Equipment Care
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.
- Flush the system with very hot water to remove product residue.
- 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.
- Rinse thoroughly with hot water to remove all cleaning solution.
- 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!
Sanitation
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.
Best-Practice Reminder
Always follow the directions for the specific shampoo and equipment you use. If you are unsure about dilution, storage, or frothing, contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Seasonal Planning
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.
Reminding Clients to Book Before the Holiday Rush
by Teri DiMarino
The holidays are approaching, so we all want to encourage regular clients to book early and secure their preferred dates. Here’s a tip that worked nicely for my salon: We bought Christmas, Hanukkah, and other holiday postcards from a supplier; Barkleigh offers a good selection.
Before Thanksgiving, we addressed each card to the dog and added the salon’s name, phone number, and postage. We stored the cards in a box with a little dog hair to give them the salon’s scent, then mailed them the day after Thanksgiving.
Clients called almost immediately to say their dogs were sniffing, pawing at, and tearing at the cards. They loved that each card was addressed to the dog, and that the dog seemed to recognize it as its own. The cards also served as an effective reminder to book a holiday appointment.
Legislative Advocacy
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.
Health & Safety
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.
Event Recap
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.
As we look forward to the next Hershey show, don’t forget that Groom Expo West returns to Pasadena on February 25–28, 2027. The CPPGA will again host its booth and Friday evening Meet & Greet General Meeting, sponsored by Ryan’s Pet Supply. The weekend will conclude with our super auction. Mark your calendars, we’ll see you there!
International Competition
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!
