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By now, busy salons are bracing for the holiday rush. Thanksgiving. Hanukkah. Christmas. Are you ready?

This isn’t only your busiest season, it’s also the end of the year. It can make or break your earning goals. Will you finish off the year with a bang? Will your books be full for January and February of next year?

I love this time year. It forces us to be on top of our game. To be organized. To be ready. To have our days planned. To keep our communications clear with fellow team members and our customers. To know our limitations.

Most of us who are involved with the pet industry are here because of our passion. We simply love working with the pets. However, even the most passionate groomer can feel the pressures of holiday demands.

If you are one of those professionals who feels the pressures of the Thanksgiving and Christmas crunch, take heart. Get in front of it now and review areas that could use some improvement in the salon.

Here are My Top 4 Tips for Getting Through Your Day with Ease:

#1. Mental Control

Stay focused. Pay close attention to what you are doing at all times. You’re working with live animals and sharp instruments. Chatter between your coworkers and pets breaks your focus. You lose time and you make mistakes when you don’t stay focused on the pet.

Always practice the three C’s; stay calm, stay cool, and stay collected. When you’re working with a pet you want to be friendly but aloof. You want to correct any undesirable action before it becomes a major problem. Frustration and anger have no place in a professional salon setting. If you feel yourself getting frustrated, take a break. Breath. Step back to the grooming table when you have regained your composure.

Work methodically with all pets. Don’t get flustered. Set an even and steady pace when it comes to handling, bathing, drying, brushing, clipping, and scissoring. Set time goals for every step of the grooming process and strive to achieve them.

#2. Invest in Yourself and Your Equipment

What is the condition of your equipment? Are you working with top-quality equipment?

It’s amazing how much time you can save when your equipment is in top condition. Or when you splurge on that new pair of blenders that cut like butter. Or you have a high-velocity dryer that has plenty of punch. Oh, and all of your shears and blades have sharp edges on them — correct? There’s nothing more frustrating than working with dull and ineffective equipment when crunch time is on. Right now you’re in crunch time.

#3. Organization in the Salon

Do you have a smooth process for client check-in and checkout? If you’re computerized, is it easy to pull up client records in a flash? If you’re still working with a card file, are all the records pulled the pets that are scheduled for that day?

Most stylists in a salon setting find working in a minimum of three or four hour blocks of time can be highly advantageous to time management. The more you have to stop to check-in or checkout clients the more you lose your focus on the pet that is on the table. By working in blocks of time, you can check multiple pets in and out in tight windows of time when it comes to dealing with customers.

Do you have a method to track all the collars and leads that accompany the pets? This is no time to be looking for that lost collar or lead! Do you have a bright assortment of those pre-made? Do you have festive bandannas cut and ready to go on the dog?

#4 Mental & Nutritional Stamina

When the rush is on, you need to be at your peak — mentally, physically and nutritionally.

You’re not going to be at your peak if you’re not getting enough sleep. I know … I know. With all the demands between work, family and holiday festivities, slumber can be hard to come by. Normally, a professional groomer is so physically exhausted that when your head does hit the pillow — sleep comes easily. Just make sure you’re getting enough hours each night so you can perform at high levels the next day.

With the holidays upon us, most salons find themselves overrun with holiday treats from their clients. Be careful with this one. Personally I learned the hard way you are not good to feel your best if you consume all those goodies all day long!

I learned in my early 20s to pack healthy food options to keep me nourished all day long. I was mobile so in between every client by reward was to eat. If I had healthy options at my fingertips, it was easy to keep my energy level in high gear. In a salon setting, this might be a little bit more challenging. Still, eating healthy small amounts on a regular basis is the best way to keep you both mentally and physically content.

Pack a nutritional lunch plus snacks. (You know your days are going to be long!) Or do a potluck between staff members. We’ve done this for years at the Paragon School of Pet Grooming with great success. The rule is: Healthy, quick food options only. No sweets. No desserts. Our clients do a great job with that. The potluck is set up so everybody can grab a quick bite in between dogs quickly and easily.

If you’re not a cook – have a stack of local takeout menus available. If they deliver – BONUS!

The holidays are a great time to really test your skills. We’ll find out quickly just how successful you are. If you have a full book and struggling to fit into just one more pet each day, you know you have arrived. Be thankful for creating a service that your customers desire. If you take care of them well — they’ll take care of you. That’s what successful customer service is all about!

Happy trimming!

~Melissa

If you need a brush up on any time management lessons, here are a few titles from Learn2GroomDogs.com that could help you.

• Building a Grooming Code — the Card Game [Melissa Verplank]
• Preparing for the Holiday Rush [Melissa Verplank]
• Speed & Efficiency — Monster Sized Dog in 76 Minutes [Lisa Leady]
• Speed & Efficiency — Daisy Dog in Less Than 45 Minutes [Suesan Watson]
• Speed & Efficiency – Shih Tzu in 45 Minutes [Suesan Watson]
• Anything from the ‘Queen’ of Gettin’ er Done [Judy Hudson]
• Melissa’s Best Time Saving Tips [Melissa Verplank]
• Tails from Holidays Past [Suesan Watson, Lisa Leady, Marc Lafleur, Melissa Verplank]
• What I Know for Sure (this one will just make you feel good!) [Judy Hudson]

Need tips on surviving the Holiday Rush? Check out this roundup of links to our archives on the topic.

Remember Self-Care:

• Physical Health – You’re an occupational athlete! What does it take to stay in top form?
• Food Prep – Plan meals ahead to stay “fueled” for top performance
• Mental Health – What helps you destress? Pre-book a relaxing massage or schedule time for relaxing hobbies.
• Pace Yourself – Know your limits and when to say no.
• Stay Merry – Keep the spirit in the season!

Resources for Surviving the Holiday Rush

• Hey Joe Podcast – Recouping After the Holidays with Dr. Matthew Phinney
• Bubble Baths and the Holiday Grooming Rush

• Plan Now for a Successful Holiday Dog Grooming Season

• Surviving the Holiday Rush
• Tips for Booking a Smooth Holiday Season

From the Archive: Videos at Learn2GroomDogs.com

Preparing for the Holiday Rush with Melissa Verplank

Tails from Holidays Past

Creating Holiday Ornaments on Hip Rosettes

Join the ParagonCares team in helping the Pup Relief Tour advocate for animal welfare and develop the grooming profession in its Africa 2025 Mission! The quest is to outfit 50 grooming students at two developing grooming schools with a complete toolkit to launch their careers. You can participate by either supplying tools directly, by purchasing at the Amazon Wishlist, or donating to the Pup Relief Tour’s GoFundMe campaign linked below. For more information, email [email protected].

Background:

The Pup Relief Tour Africa 2025 is a humanitarian initiative focused on providing essential grooming services to dogs in underserved communities across Africa. It’s mission is to improve the well-being of dogs by providing grooming services.

• 85% of pet owners in rural African areas report lack of access to professional grooming services, which leads to an increase in skin diseases and infections in pets.
• 60% of dogs in underserved communities suffer from preventable health issues such as parasites, infections, and matted fur.
• The initiative includes establishing two permanent grooming schools for long-term training and education of local groomers in Nigeria and Ghana.
• The PRT Team will provide continuous education and certification for local groomers, ensuring sustainability in grooming practices. Students will have access to industry-leading tools, trainers and resources, including partnership with Paragon’s Groominar® Network.

Here’s a List of Tools Needed:

Paragon is proud to support the Pup Relief Tour’s International grooming initiatives! Here’s a quick peek of what the team is up to in 2025 – scroll through the instagram slides to see ways to support the initiative. Check back soon for details on our tool drive and how your old equipment can help new groomers get started abroad!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pup Relief Tour Inc (@puprelieftour)

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Make payments at affirm.com or in the Affirm app. You’ll also get reminders by text and email.

Frequently asked questions

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Guest Article from Gingr

In the world of pet grooming, there are times when every dog seems to need a fresh trim and pampering session, causing your business to run at full tilt. While these peak seasons can bring in a flood of revenue, they can also put a strain on your resources and staff.

In this guide, we’ll explore five tips to help your pet business thrive amid the hustle and bustle. Whether you experience a surge of customers around the holidays or during the warmer months, these insights will help you prepare effectively. Read the rest of this entry »

As Giving Tuesday approaches, it’s time to turn our attention to the brave heroes who tirelessly serve and protect our communities—military and working dogs. These loyal canines often go unnoticed but play a crucial role in protecting our lives. One organization that’s making an impact in the lives of retired service dogs is Project K9 Hero.

The Mission of Project K9 Hero:

Project K9 Hero is a non-profit organization with a noble mission: to provide a peaceful retirement and quality healthcare for retired military and working dogs. These incredible animals serve alongside our brave men and women in uniform, risking their lives to protect and defend our nation. They detect explosives, locate missing persons, and perform a variety of other life-saving tasks.

However, once these dogs retire, they often face a significant lack of support and funding for their medical care. Project K9 Hero steps in to bridge this gap. Their work ensures that these retired heroes can enjoy their well-deserved retirement years comfortably, receiving the medical care they need.

Why Project K9 Hero Needs Your Support:

1. Lifesaving Medical Care: Many retired military and working dogs suffer from health issues due to their time in service, including injuries, chronic pain, and other ailments. Project K9
2. Hero provides these heroes with access to the best veterinary care and covers the costs, ensuring they live a happy, healthy, and pain-free retirement.
3. Financial Assistance: Project K9 Hero assists retired dog handlers by providing financial aid to cover the medical expenses of their canine partners. This support is vital in easing the burden on the shoulders of those who have already sacrificed so much for our nation.
4. Public Awareness: Project K9 Hero plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the vital contributions of military and working dogs. By supporting their work, you’re helping shine a light on the often-underappreciated heroes who protect us every day.

How You Can Help on Giving Tuesday – And Any Day!:

On Giving Tuesday, you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these heroes. Here are a few ways you can support Project K9 Hero:

1. Donate: Consider making a generous donation to Project K9 Hero. Every dollar counts and will directly contribute to the well-being of retired military and working dogs.
2. Spread the Word: Share information about Project K9 Hero on your social media platforms and with your friends and family. Raising awareness can inspire others to contribute to this worthy cause.
3. Volunteer: If you have the time and skills to offer, consider volunteering with Project K9 Hero. Your time and expertise can make a meaningful impact.
4. Purchase Merchandise: Many non-profits, including Project K9 Hero, offer merchandise for sale, with proceeds going toward their cause. Consider buying a t-shirt, hat, or other items to support the organization.

This Giving Tuesday, let’s unite to support Project K9 Hero and ensure that our four-legged heroes receive the love, care, and support they deserve. These brave canines have selflessly served our nation, and now it’s our turn to give back. By donating to Project K9 Hero, you’re not just supporting a noble cause; you’re honoring the service and sacrifice of these incredible animals. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every military and working dog enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Paragon is proud to say that we stand behind and support the mission of Project K-9 Hero. So, mark your calendar for Giving Tuesday and consider giving to Project K9 Hero. Your support can help save and improve the lives of these unsung heroes. Join us in making a difference this Giving Tuesday, and let’s show our gratitude to the dogs who have faithfully served our nation. Learn more about the Project K9 Hero mission in this excerpt of their annual report.

“Protecting Those Who Protected Us.”

Dogs have long been our loyal companions, but for some, they are much more than that. They are service dogs, therapy dogs, and first responders, making a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Project K-9 Hero is here to shine a light on these remarkable canines and ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Project K-9 Hero is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting retired police K-9s, military working dogs, and service dogs. These dogs have devoted their lives to serving and protecting us, and now it’s our turn to give back.

The Mission, Vision and Purpose

Project K-Hero was born out of a deep love and appreciation for dogs, and it all started with a simple idea – to show honor and support for our  Police K-9 and Working Dogs in their retirement, giving them a life they deserve. Project K-9 Hero wants to provide them with the best quality of life by providing assistance with medical costs, rehabilitation, adoption, food and end-of-duty services.

Their mission is to protect those who protected our families, communities, and our America. Their vision is to ensure the best quality of life for our nation’s retired Military Working Dogs and Police K-9 Heroes by providing assistance with medical costs, food, rehabilitation, adoption, and end of duty services.

Project K-9 Hero has three main purposes:

1. To ensure each K-9 Hero is rewarded with health and the way of life that they deserve for their faithful and loyal service.
2. To educate the public on the costs and responsibilities of adopting a retired K-9 Hero.
3. To help cover or offset all medical, food, and end of duty costs for retired K-9 Heroes.

How can you help support Project K-9 Hero’s noble cause?

Supporting Project K-9 Hero is supporting those who have selflessly served us. Here are several ways you can make a difference:

1. Donate: Your financial contributions go a long way in helping these retired heroes. Every dollar helps provide medical care, basic needs, and more.
2. Sponsor a Dog: Consider sponsoring a specific retired working dog, providing ongoing support for their well-being.
3. Spread the Word: Share Project K-9 Hero’s mission and achievements on social media, with friends, and in your community. The more people who know about their work, the more support they can garner.
4. Volunteer: If you have the time and skills, consider volunteering for Project K-9 Hero. They often need assistance with events, fundraising, and education initiatives.
5. Purchase Merchandise: Many organizations offer Project K-9 Hero merchandise, and a portion of the proceeds goes to support their cause. Buying merchandise is a great way to show your support and raise awareness.

Project K-9 Hero is a vital organization that ensures our four-legged heroes receive the care and recognition they deserve. By supporting them, you’re not only showing your appreciation for these incredible dogs but also actively contributing to their well-being. Together, we can ensure that these heroes continue to live happy and comfortable lives after their noble service.

Paragon Pet Pro Coach Joe Zuccarello and VP Lorri Keller were joined by the Pup Relief Tour Team in our last Facebook Live. If you missed it, here’s a replay!

Special thanks to the PRT Team for elevating the profession of grooming!

“DogFather of Harlem” ⭐️ Brian Taylor from Harlem Doggie Day Spa HDDS, and the PRT Ambassadors: ⭐️ Gianna Richardson from Gia Styles Grooming Styles Grooming ⭐️ LaTonya Smith from LC’S Detroit Pet Salon & LC’S Mobile Pet Spa ⭐️ Labree Blaxon from Fluffy By Nature Pet Grooming.

If you were able to join our Facebook Live with the Pup Relief Tour Team, thank you! Here are a few images of their tour-de-grooming-force! Stay tuned for an update on more ways to help this global groomer initiative!

Special thanks to the PRT Team for elevating the profession of grooming!

“DogFather of Harlem” ⭐️ Brian Taylor from Harlem Doggie Day Spa HDDS, and the PRT Ambassadors: ⭐️ Gianna Richardson from Gia Styles Grooming Styles Grooming ⭐️ LaTonya Smith from LC’S Detroit Pet Salon & LC’S Mobile Pet Spa ⭐️ Labree Blaxon from Fluffy By Nature Pet Grooming.

Join Paragon president Joe Zuccarello & VP Lorri Keller June 1st, 7 p.m. EST for a great Facebook Live featuring special guests Brian Taylor, the “Dogfather of Harlem,” and his team of Pup Relief Tour Ambassador/Trainers, Gianna Richardson from Gia Styles Grooming; LaTonya Smith from LC’s Detroit Salon, and LaBree Braxton from Fluffy By Nature.

The team will recap their global groomer training mission to Nigeria that Paragon sponsored. Hear all about what it’s like to train groomer’s abroad in an intense workshop, and bring your questions!

Want a reminder? Click here to sign up for notification at our sister site: Learn2GroomDogs.com

Here’s a taste of the team’s adventure at Critters Veterinary Clinic in Lagos, Nigeria.

What is Westminster?

The Westminster Kennel Club is America’s oldest organization dedicated to the sport of purebred dogs.  Established in 1877, Westminster’s influence has been felt for more than a century through its famous all-breed, benched dog show held every year at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. Today, America’s dog show has expanded into Westminster Week which includes the Masters Agility Championship at Westminster and the Masters Obedience Championship at Westminster. More than 3,000 dogs entered from around the world make Westminster Week like no other. As Master Groomer and our founder, Melissa Verplank encourages our pet grooming students to watch Westminster as a great way to improve their pet trims! (watch Melissa’s video HERE )We’ve highlighted information to help you tune in.

Learn more @ Westminster

How a Dog Show Works

Each dog at a dog show is presented to a judge by either its owner, breeder, or a hired professional. This person is known as the exhibitor or the handler of the dog.

The purpose of conformation shows (also known as dog shows) is to evaluate breeding stock. Judges select winners based on their ability to contribute and improve the next generation of dogs. Dogs start out in the classes competing for points toward their AKC championship title. Dogs win points based on the number of dogs defeated. The more dogs entered, the more points per win. It takes fifteen points, including two majors (wins of three, four or five points), awarded by at least three different judges, to become an American Kennel Club champion.

Breed Groups judged to the AKC Breed Standard include the Working, Herding, Sporting, Hound, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding.

Learn more, including judging criteria, a glossary and terminology, at Westminster Dog Shows 101 

Watch Dog Show 101:

Westminster – Dog Show 101

Westminster Week Schedule: 149th WKC Dog Show

SATURDAY, Feb 8, 2025

• Masters Agility Championship
  • Preliminaries 7:30am – 3:00pm
  • Finals Competition 4:30pm

Agility is a timed competition that tests a dog’s ability to complete an obstacle course following the commands of its handler. Purebred and All-American (mixed breed) dogs are eligible, to compete in 1 of 5 height classes and are judged on time and completion (minus faults) of the course.

• Masters Obedience Championship
  • 8:00am – 3:00pm

Obedience is a command-driven competition that tests a dog’s ability to comply with the asks of the handler. Commands can include a combination of sit, stay, jump, retrieve and scent discrimination. Purebred and All-American (mixed breed) dogs will compete to showcase the desired skills of a model dog.

Learn more here: Westminster Ring Schedule

MONDAY, FEB 10, 2025

• Breed Judging (Javitz Center)
  • Judging of Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding breeds and Junior Showmanship Preliminaries
  • 8:00am – 4:30pm

The dogs entered at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show each competes within their own breed to be chosen as Best of their Breed/Variety. There are 212 AKC-recognized breeds and varieties.

Junior Showmanship is a competition assessing the handling skills of children 9-18 years of age independent of the traits of the dog. The competition promotes proper training and care to prepare future generations for responsible dog ownership, sportsmanship, and future success in the sport.

• Group Judging (Madison Square)
  • Judging of the Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding Groups
  • 7:30pm – 11:00pm

Once selected as Best of Breed/Variety, dogs advance to compete within their AKC-recognized Group: Hound, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, Sporting, Working, and Terrier.

TUESDAY, FEB 11, 2025

• • Breed Judging (Javitz Center)
    • Judging of Sporting, Working and Terrier breeds and Junior Showmanship Preliminaries
    • 8:00am – 4:30pm
  • Junior Showmanship Finals
    • 7:00pm-7:30pm
  • Group Judging (Madison Square)
    • Judging of Sporting, Working, and Terrier Groups
    • 7:00pm
  • Best in Show

  The winning dogs across the seven Groups compete for the ultimate prize. From those seven Reserve Best in Show is awarded as a runner up, followed by the Best in Show selection.

  Times are subject to change. All times EDT.

On Air Programming & Live Streaming Info for 2025:

• SAT – Agility Streaming accessible on westminsterkennelclub.org from 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• MON – Breed Judging Streaming accessible on westminsterkennelclub.org from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• MON – Group Judging: FS1 live from 7:30 – 11 p.m.
• TUES – Breed Judging Streaming accessible on westminsterkennelclub.org from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• TUES – Group Judging: FS1 live from 7:30 – 11 p.m.

https://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/viewing-schedule/