Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer 3.0: Holiday Tips

So... People are getting curious about how to tip their groomers.  This is great news!

But sadly, people do not yet realize that during our holidays, namely christmas/hannukah, it is proper etiquette to tip extra.

"Holiday Tips" usually come from pet parents who have used the same groomer all year long.  These are the pets that are considered request dogs and "clientele" to the groomer.  Some pet parents tip regularly thru out the year and then tip extra on their last groom before the holidays, or they bring their groomer a gift.  Other pet parents don't tip at all during the year but bring a nice fat tip with a card at years end.  And then there are the lovely people who bring something for the entire salon!

My home salon in California used to fill up with popcorn tins, candies, cookies and various bath sets or other niks and naks!!!  It was truly magical!  We received gift cards, jewelry, checks and cash....  The average "Holiday Tip" was at least $50.
Here in Florida it is very different.  Of course the world has turned upside down in recent years but the trend is still very different.
In corporate salons, many times the same groomer doesn't get to groom their favorite dogs because of scheduling conflicts.  Only die-hard, devoted pet parents will wait for their favorite groomer and ask for them by name.  These pet parents are the ones that really should tip extra for the holidays!

But even if its your first time in a salon, holiday season is typically the busiest time of year for groomers, and showing your appreciation with a little holiday bonus tip is the right thing to do.  Or bring your groomer a little gift set from Target or maybe some homemade cookies...!  Anything to show your appreciation for a job well done and for devoted service to your precious pet.

Yes!  Tip extra for the Holidays!!! 

Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer 2.0: Cats

Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer has been my most popular blog by far.  This is very encouraging to us groomers!

In 2.0 I'd like to add a few words about Cat groomers. 

Not just any groomer will deal with Cats.  It is much more challenging than dealing with dogs, on every level.  So if you find anyone period who grooms Cats - they've already scored their tip! 

Of course all the usual criteria apply - Was your Cat treated well, was your Cat injured during the process, does your Cat look like you wanted it to...?  

Having mentioned this list, one should understand that Cats listen to NO ONE.  And they have no real filter when it comes to expressing their emotions, especially pissed-offedness!  

It is downright dangerous to groom a Cat.  Because they can and will hurt you much more easily, and because they resist in such a wiley, catlike way, it is much easier to hurt them when doing haircuts. 

If a dog accidentally gets nicked with the clippers during a groom, its not a good thing but its usually not really a big deal either.  A Cat on the other hand has skin like rice paper.  Its thin, cuts very easily, and once it is cut will continue to split like a ripe watermelon!  So haircuts are exceptionally challenging for Cats.

The bathing process is much more dangerous for the groomer.  Cats are tuff as nails and really aren't easily hurt as far as the restraining process.  But their claws and teeth are used like the weapons of a ninja when they're upset.  A Cat bite is the worst!!!  A Cat bite is the only serious bite I've ever gotten in 12 years of grooming.  And it was a sweet Cat, during its bath....

So... If you find a Cat groomer, and you get a good vibe from them, TIP GENEROUSLY!  If your Cat has not been injured, the groomer deserves that tip!  If your Cat got a bath and actually got dried, the groomer deserves a bigger  tip!  If your Cat got a haircut that actually looks good, the groomer deserves a very large tip!

Much respect to all the Cat groomers.  And many thanks to those pet parents who "get it" and show their appreciation with generous tips.  We thank you!!!

Diet & Exercise

Diet and Exercise affect blood sugar.
Blood sugar affects losing hair - in people and in animals.
High blood sugar = shedding hair.
Also associated with high blood sugar for both humans and animals is:
Anxiety / Worry
Graying Hair
Brittle Hair
Lethargy
Inability to Focus
Failing Eye Sight

What else affects blood sugar?
Green Beans + (positive)
Sweet Potatoes +
Vinegar (including but not limited to salad dressings) +
Exercise such as a steady walk +

Soda -
Corn (non-organic, GMO, in any form) -
Sweet Alcoholic Beverages (such as wine coolers and malts) -
Grocery-Store-Chocolate (what you buy in the gas station or check out line) -
Sedentarianism  -

Almost everyone reading this is or will soon be classified as "diabetic".  Animals too.  Look that word up on Wiki.  Figure it out.

Moving your body in a useful, energy-burning way is exercise.  Could be house cleaning, could be marathon running... but NOT marathon movie watching.
Your body needs to move.  
Your animals' bodies need to move.  When bodies don't move, a part of the psyche assumes its broken.  And so sickness sets in.
Sickness is Nature's way of saying "Something's Wrong!".
Sickness is NOT Nature's way of saying "Go to the doctor/vet!"
Losing too much hair is NOT normal.
Adjust your diet - the food you eat, including the beverages you drink.
Move your body, as if you were alive.
Use it or Lose it!

Bad skin is Nature saying "Toxic Waste Overload!".
Bad hair is Nature saying "Malnourished!"

Processed food for animals is TOXIC.  It is not natural to their systems therefore over time it builds up and presents as the most popular catch-all of our century - allergies.
It's build up, with no other way to escape the body than the skin....

Cleanse.
Massage.
Meditate.
Exercise.
Reboot.

Don't Leave Pets Behind!!!

Ok, here we go.... Hurricanes are linin' up.
There's only ONE RULE for people with animals:
Be safe and never leave animals behind.
Yes, that is ONE RULE.
Prepare to stay.
Prepare to leave.
Whatever you do, do with your animals included.
Human children are a pain in the ass and you don't leave them behind sayin', "I'll be right back sweetie... soon as this weather passes..."
Be responsible.  They are yours.  They depend on you.
Not the sheriff, not the fire department, not the humane society, not the local high school shelter... YOU!
Don't whine, don't cry, don't blame anybody for not rolling out some magical red carpet for you!
They are your responsibility and if you can't take care of them.......
You know you live in Florida.
California has earthquakes.
The desert has scorpions.
New Orleans floods.
Minnesota has snow.
And Florida has gators, sharks and hurricanes....
If you're not prepared to live in the natural environment that surrounds you, then it may be wise to change environments.
I currently have a recovering large dog in my family.  Getting him around ain't easy!  But there is no option.  Where I go, he goes.  No matter what.  I know this ahead of time, and I will be prepared with whatever means I have. Period. The End.
Don't leave animals behind.
You have plenty of warning and plenty of time to find solutions that are good and right.

If you need assistance, here are some resources:
http://www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/petpreparedness.htm

PFS means Pet Friendly Shelter
http://www.petfriendlytravel.com/pet_shelters
http://www.floridapetfriendly.com/pet-friendly-hurricane-shelters.htm
http://www.spcaflorida.org/community-resources/disaster//

Be Safe and Never Leave Animals Behind!!!

Dog Groomer

As many of you head off to your corporate grooming salon this weekend, remember one very... VERY important thing - All groomers are NOT created equal!!!
REQUEST by name, or by records, a previous groomer if you liked the groom and if your dog was happy!  
All groomers, especially in a corporate salon, are NOT good!  It's just that simple.  They are poorly hired (not fit to work in a salon) and then poorly trained, IF they're trained at all!
Being in many different salon settings over the years I've seen how "bad" dogs mysteriously become good when matched with a good groomer.  I've also seen pet parents absolutely amazed at how good the dog or cat looks after they've been groomed properly and thoroughly by a good groomer, after years of not knowing how the animal was supposed to look, feel and smell after a professional groom.
If I were you, I'd be terrified to leave my pet with a groomer!  
Which is why the best grooming advice I can give you is to find that good groomer, and take good care of them!  Tip generously for their extra, expert attention.  Tell everyone about this groomer.  Tell management how much you love this groomer.  Mention this groomer by name on Yelp, or fb, or any other online rating service.  And DO NOT settle for a substitute if your groomer is not available, unless that groomer has personally told you the name of another good groomer.
Lots of these kids in grooming salons are very sweet and personable at the front check in. They are very sweet to the dogs.  But then they ignorantly scare them by shooting water into their faces during the bath, filling their noses, filling their ears and marring the experience forever for the dog.  Then they turn a HIGH VELOCITY  blow dryer on them (think leaf blower, not hair dryer) and blow that across their face and ears.  These dryers can bust ear drums ok......  That terrifies them yet again.  THEN its time to do the nails....  Jesus help us.....  This caps off a very horrible experience for a very helpless animal.  And all the while the untrained idiot performing these services remains kind and loving.  No, the corporations do NOT teach their employees how to groom correctly because.... ITS A CORPORATION.  There are no highly qualified professionals in charge of teaching new hires how to groom or how to handle and treat dogs!  They teach their "students" about corporate policy in "grooming academy" and how to shave a dog.  That's not grooming folks!!!
It takes a skilled, and in my opinion gifted, professional to groom an animal correctly. Correctly doesn't mean just remembering to wipe the ears and give you some report card (that's usually filled with BS).  It means more than knowing the technicalities of breed specific haircuts... That's the least you should worry about!  A proper groom means grooming the animal with an intuition that doesn't terrify the them!!!  
I've rehabilitated MANY dogs that were ruined by ignorant, bad groomers.  
Dogs, and cats, can LOVE the groomer!  
I see stupid trusting people every day.....  Don't be fooled by the front counter routine. They're all sweet!  Really!  And they mean well.  But they have no gift for working with animals, or they've not been trained correctly.  And they never will be unless they happen upon a master who takes their craft seriously.
Grooming is not a job!  It is a skilled profession.  
Regulating the industry and mandatory certification means nothing when you can pay any grooming school thousands of dollars and you get a certificate whether you know what you're doing or not!  Don't look for certificates.  Pay attention to your gut feeling. 

Pay attention.......  
I'm tired of seeing your dogs suffer when I KNOW it isn't necessary.
No I mean I'm really, reeeeeally, sick of it!!!!!

The QR Code...

Here it is... the QR Code for Petgroomer 911.  

You can scan it with your barcode app on your phone and it'll bring up the link to a special page on the website made just for peeps who scan the code when I'm out n' about.  Happy Scanning!!!

Go ahead!  Scan it!  It's fun!

Housing Crisis

The domestic animal "Rescue Movement" of this past decade is unprecedented!  It is the childhood dream of many, come true.  Never before have so many had such a common, powerful manifestation of compassion and action toward domestic animals.
There's almost no such thing as "buying" a pet these days.  They're either rescued or adopted.  There's such power in those terms.  They reflect the compassionate intentions of the heart as opposed to the selfish desire to possess things.
We are encouraged as a society to "adopt" rather than purchase from breeders, because there are so many "homeless", abandoned, throw-away pets that would otherwise be destroyed or become stray nuisances. 
The term "dog pound" is obsolete.  We now have "shelters".  More and more city and county shelters, formerly known as dog pounds, are committing to "no-kill" policies.  These shelters keep animals and care for them until a home is found for them rather than euthanizing them to decrease population, make space or cut expenses.  Many people in local communities now form "rescue groups" where they either house homeless animals themselves or sponsor them on a web site or at local adoption events to find homes for them.  If they don't have a facility to house multiple animals, volunteers "foster" care for them in their own homes until suitable permanent homes are found.  
In case you've not yet noticed, many have assigned human concepts to companion animals, equating their importance with ours.  
A childhood dream come true.........
But there are issues....
The one I'd like to call attention to in this article is that of the housing crisis within the pet parent community.  Along with the rescue movement, a couple of other phenomena have arisen - animal hoarding, and designer breeding.  Without exhausting detail about these phenomena, one problem they create is a horribly irresponsible reputation for domestic animals in general. This creates a housing crisis for pet parents.
Many, many rented and leased homes do not allow pets.  Why?  Because of the reputation pushed to the front of the headlines of the filth, abuse and general irresponsibility of many animal owners - the most visible of which are hoarders and breeders.  Now these are not the only offenders!  Many average "pet owners" just do not know how to take care of animals inside a house or an apartment.  Because there are no real legal requirements to pet ownership, there are no standards or guidelines, nor is there a stable, consistent education system for pet owners.
As a groomer I've seen some horrendous things!  I've wanted to report so many people to animal services! (And I have!)  But its not always that easy for animal services to take any action because technically... when the pet owner brings the animal in for grooming, they ARE being responsible at that moment, and so there's no offense occurring..... 
These are the people that make it almost impossible for good, educated, responsible people to have pets in their family.  
More and more apartment complexes are leasing to pet owners simply because they have to!  Everyone has a pet now!  But they limit the number of pets you can have, they limit the size of pet you can have - making it exceptionally difficult to place larger breeds into good homes, and now  they've incorporated (an amazingly standardized) "breed list" excluding certain breeds from complexes, homes or even entire communities.
Its amazing how something restricting can become so easily standardize yet no one can offer standardized basic pet parent responsibility education!
Here's the thing.... If society is going to continue to "push" for pet adoption, then adopters have to have a place to live too! We're never going to change every idiot or prevent them from being stupid OR irresponsible.  So why not just open up the lease, allow pets without so many restrictions, but require the pet parents to have successfully completed a class?  Add a page to the lease making the pet parent responsible for regular professional cleaning?  Require inspections every six months?  Incorporate pet deposits into monthly payments?  I mean, I get it!  Pets can destroy things!  Pets can smell really bad!  But what we're looking for here is responsibility, not perfection.  Yes!  My dog, in a moment of puppy-hood ignorance, ripped the carpet to shreds!  I'll pay for it! Yes! The kitten I found by the dumpster "sprayed" skunk-funk on the wall before I could get it spayed!  I'll pay for someone to come get rid of the odor!  Yes!  My dog is massively huge, but LOOK!  He has a "Good Citizenship Certificate" from a professional trainer!  
And why is there not "pet insurance"???!
There's insurance for everything else.  My complex requires me to have 'renters insurance'...  Why not generalized personal pet insurance that covers destruction, where ever you live?  The insurance companies could ensure that clients have had classes for the pet as well as the pet parent.  But if there should be an "oops" along the way, notta problem - insurance covers the repairs!
We've come so far, and done what was once considered impossible....  We can change this too!  
As non-homeowners we are a majority these days!  Where there is need, there are solutions.  When the system will not make room for responsible citizens, responsible citizens sneak........  just sayin.......
But there is a better way........  LET'S FIND IT.

Trimming Dog's Nails 101.3

It's an Issue

Referencing the .1 & .2 articles about tools, styles and methods - Of course other people have different, successful ways of trimming nails.  Can you successfully use their way?  Great!  Do it!  That's all we want - a successful, stress-free nail trim.  Of course some can very easily use cheap dollar store nail trimmers.  Absolutely some can just grab a paw up and snip away with no incident.  Can you?  Are you still looking for that magic trick?  Read on....

Pet Groomer 911 is not grooming school.  It's for the 911 cases.  We assume here that there is an "issue" and you're seeking resolution.  That's what these suggestions are all about.

The Problem

Why does a dog (most commonly a dog, but any animal...) seem so resistant or downright scared of having their nails trimmed?  As mentioned before, the paws are one of the three most sensitive parts of their body.  They do not have "hands"...  The control we humans have over our environment is largely due to the fact that we have hands.  If anything goes wrong, we use our hands.  Think about it....  An animal (except other primates) cannot do this. 
Our second sense of control is our ability to speak, to communicate precisely. 

Imagine yourself in China, or some other country where you do not speak the native language.  Imagine your arms in casts and hands taped because of some injury, so that only your nails stuck out, but your fingers couldn't move.  Now imagine yourself at a local doctors office.  You see a bunch of instruments on a tray but you have no idea what's going on.  The doctor picks up something that looks like an small electric saw and turns toward your hands...  What do you do?  If you talk, no one understands you.  If you try to push him away, you are restrained.  You cannot grab his hand to stop him because your hands are taped.  At this point you genuinely begin to feel a sense of vulnerability and dread.  You seem hysterical to the doctor and his staff....  But really, you're just confused and scared because nothing is familiar to you and you feel threatened.....

Now add another element to this scenario - This is your second visit to this doctor.  The first visit was horrible!  While you thought they were probably trying to help you, they were hurting you in ways you could not make them understand.  So this time, you're afraid before you ever walk in the door.  You start to resist before they can even do anything.  Yes they are only trying to help you, but you can't tell them that they're using too much pressure, or they're cutting too close to your skin, or that position only makes the pain worse....  Everything you do, every sound you make only makes you seem like a problem patient!  So it becomes a traumatic event.

This is nail trimming thru your dog's eyes.

When is it not traumatic?  When everyone is speaking the same language, and the doctor is exceptionally aware and caring.

The Other Problem

The animal is not the only "problem" in nail trimming.  The person trimming the nails is actually the one responsible for how your dog reacts.  Again, if that first experience was not good, chances are every time after that is only going to escalate into greater intolerance.

There are good doctors and bad doctors, good teachers and bad teachers, good mechanics and bad mechanics, good hair stylists and bad hair stylists, good groomers and bad groomers.  This is not to judge anyone's character.... this is just to point out what is actually very obvious!!!  Some people were meant to be in the profession they are in - Some were NOT!

My personal exposé  on "the grooming industry" may or may not be forthcoming, but for our purposes here and now, suffice it to say that "all groomers are NOT created equal"!  Many are not trained well, or trained correctly.  Many, even after extensive and sufficient training, never really get it and should not be in a grooming environment.  Many are very good technical groomers but do not actually know a damn thing about dogs.  And MOST know nothing about dog psychology, or that there even is such a thing.  And in the 21st century that is a very, very sad thing....!  

I can't count the times I stood and tried to mind my own business while some new kid struggled with some poor victim trying to trim their nails.  Most of those times I just couldn't take it anymore and walked over and said, "Let me try".  Immediately the dog calms down and I trim the nails relatively easily.  Like magic.....

How Can You Do That?!

I not only understand, but I acknowledge the psyche behind the paw.  I am skilled, knowledgeable, experienced, aware. I was born to do this.  This is why, in spite of all this wonderful information on the blog, I still offer services.  It takes time for some to grasp the awareness that is involved in working peacefully and successfully with animals.  

Environment
I cannot stand a noisy grooming salon!
That may sound bitchy, but I learned from the best, and their salon reflected that!
It is very possible to have a relatively quiet salon, with no incessant barking. That constant, mind numbing barking that most salons "accept" as normal, is all due to lack of control and chaotic energy in the building.  It is NOT normal, nor is it necessary.
All that energy is affecting the dogs like crazy!  It makes them more anxious, more excitable, less cooperative and less safe.
This is another reason why some private, one on one therapy outside the salon environment is often very beneficial.  It helps the animal learn about the groom without all the chaos and fear from other animals and bad groomers that 'the one or two good groomers' in the room have no control over.  A calm, peaceful, zen environment does wonders for anxious animals.  They are so sensitive that they respond much more readily than people do!
In the meantime, the dog's nails need trimming!  Call me.

Be sure to follow up with each installment to get the entire course.

And always remember, I make house calls locally if you need personal instructions or demonstrations for the family or groups.  Visit the website for info on fees and scheduling.

www.petgroomer911.com

Be sure to share, re-post and otherwise whore these sites out every chance you get.  We appreciate it!!!

Trimming Dog's Nails 101.2

(Note: The photos in this post have been lost. Without images it is very difficult to understand these methods. My sincerest apologies! I will try to replace them as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience!)

Mechanics
Stability, stability, stability...!
What makes your dog freak out is in-stability!
In the Mechanics section I'm gonna show you how to create stability for a nail trim.

The Hold
I cannot tell you how many times I've watched in horror as a so-called professional attempted to trim a dog's nails, because they had no idea what they were doing!!!!!!!!!!! (YES, that many exclamations!)


The first mistake is the way they hold the dog.  Or better yet, the fact that they don't hold the dog!  They just grab the paw.  Very unstable...

Notice how this little guy above has ears back and is pulling away...
Notice how the groomer is NOT holding the dog or the actual nail... This is like trying to catch a fly with nail clippers and just cut off one wing...  Unless you're Mr Miyagi, there will be blood!

First hold the dog correctly...

Start with the BACK paws.  
This takes a bit of the drama away for the dog, they can't see what you're doing and so they don't have as big a reason to be confrontational or resistant.
The groomer is snuggly beside the dog, facing the opposite direction. The 'non-clipping arm' is holding the body of the dog securely, just like tucking a news paper under the armpit.  If this dog decides to travel, all the groomer has to do is squeeze their arm to their body and the dog isn't going anywhere, nor can the dog interfere with the clipping. You'll want to get both rear paws at this time. 

While you're in this hold, you have the option to pull the outer front paw off the table, (or floor), and let it bend naturally at the joints exposing the nails to clip them.

Now either switch sides or turn the dog so that you are both facing the same way.  Same hold - tuck him under your armpit like a newspaper.  Lift the paw in a natural bend at the joints.
You can do both front paws in this hold instead of bending the outer front paw back while trimming the back paws.  Whatever is more comfortable and less stressful. 

The Nail
Now notice to the right how the groomer is holding the entire paw securely, with the index finger pushing the toe forward.  This index finger is both a brace for the nail to hold it steady as well as a guide for the blades of the clippers.  This prevents cutting wildly at the nail or chasing the nail.  It offers precision, which takes away stress, which creates calm, which creates security and stability for the dog... (magic...)                     

Hold that nail!!!  Remember, the fingers serve as a guide for the clipper blades to prevent you from cutting wildly or from aiming too deeply.


Joints
In all these photos notice the bending positions the dog's legs.  They are properly bent at the joints in a very natural posture, not pulled out to the side or lifted too high against the natural bend of the joint.  Unnatural bending is PAINFUL.  Not to mention the fact that dogs can get muscle cramps too...  Try it on yourself and see how it feels.... !      

Be sure to follow up with each installment to get the entire course.
And always remember, I make house calls locally if you need personal instructions or demonstrations for the family or groups.  Visit the website for info on fees and scheduling.
www.petgroomer911.com  
Be sure to share, re-post and otherwise spread these sites every chance you get.  We appreciate it!

                                                                                            

Trimming Dog's Nails 101.1

Introduction to Dog Nail Trimming
Well upon a quick google it's easy to see that there are a plethora of sites giving instructions on how to trim a dog's nails.  Many include the exact same simple diagram.
If after scouring these sites and examining the diagram you felt confident enough, and indeed you've attempted a nail trim with your dog, and you still end up here, it probably means you've discovered its not as easy as it seems.
In perusing a few of these sites myself, it seems the authors are attempting to make it real simple for ya.  Not a bad idea.  Yet you still end up here... "here" meaning you're still searching for more info or better detail as to why its so difficult... still looking for some "trick" or magic wisdom as to how groomers often make it look so easy.
It has been my experience as a veteran groomer that there is indeed a bit more to it than the mechanics and a jar of Quick Stop.  
There is the psyche behind the paw you're holding.
The whole gist of Pet Groomer 911 is to fill this information gap and help you thru these mysterious yet vitally necessary regions of pet parenting.  I help you get in touch with the psyche behind the paw...
The paw is one of the three most highly sensitive parts of a dogs body!
Knowledge may be power, but if you don't know how to use it, it's worthless or even dangerous.
So here's the 911 on dog nail trimming:

Tools
Yes, having a jar of Quick Stop is advisable. 
"But where do I get it???"
You google it.  You order it.  It comes in the post.

Choosing the correct nail trimmers is also a big deal.  I've tried a few different ones in my day and here are my best choices: 

Here on the left are "cat" nail trimmers and these are the wisest ones to use for pups and smaller dogs.  They're very small, but very sharp and effective.  You want to use a sturdy pair, meaning don't get some cheap, lightweight pair at the dollar store.  Your personal groomer may suggest a dollar store pair, but they are professionals.  You are not.  Get the sturdy ones.  Are you looking for "tricks" and Magic Wisdom...? Then trust me, it matters.



These on the right are "dog" nail trimmers.  Again, these are sturdy, no bells or whistles and plenty sharp.  They come in 3 different sizes.  If you have anything bigger than a Maltese you want to use the large ones.  Again, stability is very important and lightweight tools work against you in subtle ways that all these other sites don't know enough to tell you about.


Sharpness is also very import.  If you get a new, sturdy pair such as the ones I've suggested, sharpness will not be an issue.  If you get a cheap pair, or used pair, it may be an issue.  Imagine those times when you try to cut a tomato with a dull knife.... Get the picture?  It rips, smashes and tears....

DO NOT try to use a Dremel or Pedipaws to learn with!!!
As stated earlier, there's more to it than just the mechanics, or the tools.
I've only met one person in the ocean of pet parents and professional groomers who gave one ounce of merit to the Pedipaws.  Don't waste your money.  It's pitched as way to get around the difficulty of nail trimming, but it's not.  You still have the same issues to deal with using a Pedipaws as you do with conventional nail trimmers - the psyche behind the paw....

Be sure to follow up with each installment to get the entire course.
And always remember, I make house calls locally if you need personal instructions or demonstrations for the family or groups.  Visit the website for info on fees and scheduling.
www.petgroomer911.com  
Be sure to share, re-post and otherwise spread these sites every chance you get.  We appreciate it!

Ego Dogs

There's much to be learned about the ego from dogs.  I wonder if dogs haven't been created just for that purpose - to be THE teachers about ego...?
When considering issues of behavior and our relationship with our dog, one mirrors or reflects the other.
If your dog is out of control, chances are your own ego is too.  If your ego is outta control, chances are your dog is too...
Now for the 'stumble-uponner', ego here is not a reference to arrogance or conceitedness, it is simply the part of the mind that is not spirit.
There has to be genuine willingness to explore the causes and roots of these issues in order to achieve real, lasting results.
The effort it takes to get your dog to a balanced state of control, when done correctly, will also balance your ego.
When done incorrectly, it will only  cause more confusion and greater frustration.I don't know if anyone is a big enough fan/follower of Cesar Milan to notice that he has quite naturally drifted into being a "speaker" for awareness, for people!  Not dog training!  People....  Because as I've noticed and said all along, Cesar's Way (no pun intended *that's the name of one of his books*)  of "rehabilitating dogs, training people" is pure awareness teaching!  I don't think even he realized that until recent years.  But he's done it for so long now that its painfully obvious - you can't "train" your dog to be something you yourself are not.  What you want your dog to be is in DIRECT correlation to who you are, how you think, how you behave, how you re-act.... That's who your dog becomes.  Cesar calls it "dog psychology".  And he's precisely correct.  Your dog begins to develop it's own order, its own way of life... Based on how she thinks she needs to behave in order to survive your ignorance!
This is exactly the relationship scenario between the mind and the soul of humanity.  The ego and the awareness... one is clueless so the other takes over and leads/controls life.  
That's not how its supposed to be.
A lot of times (most of the time!) this disorder amounts to "bad behavior" on the part of your dog.  And this is because the communication gap is ginormous!  You are speaking two different languages.
But the clincher here is that you don't even realize that your dog has a language and is speaking at all!  
Observe your dog.
Listen to your dog.
See yourself...
If you need help, call a professional (me)!

Heat

Whether you're in Florida as we are or elsewhere in this world, chances are the weather gets hot at some point during the year.
Here's you're homework assignment:  The next time you're out walking your dog, bend down and touch the ground you are both walking on.  Keep your hand there for a count of 30.
Whatever you felt in this experiment is what your dog feels on all four paws - for a count of... till we get home!

Grass? Not so bad!
Concrete? Probably hot!
Asphalt???  Are you freaking kidding me!?

Yet look around the average Petsmart parking lot and whatta ya see...?  
A LOT of stupid people! 
As a groomer, do you know that I've had to shave asphalt nuggets out of dogs paw pads??  Mmhmmm! Yep!

Ok, dogs feet are a bit tougher than our feet or hands, but that's only because they're on them constantly thru out their lives.  Many non-urbanized civilizations, (like in the rain forest or Afrika or some remote islands), have much tuffer feet as well for the same reason.  They never wear shoes.  But that doesn't mean their feet have no feeling.

As a matter of fact, as the point of contact with the earth (grounding), a dog's feet are one of the most physically sensitive parts of their body. This is also why most dogs are hypersensitive about nail trimming.  Those paws represent their means of freedom.  Threaten that, and dogs kinda freak out.  

So realize when you're out with your dog that her feet do not belong on burning hot asphalt for any longer than it takes to get from door to door.  A constant, steady walk is manageable, but don't be stupid - don't take your dog for granted just because he can't speak to you in plain english.  If your two year old child were barefoot on that same pavement, you'd soon know to pick them up because their feet were on fire!  What makes you think your dog is impervious to asphalt.......???

Excited!!!

This is the new blog.... It's been a long time coming!
I encourage all of you to not only read thru all the posts as they are published, but please repost and share generously!!!
Also leave comments!  Argue, disagree, listen, open your heart and learn something new, check me!  Prove me wrong!  Educate me, thereby educating the many.
Most don't wanna hear or learn anything new, certainly not if they have to change!  But some do.  Some are eager and hungry for truth and a better way.  Those are the ones I write for.
Enjoy!

Allergies

allergy (āl'ər-jē) Pronunciation Key An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions, such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe.allergy. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Science Dictionary. Retrieved September 19, 2011, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/allergy

So from now on..... When you say "allergies", you'll know what the hell you're talking about.  Right.........??  Right ? ? ? 

Everything is allergies these days.

Everyone has allergies these days.
Every Pet has allergies these days!

But do any of us really know what that means???  

Medical professionals presume upon the notion that the general population is too dumb to understand.  And they're right.  Dumb... as in, even if they did explain to you how allergies work - you wouldn't be able to comprehend because you are mentally inferior.  
So they just tell you you have allergies, write you a prescription and are done with you.  And you think this is magic.  You never question anything...  Validating the doctors' assumption that you're dumb....

So you never really understand what's going on - with the "allergy" or the prescription.  You don't know what's going on inside your body.  You don't know WHY you have allergies.  You assume you and your dog are supposed to have allergies.  

WHAT???!

Yeah.... you do assume that.  
And you assume it, based on the herd mentality.  Everybody else in the herd has allergies so it must be normal.

But flip backward thru the pages of time.... and see if you can spot when this became "normal"...

Right about the time we introduced mass vaccinations into the population maybe......???????  Just a theory....  But you know I'm right.....

"An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity....."

Vaccines screw with the immune system.  Period.  Even in your pets. 

"A vaccination" once for a very good and present reason makes sense.  But then some fool figured out there was money to be made off of people's ignorance and fears....  So now we've just about vaccinated our immune systems out of existence.

Did you know that ONE rabies vaccination in a lifetime is all your pet ever really needs?  Did your vet tell you that one?
O N E !  And unless your pet is exposed to wild animals or lives in a very rural environment...... they probably don't even need that.  Whens the last time rabies was a problem in your suburb....?

"A case" of rabies being reported in the area you live in means you need to be cautious.  It does NOT mean YOU AND YOUR DOG WILL DIE OF RABIES WHEN THE SUN SETS!!!

"Allergies"..... is simply your body doing what its supposed to do to protect itself, stay balanced, & stay healthy.  But we're so intelligent we rush to the drug store and buy something to stop this natural process!  
Rather than caring, much less understanding, that if we would instead HELP our bodies do what they're doing, we in the long run would be much healthier.
Pets too.  Vets actually recommend Benadryl for them too now!
Allergies would no longer be a problem, nor would "colds" or flu if we truly understood just what we're doing.

#1) Build and protect your immune system!

#2) STOP actively destroying your immune system!

#3) Learn!

#4) Stop being afraid to be responsible for yourself and your pets!

These 4 simple steps are nearly impossible for the average person to do.

Because of fear and laziness.  
So health care has become, not a personal or even community concern, but An Industry!!!

Who's fault is that . . . . .  ?

See.... You really are dumb.

Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer

Many people do not know these things!  Pet groomers should not be angry with clients who do not know, yet it feels rude to "say anything".  So let me help....

Here is a quick basic lesson in proper pet grooming etiquette:

Always tip your pet groomer, bather and nail trimmer!!!

As with anything else, tip according to your level of satisfaction and appreciation.  If you get horrible service, do not tip.  

Nail trims should receive at least $2 but there is no limit.

Baths with no hair cut should receive at least $5 but there is no limit.

Bath with hair cut should receive at least $5-$10 but there is no limit.

Pets (dogs & cats) that are in any way very large, difficult or require extra care should be tipped more!

Tips are NOT part of your bill!!!  Tips are a show of gratitude and appreciation. If you tip, your groomer always goes the extra mile for you and your pet.

If your groomer is an idiot, don't tip.... As a matter of fact, find a new groomer!

Pay close attention to your groomer/bather.  Do not blame them or hold them accountable for things they are not responsible for, such as - company policies, receptionists attitudes, salon owner attitudes, manager attitudes, busy days with not enough help or being short-staffed, pre-existing conditions your pet may have such as 'bad hair"....

Puppies are not easier to groom!!!  Tip full price.

Old dogs are more difficult to groom!  Tip extra.

If you expect extra care, tip!

Pay close attention to your groomer!  If they are kind and patient with your pet, if they are kind and patient with you, if they listen and take good instructions from you, if the groom is done right and in the time frame they tell you.... Then do NOT withhold a tip!  If there are problems with the establishment that are not your groomer's fault, do not punish the groomer by withholding a tip!  The groomer, not the management, is the one taking care of your baby.

If you find a good groomer, request them by name each time you book an appointment.  Tip them regularly.  They will always make time for you, squeeze you in on busy days, take you last minute.... and you will never have to worry about your pet's care.

Also if you find a good groomer, spread the word about them!  Mention them by name and the establishment they work for on every "review this" spot on the internet!  Recommend them on fb, twitter and every other form of social media. Mention them on your web site, blog, or vlog.

Good pet groomers are hard to find!

Even tho corporate pet salons have horrible reputations (and rightly so), there are some exceptional groomers working in some of these salons!  Ask around.  

Also DO NOT be afraid to report bad groomers on the internet....  A bad groomer is NOT one that doesn't groom your dog perfectly the first time.  A bad groomer is one that consistently gives you and your pet a bad experience. Hurting your pet more than once, not following your instructions, following your instructions but it still looks like a bad groom....  Don't go back...!

Hurting your pet more than once may seem like too many chances, but pet grooming is often very VERY difficult!  Accidents happen!  So don't judge by one fairly harmless accident.  Judge by overall reputation and more than one experience with that groomer.  If you just get bad vibes.... find a new groomer. And when you've found one - TIP GENEROUSLY!

Don't complain about prices.  Just like having children, if you can't afford them, don't have them.  Grooming is part of their regular care.  It must be in your budget!  And a tip is part of the service.

Thank you to all the generous tippers!!!  You make difficult days worth while! ;)
Also see Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer 3.0: Holiday Tips
And Basic Etiquette on Tipping Your Pet Groomer 2.0: Cats
And Tipping Etiquette
And Is Your Dog "Bad" For The Groomer

Feedback Please....

I'll keep this brief...  I'd like some dialog if yall would indulge me....
What are your thoughts and/or experiences with corporate or chain grooming salons such as Petco, Petsmart, Petland.... etc, etc?

Top Heavy Rescue Movement

It is a beautiful thing to have a pet in your family.  For many, many reasons!  But as a natural born animal person and professional groomer I see much too often how people just do not realize the commitment it takes to have a pet in the family.  This is sad and tragic.  Most of these pets end up in a shelter, re-sheltered, or worse.

What's just as tragic is that there is NO ONE educating people!  We've achieved a major milestone in the "rescue" movement and "no-kill" shelter policies.  How compassionate of us.

But now, what do we do with all these animals?  We place them in families that have no idea what they've gotten themselves into.  They do not know the first thing about animals - their nature, their specific and individual needs, their peculiarities, the way they communicate, the costs involved.....  And worse again is that the people who work or volunteer at shelters and rescues have very inconsistent education and information about animals so they aren't prepared to equip new pet parents with all that they need.  

Love speaks volumes!!!  Love is the answer.  But real love sometimes needs to get down and dirty, get tough, get real.  "Animal rights" is great.  But what about animal education for HUMANS?  

We should start in school.  Kindergarten.  Animal awareness, animal behavior, animal nutrition, animal communication.... these things should be taught to children throughout their academic careers.  Then everyone would know at least some basics.  The lack of knowledge about how to care for pets is mind-boggling!  I see it everyday!   Most people with live pets really just need to get a stuffed animal at Toys R Us...  really.  We've come so far...!  But we're top-heavy!  We need to balance all the compassion and rescue efforts with some good wisdom and education!  

The only source of information most people think they have about animals is a veterinarian.  This too is sad.  There are some very good, gifted, compassionate and aware vets in the world today.  But they are very few and far between, and hard to find.  Vets are a dime a dozen....  They have a very expensive education.  They passed some very hard tests.  Yet most of them have no gift....  

Cesar Millan has a gift.  No one taught him to do what he can do with animals.  Temple Grandin has a gift.  No one taught her to understand animals the way that she does.  Gifted people like this have much to teach the world about our animal companions.  Even the late Steve Irwin had a gift, an intuition, about the animals he loved.  But there are many more gifted people in the world than these I've mentioned who have risen to fame.  These people need to speak, they need to come forth and give the wisdom and knowledge they have to the world.  An expensive education means nothing.  Results mean everything.  Scientific studies mean nothing when they're only designed to patent a new product for a corporation to make money.  

We believe every commercial on TV.  We believe every pamphlet we read at the vet.  Yet we have no actual knowledge of anything.  This shows the huge informational/educational gap in our society.  

You pay your $5000 dollar trainer who has a certificate and I'll keep watching the one-time illegal immigrant from Mexico....  You pay your $3000 vet bill and I'll read Animals in Translation written by the weird Autistic girl and see animals in a way NO collage educated doctor could even imagine, much less teach you about....

Wake up human beings.  You are conscious.  You are limitless.  Learn!!!  Teach!!!  Stop being afraid of offending people.  Stop being afraid that the puppies in your kennel won't get adopted if they get too old.  Stop putting the cart before the horse.  We've done great things because of love.  Let's not let stupidity unravel all we've prayed and worked so hard to accomplish.

I have worked professionally with animals for over 12 years.  I can help you with your pets....!  Make an appointment. 

Is Your Dog "Bad" For the Groomer??

Animals serve, but they don't create. They feel, think, make choices..... but they don't create. They "make beds" (nests, holes, dens....), but that's all. They don't aspire to create.
They hunt for food, but they don't work. Unless its for a human. 
Humans create. Humans make the world we live in. Humans have the say...

To force an animal into submission   /\   To ask an animal to trust you...
To be controlling, dominating   /\   To be awake, aware, feeling...

The feeling of power..... to look into a dogs eyes.... 
Knowing why they're scared! 
Understanding.
Knowing that if you were in the same position you too would be afraid of whomever had control over you because they did not know what they were doing...! 

Sitting in a dentist chair, knowing the dentist was incompetent, unfeeling of your fears, and you could not get up without consequences. 
Knowing that the doctor who is going to do surgery on you was not taught well, and has no natural talent - knowing he is going to hurt you and do it wrong - and having no choice, no way out.

It DOES matter who your pet's groomer is! 
It DOES matter who trims your pet's nails! 
If you find a good groomer, take good care of them, recommend them, appreciate them with a generous tip, compliment them to their boss... They are very hard to come by! 
Don't be impressed with certificates or the name of the salon, not even corporate ones. Especially not corporate ones!!!  
And don't cry about the price if the value backs it up!

Most "groomers" don't understand any more about dogs and cats than the average person. They were taught breed specific hair cuts, but know nothing about animal psychology! 
Most dogs that are labeled "bad dogs" are not. 
It's all about the person handling them. 
I've seen this demonstrated consistently through out my career. 

I've been a pet groomer for eleven years at this writing...
Don't trust your pet to just any idiot. 
Find a good groomer. You'll know. You'll feel it. And so will your pet.