The Mindful Groom

One of my favorite things about dog grooming is how we learn from each other. We observe many different techniques, then choose which ones to add to our own routines or which cool new tricks to pull out for the right situation.

Finding a school or mentor is vitally important in building a foundation of calm. The right instructor will build you and your confidence up creating a safe place for growth.

You want to surround yourself with people who treat you like you treat the dogs, with kindness and patience.

Picking the wrong establishment or mentor could mean disaster. Wrecking your mind and your body. Leading to:
1. Injuries to the dog (hot blade, cuts, ect,)
2. Injuries to yourself (back, wrists, ears, ect.)
3. Burnout
4. Low self esteem, sense of self
5. Slower, chaotic learning

Simple things that make such a difference.
1. Shampoo twice. The first wash removes dirt and buildup. The second builds shine and locks in that clean feel.
2. Condition every dog (use a light amount on terriers). This replaces the natural oils the shampoo removed and helps prevent the coat from overproducing oil, which is what creates that wet-dog smell a few days later.
3. Rinse thoroughly. Leftover product leaves a greasy film that attracts dirt and makes the coat look dull.
4. Dry and brush at the same time. This straightens the coat, reaches the skin, shortens drying time, and ensures every part of the coat is fully dry. Learn the drying method that suits each coat type.

Call or text The Mindful Groom for an appointment! 719-244-6607

Don’t poodle my doodle!!!

When clients say this, they’re usually very clear about one thing: they don’t want a certain look. The problem? “Poodle cut” means something different to almost everyone.

Here are a few of the meanings I’ve heard:

1. No clean feet or clean face (the classic poodle style).
2. No big, puffy topknot — they want a flatter, more natural head.
3. They don’t want a straight coat; they’d rather see some wave or curl.

Clients, what does “don’t poodle my doodle” mean to you? Drop your examples below!

You can’t do better if you don’t know better! Inform yourself here.

Mats are far more than just a simple tangle in your dog’s fur. Many pet owners underestimate how serious they can be. Here’s a clear breakdown of why mats deserve your attention:

Why Mats Are Harmful
1. They pull on the skin.
Mats tighten as they grow, constantly tugging on your dog’s sensitive skin and causing discomfort.
2. They trap bacteria, dead skin, and debris. This creates a perfect environment for infections and unpleasant odors.
3. They cause sores and open wounds underneath.
The constant pressure and friction can lead to painful skin irritation and lesions that you can’t see.
4. They affect movement.
Mats between paw pads or in armpits can restrict motion and alter your dog’s natural gait, leading to long-term posture or mobility issues.
5. They are painful.
Beyond the surface, mats restrict blood circulation. When they’re finally removed, blood can rush back into the area, sometimes causing bruising or hematomas.

The Challenges of Removing Mats

Dealing with mats is never easy, and every removal method comes with trade-offs:
1. Brushing them out takes significant time.
This makes the grooming session much longer and therefore more expensive.
2. Brushing still damages the hair.
Even with proper tools and technique, the hair shafts are often weakened or broken in the process.
3. Cutting them out is risky.
Attempting this at home without professional experience can easily nick your dog’s skin. It also creates patchy “holes” in the coat.
4. Clipping requires a very short cut.
To safely get under the mat, groomers often need to clip very close to the skin (leaving about ¼ inch or less). This is stressful, time-consuming, and can be painful as the mat is tugged during the process.
5. Your dog starts the appointment already stressed.
A matted dog is often uncomfortable, anxious, and less cooperative, making the entire grooming experience more difficult for everyone involved.
Bottom line: Prevention is always better than treatment. Regular brushing, proper tools, and routine professional grooming are the best ways to keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and looking their best. If your dog is already matted, schedule a professional groomer appointment sooner rather than later — the longer you wait, the harder (and more uncomfortable) it becomes.

You wouldn’t let a significant other disregard your boundaries, so why do we allow our clients to do the same?
Your policies, pricing, and schedule are essential to both your business and your well-being. They deserve to be respected by you and your clients.

Protect your business by:

1. Letting go of clients who don’t respect your boundaries.
2. Reinvesting in your business so it can continue to grow and thrive.
3. Communicating clearly and consistently with your clients.
4. Prioritizing self-care, both physically and mentally.

Setting boundaries isn’t being difficult. It’s part of running a healthy, sustainable business.