With the spring shedding season almost upon us, carding is a profitable add-on service you can offer your clients.  Any shedding breed will shed less after carding and the coat will look shiny and healthy.

Don't throw away those worn out clipper blades. Sizes #10 #15 #30 and #40 are fantastic for carding shorter coats. After brushing or raking the coat as you usually would, run a shedding blade with the grain to remove the majority of dead hair. Then, take an old clipper blade and remove the hardware so that you have the flat bottom piece.  Hold the blade rough side down (the side with the rails) and use the teeth to gently comb out the undercoat, combing with the grain.  Practice different ways of holding the blade and different strokes until you achieve a nice result.  Use the #10 and #15 blades for the body and the finer blades for the face and legs.

So both you and the dog don't get worn out, keep your carding time to 30 minutes maximum.  If a dog needs more than 30 minutes to complete the task, have the dog return in a few days for another 30 minute session.

Offering PREMIUM services to your clientele will set you apart from your competition.  Carding IS a PREMIUM service.  Many groomers do not offer carding. (You will find that many don't even know what it is!!!) What is a half hour of premium grooming worth to you in price? That's what you charge extra for your carding service on top of his regular grooming charge for bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, etc.

How can you sell this service to your clients?  Give them the first one free.  Card the dog's coat for 30 minutes and collect the extra hair in a ziplock baggie. Explain that carding removes the old, dead hair that dulls the coat.  What is left is only live, viable coat that has a healthy shine. Point out the fact that the dog will not shed nearly as much and that the fur "dust bunnies" will be reduced at home.  Give the baggie of hair to the client and explain that this new service is available for future appointments.

Good luck and good grooming.
Peggy