Sometimes, we find a tool that changes the way we work for the better. It has been almost two decades since I was introduced to such a tool, the Groomers Helper. The starter kit for the Groomers Helper system has become a steadfast companion to me as I work on almost every dog, every day.
Like many of the most valuable tools, this one is simply and elegantly designed and made to last. To use it, merely affix the clamp to the grooming arm of the table. It is easily adjusted with a screw mechanism that can be worked with your fingertips. The snap hook on the clamp attaches to the grooming loops' sturdy metal D ring (more about these particular loops in a moment). This means the dog is now secured by two points, over the head from the grooming arm and below its jaw from the clamp. Multiple key benefits are achieved by this design:
- It prevents the dog from pressing their throat into the grooming loop, taking pressure offtheir delicate trachea.
- It limits the pet's ability to dance on the table, decreasing the chance of falls.
- Spinning and twirling are entirely eliminated. (If the tool did nothing more than this, it would save you time!)
- The pet's bite radius is limited, keeping you safer as you work.
Now, about the Groomers Helper loops. Once I tried this brand of safety loop, I never used another of this style again. They are built to last, can be easily washed and sanitized, and have a very sturdy quick-release snap, similar to those on a dog collar, that is incredibly convenient when you want to put the loop on or remove it. No more tugging the thing over the pet's head; just unsnap and go. The little metal piece that fastens the loop snugly behind the ears is sturdy and easy to use, preventing dogs from backing out of the loop and potentially hurting themselves.
I know groomers who try to duplicate this tool by rigging up a clamp on the arm and using it similarly. None of the replicas I have seen work as smoothly, efficiently, and effectively as the original; to my eyes, they do not look safe or professional. As pet groomers strive to be considered serious professionals, I believe using professional quality tools is in our best interest.
Groomer's Helper tools are guaranteed, so they will repair or replace the tool if anything goes wrong. I invested in my starter kit twenty years ago and still use it daily. It looks the same as it did on the day I took it out of the box and has saved me countless hours repositioning pets. It has also prevented many a nip and helped keep the animals in my care safer while I work on them. The Groomers Helper is a tool I am grateful to own, use, and recommend.
