The Final Countdown

Episode 13 recap: “The Championship Dog Show”

Can it be that we are already down to the final two? Indeed, as Artist and Jonathan are the last groomers standing. While Jonathan says that he had hoped it would have been Jorge with him in the finals for a good ole’ fashion New York vs. New York smack down, he acknowledges that Artist worked hard to get to the end. Regardless, Jonathan’s certain that his 15 years of experience makes him the rightful owner of the Groomer of the Year title. Artist may be the underdog, but he has no intentions of going down without a fight. He’s convinced that his heart will make him victorious and thrilled by the opportunity, describing the feeling with what may become my new favorite made-up word: “Fantabulastic!”

The next morning, Nemo arrives to inform the final two that they need to meet Jai for further instructions. They gather in the grooming salon, where Jai congratulates both of them for making it this far but it all comes down to the last challenge, and in this case? It’s the first annual Groomer Has It Championship Dog Show! The event will take place in front of a live audience, and Jonathan and Artist will be tasked with grooming seven dogs each, one from every traditional dog show group: toy, terrier, non-sporting, hound, sporting, herding, and working (which is funny, because in my world, the groups are: cute, cutie patootie, puppers, pupsicle, pupcakes, poopers, and aww).

Jonathan and Artist are introduced to their dogs. They can work with them in any order, for as long as they want, but time management will be crucial as they only have 10 hours total to prep and groom all seven. Artist decides to start with the most difficult dog first, the Alaskan Malamute, though this may prove to be an error in judgment, as Jonathan is already on to his second dog while Artist is still working on his first.

The idea of finishing all seven dogs within the time limit is daunting, but thankfully Jai returns to let the finalists know that they will get some helping hands in the form of Will and Kathleen (who I believe has let her hair down for the first time – is that symbolic?). The pair will be allowed to help with bathing, drying, and handling, but Artist and Jonathan will still be responsible for trimming, brushing, and all the final touches.

Kathleen is assigned to Artist, who cites it as a match made in heaven, while Will is paired with Jonathan, who … well, does not, but he vows to put all his personal feelings aside and utilize Will as much as possible. Still, the tension between them is pretty obvious, particularly when Will mutters to Kathleen under his breath, “He hasn’t once asked my advice on anything!” and Jonathan complains about Will hovering too much over his shoulder. Artist and Miss Kathleen (as he calls her) seem to have much better repoire and a good system in place. She offers up some tips and suggestions and though Artist listens, he stays focused on doing his own thing.

The long day is taking its toll. Jonathan encounters a few problems with his Lhasa Apso, who already has parts of its neck, chest and legs shaved which makes evening things out a challenge. Artist is trying to ignore his mind and body which are telling him to stop, and instead listen to his heart, which of course is telling him to go, go, go!

When time is up, Jai returns to throw a curve ball: each groomer will have to tackle one more dog, but this time they’ll be breaking traditional dog show rules and working on a mixed breed vs. a standard pure bred. Artist gets to choose his first for winning last week’s challenge and he opts for Polar Bear, a Westie Eskimo mix he feels presents the most significant challenge. Jonathan will be working on Corey, a Dalmatian Border Collie mix. The objective is to use their respective mixed breed to reflect their style and creativity as a groomer, and they are given an additional 90 minutes to complete their work. Jonathan decides to give Corey a pattern similar to a Setter, while Artist puts his “spank” on Polar Bear in the form of a swash of blue on the tail.

After they finish up their surprise entries, an exhausted Jonathan and Artist head back to the dog house to get some rest before the big final show. The next morning, they reminiscence about all of the challenges while Artist notes that today is one of those days where one moment can define the rest of your life.

The finalists head to the dog show and gather backstage, where Nemo greets them for the last time with a note saying there are a few friends who want to wish them luck. Jai walks in holding each groomer’s dog, but the surprises don’t stop there – Artist’s sister arrives with his son Ariel in hand and Jonathan is greeted by his partner Sebastian. It’s a tearful yet joyful reunion, but also short lived as it is time to get the show on the road.

Jai welcomes the crowd and introduces the judges, who look particularly snazzy in their coordinating pink and black outfits. Jai reminds everyone of what is at stake: $50,000, a mobile grooming truck from Wag’n Tails, and of course the title of Groomer of the Year. Artist and Jonathan wish each other good luck and kick off the dog parade.

First up is the toy class. Xavier questions why Artist’s dog has one section that’s a bit longer in its tail. Artist explains that he had to conquer a lot of matting and decided to use thinning shears to blend as much as possible. The terriers are next, and Dr Halligan asks Artist if he chose the cut on his own or consulted the owner. Meanwhile, Joey asks Jonathan why he chose thinning shears over hand-stripping or cutting, and Jonathan states his technique gave the dog a more correct look.

For the non-sporting dogs, it’s the Lhasa Apsos, who were used to guard Tibetan monasteries for over 2,000 years (Dear Mom: I think I just found your ideal dog. Love, SG). We move on to the hounds and discover that Artist decided against using whitening on his dog’s feet because the skin was already irritated. Xavier gives him props for making the right call. Jonathan’s hound is named Bacon and Dr. Halligan asks him if that’s a good treat for dogs (which of course it’s not). Joey later gives Dr. Halligan a hard time about the nature of her question, and the two bicker like Ralph and Alice Kramden.

The sporting group features Labrador Retrievers, one of the most popular breeds in the world, and then it’s on to the mixed breeds. Joey asks Jonathan what inspired his cut, and he explains that he went for Brittney Spaniel ears with a Setter body.

Xavier notes that the only thing not Westie about the cut Artist gave his dog is the blue on the tail, but despite Xavier’s penchant for following traditional guidelines, he notes that Artist tipped the tail modestly.

Rounding out the show are the herding dogs, Border Collies, and the working dogs, Alaskan Malamutes – the groomers are particularly nervous about the latter, as these dogs are Xavier’s area of expertise. Artist admits he primarily used a slicker brush, and Xavier seems a bit incredulous that he didn’t pick up a line comb as well.

It’s time for the judges’ final deliberation and opinions are mixed. Dr. Halligan thinks Jonathan should have left more hair on his Maltese but Joey believes the dog is balanced. For the Terriers, Joey also thinks Jonathan’s dog is the more consistent of the two though Xavier notes that Artist took a chance. They all seem to agree that Artist did a better job with the non-sporting group, and that both had problems with the sporting group: Artist’s Lab shed too much but Jonathan’s dog still had some dirt in his hair. The Alaskan Malamutes are given an overall stamp of approval, though of course Xavier feels they could have used more line combing. For the mixed breeds, it’s mixed opinions once again.

So who will take home the top prize? Jonathan and Artist are brought back into the ring to hear the results. The judges address each groomer, congratulating them on their achievements, but only one can take home the top prize. The big winner is …

Artist!

Jonathan looks genuinely shocked, while Artist looks genuinely thrilled. In fact, he breaks down in tears as his dog runs circles around his feet and his sister approaches him with Artist’s son to share in the celebration. He hugs all the judges and tells Jonathan it’s been an honor and privilege to work by his side, then shares the sad news that his brother was killed only months ago in a drug transaction that involved the same amount of money Artist just won.

It’s an extremely uplifting turn of events for the groomer who managed to keep the faith and make a career for himself, despite the odds. Artist says the best part by far is having his son present to witness his accomplishment and that it just goes to show you, anything is possible if you hold on to hope. “Artist Knox, Groomer of the Year – that sounds wonderful!” he says – yes Artist, it sure does!

What did you think of the big finale? Did the best groomer win? What were your favorite moments this season? Speak now or forever hold your peace!

Comments

[Dro]

Hey Artist,

I am a groomer and I lost my grooming salon due to the tough economy. I'm looking for a grooming job, and I would love to work for you. I love your personality and I think it would be a perfect place for me to work. I live in Los Angeles, and would love to hear from you since I don't know where your shop is.

Thanks.

[lori]

I am soooo glad that I was able to read about the last show. Thank you to whom ever the writer was. WE were flying into the states from the usvi and The Sheraton in Orlando did not carry the channel for viewing the final episode :( Thanks again to the writer on the final episode again.
As I was reading about the final episode, I was on the edge of my chair! The judges are wonderful! I like the way they had a cumulative overall system that covered everything including a skill leading to an overall winners circle. I am so glad for Artist and Jonathan too. In the craziness of todays choices of television, this has got to be by far one of the most refreshing programs in a long time. I will be tuned in and awaiting the next time "Groomer Has It" airs. God bless to all.

[Michelle]

I loved the show, could not stand the blond that talked with her lips tight together, Melissa, yucky! She was a tad uptight.

Loved big cuddly man too, forgot his name, was a sweet man.

I was glad that Artist won, he did get better every show which is what being the best is about, you keep improving. Jonathan was very good, but way too arrogant. He would turn me off to not bring my pets to him. also Artist showed alot of heart when he picked the worst in shape rescue dog to groom, he did not take an easier one as Kathleen did....spoke volumes, he deserved to win, too bad my fav could not have placed second...JORGE! He was just TOO cute, so animated when he spoke, next trip to NYC, i will try to find his shop, he can groom me!

Look forward to next show...congrats Artist, your little boy is a doll.

[Deb]

All during the show, I loved Artist and his reactions. I was so glad that Jasper and Artist became friends, to me they seemed alot alike. I think Jonathan is a great groomer, and an all around nice guy. I just think that Artist is much more humble and will use his 'win' to help animals, people, and the grooming industry and not just himself. As happy as he was over the win, I really did not see it as an ego thing with Artist. He was a quiet, self examining, and super humane competitor. I think the 'best man' did truly win. You GO Artist. ps. I loved your 'groom the chow' dance. LOL

[taylor]

I watched the finale and Squealed with delight.The first time i saw the show i wanted artist to win.
WAY TO GO ARTIST!!!! :) U ROCK

[Linda]

Congratulations Artist,the best man (groomer) won. Your great personality, determination to do the best you could do for each dog no matter what kind of shape they were in and the love you showed those animals truly earned you that title. I was so happy for you when they announced you were the winner, that "other" person seemed only to care about the money and not about the dogs like you did. It really touched my heart when you picked that poor baby from the Humane Society, I'm so glad he got a good home. Good luck in the future, I know you'll do great, I only wish I could have you do my two dogs.
Best wishes, Linda

[TSS]

Artist's story at the end was touching, certainly more so than Jonathan's, and that made for good TV. Additionally, this should not have been a personality contest beyond how groomers handle their clients - pets and owners alike. I congratulate Artist and am happy this "win" will change his life and that of his family but, he was not the best groomer. Jonathan was.

[RD. Nieman]

I am so glad Artist won. He had the best disposition of all of them, and was thoughtful to the other contestants. His family has got to be so proud of him.

[Dana]

Artist, I am so very happy for you!!! I wish you much success with your new Business! I love you!

[Gayle]

Artist. . . congratulations fellow groomer!! It is your compassion, your willingness to learn and follow instructions, and your ability to do the best you can to make every furry family member look and feel their best.

This was suppose to be a place to leave comments for Artist being crowned "Groomer of the Year" and you all have turned it into a discussion of a show being fixed. Kudos to you all. I have been a groomer for 17 years and still grooming for years to come. There are few people in this world that have the heart, compassion, and at times a sense of wittiness that can handle our jobs everyday. I have seen people bring in dogs covered with fleas and ticks, people who have decided to take scissors in their hands and perform their own "style" then bring the dog in with bald spots and say "can you fix this?" I graduated from the same grooming school 17 years ago that Jonathon attended. Not all dogs you are given look like show dogs that need a little primp work done and on with your life you go. If you want to complain of Jonathon's dogs coming in with problems of missing hair or matted beyond belief, then you don't have a clue of the industry. These are people's pets you are grooming, not Westminster competitors. If only things were always that easy. Jonathon should have done a better job with the dog with the shaved neck, stomach, shoulders and legs. . . seems like a shorter cut was needed, not showing the dog looking like it was suffering from mange. But hey that's my opinion.

But getting back to the real deal. . . Artist is the real deal. He's not looking to make a buck on another's family member. Which is what these dogs are. . . family members. He has the skills, and every aspect that goes along with it. Keep up the great work Artist, don't let others bring you down! Congrats!

[CJ]

I'm sorry, John, alright...it was good-natured teasing, but more so it was a compulsion on my part to get things back on track (no pun intended). It's just my nature. Post what you want, it's not my blog.

P.S. Your friends might beg to differ, but I don't think you're insane. Insane people don't KNOW they're insane...There's a disconnect between how they see themselves and how they really are.

[Juicy]

No matter which of the two final groomers you feel should've of won, the show was a success and that is the bottom line.

Face it people. It was a "reality show". They types of shows aren't REALLY reality. These shows are fixed, rigged, scripted call it whatever you like..... the producers of the show know the outcome LONG before the audience and even the contestants do. Just look at American Idol, America's Next Top Model, Amazing Race.... Animal Planet is just trying to gain a bigger audience by appealing the the reality show fanatics. Smart move if you ask me. Television reports have stated that most households watch at least one reality show a week.

Did the right person win? I believe so. But at the same time... Jonathan was a better more skilled groomer and if going by skill alone, Jonathan would've been the rightful winner.

[Susan]

As a person who hates reality TV/ competitions, I can't believe how hooked I became on this show. Way to go Artist, score one for the good guys!

[John-NYC]

CJ,

Was it something I said?

Seriously, you made me laugh. I AM a train wreck! I know that. Yesterday, I had no idea that I would go online and write all that stuff. I started writing and I couldn’t stop (believe it or not, I forced myself to). Unfortunately (for anyone reading), I don’t have a team of editors like the show does. As such, you got my “ruff” draft(s). I then had problems sending it which frustrated me which is why I broke it down to the mess that exists here. After that, I realized that there were other threads and wasn't sure where I really should be posting, etc. That said, I think I've finally got this whole posting to blogs thing down. The only part where I am lacking is that apparently it is taboo to use lots of words. I guess I've never been much of a conformist. (Also, if you searched elsewhere you will have a clue and then say...Oh, I get it now...THAT'S why he's such a big mouth.) By the by, contrary to what I assume is popular belief, I did squeeze other tasks into the past 24-hours!

Anyway, while I usually am a “smart a$$” as one of my charming new friends here put it, I am totally serious about enjoying your comment.

I am off to dinner (see, the train is not always derailed) where I will tell my friends what I’ve been been up to. They know that I’m “coo coo for coco puffs” so my behavior will come as no surprise.

Cheers!

[Diane]

Yay, so happy to see the Artist won! His sense of endurance, compassion, perception and vision were qualities that truly marked the best of his craft.

[groomsalot]

Duh!! "David" IS jonathan, its clear!!

[Comtemplative]

Artist, way to go! You deserve every good thing you've gotten.

[Comtemplative]

Here's the reality of this reality show. Artist winning this show will change his life for the better. Jonathan winning would only feed his ego. Would he drive a grooming van again? I hope not!

Perhaps Jonathan's clients will watch the show & decide to go elsewhere. Probably not, though. He'll still make more $$ than Artist, because THAT is what he wants to do. More power to him.

[CJ]

I can't decide which is more entertaining -- the show, or the train wreck that is John-NYC. DUDE, you're way too stirred up over this. Let it go. There are an awful lot of thick-headed people in the world, and most of the rest aren't rational. I don't think you've got too much time on your hands, I just think that, unlike Artist, you aren't managing it wisely.

[Quint]

Amy if you want to see the Finale go to Animal Planet Groomer Has It home page. Click the video tab and then click Watch Full Episode. This lets you download a player that will let you view all of the Groomer episodes. I have watched them all again. I really liked the show.

[Quint]

David how much did Jonathan pay you to slam Artist? Jonathan lost because of his constant praising of himself while standing on the backs of the other contestants. His attitude toward his fellow groomers showed just what type of person he was. Funny how the two "best" and experienced groomers ( Jonathan and Kathleen) only thought of themselves not the dogs nor the other contestants. They took the easy way out each time they could. Saying to the TV cameras that they knew they had the better dog to win the challenge.

[TC]

OMG as far as the mobile competition, where team Artist failed to have Kwik-stop (or any other coagulating brand of product), I clearly remember the contestants being told to prepar their kits as well as their mobile grooming van. BOTH participants should have had Kwik-Stop in their kit not to mention the van itself should have been equipped accordingly and properly and BOTH particpants were responsible to the client, which means they each should have held RESPONSIBILITY in INFORMING the client that her dog's quick had been nipped.

Though, this is no reflection on the winner...just some clarity to this particular incident.

But yet again another challenge Artist made it through because of a legitmate? excuse...or being the most responsible, caring amongst a bunch that were a little lacking from the start?

Truth be told, there was plenty of err among every one of these groomers and in each challenge and I do question how several of them even made it on the show to begin with.

[Tess]

Still reading all the comments. I know so many agree that Artist should have won for several reasons...and maybe he truly deserved to, but when the pretense of the show is that the show is a heavy competition for being the best groomer and earning the title as such...then to have someone with so little experience win...it is a bit ridiculous. Like many said though, it is a reality show for entertainment first long before it is really a competition of skill.

[Linda]

Sooooo glad you won,artist!!! Your passion for dogs proves to be all I believe in. I'm a 56 year old vetrin in grooming and have a do all you can for your clients atttitude. You're one in a million! (as I am)

[Tess]

I am glad Artist won, however, I am not sure how he made it on the show to begin with considering a good majority of challenges were things he had never dealt with prior to the show. I believe he sailed through many of the challenges because he truly had the excuse of never having met the experiences presented to him in his daily work routine. For the get go factor, the human factor, the most deserving factor...yes, he deserved it...but again, he probably should never have been a contestant to begin with...along with quite a few of the others. It is Artist' passion that won the title and though that is great it must also be very frustrating for someone that spent many years in the industry honing their skills and client base.

All in all, I was pleased with the show. Though I still find it being mocked around the interent, Grooming is a hard profession and one that requires quite a bit more knowledge than people realize. I think the show will help perpetuate respect for this industry by offering a birds eye view of the industry and the people in it. Also, it should help clients determine if they have a good groomer or not.

As a certified groomer, I was able to find err and mistake with even the better contestants.

I do say a birds eye view into the industry as most groomers work for a commission and in a very busy, physically and mentally challenging environment...one that requires more passion and education than people realize. You not only need to know the AKC grooming standards, Pet styles vs. Show, you also need to know quite of bit of health information not just in general to cats and dogs, but breed specific.

Anyhow, again, Grats to Artist! You gave it your all, and you were rewarded...truly an American Dream.