Equipment Maintenance

by Melissa Jepson

Nothing disrupts a grooming day faster than a trusted tool failing. Although equipment wears out over time, regular care can improve performance, extend its life, and prevent unnecessary frustration.

Blade Drives

• Replace the blade drive – or lever, depending on the brand – regularly.
• If blades begin to drag, clean and lubricate them, then inspect the drive before sending the blades for sharpening.
• Replace Andis drives every 4–6 weeks. Other brands may last 2–3 months, depending on use.
• Check drives frequently; they often need replacement sooner than many groomers expect.

Corded Clippers

• Store clippers flat rather than hanging them upside down, which can warp the cord.
• Avoid twisting cords or repeatedly stepping on them.
• At the end of each day, untwist and organize any cords that shifted during use.
• If several cords tangle easily, separate them with empty paper towel rolls.

Cordless Clippers and Batteries

• Modern lithium batteries do not have the memory issues associated with older batteries, but charging habits still affect their lifespan.
• Avoid frequent short charges, using the tool while it is plugged in, or charging it every time it returns to the cradle.
• Keep a second battery or backup clipper available to prevent interruptions mid-groom.
• Follow the same battery-care practices for Dremel-style tools.

Changing Blades

When changing blades, turn on the clipper before latching the new blade into place. This helps prevent the blade sockets from widening. Remember: turn on, then latch.

Bathing Systems

Clean and disinfect bathing systems daily. Because any cleaner left inside can damage hoses and tubing, always flush the system thoroughly after disinfecting.

1. Flush the system with very hot water to remove product residue.
2. Apply an appropriate disinfectant. Vinegar is often recommended, but newer research suggests it may be less effective against bacteria than previously thought. Alternatives include 256 disinfectant or bleach, although bleach is more caustic.
3. Rinse thoroughly with hot water to remove all cleaning solution.
4. Open the machine to dry whenever possible so moisture does not remain inside.

Dryer Brushes

Dark residue during blow-drying often indicates that the dryer brushes need replacement. Timing varies by brand and usage, but annual replacement is a useful general guideline. A vacuum repair professional can usually do the work, or you can follow a reliable how-to video if you are comfortable replacing them yourself.

With a few consistent maintenance habits, your equipment can perform better, last longer, and help every grooming day run more smoothly. Happy grooming!

What Happens When You Add Water to Shampoo?

by Cyndi Tumminia

Shampoo Mixing • Sanitation • Frothing

What Changes When You Add Water?

Mixing shampoo may feel routine: add shampoo and water, shake, and begin bathing. Once water is added, however, the mixture is no longer the same product that left the original container.

Why Dilution Matters

Dilution can weaken the shampoo’s preservative system. Water, hands, pumps, bottles, and other mixing containers can also introduce microorganisms. If diluted shampoo sits—especially in a warm, damp grooming environment—contamination may become a concern. Using contaminated product on a pet could contribute to skin irritation, redness, itching, or infection.

Safer Mixing Practices

A few consistent habits can help reduce risk:

• Follow the manufacturer’s dilution directions.
• Mix only what you need.
• Do not top off leftover diluted shampoo.
• Thoroughly clean, sanitize, and dry bottles, containers, pumps, tubing, and frothing equipment between uses.

What Frothing Does—and Does Not Do

Frothing can help distribute shampoo and control where it goes. However, the extra-looking volume is mostly air. Frothing changes how shampoo is applied; it does not automatically change the correct dilution ratio.

A Small Habit That Supports Better Care

Even routine practices deserve an occasional second look. Keeping shampoo-mixing methods clean and consistent is one more way to care for the pets entrusted to us.

Learn More From Our CPPGA Sponsors

Product and Dilution Resources

• iGroom: Professional shampoo information and product-specific dilution guidance, including recommendations for highly concentrated formulas.
• Nature’s Specialties: Guidance on professional shampoo dilution, mixing, and frothing products.
• Ryan’s Pet Supplies: Professional grooming products, mixing and dispensing equipment, and educational resources.
• Groomers Pro: Professional grooming supplies, concentrated shampoos, frothing products, and related equipment.

Get Ready for the Holidays

Holiday Gifts

by Valerie McFadden

If you make holiday gifts for clients using pictures, paw prints or nose prints of their pets, consider collecting those items ahead of time. You want your holiday appointments to flow smoothly and adding even a couple extra minutes to each pet every day, adds up! Using the time you have in the fall can save you in the winter. You might even have time to add an extra nail trim or bath by saving that time. Time is money. That is especially true during the holidays.

2026 Fly In Report

by Teri DiMarino

Legislative awareness has long been a top priority for the California Professional Pet Groomers Association. The organization grew out of a successful fight against a potentially devastating bill that would have crippled California’s grooming industry without benefiting pets or their owners.

We remain at the forefront, closely monitoring legislative activity in Sacramento and across the country. The CPPGA also sponsors the World Alliance of Grooming Associations (WAGA), an organization that helps each state establish its own professional association, keeps groomers informed about emerging legislation, and promotes continuing education throughout the industry.

One national organization that provides invaluable support is the Pet Advocacy Network (PAN). Formerly known as PIJAC, PAN represents the entire pet industry in Washington, D.C. It monitors federal legislation affecting the industry and works to protect the rights of pet professionals, consumers, and pet owners. PAN has been highly influential in the work of both the CPPGA and WAGA. Each September, PAN organizes “Pet Night on the Hill” and the “Fly-In.” Pet industry representatives from across the country gather in Washington, D.C., where PAN connects them with their senators and representatives to advocate for nonpartisan bills that benefit the industry and pet owners. We typically meet with legislative staff to promote these bills and explain the work of our organizations. The CPPGA was represented by Legislative Chair Tina Grschwener, while Teri DiMarino represented WAGA.

We advocated for three bills. The first would offer incentives for veterinarians to practice in underserved rural areas where veterinary care is scarce. The second would allow veterinary care and pet health insurance expenses to be covered through tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). The third would prohibit breed-based restrictions in public housing and reduce pet deposits, helping families keep their beloved pets when moving into public housing.

“Pet Night on the Hill” lived up to its name. Representatives and their staff were invited to an evening of food, drinks, puppies, and kittens. Hosted by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), the event offered a welcome opportunity to reconnect with people we had met earlier that day.

Overall, the event gave our senators and representatives a valuable opportunity to learn about the CPPGA, WAGA, and our work. We closed each meeting with this message: “If anything involving the grooming industry ever reaches your desk, we want to be your first phone call.”

We look forward to returning to the halls of the Capitol next year.

Flea-borne Typhus: Why Groomers Should Pay Attention

by Rachel Colant

Flea-borne typhus has been making headlines across Southern California, where public health officials have reported record numbers of cases, particularly in Los Angeles and Orange counties. While California is seeing the most attention, flea-borne typhus is also found in parts of Texas and Hawaii.

The disease is caused by bacteria carried by infected fleas. Despite the name, people are not typically infected by the flea bite itself. Instead, infection occurs when bacteria in flea feces enter the body through scratched skin, cuts, or the eyes. Common carriers include rats, opossums, stray cats, and the fleas they host.

For groomers, prevention starts with awareness. Continue using effective flea-control protocols in the salon, wear gloves when appropriate, wash hands thoroughly after handling flea-infested pets, and clean and disinfect grooming areas after appointments. Recommending year-round flea prevention to clients also helps protect pets, their families, and your team.

Fleas are more than just a nuisance. Staying informed about emerging public health concerns is another way our profession protects both animal and human health.

Groom Expo 2026: California groomers did not disappoint!

by Teri DiMarino

Once again, Groom Expo in Hershey, Pennsylvania, lived up to its reputation as the ultimate industry event. Thousands of groomers from around the world gathered to shop, learn, and share in the show’s camaraderie.

The competition ring showcased some of the industry’s finest talent. Groomers presented their best work, and Anna Stowell won the coveted Best Groomed Dog in Show award with her beautifully groomed Gordon Setter.

The Barkleigh Honors Award Dinner delivered an evening of glitz and glamour. The festivities began with the Best in Show awards and Creative Runway, followed by the awards ceremony.

California was well represented among the honorees. CPPGA Committee member Rachel Colant received the Contributions to the Industry award for her work with Groom Curriculum. CPPGA President Teri DiMarino earned both Seminar Speaker of the Year and Judge of the Year while “Another Grooming Podcast,” hosted by Nathan and Kathlena Austin, Kat Greaney, Juan Rivera, and Ronney Rivera, was named Podcast of the Year. Nathan and Kathlena also received the Content Creators of the Year award.

Silver for GroomTeam USA and Recognition for California

Nathan and Kathlena Austin with their dog Helios

American groomers had plenty to celebrate in Belgium this September! GroomTeam USA earned second place and the silver medal at the 2026 World Team Grooming Championship, showcasing exceptional skill among national teams from around the world.

California was also represented in Groomania’s individual competitions. Nathan Austin competed in the Standard Poodles Champion class, earning Special Achievement recognition in an exceptionally large and competitive class. His accomplishment gave California groomers another reason to be proud.

Congratulations to GroomTeam USA and Nathan on these outstanding achievements. Representing our profession on an international stage takes preparation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. We are proud to celebrate their success!

Professional Pet Groomers & Stylists Alliance Standards of Care, Safety and Sanitation

by Tina Gschwender & Cassandra Winchel

Welcome to Part Three of the CPPGA Breakdown of the PPGSA Standards of Care, Safety and Sanitation. In this installment, we'll focus on bathing and drying. As always, the specific brands of shampoo, conditioner, or dryer are not our concern—only that products are formulated for dogs and cats and that dryers are used safely.

As with any bath, begin in the tub. Make sure the water is comfortably warm, not too hot or too cold, and check that the hose is in good condition, with no cracks or bulges. A mat or slip-resistant tub surface is also recommended for the pet's comfort and safety. When diluting shampoos and conditioners, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Products that are too concentrated can be difficult to lather and rinse, which may irritate the pet's skin. Products that are over-diluted may not clean effectively. Either way, product is wasted, and so is money. Manufacturers invest heavily in developing formulas and dilution ratios, so it is important to use them as directed.

Once the pet is bathed, move on to drying. Whether you use high-velocity dryers, kennel dryers, stand dryers, or a combination, pet safety must remain the top priority. Watch closely for signs of distress or overheating. Happy Hoodies and other stress-reducing tools should be cleaned and sanitized regularly. If kennel dryers are located outside your grooming room, check on pets at least every 5–10 minutes. A live-feed camera with a monitor at your station can also help you respond quickly if something goes wrong.

CPPGA Helps Equip Fire Departments with Oxygen Masks

by Teri DiMarino

As California residents, we understand the wildfire risks our state faces—and now, those risks are being felt around the world.

The California Professional Pet Groomers Association created its Disaster Relief Fund during the devastating fires that nearly destroyed Paradise. While we cannot cover major losses such as homes or vehicles, generous vendors have helped us provide groomers with the tools they need to return to work.

In addition to supporting groomers in need, the CPPGA recently launched another community service initiative. Many fire departments lack proper oxygen mask kits for pets and often must adapt masks designed for people. Thanks to an extremely generous donation from Wag 'n Tails Mobile Conversions, we have supplied numerous firefighting units with this essential equipment. Each kit includes masks for cats, small dogs, and large dogs, and firefighters were grateful to receive them. We also thank PawPrint Oxygen (pawprintoxygen.com) for helping make these kits available and affordable.

The CPPGA's "Groom One for the Fire Fund" campaign encourages groomers to donate the average cost of one grooming service, which can purchase another pet oxygen mask kit for firefighters. Anyone who would like to support this effort can donate to the Groomers Emergency Relief Fund through our website at https://cppga.wildapricot.org/Emergency-Fund-Donation-Page.

Is Your Grooming Table Working For You or Against You?

By Rachel Colant

A grooming table should support good body mechanics, not force the groomer to adapt to it. If you frequently find yourself reaching, twisting, or bending, your equipment may be contributing to fatigue more than you realize.

Fortunately, more ergonomic table options are now becoming easier for groomers to find. Compact rotating tables, such as those offered by companies like Jirpet and Aeolus, allow the pet to be repositioned instead of the groomer. Likewise, products such as the All For Groomers Groomer's Wall divide the grooming surface, reducing the need to lean across the table during grooming.

Care about career longevity? These upgrades are here to support it. Small improvements in posture and positioning, repeated hundreds of times each week, can reduce strain on the back, shoulders, neck, and wrists.

The right table should bring the dog to you, not force you to work around the dog. Your body is one of the most valuable tools in your salon. Choose equipment that helps protect it.