Choosing Time and Labor Saving T

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Choosing Time and Labor Saving Tools- from a handout Intergroom 2007

When purchasing tools keep an eye on more than the bottom line. Items that are inexpensive to buy may actually cost you in time!
Cage banks- more efficient to clean than individual kennels. Often come with grates. Grates save drying time and clean up time in case of “accidents.”
Well made cage banks look professional and stay looking nice for many years. They may be safer for pets, as well.
Tubs: inexpensive tubs may chip, ding, crack and leak within a relatively short period of time. Investing in a tub designed for our industry will offer better usability and longer service life.
Grooming tables: “elevator” tables will save one of your greatest assets… your BACK! When looking at tables, remember that the lower they go, the less lifting you have to do. If you are tall, look for a table that elevates high. “H” base tables tend to be more stable (less wobbly) than center post tables.
Dryers: many hours of the stylist’s day are spent removing moisture from the pet’s coat. In an industry where time is money, investing in a fabulous dryer is a sure way to save time, aggravation and money, all while achieving superior results.
Vacuum systems: these tools improve the working environment by removing dust, hair and dander from the air. They also increase the stylist’s speed… no more going over and Over and OVER the pet to get that coat even!
Bathing systems: whoever invented these has my undying gratitude. There is an estimated savings of 50-70% of time spent bathing. Bonus! -the dog’s look and feel better. They also help to save money spent on shampoo and conditioner. Don’t let your money go down the drain!
Dehumidifier- removing moisture from the air in your shop will improve air quality, reduce build up of mold/mildew and odors and help pets dry faster. You will also feel cooler as you work.
Restraint systems- If I had back all the hours of my life I have spent “chasing” spinners, “propping” sitters and “dodging” biters, I could take a few weeks off! Investing in restraint systems will save your back, offer increased safety to the pets and the stylist as well.
Sit on it! If you stand while grooming, consider purchasing a really comfortable stool and sitting for at least part of the day. Your legs, feet and back will feel better at the end of the day.
Anti fatigue mats- a MUST for stylists at the table and in front of the bathtub.
It may hurt to spend $30 on a slicker brush, but if you save even 5 minutes per dog that you dematt you will pay for that brush the first day you use it.
High velocity dryers- When deciding which dryer to purchase, find out how many “Amps” it pulls. Be sure your shop or mobile unit has the electrical capacity to support the dryer(s) before you purchase them. The only thing more frustrating than blowing fuses is having an electrical fire. >yikes!<
More on dryers- the “CFM” (cubic feet per min.) is the most accurate way to measure output. “FPM” (feet per min.) can be altered by adding or removing a condenser/nozzle.
Don’t forget “liquid tools.” High quality, specialty designed shampoos, conditioners and dematting products may cost more on the front end, but if they save you time and EFFORT, and produce excellent results, they are worth it.
If you purchase a really fabulous item for your business, advertise it! There is more than one way to increase revenue; bring new customers to your shop when they hear what nifty new service you are offering.
Having problems justifying the expense of a tool? Consider not only how many more pets per day you can groom if you buy that tool, but how much more will you enjoy your work? You can’t put a price on THAT!