded! Wow! There has been a change in attitude in the West Coast. Our numbers were up 29%. Our education was up 29%. And our booths were up 29%. That is phenomenal growth such as we have never experienced in any other show!

And the exhibitors were happy. There was a cheerful buzz at the show. Lots of activity. Lots of buying and you will certainly see more booths at next year’s Groom & Kennel Expo. We are taking lots more space at the hotel to make room for more events, education and booths.
But this speaks to me in another way. All Barkleigh shows have been up in the last couple of years. The industry is forging ahead and coming out of the doldrums of a “bad news” economy and unsettling world events. Look for increases in your business, too.

While we were in Burbank, USA Today reported on huge inroads in the pet products and marketplace services on the front page. It spoke of expansions in the industry and products, and especially services. I am astounded as I hear new pet care services that are cropping up to meet the new needs of the pet-owning public.

One young man has a new pet service in California, where it caters to all the petcare needs of his very rich clientele. He really doesn’t know what it is. He is searching for a title of his type of service. I called him a Pet Concierge. He started as a trainer, but his clientele call him for everything. And he does it all. From taking dogs for walks or training, or travel across country to resorts, to grooming, to vet care, to finding answers to various pet problems. You name it. He is a one stop shop. He has more word of mouth business than he can handle. It is really a new service looking for a name. And he hopes to franchise eventually.
This weekend I was reading the Sunday paper. And grooming made the Parade magazine in their annual “What People Earn Special Report.” A Pet Boutique owner in Hawaii makes $105,000.00 per year, while a groomer, Greta Dalrymple, 34, of South Bend, Indiana earns a cool $45,300.00 from dog grooming. Tell me that isn’t saying something about our industry. Especially when you look at some of the college-educated professionals making $20,000-30,000 per year.
Grooming school directors tell me that there is a big trend of college educated people leaving the corporate world to become groomers. Well, what do you know? And we knew grooming was good all along. So look up. Things are definitely improving. Thank the Good Lord that he put you in a fantastic profession that will offer you lots of new opportunities in the years to come. Go to some shows this year and expand your horizons. The sky is the limit for the wise groomer! And you are right on the cutting edge. God bless you.

Salon Planning, Design and Set Up - Part III
Equipment Set Up
by Kathy Rose

Photos from This Article

There is a vast amount of product and equipment available to the pet grooming industry, to fit every budget and taste. However, setting up a modern pet grooming salon can prove to be overwhelming without research. In this segment, we will take a look at a few of the major equipment purchases and offer some ideas for creating an upscale Pet Spa, which is inviting, efficient and safe.

As services, floor plans, budgets and individual tastes vary, so shall the equipment choices from one salon to another. Never the less, there are a few key factors to consider, when setting up your salon.

Retail and Reception
Accent lighting, placed strategically throughout the retail area, helps to highlight specialty items and products. Light colored slat-wall provides an eye-appealing back drop for shelving and display hooks. Slat Wall is durable, easy to clean and is available in a variety of styles and colors to fit every budget. Additionally, it can be customized to virtually any color of laminate which offers added durability and eye appeal. A reception desk housing file cabinets, cash drawer, computers, printers, phones and supplies should have integrated and abundant electrical and phone outlets. Battery back up systems, are advisable. A designated area, for evaluating the client’s pet, helps to reduce stress and can serve as a holding area while pertinent information is gathered

Kennel Area
A large variety of kennel systems are available. The smooth surface kennels such as fiberglass, stainless steel and laminate are durable, easy to sanitize, prevent contact between pets and create an attractive display. Stainless steel, although expensive, with proper care can last forever. Fiberglass kennels come in a variety of colors from which to choose and those covered with laminate, such as Formica, offer even more choices of decor. Some manufactures, offer a choice of laminate colors, and trays with racks, which help to keep the pet clean if he should soil the cage, as well as, provide for easy clean up. Wire crates and plastic carriers, although sometimes more affordable, are more difficult to sanitize and offer unwanted interaction between pets.

Bathing and Drying Areas
Because of the humidity and noise, as well as proximity
for moving a wet dog to a drying table, these areas are often combined into one room. Bathing stations can be custom designed for comfort, safety and efficiency, regardless of the material used in the construction of the tub. A variety of materials such as plastic, fiberglass, stainless steel and enameled cast iron are available. Tubs designed specifically for pets are elevated to a comfortable height and offer amenities such as walk-in ramps, eye hooks, built-in shelving for shampoos and even hydraulic lift, for height adjustment.
There are several types of shampoo systems available. A complete system, uses water pressure to automatically dilute, aerate and dispense the product. Then with the turn of a dial, can be switched to fresh water rinse or a different shampoo. A complete system can save a great deal of money on product. A pressurized system uses an air compressor to pressurize a tank containing pre-diluted product and dispenses shampoo through spray guns. More than one tank can be hooked to the compressor. A gravity system uses gravity to dispense the product.

Drying stations can be as simple as laminated counters securely positioned at various heights and equipped with grooming arms and rubber mats. However, the flexibility that hydraulic tables offer, is an important consideration.

Dryers are available in many different types and sizes. Additionally, they are available with heating elements and without. High velocity dryers, also known as force dryers, work by forcing air through a narrow opening at a high velocity, blowing the moisture from the coat. A dryer on a wheeled stand with a moveable arm is referred to as a stand or fluff dryer. This dryer facilitates hands-free operation so the groomer may brush the pet where the air flow is being directed. A cage dryer, attaches directly to a kennel and blows warm air into the kennel. A kennel unit, is a self-contained kennel and dryer which circulates warm air throughout the unit. All dryers require close monitoring of the temperature and routine maintenance to insure safe operation. Never leave a pet unattended in a dryer.

The Styling Area
Although a myriad of amenities are available, there are basically three types of grooming tables: folding, hydraulic and electric. By far the most economical, a quality folding table offers a stable place for the pet to stand and little else. Hydraulic and electric tables provide height and sometimes rotation flexibility, offering reduced stress for both the pet and the groomer. Round base tables offer the least stability, but are often quite economical. When choosing a grooming table, it is wise to spend a little more money to insure quality and comfort, and considering the amount of time spent behind one, a comfortable chair with back and foot rest is desirable.
Storage for supplies, tools and trash is essential for each grooming station. Custom work stations with drawers provide functional and eye-appealing storage to keep your area neat and organized. Utility carts on wheels can provide additional storage, and a trash can for each station is essential.

A clipper vacuum system helps to reduce hair in the salon, while increasing the efficiency and reducing the time involved with clipping. A central vacuum system provides easy and quiet removal of remaining hair.

Whether your purse is affluent or your budget limited, setting up an efficient, safe and appealing salon will require careful research. Contact a variety of manufactures and get more than one quote. Many of the manufacturers will offer assistance in designing your dream salon and give discounted packages, free or reduced shipping or additional perks such as free shampoos or supplies. Take advantage of their knowledge and above all, do your homework.

Barkleigh's Creative Grooming Contest Winners...
by Kathey Holster

Photos from This Article

The recent Creative Grooming Contest held at Groom Expo in Hershey, Pa. was an amazing competition. As we chat with the winners, you will get a glimpse of what it is like to be in the competition and to win!

“I finally did it! WOW!” exclaims an ecstatic Barbara Zirk, as she was named the Level 3 winner of the Barkleigh Creative Grooming Contest at the 2004 Groom Expo and ABT, held in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Barbara’s thrilling victory was achieved when she transformed her stunning standard Poodle, Percy, into “The Big Rock Hershey Mountain.” Her skillful use of colors and her precise scissoring skills, coupled with her theme selection and ringside presentation, made her spectacular entry the winner.

Barbara Zirk, a certified Master Groomer, is no stranger to the contest ring or to Groom Expo. “I’ve been attending Groom Expo since it began,” Barbara recalls happily.

“I have met groomers from all over the United States and Canada, and we have become really good friends,” she continues. “We meet each year at Groom Expo, enjoy the meals together, and just have a great time!”

Barbara has competed in many grooming contests over the years and has won many trophies and awards, but she was fascinated when she saw her first creative grooming contest at Groom Expo. Soon, she was experimenting with colors and excitedly planning her own unique
creations.


“I love the brilliant colors and the
awesome designs,” says Barbara with excitement. “I really enjoy the whole process of starting with a shapeless mound of hair and creating an awesome finished project.”

“I got a lot of help and great tips from reading Marea Tully’s articles in the Groomer To Groomer magazine,” Barbara states, enthusiastically and adds, “They gave me insight about competing and encouraged me to try harder. One article in particular told me what the judges look for. It was super good!”

Barbara has been grooming since 1970, working at many kennels, veterinary hospitals, and even doing in-home grooming. For the last ten years she has been with PETsMART in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
Is she thinking of retiring or even slowing down? “Me, retire? Oh, no! No, indeed!” Barbara says firmly. Instead of slowing down, Barbara is thinking of tackling a new project.

“I watched the Dancing With Dogs Competition at Groom Expo,” Barbara quipped. “It was fascinating, and I think that I want to try it.”
The winner of the People’s Choice award in the 2004 Creative Grooming Contest, Annette Guerrier (see cover), began her career as a bather/fluffer when she was fifteen years old.

Annie bathed the dogs, and when she wasn’t busy, she watched the groomers. She was a fast learner and bit-by-bit Annie learned to groom. “I learned early that you need to pull your own weight,” Annie states.

The first time Annie saw the Barkleigh Creative Grooming Contest at Groom Expo in Hershey, PA, she was hooked.

“When I saw the competition, it blew my mind! It was beautiful… the colors, the ideas. It was awesome! Besides being a groomer, I am also a professional cosmetologist, so I found this competition fascinating! The groomer/cosmetologist combination made Annie a natural for the creative ring.

When she enters the contest ring, Annie is all business. “When I compete, I focus only on my dog,” Annie says emphatically. “I tune everything else out, and don’t even look at the other competitors.”
“When my name was announced as the winner, I was so excited and overjoyed!” says an ecstatic Annie. “The Peoples Choice Award is such an honor!”

Creative grooming came naturally to the Level 2 winner, Mari Dancouse. “I am an artistic person. I love to draw and create,” proudly states Mari. “Creative grooming gives me a great way to combine two of my loves, and to express myself.” She loves to experiment using different coloring options, like Jazzing and Punky colors and spray on color.

Mari began her career as a brusher-bather in 1994 and is now the head groomer at Featherle Pet Care in Chantilly, VA. Although Mari has competed in many grooming contests during her career, this was only the second time Mari had entered a creative grooming contest.

The Level 2 competition was fierce, but Mari unleashed her innermost creative talents and went to work. Mari had heads turning as she transformed her darling Pomeranian into the amazing “Snickers The Clown.” Mari even enlisted two co-workers, to dress up as clowns and assist in her ringside presentation.

When Mari’s name was announced as the winner, it was all she could do to control her excitement. “My first reaction was to scream really loud, because I was so thrilled,” exclaims Mari, “but I managed not to, and all day I went around saying, ‘Oh we won, we won, my gosh, WE WON!!!’”

Angela Mackey has been a Vet Tech and a dog trainer but it wasn’t until two and a half years ago that she discovered her real passion in life. That’s when she became a dog groomer.

Angela had never been to a creative contest, but she had seen the Creative Contest pictures in the Groomer To Groomer magazine. “I just thought it was the coolest thing,” recalls Angela. “I knew I had to give it a try.”

“I met Barbara Zirk the day after I arrived at Groom Expo,” Angela said. “She is a world of information and was so kind to me. She gave me tips to improve my coloring techniques.”

Angela admits, “Going into the creative contest ring for the first time, I was terrified and felt sick to my stomach.” Bravely, Angela gave it her all and soon the Level 1 winner was announced.
“When my name was announced as the winner, I was ecstatic!!” exclaims Angela. “I hugged everybody!”

It is evident that creative grooming was “tailor made” for Angela Mackey. “I enjoy nothing more than creating my own style on a dog and then coloring it and making it come to life.”

Angela Mackey, Mari Dancouse, Annette Guerrier, and Barbara Zirk. Keep your eye on these talented gals. You will certainly be seeing them and their magnificent creations again. Why don’t you join them?

Hawaii: Groomers in Paradise 2005
by Mercedes Nakano, Country Waggin Resort and Grooming, Alta Loma, Ca


Photos from This Article

Our trip to Hawaii started with a four hour lay-over at LAX. We didn’t mind it. We knew Hawaii would be there. The plane was comfy and new. The whole time getting there, I couldn’t believe I was going back to Hawaii. I kept thinking I should be grooming; I should be at the shop. Every time I would tell someone that I was going to Hawaii on a business trip, they would laugh, “sure you are”. So no wonder I was feeling a little guilty when I was on that beautiful luxury liner NCL. I got over those feelings when remembering the ten and twelve hour days, the difficult dogs and their owners. That’s when I stopped feeling guilty. I earned this trip, and we all earned this trip.

Getting off the plane, I knew I was in Hawaii, for the air had a familiar aroma to it, and I’m sure it doesn’t smell like that anywhere else. The Hilton Hawaiian Village was beautiful, the nicest hotel we ever stayed at. The bed was sooooo comfortable. Attending the seminars was easy; just take the elevator to the second floor.

The trade show was small but very informative. I believe if you can get at least one thing out of these shows, if it can improve your business, increase your sales, then it was all worth it.

It had been a long time since I got excited about anything. It was the first time going on a cruise for my husband and myself.

Seeing the NCL, Pride of Aloha in person, I felt like I was in a dream. All of sudden all my hard work was all worth it! The ship was spectacular. It was so big! I thought I would spend the whole cruise trying to find our room. The food was great, and the crew were awesome. The not-so-newlywed game was so funny! Wayne, you were great! And my husband was crowned “Elvis, the King of “The Pride of Aloha.” It was a moment in our lives we will never forget.
The most valuable experience was meeting all the other groomers from all over the country, including Canada. Exchanging stories was hilarious. We gave each other suggestions and ideas. Purchasing Marlene Romani’s grooming table restraint was a God send. IT WORKS! (Reader Service #1525) Her demonstration of grooming with the snap-on comb was very helpful and we have already put her suggestions to work.

Also, I invested in Judy Bremer’s book, The Empowered Employer, (Reader Service # 1526) a book I feel every groom shop owner should read.

The most valuable moment on this cruise was being able to talk with Marlene and Judy, two people I respect, not only for the success in their lives but for their love for our trade, their concern for fellow groomers. They want all of us to be successful, and get the respect we deserve. I now believe my skill is in demand and that makes me valuable. Thanks to Sally, Gwen, Judy, and Marlene, also all my fellow groomers I had the privilege of meeting, I returned to my business positive and pumped to do better.
Look forward to seeing everyone in

Andis Company announces the passing of Matthew G. Andis on January 7, 2005, at the age of 96.

Matthew helped his father build the first Andis clipper in the basement of their family home. After the successful creation of the tool, Matthew Andis Sr. left his tool and die business to create Andis Clipper Company, incorporated in 1922.

At fourteen years of age, Matthew G. Andis officially went to work for his father at Andis Clipper Company. He continued to work throughout his primary schooling.

M.G. Andis went on to Marquette University, graduating as a Mechanical Engineer in 1933. In 1954, he became President and Chairman of the Board of Andis Clipper Company. The company name was changed to Andis Company in the 70’s to better reflect the Andis Company’s diversification onto all types of hair styling tools.
M.G. Andis was responsible for much of the growth, stability and creativity of the company. The Outliner Trimmer and the original T-Blade shape are examples of his great contributions.

Selling Your Business
By Marea Tully

Grooming Salon for Sale. Upstate NY. Located in Plaza with store frontage on busy road. Huge clientele, retail, all equipment included. Asking $65,000. So read the ad in Groomer to Groomer magazine a few months back.

Can’t be sure but I think the author of that ad might be the same person who wrote to me saying that she owned a business in upstate NY, had owned it for four years, husband had retired from the Army and they had decided to move south for weather reasons and so they needed to sell her business. The problem is she can’t find a buyer. Angela has advertised in Groomer to Groomer, Pet Groomer.com, five local newspapers, made up flyers and sent to local vets and groomers in a 50 mile radius and all she gets are people calling to say they would love to buy if she could train them. She says they just don’t understand it takes at least three months to train them to groom, never mind how to operate a business.

She has a bather who is willing to stay on and an assistant groomer who will leave when she does. Angela does not own the building; however, she is located in a plaza with nine other stores on a busy main road. She is worried that she might just have to walk away, leaving her clients in a lurch and feeling so discouraged and frustrated herself. “I’ve put my heart and soul into building up my business. I would LOVE for someone to reap the rewards that I have, but I can’t find the person.”

Angela could have been me twenty years ago when I walked away from my business that I had been building for five years. The saving grace then was that my assistant, Maryanne, took over all my clients and groomed them out of her home, which absolved me from all client guilt. They were very happy to go to her in her new house out in the country, which she specifically bought and renovated to conduct a grooming business. She’s still operating that business today.

Marianne did buy my equipment so I salvaged something but it was a very poor business decision on my part. I felt I owed Maryanne for very loyal and good service, I felt I owed my customers for their five years of faithful business, but for some reason I didn’t feel I owed myself anything. Maybe that was because as a single mother of two, my self esteem left something to be desired. Maybe it was because I reasoned I couldn’t ask any money for the business because I ran it out of my home, and what groomer did I know that had any money? Therefore, I didn’t think I could sell it. I knew you could sell client lists along with equipment, but I thought it petty at the time.

Angela, at least, is trying to sell her business by advertising it in many different places. She says she has a huge clientele. What’s huge? Another thing a prospective buyer may want to know a lot more than the price is how much did the business gross last year? What a business grosses in the course of a year quite often determines and/or is based on the asking price.

Some people say to take the best year in the last five, plus the price of used equipment and start there for a price. One shop owner I talked to said she went to a seminar on this subject some years ago where she learned you take last year’s gross minus any improvements that need to be done, such as plumbing, painting, flooring, redesigning, etc. Personally, I would make sure all improvements were done long before I listed the place or business for sale. The time to think about selling your business is when you first acquire it. You know at some point that one day you will want to sell it, so from day one always base your decisions regarding design, improvements, retail and employees on that fact.

Teri Dimarino, former Groom Team Member, coordinator, and columnist for several magazines sold her business in Florida and opened a mobile business in California. Teri’s advice, “A business should be treated like a piece of merchandise on your retail shelf. Keep it clean, well displayed and up front, and it will attract attention when someone is in the market for it. Let it get dirty and uncared-for and you will sit with it for a long time.”

She says that one of the biggest problems with selling a business is timing. A tired burned-out groomer is usually that way for a reason. The business has been allowed to deteriorate. The salon and equipment have been poorly maintained and shoddy book work does not accurately reflect what the business is doing. The frustrated groomer just wants to get out but is trapped because he will never get what he thinks the business is worth.

Regarding the “book work”, it is imperative that you keep accurate financial records, not only for your taxes but to prove to prospective buyers what your business is making. If you forget about a few grooms every week and don’t put the money in your ledger, then obviously when you go to show the books to a buyer, your bottom line isn’t going to look so good.

According to a recent article in the Bonita Daily News, Fran Storer, managing partner of Fidelity Business Partners, says, “A lot of people are looking for service and distribution businesses. They’re less interested in manufacturing and retailing.”

David Humpfrey, President of Beacon Capital Group in New York, said “Buyers these days tend to be entrepreneurs and owners of other small companies. Many buyers are people coming out of retirement because they need more money to live on. Any business owner contemplating a sale needs to take a careful look at the company and see what improvements – financial, as well as physical – it needs to bring the highest possible price.”

When selling a grooming business, you really need to have at least one employee who could possibly buy your business from you or who will stay on if a buyer comes along. The customers like to see a familiar face and be going to a familiar place. As a mobile groomer, you only need to find a groomer who has the money to buy your business or can get it financed. It would be a good idea to have that groomer go with you for the next six to eight weeks to introduce her or him to all your clients, thereby making the transition much smoother.

Perhaps you could stay on with the new owner of a business if you have no employees willing to stay. If you have no employees, maybe you need to find one, at least until you sell your business. Many grooming businesses today are owner-financed. If you can wait for your money over a period of years which may or may not be realized, that presents another option along with hiring lawyers.
“If you can’t find a buyer within three months through the trade magazines and the other sources listed above, and you own the building, you could try calling a regular real estate agent,” says Christina Pawlosky, Groom Team Member, and Oster Ambassador extraordinaire.

One groomer wrote to ask how much should she charge for her equipment since she was going to move out of her rented space and go mobile. It’s purely a guess on my part, but I would think if the equipment is in really good working condition then half what you paid for it might be a starting point.

Buy your business or start one for the least expensive price possible, grow as quickly as you can, nurture with all the time, patience, planning and love you can muster and you’ll get the highest possible price at selling time.

I would like to thank Teri, Chris and Christine DeFilippo, for their input into this article. I would like to do an article on tips and techniques to save time and money and would appreciate any input you guys would like to share. Email me at mareatully@yahoo.com

See you on the road,
Marea

F.Y.I. There are products, services and support for handicapped pets at www.handicappedPets.com. 800-811-pets. For a certified pet dog trainer contact www.ccpdt.org

Flash and Cash
by Diane Bandy

Everyone knows that bright colors will lure the client and create impulse purchases. Combining colorful backgrounds with the objects being sold will entice the customer. Look at magazines that sell furniture and you will see beautiful paintings on the wall, plush carpet and attractive lamps that ENHANCE the furniture being advertised. They want you to believe that this fantasy environment can be yours too, if you purchase their furniture.

Try placing your bows, collars, brushes, shampoos, leashes etc. on a palette of colorful material. Fabric stores have remnants of all types of fabric. Think organza for the spring, velvet for winter and burlap for the fall in appropriate 'seasonal' colors. The fabric will dress-up some otherwise boring items like brushes and combs.

Another unique idea is to purchase some new… or gently used (vintage) stock of collars which are often listed on eBay and place these, rhinestoned accessories around your not-so-flashy shampoos, conditioners and flea combs. These collars can be bought for as little as $8.99 on line and you could double your purchase price by selling them. Key search words are Vintage Dog.

Collar, Poodle collar, cat collar and of course, the plural versions. If you wish to use them as a prop from year to year, consider a Collar Mobile, hanging conveniently above your merchandise. This idea is perfect for selling in a small space because your Props are not on limited counter space.

Diane Bandy is President of Past Finders Metal Detecting Club and founder of DogLicense.org. This site was created to encourage interaction between people who are interested in dog licenses, dog collars, rabies tags, miniature dog collar locks, and dog related tokens. DLTC has an interactive component (with a paid membership) and is highly informative, with eBay Action updates and snipings, dog law, facts and trivia. Diane’s articles can be found in many national magazines and publications. Request Reader Service #1528.

Davis Detangling Shampoo

Davis Manufacturing is pleased to introduce a combination shampoo, detangler and conditioner that leaves hair feeling especially light and natural. Unlike other detangling products that rely on heavy solid wax and silicone to loosen snarls, Davis Detangling Shampoo is formulated with a liquid detangling agent that does the job without weighing hair down. Combs and brushes glide right through wet and dry coats with ease and minimal breakage. In addition, rich conditioners in the formula rejuvenate dry coats while adding sheen and a silky texture. Request Reader Service #1524

Andis' Video, Tips & Techniques for Profesional Pet Sitting

Distinguished as an international judge, lecturer, columnist, international platform artist and Best in Show international winner, Marea Tully demonstrates clipping techniques, divulges grooming tips and gives pointers for keeping your clippers in top condition in the Andis video, Tips & Techniques for Professional Pet Styling. Intended to benefit groomers with any level of experience, the video features Andis clipper models AGR+, AG and AGC.

Detailed clipper maintenance; proper blade selection; grooming techniques for clipping foot pads, ears, head and face; carding tips and techniques; and grooming safety are only a few of the secrets for successful grooming that Marea divulges.

For more information about this video, please request Reader Service Card #1523.

Eccentrics
By Bonnie Wonders

We all have at least one. They come in many shapes and sizes, male or female. Some of us are unlucky enough to have more than one. Sooner or later though, you will find your "cream of the crop" so to speak. Some people refer to them as "Eccentric" customers. I just call them plain “Looney Tunes”. Today I met my match....

It all started innocently enough with a phone call yesterday. Someone called with a question about how to control her two large dogs. They were about German Shepherd size, the lady said. The problem was that when she opened her front door to take them out, they immediately made a beeline for the street. She needed something called a "Halti" she informed me. I knew what she was talking about and had several other control devices that she could check out. She asked where I was located. I told her, and she told me what street she lived on. It turned out she was about 2-1/2 miles away. She said she'd stop down the next day.

First, let me say it has been in
the single digits to low teens when this
happened. Not exactly the kind of temps you'd go for a leisurely stroll in. So, at closing time in walks this woman from yesterday.

"OH....Dear! You are much further than I estimated. I walked all the way here. I need your bathroom now," she informs me. I took one look at this frozen little old lady and have a feeling I am in for quite the trip. She brings in with her two Great Dane/German Shepherd mixes. These two dogs are honestly the same size as one of my mini horses. I point her to the bathroom, and she drags her dogs along with her. You have to understand that my bathroom in the shop is about six feet by six feet. Now, take away some of that space for the toilet and sink and there ain't much left for this lady and both beasts. The noises coming from there were pretty outrageous. Enough said on that.

She comes out and asks to see what I have to keep her dogs from dragging her. I show her the Haltis that she originally requested.
"Are they cruel to use on the dog?" she asks. I inform her that there is nothing cruel whatsoever about them. "Would you wear one if you had to?" she asks.

“If it came to getting smashed on the road or wearing it, I'd opt to wear it,” I tell her. We put it on one of her dogs and he immediately flings his head around.

"It's too cruel," she states flatly. "What else do you have?" she asks. I show her a Control Harness. "No, too "squezzy" looking," she says. Next she sees the prong collars. Now here is a woman who thinks a fabric restraint is too cruel, yet is open to a prong. I know how to use them and I know how NOT to use one. The lady insists on seeing how they work.

I get two of them to fit her dogs as she is asking if they will hurt the animals. Trying to explain the method of using one and the sensation of an all around tightening as opposed to a choke chain squeezing the dog’s windpipe shut, I am not sure that I am successful.
"So it won't hurt the dog," she says questioningly.

"Not if it's adjusted properly and you don't YANK it," I explain.
"Let me put one on your arm," she says.

"OK," I tell her agreeably. I adjust it to my arm, and pull on the ring. "You give a quick pull and release and the dog gets the message pretty quickly," I tell her. "You don't haul off and yank," I explain.

"Let me try," she says. I snap a lead onto the ring and hand her the end. "Like THIS!" she says, pulling back sharply with all her might. Aside from dislocating my shoulder and almost knocking herself into the middle of next week as she topples backward into a rawhide bin, I can tell one of these collars in her hands would be suicidal. "Maybe this isn't the best solution for you," I inform her.

About this time, my mailman walks in. He is done for the day and needs to kill some time until his carpool buddy is finished. He comes in and the lady looks up. "Well, Hello!" she booms at him. "What are YOU doing down here?" she asks.

"This is part of my route, too," he answers. "I'm all done for the day," he adds.
"I'm trying to find something to help control my dogs," she informs him. "Yes, I've seen how they can give you quite a time, " he says.
"Back to those halter things," she says, looking my direction. "Put one on and let me see if it works"
I do as instructed and like a little zealot she sets off into the parking area to try it out. As soon as the door shuts, the mailman gives me the low-down. "Do you realize she's really strange?" he asks. "Yes, I kind of gathered that," I tell him.

"No, really," he says. "She actually followed me for two hours on my route one day. Never said a word, but stopped at every mail stop I had and just kept following me. When it's nice out, you'll see her on all fours in her yard barking at her dogs." he adds.

"Lots of people play with their dogs like that," I defend. "When they're 84?" he exclaims.

Before I have a chance to answer that, she is back in the shop. "This isn't working," the lady says. "He won't pull on me. There's nothing for him to chase in the parking lot. Perhaps you would be willing to help?" she asks, looking at the poor mailman.

"Sure, if I can," he says. (He does look scared!) "Would you mind acting like a squirrel?" she asks.
"Ugh, I don't think I can," he says.
"But the dogs don't chase anything but small animals,” she says. "How about being a bunny or something with big ears," she implores. (NOW, he looks terrified.) I kid you not. She actually wants him to go outside and do this. I thought she was joking at first, but soon realized she was dead serious. She then looks to me. There is only so far that I will go to please a customer. This was beyond that point.

I offer to go out with her into the parking lot and take one of the dogs while she takes the other. "Maybe if I go off in one direction away from you, your dog will pull to be with this one," I offer.
"Alright. Let's try that," she says agreeably.

Off we go into the 16-degree weather… I, with no jacket, naturally. I head left and the lady heads right. She soon stops; I keep going. I glance backward to see her back at the door of the shop. I stop.
"You keep going," she instructs me. I go as far as the roadway, which is quite some distance. I turn around and see no little old lady. I walk up the sidewalk to see if she went around the corner of the building. No lady. I return down to the parking lot and still no sign of her.
"Where could she have gone?" I say while looking down at her dog (that incidentally isn’t pulling in the slightest.)

I trot back down to the shop, freezing all the way there. As I go to the windows I see the lady sitting there inside on my computer stool looking all happy and toasty warm. I open the door and she waves her hand to shoo me back outside.

"Casper didn't pull me at all," she says.
"Well neither did this one," I throw in.
"I tell you we need a rabbit or something," she says, looking imploringly at the mailman.

"I really have to go," Mr. Coward of a Postman says. With that, he is gone in a flash.
"I don't know how to help you any further," I tell the lady. I don’t know how to get rid of her now, as she looks pretty darn content, leaning against the wall on my stool.

"Well..." she says, thinking hard. "How about if I go home and the next time I see a bunny or squirrel I call you. Then you can come over quickly and we'll try this again," she offers.

"Sounds like a plan," I say with a heavy sigh.
Sometimes you gotta’ be quicker than the rabbit, ya know?????

2005 Mid Atlantic Pet Pro Show Results

Photos from This Article

They came. They saw. They shopped! In excess of 250 people attended the 2005 Mid Atlantic Pet Pro Show, hosted by Animal Instincts, to enjoy shopping, competition, workshops, and quality networking.

Popular venders participated, offering an abundance of merchandise for enterprising groomers and shop owners. Dina Perry of Wag-n-Tails Mobile Conversions and Marlene Romani of MDC Romani, Randy Lowe of Precision Sharp, Archie Guvi of Global Internet Software, Clint Barrett of the Computer Barn, Michael Helman of Talyn Shears, Cindy Hemmingway of e-Controller, and Larry Appel of South Hanover Area Grooming Salon all offered seminars, demonstrations and workshops. The Scissoring WorkShop was presented by Joan Anderson, and the Bather/Brusher Program was presented by Janice Fehn of Oster Professional Products.

NDGAA kept Joan Anderson and Sarah Hawks busy all day on Sunday certifying those working toward that coveted title, Master Groomer.

Youshe Shouse captured the Advanced Division Best in Show title, while Entry Division Best in Show winner was Eve Hazey. Youshe Shouse took Best All Around Groomer in Advanced Division, and Eve Hazey won the title in Entry Division.

Oster Professional Products presented the Oster Career Start Grooming Contest, judged by Janice Fehn. The placements were as follows: 1st, Nicole Jenkins; 2nd, Christie Kinney; and 3rd, Maggie Brownson. A Special Award was also presented to Maggie, as the youngest groomer – 14 years young!

The Fifth Annual Mid Atlantic Pet Pro Show will be held the last weekend of February ‘06, in Frederick MD. For more information, request Reader Service Card #1519.

What did you do?
by Catherine J. Crawmer
It’s a busy morning and several clients have arrived at the same time. The phone is ringing. You have just found out that the bather will not be able to work. In comes the Ruzinski dog. He’s a regular so you take the leash, nod and smile, and say something like, “Good morning. The usual? Pick him up at 1:00, OK? See you then.” Thereafter, you turn your attention to a new client with a once a year matted strip job in tow. Finally all calms down and the day’s work gets underway.
All is going along fairly well until you put Muggsy Ruzinski on the table. Muggsy has fleas. Eight years of grooming this dog every six weeks and he has never had a flea. Now he appears, not just with a few, this animal is crawling! Of course, he is taken care of and he will be delivered, bug free, to Mrs. Ruzinski. She is going to be horrified that HER Muggsy had fleas. It’s not like he only had a few. She’s probably got a house full of them and he will be reinfested in no time. With timing like this, she may think he picked them up in your shop!
You certainly have to tell her. Mrs. Ruzinski will be happy that you discovered this problem and informed her about it. WRONG! Mrs. Ruzinski is insulted. Muggsy has NEVER had fleas in his life and he didn’t have any when she brought him in this morning. She CERTAINLY does NOT have a house full of parasites. She has a maid working full time, after all. Maybe you should clean YOUR place up! How DARE you! You just lost a customer.

On a different day (thankfully!) in comes another regular, Mrs. Anderson and her Lhasa Apso. She brushes him. Her family brushes him. You brush him. He is always brushed by somebody. Six years of grooming and never a matt. He walks great on a leash but he doesn’t like to be picked up. You take his leash, move him into the back room where he walks right into a crate. You get him up on a table half an hour later and discover that his coat, although brushed on top, is matted to the skin….EVERYWHERE.

When this comes off, it’s going to look like a pelt. The only way he could get that bad in seven weeks’ time is that he must have been bathed daily and never brushed out. Brushing him out now is inhumane and nearly impossible. Mrs. Anderson is not answering either her home phone or her cell. You make a decision to cut him down because there is nothing else you can do and Mrs. Anderson will understand. WRONG! Maybe he does enjoy swimming in the new pool. Not only does she not understand, she won’t pay you either.
A Welsh Terrier comes in. He’s a new client. Too fat to pick up. He looks like he’s in good shape, coatwise. You pet the little guy, discuss the particulars with the owner and take the leash. When you get him on the table, you find his underneath was not fat at all but contained a half a basket ball-size tumor. You wonder what the vet has told the owner to do about this. It’s too huge to be missed by the owner. WRONG! When you ask her what the vet says about the growth, she feels her dog’s stomach and bursts into tears, asking you if her pet fell off the table or “something”.

Two small mixed Bichon puppies, eight months old are brought in by their owner. Both are in great condition. The owner has them neatly arranged in her own fiberglass crate. Their hair isn’t very long so you don’t see any reason to pull them out of the crate. It’s easier to just carry them to the grooming area and take them out later. In the first few minutes the male is on the table you notice that he is completely blind. It’s kind of interesting because you can see how attached the two puppies are to one another. The blind one noticeably follows his sister. When the owner returns, you make mention of your assumption that the male was born blind and are shocked when the owner tells you that, “He wasn’t like that when I brought him in this morning!”
What do all these scenarios have in common? Each one was preventable. Sometimes it’s not convenient or even practical, but each and every animal should be placed on a table in the owner’s presence and examined each and every time the animal is presented for grooming. Groom for any length of time and you will be accused of giving dogs ear infections, anal gland infections, breaking off nails and a host of other maladies. The average owner does not examine her own dog. When you show a problem to the owner, the optimum time is at the point where the dog comes into your establishment and the owner is present for the examination. Regular customers may be a bit impatient, especially if they are coming in often. Presentation is everything! The examination can be explained as part of your service to see if anything has changed since the last grooming. It can also be presented as an opportunity to meet with the pet and make a proper transfer from the owner to you, thereby creating a less stressful situation for the pet. Owners should appreciate the concern you have for their pet’s feelings. You have the opportunity to point out to the owner, in the owner’s presence, anything that may alter the procedure or the price of the service you are going to provide.

Catherine J. Crawmer is owner of Crawmer’s Grooming and Training in upstate NY. She has conducted many
seminars for professionals on a myriad
of subjects. To contact Catherine email her at TrainEmAll@aol.com

Blue Dog Bakery has Added Two New Flavors To Their Line Of Low-Fat Biscuits

Blue Dog Bakery has doubled the fun in the world of dog treats by introducing a delicious new assortment of all-natural biscuits. Blue Dog Bakery’s MORE Flavors Premium Low Fat Dog Biscuits features two enticing new flavors, Bacon & Cheese and Grilled Chicken, to go with their two famous tail-wagging biscuit creations, Natural Cheese and Peanut Butter & Molasses.

All four flavors come in an assortment of large and small animal shapes that demonstrate the fun nature of the Blue Dog Bakery brand.
The pedigree for Blue Dog Bakery’s biscuits is impressive, and therefore, drooling canine expectations are high. Purchases may be made at hundreds of grocery, pet and natural food stores around the country. To find a location or to get more information, please request Reader Service Card #1510.

Career Dogs Note Cards
by Greg Clarke

It is human nature to anthropomorphize the pets we love. Over time, their individuality becomes more apparent, and we giddily imbue them with thoughts and interests they may or may not be experiencing. Los Angeles artist, Greg Clarke goes one step further and assigns his dogs careers! From Neville Norton, Claims Adjuster, to Rufina Rose, concierge, Clarke’s delightful portraits will amuse and delight dog lovers who have always wondered what their pets do all day. Packaged as twenty cards with envelopes. For more information, request Reader Service Card # 1513.

EAZY SUDZ PRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE FROM
RYAN’S PET SUPPLIES

Ryan's Pet Supplies announces the launch of the Eazy Sudz™ professional shampoos and conditioning rinse. Eazy Sudz™ will change the way you think about shampoo. A four ounce bottle makes one full gallon of ready to use shampoo or conditioning rinse. Now you can always have extra on hand. Never run out of shampoo or storage space. This is perfect for groomers, vets, and kennels. Eazy as 1-2-3. Empty gallon bottle + 4 oz. Eazy Sudz™ + Water! For further information about Eazy Sudz™ , please request Reader Service #1522.

HandicappedPets.com Offers Ways to Care for an Elderly, Injured, or Handicapped Pet

As our pets grow older or get injured, they, like any other family member need increasing care. Fortunately, recent advances in the health care field apply to animals, as well as humans. Pets can live longer, healthier lives. Even if they become handicapped or disabled, our best friends and companions can enjoy a loving quality of life for years to come.

HandicappedPets.com offers products, services, and support for handicapped pets, their families and friends.
Unique products for handicapped pets include harnesses, splints, and wheelchairs to help them walk, pet diapers, Stay-Dry SleePee time beds for incontinent animals, ramps to help them into cars, health and safety products, raw food, supplements and much more.
The services section includes a vet finder, rehab center listing, and hundreds of articles, links, and resources so you can learn about disabilities.

For support, HandicappedPets.com has an active message board, a classifieds section for adoptions and buying and selling used equipments, and a gallery full of photos with heartwarming stories of success. When someone is caring for a handicapped pet, it’s important they know that they’re not alone.

“It’s a question of Quality of Life,” says Mark Robinson, founder and caretaker of the site. “With a little bit of support, handicapped animals can enjoy many happy, loving years with their families.”
Mark Robinson created the site in 2002 in memory of a dog that Mark put to sleep because he didn’t know about the alternatives. This site is about those alternatives.

For more information, request Reader Service Card #1508.

Wahl Clipper Corporation Announces Winning Nomination for 2004 Groomer of the Year

The Animal Products Division of Wahl Clipper Corporation announced the winner of the 2004 Groomer of the Year Industry Award. The award was presented to Karen Rodgers, a professional dog groomer from Happy Dogs Productions in Greenville, S.C. as part of the Annual Show Dogs of the Year Awards Ceremony at the Westminster Show in New York City, sponsored by Nature’s Recipes, Dog World, Dog Fancy and Wahl Clipper Corporation.

The award recognizes an extraordinary individual who has set a high standard for outstanding achievements in the grooming profession through a lifetime of interest and commitment with the true spirit of grooming and exceptional service, support and the development of the profession. Karen has over ten years of experience and has been a member of the National Dog Groomers Association. She continually stays current with grooming trends through educational seminars. Karen’s love and kindness for animals is reflected in all she does.
Karen has won an all expense paid trip for two to New York City, including a two night stay in downtown New York, roundtrip travel and $300.00 travel cash, along with free Wahl products and subscriptions to Dog World and Dog Fancy magazines. For more information please request Reader Service #1538.