The vet, one groomer and the boarding camp all came via word of mouth.

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Bryant notes that nail growth can vary based on the animal, so ask your groomer or vet when it's best to trim.

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Ms. Raisanen, a groomer in Fairview Park, Ohio, helped found the Professional Cat Groomers Association of America in 2008 to establish better education standards for the animal specialists who trim, clip, style and fluff felines.

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The association has established written tests and a hands-on exam that helps determine which members of the trade are "worthy of being called a certified master cat groomer, " Ms. Raisanen says.

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The Furminator, a line of fine-toothed combs created by professional groomer Angie Porter, has gained a cult-like following among pet owners for its ability to remove a pet's undercoat with little fuss.

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But: If yours is a "personal service corporation"--meaning the corporation's main output is your own work effort, for instance as consultant or pet groomer--then all your profits are taxed at a flat 35% corporate rate and you'll usually do better with a passthrough.

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