BBird Articles & Grooming Essays
These articles were written for different reader audiences. Some were written for pet owners, and most were written for professional groomers. What I discovered was that there was overlapping value and interest. I appreciate both readerships. I like working both sides of the counter, so to speak. Several of these articles have been reprinted in breed club newsletters, or as handouts. While I am nearly always agreeable, I appreciate a written request to reprint this material.
Thanks in Advance,
BBird
Pet Shampoo Myths
Four widely believed myths about pet shampoo — pH, testing, ingredients and legal backup — examined for both owners and professionals.
For pet owners & groomers · restored from the 2002 site
Scissoring Techniques
Dip & snip habits, correct grip, the 12 o’clock rule, cuts per minute, and three practice exercises for a smooth finish.
For groomers · restored from the BBird archive
Fluff Drying
What fluff drying is, why it matters, exactly how it is done — six pro tips, honest shortcuts, and home equipment guidance.
For groomers & dedicated owners
Home Grooming
The value of grooming as health care, plus a home routine: tools, products, systematic brushing and the trouble spots for mats.
For pet owners
Choosing a Groomer
A veteran groomer’s advice on professionalism, experience, limitations — and why shopping by price serves nobody.
For pet owners
Choosing Shears
Convex vs. bevel edges, curved vs. straight, the right length, thinning vs. blenders, and what ergonomics really does for your hands.
For groomers
Caring For Your Shears
Daily care, pivot oil, tension checks, smart storage, the tissue test, and how to choose a sharpener worth trusting.
For groomers
Grooming With Efficiency
From a 2000 Groomers’ List discussion: organized tools, less clutter, two clippers, longer shears and less pre-bath comb-out.
For groomers
Techniques For Dematting
Divide and conquer: splitting, picking, slip products, air and water techniques — and the ethics of when to demat at all.
For groomers
National Dog Groomers Association of America — Code of Ethics
The professional pledge Barbara Bird upholds as a member of the NDGAA.