Why Groomers go to Tradeshows: Knowledge is Power

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Mary Oquendo, a true trailblazer in the pet grooming world. Mary's vast knowledge and expertise in animal behavior and handling classes have made her a rock star in the grooming community. It might surprise you, but she attributes one thing to her success as a professional groomer: knowledge. Let's dive in!

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Throughout my conversation with Mary, one key takeaway stood out above all - the crucial role that knowledge plays in the world of grooming. Mary emphasized the significance of understanding the mechanics of the skin and how animals move when approaching behavior and handling in grooming. She referred to Chrissy Newmeyer Smith's behavior and handling classes as an excellent example of how newer groomers are focusing on various animals, expanding their expertise beyond just dogs.

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Understanding the physiology and anatomy of our furry friends allows us to pay attention to the subtleties, the warning signs that animals give us before they bite. By acquiring this knowledge, groomers can ensure better communication and handling, fostering a safer and more positive grooming experience for both the pet and the professional.

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Classes for Every Stage of the Grooming Journey

Mary enlightened us about some highly beneficial classes available for budding groomers looking to enhance their skills. For those starting out as bather brushers, Terry Di Marino and Angie Coates offer phenomenal instruction. Terry's class is accessible at almost any Barclay trade show, while Angie's class can be taken online through Positive Ed.

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Moreover, Chris Pearson and Michelle Knowles offer skin and coat classes. These classes come in different levels of intensity, allowing groomers to dive deeper into the intricacies of skin health and coat care. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced groomer seeking to fine-tune your skills, these classes provide an invaluable opportunity to expand your knowledge base.

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The Trade Show Experience - A Groomer's Paradise

Mary rolled out the red carpet to the world of trade shows, sharing how attending these events can be a transformative experience for anyone passionate about grooming. Not only do they provide a platform to take business and skill classes and explore the latest equipment, but trade shows also offer unparalleled networking opportunities with fellow groomers who share the same passion and expertise.

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Mary's personal encounter with a groomer paying with a debit card from a local bank in their area highlights the value of these connections and friendships forged at trade shows. Attending these events, such as the New England show Mary mentioned, can open doors to collaborations, mentorship, and even lifelong friendships.

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Are you feeling inspired by Mary's incredible journey and the power of knowledge in the grooming world? If so, I invite you to join our grooming community by subscribing to The Daily Groomer newsletter. By doing so, you'll receive exclusive content, expert tips, and the latest updates from the grooming industry, right in your inbox.

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Remember, knowledge is truly power in the world of grooming, and staying informed allows us to grow as professionals and deliver exceptional care to the pets we serve. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join our community and stay at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry.

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