tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2766919980586774652024-02-18T21:23:43.905-05:00The Finical Felinestories from a professional cat groomerBeth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-34761344304978850632014-04-08T11:18:00.000-04:002014-04-08T11:18:06.282-04:00Be Back Soon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kWwcHxbl1eHZCAZqI5rTAQSPS8Ii8hCmveShPd5lfamq9zHHSyhs4Av0epDUE5DVJ-HpMPgWFpBcfmS3u4LUOwtprzrXaomYi1vwkPSjaBmL0cav3NqcHxdoT_HNj19VVzjEqn9MgwqD/s1600/catnap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kWwcHxbl1eHZCAZqI5rTAQSPS8Ii8hCmveShPd5lfamq9zHHSyhs4Av0epDUE5DVJ-HpMPgWFpBcfmS3u4LUOwtprzrXaomYi1vwkPSjaBmL0cav3NqcHxdoT_HNj19VVzjEqn9MgwqD/s1600/catnap.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've been gone for awhile, but don't worry! I'll be back soon.</div>
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Right after a nap :)</div>
<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-1806619395921768692014-02-18T10:06:00.000-05:002014-02-18T10:06:24.813-05:00Winter StormsI haven't been around much (moving is hard work!) and I hope you haven't missed me too much. I just popped in to share some exciting news.<br />
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<img alt="Where Will Rex Hit Next?" height="235" src="http://i.imwx.com/web/multimedia/images/miscellaneous/rex0217_155x114.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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That's right! <a href="http://www.weather.com/news/winter-storm-rex-snow-ice-reports-totals-20140217">Winter Storm Rex</a> just swept through. I'm pretty excited to have a Winter Storm named after me! In case you're wondering, naming winter storms has only been a thing for the last few years, and was invented by The Weather Channel. Apparently they only name storms that will have a big effect on a lot of people. Sounds like more serious weather services don't like this much and refuse to acknowledge the names. Although, it does make it easier for folks to be aware of impending storms and be better prepared. It's also tons of fun, especially when they come up with a great name, like Rex. And this is what I learned last night after a quick google search.<br />
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This is part of the reason I haven't updated the Finical Feline recently. Too busy learning about silly things. Sorry! More cats soon, I promise.<br />
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I hope you take a few minutes to enjoy the snow your favorite cat groomer brought you last night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Ldz29IdGnYtfykJ34CKErvLOmEaFXLSkyRdzONsnd3EVFWIjqxFHGHlN1M_rJYRX06X4pceefwkWPREIyf5dPH6NgVyZEsLGgbNt0h-9j-Zw3Np7EIsguMYRaCLxUc6okzGbeDkQdipq/s1600/REX.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Ldz29IdGnYtfykJ34CKErvLOmEaFXLSkyRdzONsnd3EVFWIjqxFHGHlN1M_rJYRX06X4pceefwkWPREIyf5dPH6NgVyZEsLGgbNt0h-9j-Zw3Np7EIsguMYRaCLxUc6okzGbeDkQdipq/s1600/REX.png" height="200" width="153" /></a></div>
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<i>Maybe I should add some snowflakes to my logo!</i></div>
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-38266019385071304012014-01-08T11:27:00.003-05:002014-01-08T11:27:51.218-05:00I'm Sure I Don't Need To Tell You...<div style="text-align: center;">
...that it's a bit nippy outside!</div>
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So please...even if your pet looks like the cutest little bear cub, they need to be inside!</div>
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Dangers such as frostbite, getting lost or trapped, or freezing to death are very real. Be smart, be responsible! Pets don't often make good choices, it's up to us knowledgeable, reasoning people to do the right thing to keep them safe.</div>
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Also, be sure to wash salt off your pet's feet! Products used to melt ice can cause painful chemical burns on your pet's feet. This can easily be avoided by simply using tepid water to rinse their paws each time they come in. A gentle, pet safe shampoo can also be used, just be sure to rinse thoroughly. </div>
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Cats are also prone to cuddling up on warm things, and can easily have their pads burned. If you notice your cat is limping, doesn't want to move or seems uncomfortable, immediately check their paws. Look for swelling, redness, cracking or bleeding. Call their vet for further information on how to care for them. No one should have the bottom of their feet burned! Ouchie.</div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bgYHaZQ5luLMZKN0JzSBYuCwjjiQW7o4Mxg0cgxGGuSpBOUx43nF8RhBTk9au_Pe9LnBYio-eiEC8dADpUK10PBjYDkYDCy91xYOQVlfosqvgHYpj6eJL8sXAYGZSuqp0OXvFKJSXDxe/w701-h524-no/052.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Or better yet, just stay inside and snuggle up with your friends. </div>
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Be safe, stay warm!</div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-9250686401039416222013-12-25T10:58:00.003-05:002013-12-25T10:58:42.329-05:00Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Enough wishes of peace, joy, and goodwill towards men. </i></div>
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<i>I hope you and your kitties have a blast opening presents and playing with your holiday loot...and the paper, ribbons, and bows it came in!</i></div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-26465333899327170112013-12-20T14:41:00.000-05:002013-12-20T14:41:20.175-05:00A Little Creative Christmas Kitty<div style="text-align: center;">
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Once again, Sara and I participated in a quick little photo contest sponsored by <a href="http://www.purepaws.net/">Pure Paws</a>. While we didn't place this time, it was still a lot of fun and helped strengthen my creative thinking. As always, Sara was happy to let a paw. Actually, a hip!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYz3wl9jqpFRIjyrXwcOyy2wT9soZrrClNaQNbSuapiGxHQ-McuP_1d8cCvHdCXvjpGIg2XOaLoQn5ZjklLinZjqYEtSnAmkt0tJ-IpcRmisjgqMDLc9Pxn4UFgGuBlCvy05zeQlUlhuYB/w438-h586-no/180.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>This simple little design took some doing...but it sure turned out cute!</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AFC9iTKVtgq0b087SQaTuLqmOpGtuef6ZQDiSj9-G09LdBczpsxxP1qAZMyBWk_M-GZLEQkUKIehJVJ4Rizth_up6ekpP3_cxJ_ryUvCwU6pg4Nc5JXWgLLdAEJQ1ztSwTj86mdBG5eo/w701-h524-no/178.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Got the groom, now it's time to set the table...</i></div>
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<i><img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwiTcsuX10Nz8nyl8btSCyDW9AM1UPUR9IfNE80udGeBANGYqSfKYk5G0GuEWicWxN4of3u92uvFm6jT5CK2oTI9qd0XKPO0psBmQWBUGpPOpDgVqy9Qu9y3JnoIIE-aVYgqHKalRB6aaF/w701-h524-no/1193.JPG" width="400" /></i></div>
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<i>Sara is so good natured about everything. Give her a fuzzy blanket or <a href="http://finicalfeline.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-few-weeks-ago-i-found-out-that.html">a pumpkin</a> and she's happy to hang out and let me take all the pictures I need.</i></div>
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<i>Every cat lover knows how much fun cats have with the Christmas ornaments, on and off the tree!</i></div>
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<i><img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYLG-H58ZWbEG9xkFWsp5HMcU31J-E2R6yJ966GWUMfNVp1jGQaWRueoqBAFF59YaPh3mG4TTJuCr3sf6Xx_lkrGWN1h3m5eNFxVE-ji05iwnvAEEdHRsdcJdPQVirMxTZVgxV8G5ijPh/w701-h524-no/1195.JPG" width="400" /></i></div>
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<i>Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!</i></div>
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-76085256722779413552013-12-02T16:17:00.001-05:002013-12-20T14:41:44.008-05:00A Quick Post!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i>Wishing everyone joy and peace this holiday season</i></div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WqHgq8GU_Qg/TvYZV9l3ucI/AAAAAAAABOk/Jpqi4j0Q6tU/w702-h395-no/DSCN0942.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>It's been a crazy few months...</i></div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MMISiOsE2v4/TvYYnNvoriI/AAAAAAAABOY/CcssX8W8534/w702-h395-no/DSCN0939.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>I came across these pictures and got a much needed laugh.</i></div>
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<i>Oh, how I miss that cat!</i></div>
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We'll be back to our semi-regular blogging soon. Promise!</div>
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-35005584412443147532013-10-29T11:24:00.001-04:002013-10-29T16:17:00.638-04:00Happy Halloween!A few weeks ago I found out that a company I really like, <a href="http://www.purepaws.net/">Pure Paws</a>, was holding a Halloween photo contest. Basically, they wanted a nice groom, with a touch (or more!) of creative, and some of their products in the picture. That's not too hard! I thought it would be fun to do with Sara. The only problem was that I'm in Horsham, PA, and Sara is back home. So I had one chance to do it, a day or two before the contest closed.<br />
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I came up with a great idea that I thought it would be quick and easy and look really cool. (I ended up being right about only one of those!) I had already packed away most of my creative gear, since I didn't think I'd need it until after we moved. But I had a can of special pet spray chalk that I figured would work "just as well." It...didn't. It was trickier and messier than I thought. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get things done the way I wanted the first try, and I just didn't have the time for a second try. I think I'll do this again, I know exactly where I went wrong, and how to fix it. It's actually an easy fix, so my next attempt at this really will be quick, easy and fun. Live and learn, eh?<br />
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3MYBgiNhzZmu4yvKeUkaPxxRAJuvNZ9Zj-ni-eioEBMEqLix3VgVVcZmD2oKTlKo8WA9YUjTmd07lWI7LR0O0Bc7slCiEeKt_u64i9MFO_hL-kWqH2s-L32219ttginN10v40r0wAjmt/w701-h524-no/1-118.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>First things first, gotta get set up</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrx6hdiCmnmlFcrcOq9_c-4mtphWNzm-4fYj62IWVi3ebB5RJJrC_Y3b11zYd1mGxgawrChicL9VyT757PIqygwaYSlfteW7VRUMFmn1wwImLwRxfkMW94sDtzef9-cVGQedEqaI1YET7/w701-h524-no/1-117.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Sara notices I have a new watermark</i></div>
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<i>Artwork done by <a href="http://www.mai1981.com/#!">Mario Iati</a></i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWgtFXkEpHBAlluxxshcSDVJu9RauixH47J65jQoq1D8BdpNqWr66tievBb17-sSYyQGruDovqeKvnzW9fBqH7b0gejluQuZJ0ggmKysSpban4afRspQBz9u5fwYOZYOdMWJpzgwR3spw/w701-h524-no/1-116.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Now to figure out the lighting...</i></div>
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<i>(Solution: turn off all the lights and block the window)</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DOfhg0ePFUSHhGzH8DguSisaS5-9xwAc8heC0D7_ovxoto2jsE_hGTZRzIJyGB2ypk3CdEisg23swq_ptQRX4FsLNQfg5jiFDo9_5gkjoGyLADLjtBYR6QIF3pscz_tFAx8XwImGlyqw/w701-h524-no/1-115.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>The might Highland Lynx defends her territory </i></div>
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<i>Alternative caption: I'm booooooored!!!!</i></div>
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Have you noticed that Sara isn't exactly creatively groomed yet? I was smart and got everything set up BEFORE I groomed her, since I knew the product would be prone to smudging. Good thing I did, it took much longer than I anticipated to figure out how to get everything set up so that it looked good. The pumpkin wanted to reflect back a ton of light, and the labels wanted to wash out entirely. It was frustrating, but we finally got. We just had to turn out all the lights and block one of the two windows. I don't know how there was enough light to take pictures! But it worked. And yes, the entire time Sara was happy to hang out on the table, completely unrestrained. I think she just liked hanging out with us. And she loved the pumpkin! She'd snuggle up against it and purr. </div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2RDpmh0R2bo_1DiYvmdwbybw3iztC_vUQwR5cApgGDo0klmijz-NBKnTJmW4rCLV8Zl0D_2SsDJBeiquMWaUHDEqEwuXx4x4Skg0-r7flFAyk5JfluSINnUCPSBr1ApMO9efF_X4U5Zr/w701-h524-no/1-121.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>I love my pumpkin. </i></div>
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<i>No judgements.</i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7Fa4sm6wcUrf7HpfTKoQFOz1psjcXnJWA0yOohHewlKa8nWbuIrzYjMGxYwMbcW54tW3JRaPEu2Q5raCTnE08d22nWaygF0xB_E4T6iC5FTVnHX1RcERrxNVm6ol-WbnMeIss8Y9mMg9/w702-h524-no/sarappcontest.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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<i>BOO! </i></div>
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<i>Spooky eyes in the darkness!</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2RDpmh0R2bo_1DiYvmdwbybw3iztC_vUQwR5cApgGDo0klmijz-NBKnTJmW4rCLV8Zl0D_2SsDJBeiquMWaUHDEqEwuXx4x4Skg0-r7flFAyk5JfluSINnUCPSBr1ApMO9efF_X4U5Zr/w701-h524-no/1-121.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Sara, can you look...happier?</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80uJRtZ-yttL7UR4nHFvGsNLEYaNn2-ptyKCSYUjJejdEaf25r5Q_I5UTJum4hYS0db07hClrkGHcYFtj1werRR6dgRpBdGeAKmF1l31GhrC3Z82swFdU9HWBJGPlqMqG50Tvpb3Gbqpo/w701-h524-no/1-128.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>That's bored. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I think.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="390" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3vAqYGGsUio/Um_KEmDM6gI/AAAAAAAAAyA/eL4VcKvx_7g/w601-h587-no/1-123.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I LOVE MY PUMPKIN </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>She means it, folks. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunA5wF_NtnfOllhijqbYsZk1fx1lNvq_vKXGDGp3a3wGJYHQCMd0zZYX20BoylF1BS1cXOFbKxazzKP1iBKl1T-5ICvLCcEKhtJpNxrIfHVfWIiinuZY8N5zJyFwu2lQYIOO7Ity9HItH/w701-h524-no/1-131.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>*blink*</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEaGNREko-2LW-R85tMcYnSW2o0guTfQf7Fpf92Cqy3xF5k54oTUM0ztZOnGS7Nm6BpFD40_f_f5CSTYwlGhGaCChO1D3kbL2UaLqXXNlMjSXkxw2jB-Xgq_mhuxIXjToE3214MEIDotyW/w701-h524-no/1-125.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>That's kinda how I felt when the eyes started to smudge. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Let's all just close our eyes and face palm with a pumpkin.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Creative grooming can be hard in the most unexpected of ways.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Plus it's tricky to get everything lined up just so. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Groom has to be presented just right, expression has to be just so, camera has to focus...</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="477" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7Fa4sm6wcUrf7HpfTKoQFOz1psjcXnJWA0yOohHewlKa8nWbuIrzYjMGxYwMbcW54tW3JRaPEu2Q5raCTnE08d22nWaygF0xB_E4T6iC5FTVnHX1RcERrxNVm6ol-WbnMeIss8Y9mMg9/w702-h524-no/sarappcontest.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This ended up being the best picture of the day. Sara and I won 5th place! How exciting and unexpected! Despite the problems I ran into, it was still a lot of fun to do. Sara enjoyed herself, I learned more about creative work, we took a nice picture and what more can anyone ask for?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Huge thanks to <a href="http://purepaws.net/">Pure Paws</a> for holding another fun contest! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Also, thanks to the <a href="http://thenapcg.com/">NAPCG</a> for doing the judging.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Be sure to check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PurePawsGroomerForum">Pure Paws on Facebook</a> to see the rest of the entries!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>They are SO GOOD. Congratulations to everyone that won!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-74013060276989517162013-10-04T19:22:00.000-04:002013-10-04T19:22:16.032-04:00Abstract Creative Runway 2013In the midst of moving, starting a new job and trying to figure out life in a new town, <a href="http://groomexpo.com/">Hershey Groom Expo</a> happened. Hershey is the Big Show of the year for us East Coasters. It's a big deal, everyone goes! There's a HUGE trade show, lectures, classes, demos, competitions, certifications for different organizations, dinners, socializing and lots of people. Tons of people! It's a lot of fun. Lots of shopping, lots of new products and lots of hanging out with other groomers.<br />
<br />
Most of the competitions are breed standard type grooming contests. And of course, the big extreme creative class. Last year, they introduced the Abstract Creative Runway. You may remember...I tried to blog <a href="http://finicalfeline.blogspot.com/2012/08/oh-hey-sara.html">about it,</a> <a href="http://finicalfeline.blogspot.com/2013/02/abstract-practice-with-lexus.html">but never</a> <a href="http://finicalfeline.blogspot.com/2012/09/practicing-with-tigers.html">quite finished</a>. I'll get there!<br />
<br />
Well, I went again this year. It ended up being a crazy weekend, for reasons I won't get into. I was supposed to use a friend's cat, since I was planning on taking Sara to the <a href="http://midohiogroomingexpo.com/">Mid Ohio Groom Expo</a>. We're skipping MOGE this year, to my immense disappointment. With everything else going on, I just couldn't swing it. Hopefully, we'll make it next year. Things got tricky, as they do, and at the twelfth hour, I ended up taking Sara.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jLIitFIJ-rLbcLjZ1SlEKL-zHL4z4YGAH9kwgaW9H3OSw_d6FiMCby3B-anpxmkVu34pCES5NVsuzqhEBUeEeH-GyIP0wQLM0kvv1i1OsH0HP0O4BmjD-XcT5AE5jFYoWpwgaJCbNbyU/w701-h524-no/1-056.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Nope, can't go. Playing!</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFUDgtM7dgnhvlMoQlkeDFXS2_cD4DsubxfZwKxq662vrLoXVleQikj8JAGbPmbEj_xzIQVAFQmIfpHUwchHqJ12yLJwTR7yDQeJM_Fqov38lnqJULO5-8rY7L6P4WR74znzv4QCLIdZP/w701-h524-no/1-068.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Fine. Then I'll take Haiku instead. She'll be famous and you</i></div>
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i>can stay home and play.</i></div>
</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhiwKm8RkENZ566uXCAF4RmHuJz5n3lC9zIlLU_4x-L6I3Bz_W4InPg88T-k1tg2jB-gNChpL5m9LUkD7jK-5NlvqEhz_eI7vISR-m-b4b_wzj46JUvbo5v8SSQsoSY-EwnjvLRYfuHSx/w702-h504-no/1-062.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>What?! </i></div>
<i><br /></i>
That settled, I took Sara to my friend's salon and got busy. I had an idea that was based loosely on a metal wall hanging my father gave me. Actually, he forgot he gave me one, saw it at the store several years later and thought "Hey, I bet my daughter would really like this!" and gave me a second one. I do really like them, so I'm hoping for a third in the next year or so.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEY9QwTsUqXnsDjg8GValsjnHhIwUjnFHqCSPfvGvdCB5SqEOR45vQHdma3zQI5mCmgJ07n7HqZcgNCJp7GEa8pYVuSMmDbYJUTNdYsr6OeP1e4B1R2JW_mPl4HU4ndkTWYIoM4n3XEPH/w439-h587-no/1-028.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Almost finished...and look, Hobbes. Hi, Hobbes!</i></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<br />
It was right about this time I noticed Sara start scratching her ear. A quick check revealed it was a bit swollen and unhappy. This is pretty normal for her, so I called the vet and they were able to see us that afternoon. Sara has rather small ear canals, plus she has lots of polyps in them. Just for fun, she also has some unusual bacteria that sometimes causes an infection to show up. Luckily, it responds really well to medication. Unfortunately, it's a sticky, waxy medication that makes a mess for the first few days. I'm very happy to report by the next day (show day!) all the swelling was gone - and so were the itchies. We love our vet!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIy3o2H0WVwNXfvx5FhAhrhqfJmLZE_UQlluLvY3OonwiIgKZanpKULoXL5HR1jQMeb2mgPgET_-pmzgBdUazmQXtBQR7SZoe2au7KiK7BJchtjexpOoTRlFoC0pzfI2oTY9v4AqG45ZG/w439-h587-no/1-030.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Everyone at the vet thought she looked super cool. </i></div>
<br />
<br />
I had a couple of activities planned for the hours before the show, and while the Hershey Lodge is a fabulous place and has hosted the Groom Expo forever, they don't really like pets roaming around the halls. So my husband was the kitty babysitter while I did my shopping, my socializing and got a private bathing lesson with the president of the <a href="http://nationalcatgroomers.com/">NCGIA</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fYkzbk29NmQ/UktmaWoiIWI/AAAAAAAAArM/KIXukTbxDNU/w439-h587-no/1-044.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>There was a lot of this...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTRtIOgugucd_YD0YAWJErfTOU7qfhB5zcblGsXg5EqTzbPX1Dg6Pt40GwnzZZ-5i2tWPY3APoXgvq-_NtPdClGicuK80f7O-LLZW6p886tan2ujtgWFe8_jIm4viTKRek8RdJWfqLu4C/w439-h587-no/1-047.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And this...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Tiger declined to explore.</i></div>
<br />Since the contest took place during the fancy dinner, there was no actual <i>time</i> listed. So we hung out in the car. Got changed, got Sara ready, and hung out in the car some more. And hoped we weren't missing the contest.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiatt37mp2FMV4IGwtj-QVPpZNjGYqTggGmHBt2eTB_KzIrzwPodIqBlC2sAa3UhZQXr2kx8H6AuVeQV0jLn0coFR_90d__rF2uA2AIFAy2VixUet0hbEkbrj9JtruvNKwgGu9cxP1UaRDz/w701-h524-no/1-046.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Is it time to go yet???</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjP5A7AREv9czNvMLiu3PfxLUdZTdknPRh0v50SljJXuljUvvViP4Az54SBM753M8ZlVOs2KGx_6enECU-xxergV3YcSnzvyiCN4jtY0Fy3cJVsOnZPCwCEjFNEaR4u_f4hfZAPTyWfNPZ/w701-h524-no/1-045.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Okay, Sara. Let's go.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Yeah!!!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNyoZ34WSpSMKk3myxn58EyS_l89fZ2dXLr35AQ9ugwKQ7ugYOfFqILVDvcXIYnbcr1AAbZAyVPB515LL7sp_VAwntvrVwJk-GtmPW54ivHQGGpf3peCE0DP3gju2LBUz206G1LnDQqxNk/w701-h562-no/1-049.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Having finished waiting in the car, it was then time to wait in the hallway. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Wait, wait, wait.</i></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
We didn't get any pictures of the other entries, but if you check out <a href="http://petgroomingthegoodthebadthefurry.blogspot.com/2013/09/abstract-grooming-2013.html">The Good, The Bad and The Furry</a>, there's a great write up over there. She didn't get it all either, so if I come across any other posts, I'll update it here. Abstract is really fun, the idea is a beautiful design is done in addition to a regular groom. Something that can be done in one day, for say, a regular client. Color should be minimal or not at all. The name implies that the design should be abstract....but mostly it's an elegant groom with a little creative polish on top. And rhinestones. For the loves of paws, you'd better bling it up for Abstract! Each competitor is introduced, walks down the runway and presents to the judges. I don't know how they judge the entries, and I usually dislike the ones that place. Unfortunately, the judges only took one, quick look at each entry. This is a bummer, because we all spent a lot of time and effort to prepare our grooms. And money. That entry fee was not cheap! I wish they would draw straws, or names out of a hat. I think it would make just as much sense and might be a bit more fair!<br />
<br />
That grip over, I wasn't expecting to place with Sara. In the creative world, the white Standard Poodle is king. Just like last year, I was the only one with a cat. For the judging panel, this did not make us stand out in a good way. Being astute, I didn't go to win. I went to represent good cat grooming. I went to show everyone cats can compete. Cats can do creative. And that you don't need a white Standard to have a good time! I may have also gone because it's fun to stand out, and to poke at the status quo.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCEYNZtFv1UzfC0_8F2C93I50Vc7KBsxl32IEbk1zlGUDJjEHZg04GXF2_yZeDGoUU_sMJSjxn6QyRGKqdJB4OlmND0U8gzqZsi3qX5FouFqx1AE22HAz4920NZwmCbAuEOcgu9MFRcJE/w701-h524-no/1-050.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>After dinner entertainment!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So Sara and I did our walk down the runway, got glanced at by the judges, waited through the awards, and then the real judging started. First, I found the NCGIA table, so I could show off to my friends, mentors and supporters. Then back out into the hallway for some pictures. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzbZBvHANo0BtWRO6OeCQN22BRw2KjhxvKJu7iAKbdRK9kjV7DjQyjBLNRcfFy62NC-pkfbSE7IGiqD2shiLcartKCEBpybX6xQPSFPkQ1mHZ6QaJZ50sOqpGZkE18hbVQ9Z6iYzjimBR/w439-h587-no/1-055.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why yes, I did put my perfectly groomed cat on a fancy piano.<br />I've always wanted to. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilvYSzz4aOrf0QO6M3DZJOwzOSl5LswoshsmL34Ai7mCBR3sw8vnA7b45X-o0OaFTwrC6g3me1im1PY3t2PlkwrtrpS_SbWMhlh9RaIMuaL-7r3Q7L4tgjsCJqzVMHorIDeazHyW4xJ_2/w470-h587-no/1-057.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I wish this picture had come out better.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>It shows off her design the best and I love it. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDfxZE1CT289fPuFiUNLU4HXaiX8MojQbPn7iQVq2TsBnfUFAJULI8G-7U34OKlLnbQ9Uai8NVKvjyTdbWzt6hn_soyze80yTuHmdbB8dW0At3OXPFc1y4i-MlZ0s2T3pnQvDNHfl6K-z/w419-h587-no/1-058.JPG" width="285" />\</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>There were A LOT of people stopping to get pictures of Sara.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTihrna9qaoj43xHXq40p64eGWdnoaOh8yeuceOfa27TWSSs5hKvXNJ5qr0YJjcjC-aYOEpae2zqZ8EgEMf77Xuto5aur3nqyjQ26nbfvTWe81XdzCsxcJxKT9rcYk0phwH4vKGWtyZ9v3/w701-h524-no/1-067.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Lot. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Not as many as last year, but we had a solid</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>fifteen minutes of photo ops. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwt-5lH4R8duDYIqRMGwPD1RDTLmdcamdGFzJqYcXyRIDUGnrNB3Ld2vj0GnvEZThRroThPP2Q5LjuN_k3-edyxmuUF7k8Gl8SEEBLGZtz1egvxuxf3bIqH4M7YLYT0wkEqMwd9ozX29XY/w439-h587-no/1-062.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Can't forget Rowdy!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The worlds only</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Certified Feline Master Groomer's Companion</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SALgxziz2fMjhQ2-SOWPQe3E4gF2YGteFEZsq09Wbc_jRtE0KX0zq-cshrDaQmCzsuPDpuIzy_O9HAn2JLwyBqnOHrLR-JHuTeHqruJzp5BzmDKDpClH6uq4oq9j1puGupKd2AXHNvMM/w419-h587-no/1-063.JPG" width="285" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Lots of talking to people at my favorite topics:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Cat</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cat Grooming</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXFrnRa__NK6MiZJYke3q8CncQmj7AqtHNE3rXW0Zdt40IJCQImj4Vy1WTriCElR8n0p-lUxX-pNUGFQbUEYg_NafNkjlBhcuwSzyS8I2PKeTr_p0POg5odcoSPPjYNCYlnTESta5gtjH/w439-h587-no/1-064.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Me telling my husband I only get dressed up fancy</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>and pose the cat on a piano ONE DAY A YEAR</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>and that he'd better get a few good pics.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiztg4rshAhmmxTb8KzBJZiwUrzNT9jIRtM8L1KFbVp9o41AE816Z-ZfJ6DyyXS6os6AOiagjkY01Tsbi9WvqI-1a8_Ve_mu2t6WczGdSd9KANpwKR9dQ59rzGIVpW4_lsItCdsAoBxANE1/w439-h587-no/1-065.JPG" width="298" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I don't remember what we're looking at.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I bet it was interesting. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Let me brag about my husband. Not only did he drive us up, but he hung out in the car all afternoon, cat sitting Tiger and Sara. He got us dinner (which we had to eat in the car). Then he drove us to my boss' hotel room to get changed. Zipped up my dress. Then drove me, the cats and my boss back to the Lodge. Hung out in the car with me some more. Then waited in the hotel with me. He never complained once. Never acted anything but cheerful and supportive. He didn't even annoy me while I was nervously waiting for it to start! Just sat quietly when I didn't want to talk, but chatted with me when I did. He was incredibly proud of me, my groom and my presentation. Boasted just enough to the folks taking pictures. Told me I was pretty, my cat was awesome and that we totally should have won. Then he drove us home in the pouring rain, getting back around midnight. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtCkkSp4znBMgC5T92MQdl-Ck81VcRQVIwVItRgTTMOQTCNg62DfwtZ-Zk_NxIRAsW9OahPa5ZQx-rabVKAajY3KEfRr3V2n6jPn0M3dyQZ9YZ2DyGSiHLZ65Hdz8H7Iyny4jpFDMCbTS/w701-h524-no/1-071.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>We got home late. So tired!<br />(Haiku didn't go to the Expo, but I did get </i></div>
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<i>her a new bed there. She loves it.)</i></div>
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My husband is pretty fantastic. I couldn't ask for anyone better! I'm a very lucky girl. </div>
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Once again, we had a great time at Hershey Groom Expo! I hope that Sara and I were good ambassadors for cat grooming. For all the grumbles I have with the judging, it's absolutely something I knew going in, and did make the decision to compete anyway. Winning is wonderful, and I'd really like to get back on the podium someday, but competing is fun! Coming up with ideas and making them work is hard and interesting and frustrating and fun. All that fancy clipperwork makes me a better groomer, even for my regular ol' grooms. And it's fun being the only cat in a sea of dogs. I'm so lucky to have such a good cat, that can travel contently, wait around all day, doesn't mind loud noises (I think the music gets louder every year!), doesn't mind strangers petting her...actually, she loves competing! She loves having people come up and pet her, scratch her chin, tell her how pretty she is. She certainly doesn't mind being around all the dogs. Although she was really interested in the little Schnauzer. She really wanted to jump down and play with him. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHeEmGR6ohZ58X82KpIm_9eVkGEryOP2Uix1gVD_dC96ZXLM84-bRVI-9Bd4sBwxTG62Fa5GzFAw_Pr7QvN5ItcvXpfeXZW4jy7lF02sb3pbT98j52uO3OxH0napxdrbqMT_4FYC2TAvcK/w439-h587-no/1-068.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Hey, Sara...</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOnsvZMPf3W9SPkoFp0rALswueZinNhXPmg5iPCXWMkilZIFt56aPFQlJhCmOIPNCbK1BqaYKCCxvLzOANPY2NL48e9fmo1SHHV1Ryv_EuKYaZ-vNNZCVPWFrdnKfteo2B369v8LdwC7c/w439-h587-no/1-069.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Here's a tummy rub for being such a good cat.</i></div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaK4S0XewCLomiZvc57TrYKppwlH9YOS2j98FA4s-Ld5gsNSgtTDqNj_LhMeZjQW-J5mo2xS31qgo_Yu-2wKZPP5kI7iqNItcrATOYWLF-nO8BjjPcNtKGYnpWtkxky4Uka5n39rLYG_nW/w701-h524-no/1-070.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Sleep well, little cat. Thank you. </i></div>
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<i>I love you. </i></div>
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-19432801109690069652013-09-16T12:30:00.000-04:002013-09-16T12:30:25.692-04:00ChangesI'm going to take a break from my Feeling Hot series, which I think I'll repost and then actually <i>finish </i>next Spring.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_MAuwY-KXvutfyisr5Mr_cRvsxURK0csOhZklb1fX0gactaS3uperDir2jRSBYZcUoVlAwH-WjhR7XKWs8iJo7mWj5NHyo1bYlsrha-xInOsO4YtccUTNvpg5oAMX8Qa_xcAQndn-x6v/s500-no/download+%252815%2529.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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My local readers probably already know this, but I've left my job at AVC in Reisterstown. I'm ecstatic about this. While I met many, many wonderful kitties and their people, that job was destroying me, increasingly quickly. Having been free for almost a month, I can tell you I feel like a brand new person. </div>
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Unfortunately, I did leave behind an excellent cat grooming void. I believe AVC has someone grooming cats, but I know nothing about her or her skill. I can only recommend my friend and fellow CFMG, Anne Kennedy, as well as CFMG Betsy Spicer. You can go to the <a href="http://nationalcatgroomers.com/">NCGIA</a> website to get their information. (There's a bright yellow box on the right hand side of the page "Find a Groomer Near You".)</div>
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I do miss my old favorites and regulars already! Good luck and many purrs! </div>
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Last week I moved to Horsham, PA, to start a brand new position at <a href="http://robbyesgentlegroomers.com/">Robbye's Gentle Groomers</a>. Promptly got sick and have been limping along. Luckily I'm almost over this cold, just in time for Hershey Groom Expo! </div>
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I'll be sure to update soon and share my newest adventures. Now I think it's time for some more cold medicine and another nap! </div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-27814282418465105542013-08-12T12:09:00.000-04:002013-08-12T12:09:06.073-04:00Feelin' Hot, Hot, Hot! Part 2<div style="text-align: left;">
It occurred to me the other day that I should have named these posts FELINE Hot, Hot, Hot. Too bad I'm only witty in hindsight! Oh well. Let's get right to the cat grooming, shall we?</div>
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Probably the most iconic feline grooming style is the Lion Clip. The body is taken very short, leaving a mane, long legs and either the tail is left natural or clipped short, expect for a puff at the very end. Our little domestic kitties do look a little like little lions! It's a cute clip, although it can be shocking for the owner to see the first time. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUxG0CrCP2-8bTSqxgKrUhAX4lAkiFav77ERXhGcy9pL6JnGurc3F_clBtjc6xmI-fvFcN6uL0ugrGfjQ6h-nFYuH3-BFEYTllgsWIEWA0r2SyOrlOsXMCLHohUGaJeIjVoJKULBV_6aO/w438-h586-no/1-058.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Rwar!</i></div>
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As with most things, there are some distinct pros and cons to the Lion Clip. Lion Clips are an excellent no-to-low maintenance style. I recommend a regular schedule of every 12 weeks. If your cat gets greasy, flaky, itchy or just kinda funky, a good bath and blow dry in between is always encouraged. Since the coat is so short, an 'in between' bath is quick and often at a lower price, as there's just not nearly as much to wash and dry. (This may depend on your groomer, and be aware some do have minimum charges, especially housecall or mobile.) A Lion Clip can be done more frequently, it's entirely up to the owner and feline!</div>
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This style is the ultimate in keeping shedding to a minimum. Of course, the cat will continue to shed, but the hairs will be super short. </div>
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There are some cats that I believe don't like having a lot of hair. My own cat, Sara, is one. She hates having hair! And when it gets about 1/2 inch long, she will start pulling it out. She clearly is uncomfortable and annoyed. Even with regular baths to prevent mats, tangles, fleas and itchies, she just doesn't like the hair. When I clip her, she is like a whole new cat. She's super affectionate, incredibly playful, wants to interact, wants to hang out...actually, she gets pretty annoying! Many of my clients report the same change in behavior. Their kitties are suddenly wanting to be pet, wanting to be with them, wanting to cuddle. How great is that?!</div>
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<img height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHVO8GBWz8DcyKZoCiIxO2NnG2j1yN4z5NsR7YInwBI1pfauh7XSBGjI2POvpCRyiANFr2jwKyV5NBQLieNWzMRR8r0VYqRBDP1-nVpmzx1zxqZ5zm54Y1sPYYY4fNw2HTvFkGkVb52sE/w702-h394-no/1-DSCN1191.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Mischief LOVES her Lion Clip</i></div>
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<i>Her owner tells me for the first time in the 10+ years they've owned her </i></div>
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<i>she's friendly and affectionate</i></div>
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<i>To keep her new purrsonality, Mischief gets a clip every 8-10 weeks</i></div>
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Lion Clips are also an easy way to prevent mats. The shorter the hair, the less likely it is to tangle. It's not impossible, so pay attention to your cat! Short hair can mat, felt and pelt if the conditions are right. </div>
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If the matting has already gotten out of control, a Lion Clip is NECESSARY to remove it. After enough matting is in the coat, it becomes CRUEL and INHUMANE to try and comb them out. I capitalize these words, because they're important. Mats hurt. Removing them can hurt. It's not fair to cause a cat pain because of neglect. It's also not fair to cause even more pain because the owner "likes it fluffy" or doesn't want it clipped. </div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtcdpi3fbEwhMH_v-GrvlBgL8LoiUuuaotO49qLcQ8SGWH1-u1PQMyrxKIgpchA-AOcnM9pEvHqvX6IXdhuEtEKj2iW1UNPUdztXqGTaVhc06MsX6STmhS5w8hHyWddTxn6btmyt5ztIy/w701-h524-no/1-026.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>OUCH</i></div>
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<i>The only way to fix this is a Lion Clip!</i></div>
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<i>(See how pink and irritated the skin is? Ouch.</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wldKkCR3CSfqN3WCZCEKcjKPIa0DXM1aec3YKiGSQl6x-6h_Swb1an45ffByi4_mTfdWwczyPMVHgLri0r58MG2Eejose-tzh6Nt47iic2N7yC5hY3XYZB3rCphCQUxDpZsCgL0mlNF1/w439-h587-no/1-037.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>His fluff will grow back</i></div>
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<i>He's feeling a lot better, but you can still see how painful the matting was</i></div>
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For cats that have issues with hairballs, a Lion Clip is a good way to prevent them. Besides finding glops of hairy puke on your floor (bed, stairs, sofa...) or having to listen to a cat retch, hairballs can also do considerable internal damage. Sometimes it becomes necessary to remove lodged hairballs from the intestinal tract. This requires surgery and is expensive! If hairballs are a reoccurring problem, they can cause internal scarring, making it more likely for problems in the future. This is a scary, expensive road to go down, and can be avoided by a simple shave! </div>
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwn6BqLzqgUFFE7JOEhGvJq5LaBXc40RPaPI8Aaf6FfG6YChIYD57e9m6XpcybJTvP9mf1e7q33_PyQ1XtyV5cJpOxkrTeNHBtB94NLI2LVWY2u3puHHohRES9QdGLk-oi0jMLc5sMEM5y/w702-h502-no/1-059.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>No more hairballs for KC</i></div>
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And let's face it, Lion Clips can be <i>fun</i>! Some people simply like the look. And that's okay! I've read plenty of articles shaming people for wanting to have their kitties clipped. And I really don't understand it. I think your cat is your cat, and if you like it in a Lion Clip, more power to you! Enjoy your cat. </div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1v5CwDITz_OwWzQiycqVaKqA9bSvehrVt92H7ytyrpvCJMT4FHCkMoEOTZ1u2BX0Tn8TPRYNHONFU1vbr1UEwZpLuseP-sNDVHM6_AWbbQ-ecK-r1PjXZfDWtX_S96qAWV5pHqMh-nbKh/w701-h524-no/1-055.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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One way to add some flair is a fun tail design. Harry sports a ribbon tail. It takes a few extra minutes, but it looks really cool! I've found if an owner is unsure how they'll like the look, doing something special with the tail can change their minds. It distracts them from how different their cats looks and gives them something to focus on.</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE3MYN8_wn0vH2fILaGzp6vhwNZvZ4KZIfse5MA2EOPIssuJwkZXhad18tMEy1MPlsbInZeWXfWTU2UoUh2VTCbr8JBhYs4paLRgYE5eUtw7y43XUhBnwKVsw_tZ7Y-E6LreZNCWvfn8va/w470-h587-no/1-057.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Harry's snazzy Ribbon Tail</i></div>
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If your cat is inclined, and your groomer able, you can have some fun with your Lion Clip. Recently, I clipped an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elder_Sign">Elder Sign</a> onto Sara's back. Why? I guess I was feeling a little unsafe. It was quick and easy to do and fun to look at later. Especially a few days later when my husband had his gaming night. It's important to have a theme and stick with it!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagaGVwrKdphhvUehDl2PzXl6WuFvWWkDBZ9IXMBekUTtii6_VmmnTmbl674Z0c5G33iZXAMSUEqiRVdTwHPpUsCgwa0ynLZIPnX2ibrCJqhuvyRx-hBIhPPO3H4DhAZfmFkoSRkCYUpHC/w439-h587-no/1-009.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Elder Sign</i></div>
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<i>(just ignore the orange...leftovers from another creative clip)</i></div>
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Finally, there's heat and fleas. If your cat has a thick coat, even regular baths and comb outs might not be enough to keep him comfortable when it gets hot and humid. An indoor cat can benefit from a Lion Clip to help him stay cool in the summer. Harry (shown above) gets a Lion Clip each summer to beat the heat! </div>
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Sometimes a Lion Clip is recommended if fleas are a problem. The only real reason for this is that it makes it easier for the owner to see the fleas, which could otherwise hide in a long or thick coat. Fleas feed on your cat's blood, so clipping off their coat won't get rid of them. Fleas can happily live on a shaved cat. A Lion Clip will only make them more visible. If your kitty has fleas, consult with your vet and local CFMG for advice. A combination of medication, grooming, preventatives and major housecleaning are in order!</div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKEeBsdgfM4I7E6qSVFWXErRKTmMl4o-epKkHzr0ty9a5NC5nzSOFv-9fduTjSJLi34gMCOHW4aKi9HsD3WHUJjlC75Bl12sPoJ-nEwXaFrnTbc8ZwFZz82jG4lafOsSC-pjVFwmUhJG__/w701-h524-no/1-111.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Fleas...so many fleas!</i></div>
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<i>This has gotten a bit longer than expected, so I'll wrap up Lion Clips with some of the cons soon. </i></div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-21460017463603580332013-07-18T14:24:00.001-04:002013-07-18T14:39:23.754-04:00Feelin' Hot, Hot, Hot? Part 1Here in Maryland, as in most parts of the country, it's about a billion degrees. Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but the Weather Channel tells me that it's 93 degrees and 52% humidity and it <i>feels like</i> 103! Toasty!<br />
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<img height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0B6as0RQllz6HSULtjr8VQURuClHFbF6nW5BNpWFem1cZRih1zdESoGQgjaQN-fgWW9ACORk5s5LZ3dLko20SI37Pb0eBhWrKp_dV2JbeYrdplXF-ICkthDF77fy3rY_PRfZIiqIDrYt/w702-h439-no/1-005.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<i>A comb clip helps Hank stay cool as a cucumber and Hairball free.</i><br />
<i>Look at his smug kitty face, he knows it!</i><br />
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It's very important to make sure all living beings, cats, dogs, horses, humans, bunnies, etc, etc, etc, have access to live saving things like Shelter and Fresh Water. These hot days can easily take the lives of our beloved friends and family, no matter how many legs they have. Check out these tips from <span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.petfinder.com/dogs/dog-care/hot-weather-tips/">Pet Finder and the ASPCA</a>.</span><br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4qW5DkRDI6nV2X3hIeeow9DC22enXSE0gTd9m225REKtYAPxS0BpDAOHq-G9h6TqB1lk04OGurJUliOFEZIA9ckoq7GQEACvBG1oqiZEYI1kFIg31JputHIk74Yph-0__v5xBVgQhqKr/w439-h587-no/1-047.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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I'm blanking on this cat's name, but he's the perfect example for today's post. There are a variety of ways professional grooming can help keep your cat cool. Over the next week or so, I'm going to share with you 3 major ways to help keep your cat comfortable and happy during these hot summer days.<br />
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Let's start with the Comb Clip. Comb Clips are an all over haircut in which a skilled cat groomer can leave the hair up to about an inch all over. Think of it as a teddy clip, or kitten clip. This is perfect for someone that doesn't want to have their cat in full coat, but also doesn't want the "naked" look of a full Lion Clip. Most Comb Clips I do are about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch which tends to look the nicest. It's plush and fuzzy with little maintenance required.<br />
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Now, the one drawback of the Comb Clip is that it tends to live little lines in the coat, like corduroy. Because cats can not be scissored smooth like dogs, the groomer and owner need to accept that the coat will not immediately look perfectly smooth. Luckily, unlike dogs, with cats those lines soften in a week or so and everything smooths out quickly. As a perfectionist, this is hard for me to accept! I do my best to clip carefully and prevent those lines, but they happen. Depending on the coat type, a shorter or longer length will reduce lines, but it takes a bit of playing around to find the sweet spot. Hank, shown above sports a 3/4" Comb Clip year round.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPZ1tvVtVGnKl9kd0eAa1BLqKce16WaG8-3P6krwTA58_f5EF-1rJc7T4bPvUIdwP9eEiw1_M-F2WIoyN8S20vlKMjfN2RXKReAzs-Bp1DZEGwBDRJBZXE0iPwueny4GlRykWt5VBWw59/w439-h587-no/1-048.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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Back to our mystery cat, whom I think I'll nickname Tom. Tom has a super thick, plush coat. You can see he's got some dandruff plus a lot of loose, shedding hairs sitting on top. He's also toting around dead hair packed in his coat, among the live, healthy hair. Tom is HOT. Cat's need to have all that dead undercoat removed to keep their coat functioning as it should. Hair is an insulator, and helps cool the animal, but only if air can move freely. Not possible with packed or dead hair sitting there.<br />
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Tom is an indoor/outdoor cat. His owner is friends and neighbors with one of my regular clients, and finally decided to take the plunge and get him professionally groomed. (See how I can remember his story and talking with his owner, but can not remember his name? Frustrating!) She hoped it would help him stay cool and comfortable this summer.<br />
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3xu-B6GIA9ybuj1EMyFLpTXzlXIuiSge3RmKesGyqpVtFKveCCjfTgUHxxk8hq1KkjYWYUYdn_K4FRlFAjycx7ijSmS29mFba2mKSQT8olBSpqWuI3I8yD_RmesiYhiLbbFOeNpmHuRs/w701-h524-no/1-051.JPG" width="400" /><br />
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After his bath and blow dry, he's what we have. That dead coat has been combed out. Man, his coat is <i>plush</i>! This picture was hard to take, because Tom was loving his grooming! Middle aged cat, never groomed before, and he loved every minute of it!<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1WFcolQWXEwnGcwppxL0wLOuPC9b6WO8t970Vl5oDQ2fEcQsflYuYqvjbp-bkQqSv2i638ulldA0cuf8bO3MqZSe7-_LPoFX4HNayGOHcR8tWwrlmszFyEcp6LSbbs0RhYOUNQOSyVXA/w439-h587-no/1-049.JPG" width="298" /><br />
<i>He spent most of the time rubbing against me, purring and blinking happily at me. </i><br />
<i>What a wonderful cat! Such a pleasure to work with.</i><br />
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Gqoe-2bLxpnUrOmxZ_MjzVLxaDQoGtQkaABxiAPfOoEKlRTAmcj8ijo-xcYcYsxu4e4S_fJrCLXc_ujpS9rODwx_xbCVSbD_OpL7jusB70S4vdXyfZeIZUJZJitlgkGRgXOfkLxHfsfN/w701-h524-no/1-052.JPG" width="400" /><br />
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After his 3/4" clip. Doesn't he look just like a stuffed toy? I think this was the perfect length for him. It blended well with the shorter hair on his thighs and shoulders. Tom seemed pretty happy with his new look and his owner <i>loved </i>it. I even got a hug!<br />
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Now, besides the aesthetic appeal of the Comb Clip, the benefits are many. First, this is a much easier coat to maintain than a full, natural coat. That means minimal work at home, reducing the need means the owner and cat can enjoy their at home grooming sessions, rather than see them as a necessary struggle.<br />
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Secondly, this is the ideal clip for a cat that goes outside. A full coat easily tangles and mats. Plus it tends to catch every dead leaf, burrs, mulch, and other gross outdoor things. If objects do catch in a Comb Clip, they are much easier to remove.<br />
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The Comb Clip offers protection from the sun, preventing sunburn. Believe it or not, cats can sunburn! They can also get skin cancer. While there are pet sunscreens, they're not safe for cats, because they'll lick it and ingest it. Never use human sunscreen on kitties!<br />
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The Comb Clip allows the coat to function properly as an insulator, keeping kitty cool.<br />
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I wish I had gotten a few more pictures of Tom. He's a pretty cool cat and I really enjoyed grooming him. I know I'll see him again, and that makes me happy. I'll see if I can't look in my records and find his real name!<br />
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-22821824577827339652013-07-06T18:57:00.001-04:002013-07-06T18:57:24.958-04:00Who's The Kitty?<div style="text-align: center;">
I groom a lot of cats. I guess that's not really surprising to anyone, but it's true! I see lots of kitties throughout the year. Most of them I remember, if not by name, then at least by sight. But every once in awhile I'll go through my pictures and have no idea who I've taken a picture of! I came across a mystery cat today. </div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv83XLhVVI3YkviM2aOH61LV0e5_WYaSWD3i9eaaLsPXUyt7CA12TobQekUK2twbwVXu_nIhYJSut0zFKidK-Ww50cn4JxLvOm1deOSskS-TuqU0xU2E5YE4H8BRevOEAXcr3e8gZhRDY/w701-h524-no/1-028.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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I have no idea who this is. Clearly, we're growing out from a Lion Clip. </div>
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Maybe 3 months or so. </div>
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<img height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ORRjbxdQgdaXAnciWB-8COmHkZWycJjKpNsI-9fWDvJx_dCFYJ0rB0kbgCEUUqbv1Yg7xnbvE1edVc16ImZQnDAKdoey6a7ZysEvZiKQbA8M1jJ2nXw1gENo-fLoF0RJ0Djjsy0oK1-w/w701-h524-no/1-031.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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From dull and scruffy to sleek 'n shiny!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyK97GqSPKNpS-iyiRehOFTr1bjlWXp885rs_NPOWhYME_AjvCT6aj1g68o3TyfJUs4MQJ_X5HyggpS-Y2qnBi6zrrIjnlW9AlfaeV1lsamrJRtKWekzZu9jVr7nN7YqbbGWNqKwqY7paH/w439-h587-no/1-032.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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This picture was absolutely stunning on my phone. Too bad it's blurry at a more viewable size! If I squint real hard, it sharpens up. Do me a favor and squint really hard, it's worth it. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7QW_WDO9LQX9CEQ_e_g0WT8S5C1EGxKJy0RoZBz1bjOh40gBL7UkNlM6nUazkkS7-o_gv5NaJ4nCVqSl7eqbfmFPYsZg3bg3CGb1eIYRTNl_jABqbwMk8BpHHWF8vBIlreLIQj7um-EI/w439-h587-no/1-033.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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Mystery Cat Contemplates Life, Identity and Catnip: A Still Life. </div>
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Ah, I crack myself up. I hope you've enjoyed this mysterious little cat as much as I have! If this is your kitty, email me and let me know. I like knowing who I've gotten purrs and cuddles from!</div>
Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-68898267974800623622013-06-27T17:04:00.003-04:002013-06-27T17:04:47.118-04:00Hiatus Over<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxPhGIv5rdejrOgJWdJ6PdOlM-B-oNuh-LyAuaImk5epS9EnmRT0OaMVkF6DPXkjYPhrWt9FJRkf3PRFs1KmggmmCFGGLewO1mvEHesMe6U36f9QrZBIUDMLJtkNz2TbcxFCUK6gJF3ch/w438-h587-no/1-sara.jpg" /></div>
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Oh, hai there! </div>
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I haven't been around much. To be honest, I just didn't feel like it. So much going on, you know? I think I'm ready to come back and share more of those wonderful cats I groom. Stick around, I'll have a new post up within the week, and I hope to be able to start posting <i>every</i> week!</div>
Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-52386460849972453282013-05-31T13:37:00.000-04:002013-05-31T13:37:07.290-04:00Kindness<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRDzLWAVJ6JFiYDUe3q2i4m8EWfL28cu1796fHISEenG9Hl2bFuWDfDHm3GM_VyfpaL3QVxreuV6BVQtHI41Do2e3GS_1TtsyjNcyq8_xnlnaoaK-UYwi1Qct1JkGpWt4g_67fsUNt4nHd/s512/1-029.JPG" /></div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Plato</span></div>
Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-67433751773740215242013-05-17T10:05:00.001-04:002013-05-17T10:05:59.591-04:00Just Cat Faces<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdl_UaAXMTg9ZrWfV54hWMG7VIF-AtrBqgNx1gr5ReEpTm2vm5cRIOVeQ6rekO2UQrr8J6mvGQzK4qWo21-R1bhQa2m6030IgIm1EgYz2qE486vEZ601wvNY1t7uItAg-69YCPbusESqH/s400/1-011.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Have a great weekend!</div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-29259330247940864412013-05-03T12:37:00.000-04:002013-05-03T12:37:35.060-04:00And no one ever said "Scat, scat! Go 'way little cat" ever again.When I was a little girl I had an ancient book called <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5346805-scat-scat-a-cricket-book">"Scat, Scat" by Sally R. Francis</a>. By ancient, I mean the copywrite is 1936...and I had to convert that from Roman numerals. (Goodreads shows a different book than what I have.) I still have the book and pulled it out just to write this. Anyway, the reason I mention all that is because yesterday I groomed a cat named Scat, and I always think of this book. And there's a story. I mean, there's <i>always </i>a story, right?<br />
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Last week this guy calls me and leaves this message: The cat where I work needs to be groomed. It lays on my desk and sheds. It gets cat hair and cat grease and dander all over my papers. It's really gross. I need you to fix it, <i>I'll even pay you.</i> (emphasis mine)<br />
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Ok, so that guy was my husband, who clearly has <i>no idea</i> how our JOINT bank account works (it's mine, all mine, bwhahahahaha!) but obviously, the man was desperate to have his desk cat groomed. I agreed, since that's the kind of person I am.<br />
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<i>Meet Scat! She's an older Domestic Shorthair.</i></div>
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<i>I've known her since she was a stray kitten living on a small mule farm where we occasionally mule-sat. </i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8IUGosTr31mLh1OqFn0YfVd_4fnYf0wTEtm0ooSnDkHqx_yX1BojKxqu3zzLmuTopGzvkN8oFGTqFLJeaq5ehv75SXNM19nNx09kJu2KJ39pbAEKd-BCjZcsxR0SIKWASu4_q1b7hbpv/s400/1-012.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Greasy. Shedding. Look at all that already-shed hair just sitting on her!</i></div>
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<i>Yup, she needs me.</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYM1NbETAc1lW754n7K4PagzoDtY181g6Wx1_1Pt1W6l6xfHu5ERiuU0xBwR-6UsTKPlvirZjrHlT6ZKz0_yyIi5TmyG0b8DwZQY4xiXkrjkZpaqvlTE9BuZoyyKka-STPuXmxMHUpFd2C/s400/1-015.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>When I picked her up, I was told that "Scat doesn't need to be groomed.</i></div>
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<i>If she's shedding, WE can comb her." Then I was warned that Scat wasn't a sweet little kitty that would just lie there and let me do stuff to her. She'd probably scratch me, bite me and burn down my house. Or something to that effect. </i></div>
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<i>Scat was a little nervous, so I started just by combing and letting her get used to me.</i></div>
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<i>She had so much come out, I could have made another cat! </i></div>
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<i>So I did. </i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGBx3Kbm90C6JN0BBiM9nbZMDhn8UkgLFrgKzm9wQosMowutZZ0-rTtM6UCECODAnrH9S-EMvw8pk9U7KbPiivqG3TG9Iq07VJg9uT56LsyF7AGY-MJOtoM3hQR27Q2uF0SKeJQTR5wbA-/s400/1-017.JPG" width="285" /></div>
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<i>Then Scat Cat got a bath. No panic, no fuss, just bubbles and suds.</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1MNhWRWFa5M8lNIZ-urqwOV1Pd86tJem287gLDHgG-Y92meeENMDyTTxz-oajx_4_13A33JzvXyfZoQgLKAlxMwwwg7xvoOfuCLUe_YMd4PDvh8Fa7WZhYp7BIiarME6c_Htwfd2ctZt/s400/1-019.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Since I wasn't at "work" where my Catty Shack Vac is, I decided to place her inside my cloth and mesh carrier to try and contain some of the hair. I got this idea from another great Canadian CFMG, <a href="http://www.westcoastsassycats.com/West_Coast_Sassy_Cats/Welcome.html">Sally Staples</a> of West Coast Sassy Cats. Thanks, Sally!</i></div>
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<i>Once most of the hair had blown out and I knew Scat was comfortable being hand dried, I took her out and let her cuddle on my lap to finish drying.</i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbl1ESqZoCjoDzmjXN19V_iH4OUKh_c9XXdUSZ-hoc2GxPHBhuVBxxKpetb6zsVsX7GR_6hJoNG0PPOFjmy9p9cUc5laOaKf1xqOAXs-DP5UnIQ9SLe45rRjoTvk2HSstGsgMElfQRtsn/s400/1-020.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Then I combed her out some more. This is about 3/4 of all coat I removed from Scat both before and after her bath. Not shown is the hair removed during bathtime or blown out during drying. </i></div>
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<i>If I had more room, I would have done something with the other pile of hair.<br />(The table shown is 30"x 32")</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvJEv3woOh6WSCDI1cdsvln9nIZI5mhIToPV_UXuJ1c4DEkQ7HhE7nrDT1eft9D_-yUFZ28asYoBWgJHYYP0PxZMq9hBLyik6pO7GFlCDjfEoEprCrr8JTeAPTTPi5Mx4hRzv9Nv_iKub/s400/1-021.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>"Hey, this used to be ON me."</i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKj4l9oj3mEmEnq2F8Kv_XXtUUmboUyMMCfAVKpAzb8Xh3Va-7EZ8IOjfUiJeI-Ko2YkHL7RZhE0Grjtvg-ONEub4B-oFsaLH8nVZDAhzbSYFq_aR2OIamasX75SRlCtdwl6hy1ReonkHF/s400/1-022.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>"Now it's not..."</i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MJpX_eAq-dw/UYPcW_MK7oI/AAAAAAAAAes/uSZgkMeFkzo/s400/1-025.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>"This is MINE"</i></div>
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<i>Cats are so weird. </i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQ7wl8UALlfA0hdk-1WNnSgODJlkLtQc7qZmmk4PL0L2yJdtusyZiqf7J-jacUU-FEwjGbww45GARxQtMdHCbat_1ecuHMhXy_DaCXdf-m5l6jsfkB49G_zauyejwj_IM3flgoyuL81X1/s400/1-030.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>"Don't judge me. I saw what you did with that hair!"</i></div>
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<i>She might look a little grumpy, but mostly she was just tired </i></div>
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<i>of me trying to get her attention for pictures.</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2xWNR4iab6fNWUBvffrW7OAIPl1pMhsFZUtg0JqarZTs6Ct8m0Dxg5-BV5-Uab4wrjB3Qcob6cft7NUffVc0CaNE4WwRizNmkoAe8j-Guwk1UTYJ1pF68W1DGR3CMLrgmxmftmX6dc3X/s400/1-031.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Look at how nice and shiny! No more loose, dead hair just floating on top.</i></div>
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<i>Now she can go back to hanging out on the husband's desk. He's a cat snob and truly enjoys a well groomed cat. (I've created a monster!)</i></div>
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Despite all the warnings, Scat didn't once panic, scratch, bite or try to rip my face off. She wasn't scared or stressed out at all. She enjoyed snuggling with me while I worked and purred and purred. Husband tells me she was very happy to be home and purred loud, lazy happy-cat purrs. </div>
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This was the first time Scat had ever been groomed. She must be...8, 9 years old? She was wonderful and enjoyed her kitty spa day. Typically, I've found that older cats do just as well for first time grooms as younger cats. Sometimes better, since they had more experience with different situations. I know there are groomers out there (and at least one national chain) that will not take first time cats over 2 years old. Now, that might be a good idea for them, but it's simply <i>not</i> true for groomers that specialize in cats, like say, Certified Feline Master Groomers. If you have an older cat that's been turned away before, don't worry! Find a CFMG. Have a happy, clean cat!</div>
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<i><br /></i>Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-61845193359608894932013-04-26T16:56:00.001-04:002013-04-26T16:56:25.149-04:00An Apology<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so, so sorry to all of my wonderful clients whom I've deprived of the joy of celebrating National Hairball Day. </div>
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Because I...</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-mBpPboTSHIU/Tx6vzbEpmdI/AAAAAAAABc4/Pav090QA7ko/s400/DSCN0997.JPG" width="247" /></div>
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<b>Bathe</b></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lB9JGmDhapJ5dpyxmn08GATqgpwTVlcQ6TZI3ROiimt26bEjepDGD63DvJ77LK19rfs7od0uiA8CXRsiXqsH_ACAuMkJwwx-Hp576TXipWn6CB51mb1WBmfYzZjQmPgUdFeE2JrLK6ai/s400/1-005.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<b>blow dry</b></div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9sPUXUp0lvM/TzgtlQor8wI/AAAAAAAABxQ/tIGplsbZ-HU/s400/DSCN1042.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<b>comb</b></div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-U4k-TnuLqg4/TmpvWam8QkI/AAAAAAAABDE/qNBOow5fuHQ/s400/DSCN0859.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<b>clip</b></div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HHLtnhLb2ug/TsgbHuDbHuI/AAAAAAAABQ8/JUeOq8ZZX2k/s400/DSCN0906.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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and/or <b>deshed</b></div>
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your kitties, I've caused them to no longer hack up huge wads of hair all over your house all the time.</div>
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While 364 days of the year I'm sure this is a great thing, <i>this one day</i>, this scared day set aside to celebrate clods of regurgitated fuzz, food, spit and stomach acid...well, I know you mourn this loss. </div>
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I guess you celebrate this with...cake?</div>
Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-70963086226792675562013-04-19T20:03:00.000-04:002013-04-19T20:03:13.262-04:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Finical Feline extends our love and hope to all those effected by the tragedies of this week. </i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TxS5GARoPuemDu3XmezgmuwnJwTO8ri6jcDZMxthl-O7rHufq7i7dm9_8asMWP8lU8zbepgTe1N6iT67F9sB2lkMdw1jXac2L3YzWELPm0Ai85OX96c15pvW64V9QIyP5izHolpomMh7/s400/1-002.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>"There is sweetness in life. Even after all of this, I will help you look for it. If you will try."</i></div>
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<i>-Selitos, </i>The Name of the Wind</div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-29859914491390405202013-04-12T12:50:00.000-04:002013-04-12T12:50:04.529-04:00Two, Two, Two Times the Fun! (Part 3)<div style="text-align: center;">
For my final pair of Fun Kitties, I bring you Mosby and Jasmine. I've been grooming them for a couple years, and I love them to pieces!</div>
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Mosby is a Blue Domestic Shorthair. With <i>fabulous</i> yellow-green eyes!</div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-x_-jObmYOtU/Tx6teD7jhDI/AAAAAAAABcI/ARXmFdwj-Z0/s400/DSCN0976.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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He's a sweetie. Although he was feeling rather feisty the day I took these photos and looks kinda sinister. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_tK7BwzIc-E/Tx6tkpoz5OI/AAAAAAAABcM/ApjI4IyYDGo/s400/DSCN0978.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Hahaha! It cracks me up, I love these pictures! Mosby is actually very friendly and easy to work with. As is his "sister" Jasmine. She's just lovely.</div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RwC5Kz_5GW0/Tx6uAibUO9I/AAAAAAAABcU/mHHxfxKOI0A/s400/DSCN0981.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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She has the plushest coat you can imagine. So soft. Very dense. She comes in for a regular deshedding treatment and it really pays off. Other than her big Spring and Fall seasonal sheds (where I pull TONS of loose undercoat out!) her shedding has really decreased. Because she has so much undercoat, she comes in more often than Mosby. He's got a nice slick coat with very little extra puff underneath. </div>
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<img height="225" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LgJSnqvjoxA/Tx6tnw_ZjbI/AAAAAAAABcQ/lgIRorH_Kwg/s400/DSCN0979.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Jasmine doesn't <i>love</i> her special spa days, but she does enjoy being held and cuddled. When I work with Jaz I try and cradle her as much as possible. I hold her in my lap while I dry her, when I'm combing or deshedding I wrap my arm around her. Giving her lots of physical contact makes her feel safer and helps her enjoy her grooming. And of course, I let them snuggle up together when they're all done!</div>
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<img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vQ1n6V65Xkw/Tx6uIkTGqTI/AAAAAAAABcY/dagT7L_T-S0/s400/DSCN0984.JPG" /></div>
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I started grooming their 'big brother' Hank right after I become a CFMG more than 3 years ago. After about a year of regular, every 8 week appointments, his owners decided they wanted their other two kitties to look, feel and smell as good as Hank. I love all three of these cats. They're sweet, gentle and have a little bit of spunk that just makes them fun. Plus their owners love their cats! I always enjoy when any of these kitties come in. I know it's going to be a good day!</div>
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<img height="300" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r6H7sORF3cM/TbmpbGCqfwI/AAAAAAAAAGI/iAmc0Thd_pA/s400/DSCN0343.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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I hoped you've enjoyed meeting some of my favorite pairs of cats! </div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-83407813670640947392013-04-05T18:23:00.000-04:002013-04-05T18:23:16.778-04:00Two, Two, Two Times the Fun (Part 2)Last year I had a "May" on my schedule. They showed up late, holding a big ol' Maine Coon and the first thing he said was "Don't shave my cat." My internal monologue? "Ugh." A quick check told me that while she was dirty, greasy and had some mats, I would not need to clip her down. Her owner agreed to a belly clip which would remove the worst of the mats without having to go Full Lion Clip. A happy, shiny, mat free cat left a few hours later. I told her owner she would need regular grooming at least every 6-8 weeks to maintain her now lovely coat and prevent the nastiness she came in with. I remember thinking, "If I ever see her again, it's going to be in a year or two and she'll be in exactly the same condition."<br />
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Well, a week or two later April came to see me. Another big ol' Maine Coon. The woman told me they were so happy with how May looked, that they had to have April done as well. She warned me that April was nervous and had been given some Elavil (vet prescribed) to make her not stress so much. April didn't have near the greasiness or matting that sister May did, and she went home happily sporting just a sanitary clip.<br />
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And despite my cynical thoughts, April and May now come to see me on a regular basis, every 8 weeks. Shame on me for doubting!<br />
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq8nMFFVzD1AzHddzt3GIIYjoLv3oojJh3qSC2YbD9uxeLjTVe3Q0nSHA0v9cs-Az9MDi3qBKEvRnpBkvkMGdkpWBKi_k2r6n_HYzX1dSpeSS5pbwP3LRIj8e99x1falyjP5w2KdlTi_Kf/s400/1-007.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Even though she's a little grungy, May comes in tangle free and looking pretty good. A little greasy, but not too bad.</i></div>
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1z9yCV8ZOgjduLfP1xfhkJ6XAhT1ZXsX-Ao5RChZv2RlDddAahl8EGT9BrWw_MLcJMjX6DEiEUUB1ycTVFNoqrbtPe4ZCUlfr0RppAUym5I8Gb3ayO2hOHP3AQrbjgmYCL1BQFMUqyuzk/s400/1-015.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>She leaves looking much prettier. Look how shiny and silky!</i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSk61W_1Ho1mOeIMCoEO_QpOfmH7rYt8YhQXbAXAZu4L8MmojqoDo6MLE2gcPlPK3iXrU5TWDyDXqDGXaMa7ZYSi7BGL4JzzOD3k3_Et-3lt2HVA-vJ4q64Pak_F-I-UmVHaNRzAPyhAo/s400/1-013.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>May LOVES being groomed. All I have to do is gently push her and she lays right down and lets me clip her belly. </i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPLWp4A1DYAjy0dXbqxIOZz1tBjU3KRN30uAtqSlghhelXGu6k6W0OFEo7IsoiAefc4VZosPkBapqm-Akpo6VcyajWzYHxwNV9no6rZXQ7SeD_kkeXfw9ZXiMFzFIzwI4Ptv1DXUkaq6W/s400/1-012.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>She'll lay quietly until I ask her to get up or roll over so I can clip the other side. </i></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnJKgUrqOfu3DzeSdoiBAmURMx3CdOJg2JK1vBr9S5vJY4G6gbIYXBH5cmt8mnxgZdj-vWAAXtG_1xXTNRFuUY9KKTzy2OamNOXb9IFgTE6YYBNwrLt1XBHNgkHjAGlymMUBbq3s73hW8/s400/1-016.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>April is also excellent for her grooming. She no longer shows any sign of being worried (or takes any meds prior to her appointment) and is just as agreeable as May. </i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DA7Jj8H9zPE/UOiJF_kV6zI/AAAAAAAACb8/GVpZ0qrglbw/s400/128.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>She likes to stretch out on her side and doze off. If I stop what I'm doing, say to take a picture, she'll sit up and look at me like, "what's the hold up? Keep combing!"</i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7VeZo_KaZNA/UEZCVFFSY_I/AAAAAAAACSA/KjFVnzxVFjY/s400/DSCN1441.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Gorgeous. </i></div>
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I'm so happy these girls are regulars! I love coming in and grooming such striking, well behaved cats. The icing on the cake is that their owners truly love them. I can tell by how they talk about their cats. No, there's not lovey dovey kitty coo baby talk, but there's affectionate teasing, funny stories and that smile when they look at their cats. They ask questions about their health, and follow through on the recommendations.<br />
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April and May's owner tells me that since they've begun their regular "Kitty Spa Days" with me, the girls shed less, so she doesn't need to vacuum as often. Also, her allergies have lessened. Plus she doesn't mind them sleeping on her bed, since their sanitary clips keep them nice and tidy. Hmmm...less housework, less severe allergies and cleaner pillows? Sounds like Kitty Spa Day really works for them!Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-72045003035110939952013-03-28T15:56:00.002-04:002013-03-28T15:56:19.509-04:00Two, Two, Two Times the Fun! (Part 1)<div style="text-align: center;">
I was going to write just one post about two pairs of cats that I groom. I love them to pieces! But then I was watching some <a href="http://www.hubworld.com/my-little-pony/shows/friendship-is-magic">MLP: FiM</a> and kept thinking of Pinkie Pie exclaiming that twin baby ponies were two, two, two times the fun! And I realized I would need to find a third pair. Since I need to think on that, I'm splitting it into three posts. </div>
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Ah, now that the long, probably unnecessary intro is over, please meet some of my favorite kitties, Goldie and Zushia, a beautiful pair of Siberian Cats. </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3V61OrmZ8jHghzJjrczvrxz1qnmWVS3XIBcUW8l9QSHtydFg-QNYtw05v7R42hdz9TKgOKN0PWH-GwoMsLz8YLBc_9k4yRBPNCrKE6P5LHKxkHY8CKMqaP1yj7hOT16WgJRbQvUSBp7m/s400/1-057.JPG" width="285" /></div>
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<i>No. Gonna hide in the CORNER. </i></div>
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<img height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmBKh8SxXS7kcgWhpORAh4_uVbO-rzevt9QGq5KziwAicnNXM4qwvq_DSl_vXWRCjylzWYTxJyO4U7tfkjWVFjr1DsUyjLdrOrkCGA3M5lRU6TXdRoLp3Nu0JPNaEKJ7NE1PO5mZEsxx2/s400/1-056.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Awww, hi Zushia! I love your hour glass facial markings.</i></div>
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I love Siberians, and I was over the moon excited when I saw two pop up on my schedule. I groom these ladies when they board. Luckily, they stay with us on a pretty regular basis, so I groom them about every other month. Unlike some kitties that are in desperate need of a professional grooming, Goldie and Zu have always been pretty tidy kitties. Of course, they look exquisite now that they get the special Beth Rex touch! </div>
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Hmmm...'Beth Rex touch". I don't think I'm going to keep that as a catch phrase. It's kinda weird. Forget I said anything! Let me distract you with Goldie.</div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RoRi30Kix04eity34A7aBceNdEJeRFrnqrz1qQs9v-dnMsYXIZlhWR34iW9zDhAJf2nrSE-HnFr1Eu-SyzdswAO_4qjrfKfpuqlFS5-Ocl9h72kKbNjXYU1zetzoyD9d_jQjq0Hn6XSZ/s400/1-052.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>No!</i></div>
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Aw, what's with you girls? Not in a picture taking mood?</div>
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<img height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyijfgbBCCm59Ow3F4n1vu8Ix7Mr5u632m4JQcL6HLzIOGGcUdUjO5ipgZIk8TEprqOGNcrPZ18pFblBy9TfmuFjCe9thrfdOi-XbdeejmDABWxVYm1ZNIwtJc4tQwnBsW5OIyqc6adfD/s400/1-054.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Maybe I'm grumpy!</i></div>
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Ha! No, you're not. Neither of you are! Goldie and Zushia are little love bugs. Sometimes they get a little nervous, but in general they love being groomed. Actually, they <i>love </i>being dried. They stretch out and purr and air knead their little paws. Well, their paws are pretty big, but trust me, it's cute!</div>
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<img height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6yrxiRQKPUwlrnAVQ6dMPOFCeFvGyYIkxEgrpX7vbex4U1Gc7BhEZY0SH4j8aar339MxQh0f8VtYvGt9vzrXmbes6McjhhhsCSij-7UnwX8LKQTXYceRSzQEm-MRGHOVe7bH0mOHNK1a/s400/1-055.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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I love these two! They're a lot alike in so many ways, yet, in many ways they're not. I would love to know what they're like at home, I bet they're fun. Zushia often looks a little concerned, but Goldie usually has a lovely, soft expression on her face. Except when I start taking pictures. Maybe next time I'll get their true expressions. </div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHmE9st3f7j53khkwoWPmYoA2FXijQk1eKydOEbFUpEhVa686p4XDElIgOcu1f7nHBpd4WL8XQTnDZo6jRHikkSzk2_H3tAwPYjFPdOPAWJCE8jgdMfuFOkA8dQCOkSSFFG3T4xZFkjMb/s400/1-053.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>I doubt it!</i></div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-12533885761932135772013-03-22T13:15:00.000-04:002013-03-22T13:15:41.189-04:00Three Black Cats<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJY8vUsBtfqldcrfltbgcKGzSu5qXUOLo9_x741C825NIMbCQ4K5Azr8MXJJeOHDVf83CIa_gG8NcdFgTdgYGNEJF9FKjSify2tqRoJDkPRaa9-E3lpecK9AYh1e4FmI7pt-KFbG5qHybP/s400/1-010.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Meet Star. She's an older kitty and has never been professionally groomed before.</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8Z9X8ilo144bU8b6nuk3BX7JpCtWai1E3FeCeGQfW6Z6jlEeOVUCyeOaw78V82XYEqzfJcywnD4ogZA6dMM45dQjoYDdSUeC9zbkTnlf1LMTNik0E7Q_CQlw4rtCUjh3YZpbce7Oqq6o/s400/1-011.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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Yuck! People keep saying that cats groom themselves, but you guys, <i>they are SO BAD </i>at it!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERSmH0OZnx7MzRzrIMUtahLUfHYlCnH5pWilpHbxGX17e1Cf_8pTXxXDMINAdCfOvKvZIoQe5OI-mNNjjMwZY_3i_gWWrpBIqzXU5XkpgIMHrRTu9vDeR8_DACaeC098gmYKVlBN0bPVy/s400/1-017.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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I promise you this is the same cat. Same day. Actually, these pictures were taken only 2 hours apart. It's not magic, just some hard work and know how. </div>
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<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityJiAjjA2VEsciBHhUwoGTVwyBPrDMP0O8ZZ-SKPdb2k17fFWO0ep5r9NYetLiDyQZ2MvfzvpvkChsPN8atoY1ZN9tHXX4yW5Bf-B1iYltc50bQjhCha_sMNZqZY_JBIWyeQP3cYeFf0E/s400/1-018.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Star thought the whole thing was a little scary, but not too bad. Her owners warned me ahead of time that Starlight tends to be easily frightened, and I know they were apprehensive about having her groomed. Since I've groomed their other kitty, they know they could trust me to take care of their little scaredy cat. I was happy to report to them that Star did wonderfully for her grooming. Very brave! </div>
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Next up: Francis! It's been almost 3 months since I last saw her. She's a little grungy, a little flakey and dandruffy, but don't worry. I'll fix it! (Sorry, folks. No 'before' photo of Francis. Just trust me, she was ready for some grooming!)</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifsrWLOY9OeZEKc2OyLL5cclfwnctQ320tBxW_XYHKotVd7QkFssz6dv2MaDgNa9U-I9AsHQ9PXr8sw2U7nXi3Qu8EY8wZip3H4UKhR6j8B1nK0CTlx-l4V4qJWP6eUO0w3zZ2sE9StKmt/s400/1-038.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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Stunning. Don't you wish <i>your </i>cat looked this good?! Don't you wish you could pick her and snuggle her? I do! But I won't. I'll tell you why...</div>
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<img height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXG8V98CRdBxbwWDvtk3FmXbKWe4VPi22GrU7dXoWErLwQ6hjwv8DvkXpbRaPP2092BmvUYQAb4I_3IyVCf-pgc5tayynixsTDwWAAl8D91SdAP0lc0NB11DVjvSI_YRFAVYgfuKSq-hy/s400/1-040.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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Francis doesn't especially like me. That's ok. Sometimes that happens. I like Francis, though. And I love making her look so good! She loves her family, they love her, and <i>that </i>is good enough for me.</div>
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvG3P1vnxGa9k7QfGmTzHyj5xx36SVtXOlXy7EjtyX-uKn5vUWORglNTPL1OEqfktE4Kml7m58eWur0HvXpFGL-ai9yp3eh8AB_Jnrkmmb-leJNZZwDoemgZC7Wt1aGyrs3uO4WZYBFRrP/s400/1-sara2.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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Finally, my cat. Just sleeping in her usual sleeping position. This cat is so weird! </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxPhGIv5rdejrOgJWdJ6PdOlM-B-oNuh-LyAuaImk5epS9EnmRT0OaMVkF6DPXkjYPhrWt9FJRkf3PRFs1KmggmmCFGGLewO1mvEHesMe6U36f9QrZBIUDMLJtkNz2TbcxFCUK6gJF3ch/s400/1-sara.jpg" width="298" /></div>
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I love her! </div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-46849801351832420922013-03-07T09:10:00.000-05:002013-03-07T09:10:17.003-05:00Oh Noes! Extra Toes!<div style="text-align: center;">
Being a cat groomer, there are certain things I expect. For instance, when I open a cat carrier, I expect to see a cat.</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihM4A2qH6whhwHOHP-ZNsLUk-zVRy8nSTVkAb05BFCT0_RSnfvlyJLbZRYXTGnwe9-xJA_cka2R4yp_XwFWweW1EYX673yNMCwahTaz3K7hrRap2cj53oB97gtKyYSM9vnVUDUOBJnhhhL/s400/1-006.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>Hi Dobby!</i></div>
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That's what I expect to see when I open a carrier. So you can imagine my confusion when I opened a carrier and saw this:</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzIfhwTlxHIvPia7o3adkuRUTclAsaKptMYDJlk7Z_Pf9ALPtM7lYBvGnTjmbptybVyK0hRJ86U2YVW7ddSrkGbENLCeMNPA6k8iCUSmtwlzwdJzjvoZBOdiqfLEZQ4rktJOOAhb-nzY3/s400/1-004.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>ummmm...</i></div>
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It barely seemed to weigh anything, so I began to wonder if there was actually a cat in there...</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirk19askJnTIxlmmybl2k893UgXgOlLzsR_XWtPwlH1iNdTpusz6rrl_0Vh_fxFWSEDGypZEnEkgcyteA7OLIc3T6UbFFHil98jOeEFh6pXLXzfK36o4aa6haoh20mUNT5tuhZEo4_wAOF/s400/1-005.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>oh...you found me...</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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This little cutie was around 6 months old. I've groomed her 'big sis', Dobby, a few times before. I cannot remember this kitten's name for love or money. It makes me sad, she's really cute!</div>
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She and Dobby are both Domestic Shorthairs and both get Full Coat Grooms, which is a bath, blow dry, nail trim, ears wiped and comb out. Dobby also gets a little mini deshed.</div>
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdl_UaAXMTg9ZrWfV54hWMG7VIF-AtrBqgNx1gr5ReEpTm2vm5cRIOVeQ6rekO2UQrr8J6mvGQzK4qWo21-R1bhQa2m6030IgIm1EgYz2qE486vEZ601wvNY1t7uItAg-69YCPbusESqH/s400/1-011.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Dobby is a striking feline to be sure!</i></div>
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While Dobby is a regular DSH, I noticed something interesting about her new friend. Let me show you!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7UpoODMw-Ay0bts0naWp554iRbBq_aa4_8-HTN0VyfrByxyNl-dN1MLdkrcFx3Vucx5CAKDESSGlEgDNOfxT9TY05tAHx8ql8lI56XVlI3LTXjy-GOj29bW3LqvAPtPjhYMsqFGmBJXI/s400/1-010.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">SO</span></b></i></div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAiB6Go-LPf_WTG2KShUS6Z_8Tz4lJWHyhk3e8oFSo2R3nP2s5HqbhxV21OI7YSQmANugXSHktViFZkBILLVDaO_Uffv1uBSV0-3iCIWvF_Qfvp2e_-8JYXtQcfQPXjS17AZozc4OIFyNU/s400/1-009.JPG" width="319" /></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">MANY</span></b></i></div>
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KUGlXngcXemnEVy_J4SCwk_N07k15Ddbcfdj-AynlZz-0jCZ76EqVKqCzZ6l8Gt_EAZMyCn_UbzNkTbQOxZDfQvRJssp3gq7beQS79KhUcb7N-9-iyf6Mf2cEsj-N2TJDtAK_zuK0iuO/s400/1-007.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">EXTRA TOES</span></b></i></div>
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How cool is that? She's a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydactyl_cat">polydactal</a>! Which simply means she has a genetic defect that causes extra toes. Polys do require extra attention, the nails on the extra toes tend to grow and grow until they grow <i>into</i> the pad. Ouch! I recommend <i>weekly </i>paw checks and trimming as needed. Talk with your favorite veterinarian or Certified Feline Master Groomer for tips on how to do this safely and easily. Other than that, polys are just regular ol' cats. Of course, many people might recognize them as the favorite of author Ernest Hemingway, which gives them their nickname of Hemingway's Cats. In fact, the <a href="http://www.hemingwayhome.com/cats/">Hemingway House</a> in Key West still has a healthy population of polydactal cats. If you check out the linked website, please ignore the statement:</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdf7e9; color: #6c4706; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdf7e9; color: #6c4706; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><i>The polydactyl cats are not a particular breed. The trait can appear in any breed, Calicos, Tabbies, Tortoise Shell. White, Black, etc. They vary in shapes, sizes, colors and personalities.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdf7e9; color: #6c4706; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Those are colors, not breeds! *facepalm* The Hemingway cats look to all be Domestic Shorthairs, in a variety of colors, as DSHs tend to be. </span></div>
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-lJa3s0hzQchpbx66CWVibf3hnEHY-dqd8y7Zv2yQb3PavAmf3PGyqqYp53Hfu63wGF4WF_8SxKljShEQMVD7WuFkIruqFUlAiYO21OFmtDBjVceYxkG30b_6vZrW3vSMs3CG5ubZZSK/s400/1-008.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Seriously, how cute is this kitten!</i></div>
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I'm happy to report that this little girl is just as lovely in nature as her big sister, Dobby. I can't wait until their next visit. I love extra toes!</div>
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<br />Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-66484721177544612092013-02-28T15:56:00.000-05:002013-02-28T15:56:38.569-05:00Being Flexible Recently my Tuesday grooming days have been slow. So when I called bright and early to hear the dreaded "only one cat, it's a new client", I was apprehensive. Now, most of my new clients do come in (on time!) for their first appointments, which fills me with happiness. When I first started at Advanced, that was definitely <i>NOT</i> the case. But still...I didn't really want to drive all the way to Reisterstown for a no show.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTcJyOWJgB8ZmbC2gF5A1V-WqZl8GHkC9q-95cC34480lKvtC-lVP3kRBUZWhMN9BfPLYaUJfk8vOR97Dvmi97esM4PLVt8XHJ6nOwZC5qiau2EiGx8U9dSMKeXG9QgzhqSwkGqNaPoU8/s400/1-004.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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By the time I got in, this little cutie had snuck in and was already waiting for me. I was delighted with her. Look at that cute little face! So shy and sweet. The notes said "can shave if necessary", which to me means, "owner really doesn't want the cat shaved, but acknowledges said cat is matted and probably <i>needs</i> to be shaved".<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIUxvVQG5G5NxcSGri1UrgHl1mP-T7nUPZH2XioiXomFtaf9009P8-FBGmO2kOSwLEKi1xwEK7AUKjaNo066BOLv70_TbBi9EpntxKnKv09bTixbzrss2qvKCihdqJg7M-7JHTQACdJWS/s400/1-002.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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Oh my. That's a mess. And many groomers would choose to shave this cat. Very few would attempt to remove the mats. Fewer would be able to do it without stressing or causing some discomfort. And few would be able to finish with a good looking cat - most likely, Zoey would end up looking like she had a run in with a weed whacker! So yes, clipping her down would be the best choice for many a groomer.<br />
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On the other paw, I'm a Certified Feline Master Groomer (among other things) and I have the training, equipment and experience to turn this scary little Ragdoll into a sleek, stylish feline. No pain, no stress, no weed whacking!<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OEKUwE9rl25komEkk2Ze3VQMgh-TF2cEP-4Xf6pvhgEpSERNPQzBySLU34HL8ZOge7l_0ukgBpalIarliwU1LX5P8HzvE4FQ-6mF_HpyChHmI26GUcVQna4SM99l1wnuoWT30wFOVBeS/s400/1-003.JPG" width="298" /><br />
<i>Being shy, Zoey brought some friends with her for moral support</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Zoey handled her pregrooming exam well. I petted her, ruffled through her coat, trimmed her nails and generally got her used to me touching her and talking to her. When cats are shy or scared, like Zoey, I like to take some extra time to help them get used to me.<br />
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I put her in the tub and started getting her nice and lathered up. Brushing dirty hair is a fantastic way to damage the hair and invite further matting. Dirt is abrasive! Damaged hair will snag against other damaged hair (or itself, I imagine) and tangle that much faster. I can hear the screaming now "BUT GETTING MATS WET WILL MAKE THEM WORSE!!!!!" Yes. Yes it can. But with the correct tools and techniques, it doesn't have to. With the right know how, it makes it easier to remove mats.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Do not try this at home!</span></b><br />
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Incorrect bathing and drying and incorrect product usage <i>will</i> leave you with a huge pelted mess. Definitely one of those things to leave to the experts. I happen to be one of those!<br />
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So, back to Zoey. Having done very well with her bath, it was now time to dry her. Here's where my luck ran out. Zoey wanted no part in being dried. The HV dryer scared her. The Catty Shack Vac scared her. Sitting on my lap with my little dryer on the lowest setting scared her. My ability to demat this cat easily and gently hinged on being able to dry her correctly. And that scared the pants off of her! And not the 'curl into a ball and look super sad' scared, but the panicked 'fling myself about until I hurt myself' scared. Cage drying would be unacceptable and take forever. But what could I do? Traditional cat dryer options were too scary for little Zoey.<br />
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One of the more important things groomers learn is to be flexible. Flexible with our bodies, flexible with our thinking.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-f3mk6df9epI/US-y2DwASsI/AAAAAAAAATE/8WcMm7Ql1qQ/s400/1-footgrooming.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<i>Kevin Beck of The Cat and the Fiddle, our favorite Canadian CFMG</i><br />
<i>shows the art of body and mind flexibility </i><br />
<i>because sometimes you really just need an extra hand, but all you have is a foot</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Now, awesome foot techniques weren't going to help me, although I've used my feet to groom a good many times. Zoey was afraid, and holding her down wasn't the answer. Instead, I borrowed the fluff dryer from the dog groomer. It was less powerful than my high velocity dryer, but it wouldn't blow so hard or so concentrated. I wrapped her up in a towel, turned it on and hoped for the best.<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lB9JGmDhapJ5dpyxmn08GATqgpwTVlcQ6TZI3ROiimt26bEjepDGD63DvJ77LK19rfs7od0uiA8CXRsiXqsH_ACAuMkJwwx-Hp576TXipWn6CB51mb1WBmfYzZjQmPgUdFeE2JrLK6ai/s400/1-005.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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You can barely see her! We started by uncovering just a tiny bit of her butt. By gently sliding the towel, I exposed different areas, keeping her well covered until she felt comfortable enough to be completely unwrapped. And yes, by the time she was dry from her midsection back, she felt safe enough to poke her head out and look around! All on her own. So brave!<br />
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7yq8_bfgcwohXDnt0H6yj6QJjnbjzxdbVyA-c-TF5wBLy048CxToS_APsaAIhCM-n8hxzup79rbR70GP-NowIi9bLYDIiBnFq6_SybjlQsMTKlKPYYFgAnD6q7Ve4yBuujQAQRy1kvTe/s512/1-006.JPG" width="298" /><br />
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This picture shows WHY scissors should never be used on cats! No matter how careful, the cat always seems to end up cut. These little marks are caused by the tip of the scissors while cutting out a mat. The uneven choppiness of the hair tell me that some attempts at home were made to cut out those mats. Luckily, these are just little cuts that should heal up with no problem. Cat skin is very, very different from human or dog skin. It often does not bleed at first when cut. I doubt the person doing it even knew.<br />
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I've said it before, but I'll say it again: No scissors in cat grooming!<br />
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Anyway, back to grooming! It took longer than my HV dryer and Catty Shack Vac. It was waaaay messier. I was covered in hair, my room was covered in hair. But my cat was dry! All those mats were removed. And most importantly, Zoey was pretty relaxed. I know it wasn't her favorite thing, but she was able to be dried without freaking her out or stressing her. That's what matters.<br />
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Zoey did have some areas where most of the hair was gone, or was very thin. She did have the chopped area behind each elbow, from her home haircut. So if you were to go over her carefully, it would be easy to tell she'd had matting removed. But look at this picture and tell me if you can tell!<br />
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<img height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk8PcM07rP7GypDZIeP54eRjkKKRuZoFiUE9I4zkbnfG6J7gEPauNxFOEK-hRq8_C4Pk48waSv-77x1B690kk5LTPPEDdXGCjY2XbbIAKRsBPDo_x32giJfHhVfUVCSITJxdS9o8zJgvHT/s400/1-007.JPG" width="400" /><br />
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How pretty is she now! And yes, every bit as soft as she looks. I left a voicemail with her owner, alerting them to the tiny cuts I found, my decision to leave her in full coat (because the coat could easily be saved) and recommending that she be groomed every 6 weeks to prevent this from happening again. I was sad I wasn't able to meet her people. I would have loved to see their face when I presented their sweet little cat to them. I haven't heard anything, but they did leave me a nice tip, so I'm hoping they're as pleased with her as I am!<br />
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<img height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-y-FPlx1BkGn0a9_F60Oe1bjm2BKrl0CjyKQJg0PtUOVXrsuZ6a94FaIbxg6E_LhEttbHYYJmYwtNb5EOMF7HWANFlAtJe5VSufkobZbdLvy7gg5BoB1sY2aUr7MBTL1Nnc5QC8iLJxf/s400/1-009.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<i>Just as nice on the other side!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I'm not a "save the coat at any cost" person. I feel that if the pet is badly matted, they should be shaved. If they're likely to continue to be matted, whether because of poor health, lifestyle or poor owner upkeep, they should be shaved. If the owner is unable or unwilling to bring the pet in on an appropriately regular basis, they should be shaved. I <i>never </i>find it acceptable for a pet to be in discomfort because a person 'likes it fluffy'. I knew I had the skills and ability to safely and easily remove her mats, and I expect that her owners will follow my recommendations to prevent her from becoming matted in the future. Next time I see her, hopefully in just a few weeks, I'll be sure to have that stand dryer ready to go!<br />
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<img height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcl6LFJ5rCpIqRqAKWBzVlyT5BUXjhJdqAxcmNgopojLXS0O_ON5Vi0d2EWJtXMkOnlSDYOjKjxvHvdrbpXDTV1H4oJavqhgHFiPwHMARn22C9IGr5GI-hseQcAPHyV6JtS6puhNuLeesh/s400/1-010.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<i>can I go home now, please?</i><br />
<br />
Thanks to Kevin Beck for his guest appearance! You can visit the Cat and the Fiddle at: <a href="http://catandthefiddle.ca/">catandthefiddle.ca</a>.Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276691998058677465.post-54918427654562873612013-02-14T17:15:00.001-05:002013-02-14T17:15:14.182-05:00...Will You?<div style="text-align: center;">
Since today is February 14th, </div>
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I want to ask you an important question...</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_aEmwwh7wh2OKXeA_TIgAAMyclWQ9Er2DTJcyQQ1J-ropayexsryfkO8y8DK5kijSMo5yfDuTiw46jSew4EdZW1qGo8VL8pmmut0stqoNi7JdQZJHzNI0rzoEWyNF1punYvvbcsMV8Gfm/s400/CGQcover.jpg" width="309" /></div>
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<i>Will you be my Valentiger?</i></div>
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I hope you're excited as I am! Do you need a hint as to why you should be soooo excited about this magazine cover? No problem, let me show you!</div>
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<img height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDT4Xb4z8FEQwjhBJLCW4GZeha-vs7vSjPDujfsMa4IzUVzCv0D7QmBCZ-JSVGNvTL6NYDY02QpkEh-8QA49MrWgajLAEkAVns5z9gB2q7_cJvQEtL2wakjmEuDdrJOnicIqCHJQ2fkd99/s400/1-IMG_2708.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>I love how he's watching me apply the XOXO</i></div>
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<i>It's like he knows it's not going to look right</i></div>
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That's right! That gorgeous groom on the cover was done by me!</div>
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I used my good friend and fellow groomers cat, Tiger. </div>
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The contest was to create a seasonally appropriate FELINE groom for the February/March edition of Creative Groomer Quarterly, a magazine for the members of the <a href="http://thenapcg.com/">National Association of Professional Creative Groomers</a>. Yes! Finally, another contest just for cats! </div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78jd0CKw3DiIL1QNi_KzI05tenA6a67phUAWRw-FbPo8O-Iafph60xLSOMdT0avioROc8A88S5JTx8grw6Z67r3dhBsG1qLtmaR0UuvNdXJaNE1PpeY3IzoxBrQUVi1nUHwx0k0TrN0MT/s400/1-168.JPG" width="348" /></div>
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<i>smudging: the biggest downside of chalk</i></div>
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I was so excited when I first saw the contest announcement. I immediately started brainstorming ideas. While I really wanted to do "seasonally appropriate", the only thing that came to mind was hearts...for Valentine's Day. Kinda predictable and boring. But we axed (haha!) a President's Day theme. Too late for snow themes...too early for spring ideas...I don't like cupids. Yup. Let's do hearts. Luckily, my dad came up with the <i>ValenTiger</i>. A good name makes everything better. Names are important.</div>
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I invited (ok, asked)(ok, fine, begged) my dad to come take pictures for me. I always have a blast doing creative grooms with an audience, and my dad loves helping me. We're a weird family, I know! I'm really pleased with both versions of this groom. The yellow and blue background pictures were my first attempt. Also, the first time using this pet chalk. I had purchased it awhile back and when I got it, I looked at it and went 'I spent <i>how much</i> on this?!", tossed it in my grooming bag and ignored it. I broke it out for this groom and was so happy I did, turns out, I love it! </div>
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<img height="266" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-o11VmBExVHI/UR1UbpQKEEI/AAAAAAAAALE/3HnUija17oI/s400/1-IMG_2673.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>Action Tiger!</i></div>
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A pretty easy creative groom, the tail took the longest to do! Tiger got a Lion Clip. I left the hair longer for the hearts. About 3/8" long. I wanted them to really pop, so I did that narrow boarder around them slightly shorter than the Lion Clipped area. The spiral tail...was a pain. I <i>love</i> them. I love how they look, but I haven't quite figured out how to do it. Were it not for the tail, clipping in this groom would only take about 10 minutes longer than a regular Lion Clip groom. We won't talk about how long that tail took!</div>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUANh8W9gwdiYSPhq70MwabRxDJApZ2kmOBCkpLF7GOb0hyuMNrVTYr5OQVdKIEekf6aImGKt7TNcvzZ8sJVgnamTBWtm2fjdVXe9YlNkvNZh1DJGwcQElZ7LSXjr1aklsnYB3d7pP9S_/s400/1-172.JPG" width="298" /></div>
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<i>good sports!</i></div>
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I really liked how my kissy lips turned out! Unfortunately, they didn't work out for the second groom. Towards the end of the color application, I looked over at my dad and said<br />"<i>did you ever think you'd be helping color a cat</i></div>
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<i>like this, and then take pictures of it?</i>"</div>
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He responded with</div>
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<i>"</i><span style="color: blue;">Of course! I've done this before.</span><i>"</i></div>
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I think I offended him. Sorry, Dad!</div>
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While my groom turned out well and I was happy with it, the pictures we took didn't quite work. My thought was 'there's a blank yellow wall. I'll set him on a solid blanket in front of the solid wall </div>
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and everything will be fine."</div>
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It didn't work. I had a friend and professional graphic artist photoshop the background for me, hoped for the best and submitted the pictures. I got an email back suggesting I re-shoot the pictures. </div>
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<b>"GOOD ENOUGH" NEVER IS</b></div>
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Apparently I still haven't learned that lesson! (Although I'm having flashbacks to marching band. Sigh.)</div>
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Since I used temporary color, I would have to rebathe, reclip and recolor Tiger. The thing about Tigers, though, is they <i>LOVE</i> attention. And creative grooming requires extra time, extra effort, and extra attention. Which means Tiger loves his creative grooms! He just soaks up that extra effort it takes. Actually, it's only when the picture taking starts that he gets bored! </div>
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<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM_YZRouJLyMPl9qpVfe0qulz6ydqjkr95g63Brrwc0FUk-HTM9uQlPsmNrhwYySTLYGOT7T1rNsbp8XKvggM4RRofJmhdiTL4im9HV-nST3MMd_0VcMI2julgrqFL8-Q01vpPm6yWHIJa/s400/1-IMG_2697.JPG" width="400" /></div>
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<i>No one is petting me. This sucks.</i></div>
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So I gathered up some light beige sheets (yes, purchased <i>just </i>for this occasion!), my colors, my dad and just in case, my husband, and redid the groom. Intense grooming two weeks in a row??? Tiger was in kitty heaven! We hung the sheets, got all the lighting we could and basically rearranged my friend's salon. She's a good sport. Thanks, Andie!</div>
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We got some great pictures and had a great time doing it. I resubmitted my photos and waited. After what seemed like forever, but was only a week, I got some great news - The Valentiger won! </div>
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We all had lots of fun with this contest. I continued to learn more about creative grooming, clipping and color application. Tiger got leaps of attention. And cat grooming got a well deserved spotlight. I think I can say we all won. </div>
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And just because it's so good looking, the cover one more time:</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_aEmwwh7wh2OKXeA_TIgAAMyclWQ9Er2DTJcyQQ1J-ropayexsryfkO8y8DK5kijSMo5yfDuTiw46jSew4EdZW1qGo8VL8pmmut0stqoNi7JdQZJHzNI0rzoEWyNF1punYvvbcsMV8Gfm/s512/CGQcover.jpg" /></div>
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<i>Photograph by Charles Cornell</i></div>
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<i>Layout by Liz Boles</i></div>
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I cannot wait until I get my copy!</div>
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Beth Rex CFMG, CFCGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03249947748672001643noreply@blogger.com0