Dog Community

A few grooming equipment questions

Posted : 9/24/2006 5:38:41 PM

None of these questions are very important, I just enjoy getting opinions/ideas from other people. The learning never ends! When I refer to "best" I am meaning equipment that is designed to fulfill the rigorous demands of the professional groomer, meaning tools and equipment that are sturdy, functional, time-saving, easy to maintain and sanitize.

Grooming pros, do you favor a particular model of hydraulic table? I am aware that they come in many different designs (some are foot-pedal powered, some have electric motors, some are round, some rectangular models can also spin 360 degrees, like the round ones, some lower to a mere 15" to rid the need of a ramp, some have storage space under the table top, etc.). I am particularly asking individuals who use/have used more than one type of table. Which one have you found the most convenient/efficient?

I have read multiple times the great features the Laube Litening cordless clipper has to offer (lightweight [9 oz], cool running, 2-2 hr. battery packs, 4-9,000 spm, 5 yr. motor warranty, hardened ball bearing motor, etc.). I am just wondering if these features justify the hefty price tag? It is $400. Has anyone of this forum used one? Of course, the corded Laube Litening is the same clipper, and only $180, but I am drawn to the tangle-free convenience of cordless. Again, I am referring to the needs of a professional groomer such as things like matted shave-downs, spring cuts, and cutting through dense, heavy coats. When cordless clippers are "weighed" does this include the weight of the battery pack?

There is a lot of grooming shop/kennel management software out there. I am looking for one that is flexible, professional, and easy to navigate. Any ideas?

fancypants1

Posted : 9/24/2006 6:51:51 PM

I can comment on the table and clippers question. I feel that the best tables on the market are the Pet Lift tables by Hanvey. They go very low and high making it perfect for all sizes of dogs. It is excellent quality and works well with the LIPS system (you can find it on their website). I personally prefer foot pedel because I don't want to have to rely on electricity for the table to raise and lower . I have a different brand of table in my van, but have the larger rectangular ones.

As far as clippers I currently use the laube lightenings. I have the variable corded ones and the cordless ones. I also have, in my van, the IVAC...their new clippers that have suction to suck up the hair as you cut. I love the clippers, but you do have to be very diligent about their care and oiling and cleaning the blades or they will break down. I also like the Wahl KM-2 clippers. They are very light and quiet. I've used all clippers from Andis to Oster to Wahl and I definitely think the laubes are the best for my needs.

willgroom4chocolate

Posted : 9/26/2006 10:07:30 PM

Thanks, [link>http://forum.dog.com/asp/showProfile.asp?memid=5500]fancypants1[/link] for that great reply! You sound like you know your stuff![

] Do you use a Shopvac with your IVAC? I read that you need the adaptor kit. We have two Shopvacs that we use often.

Thanks again!

Pauline Sutherland

Posted : 9/27/2006 11:21:25 AM

I have always used Andis brand clippers and liked them. I've never used the laube brand so I can't help you their. I groomed for a corperate store and we used hydrolic tables but I ashamed to say I never noticed the Brand. The non electrical hydrolic are nice to have in a bathing drying area as you do not have to worry about water. I liked the foot operated ones as they left my hands free. The biggest problems we have had are with the table arms (ones with rotating arms) Some designs work well and others did not. I'm not sure how to describe the differences but it was easy to tell from just looking at how they attached how well they would last.
I would also recomed checking out petgroomer.com for information. They have a message borard that is awsome regarding the grooming profession. I know their have been many equpitment related threads there and a recent one about grooming software from people currently using it in the field.
Good luck

amstaffy

Posted : 9/27/2006 1:09:25 PM

I like the Laube clippers for the shape and light weight. Of course I don't have coated dogs and do very little clipping (ears and whiskers) but do use my clipper on my son often, he likes the buzz cut.
Anywho, the Laube clippers require more maintenance the Oster or Andis and if you are comfortable doing that you should be fine as there are not many repair shops authorizsed to work on the Laube clippers.
We do clipper/blades and shears here and do not service Laube yet.

I hope that helps some

fancypants1

Posted : 9/29/2006 5:45:24 PM

As far as the IVAC goes, I have a wag n' tails mobile grooming van and the adapter end fits right in the same spot as the vacuum hose. I simply pull out the vacuum hose and twist in the IVAC hose. It is a shop vac, however, in the rear of the van. I believe when you order the IVAC you can order an adapter, if needed, as well.

willgroom4chocolate

Posted : 9/30/2006 7:12:17 PM

A late thank you note for the nice, informative replys![

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