Happy February! I finish school in March, but my progress is such that the school has offered me one day/week as a paid groomer to keep on working with them. I think this is a great way to keep learning tips from the pros.

I’m feeling like I have mastered the basics of grooming and now have stepped into a phase of ‘mastering the art’. 

Here are some of the grooming secrets that I’ve collected:

1) Hounds, like this gorgeous Rhodesian Ridgeback, are ever-alert and jumpy and must be groomed with an extra watchful eye.

2) Labrador Retrievers are very sensitive to dryer noise and appreciate some ear protection while being groomed.

 3) It is possible to groom some cats with all the same bathing techniques used on dogs. But obviously, cats are more individualistic than dogs and must be treated with the royal respect demanded…

4) Cocker Spaniels (as in this before and after), and other sporting breeds benefit greatly from degreasing shampoo.

And here are some of my satisfied new ‘In-Your-Home’ clients: My lab friend who has disliked grooming salons, was calm and relaxed minutes after her groom at home:

My shaggy shih tzu/poodle pal felt happy and comfy once all tidied up with his winter trim: