Become a Skilled Pet Groomer Today!

At Clip & Tails Pet Grooming Academy, we believe in learning by doing. Our programs offer plenty of opportunities for hands-on experience, so you can graduate with the skills and confidence you need to succeed.

Our vocational and technical programs are designed to prepare you for the real world. We work closely with industry partners to ensure our curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to the needs of today's job market.

We understand that our students have busy lives, which is why we offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes. We also offer online courses for added convenience.

Our instructors and staff are dedicated to helping you succeed. From personalized academic support to career services, we're here for you every step of the way.

We believe that education should be accessible to everyone. That's why we offer competitive tuition rates and a variety of financial aid options to help make your education more affordable.

At Clip & Tails Pet Grooming Academy, you'll be part of a vibrant and supportive community of students, faculty, and staff. You'll also have opportunities to connect with local employers and industry professionals through internships, networking events, and more.

•  Grooming Tools and Equipment
•   An overview of essential grooming tools such as clippers, scissors, brushes, combs, and shampoos specifically designed for both canine and feline coats. Discuss the proper selection, maintenance, and usage of each tool to ensure effective grooming and the comfort of the pet.

•  Canine and Feline Behavior in a Salon
• Understanding the behavioral patterns of dogs and cats in a grooming environment. This includes recognizing signs of stress or anxiety and how to create a calm atmosphere. Also, the importance of building trust with pets to facilitate a positive grooming experience.

•  Safe Handling Techniques
• Training on how to safely and effectively handle pets during grooming sessions. Emphasis on minimizing risk of injury to both the groomer and the animal through proper lifting, maneuvering, and positioning.

• Restraining Techniques
• Detailed procedures for the safe restraint of pets during grooming. Techniques can include the use of grooming tables, nooses, and body positioning to prevent accidents while ensuring the safety and comfort of the animal.

•  Common Skin and Coat Types/Issues
• An exploration of various canine and feline coat types, from short and smooth to long and curly, and their specific grooming needs. Discuss common skin issues such as allergies, infections, and parasites, along with identification and basic treatments.

• . Basic Grooming Practices
• Step-by-step instructions for essential grooming tasks such as bathing techniques tailored to different coat types, proper ear cleaning methods, and safe nail-clipping practices. Focus on hygiene and detailed care that promotes the health and well-being of pets.

• . Canine and Feline Anatomy 
• A basic overview of relevant anatomy for dogs and cats that groomers should be familiar with, including skin structure, skeletal makeup, and common anatomical landmarks. Understanding anatomy aids in providing effective grooming and recognizing any issues that may require veterinary attention.

• Business Operations and Professional Etiquette

• This encompasses a comprehensive understanding of business-related practices, including the development and implementation of effective intake policies and procedures. It also involves maintaining accurate records, tracking data systematically for performance evaluation, and honing customer service skills to enhance client satisfaction and engagement.

• Advanced Grooming Tools
•  Familiarity with a range of advanced grooming tools is essential, particularly the use of high-quality shears and electric clippers. This involves understanding the different types of shears and clippers available, their specific uses in different grooming contexts, and proper maintenance and sanitation practices to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Special Breeds
•  Gain insights into the distinctive grooming needs and characteristics of various special breeds. This includes an understanding of breed-specific grooming styles, common health issues, and how to adapt grooming techniques to accommodate individual dogs and cats.

• Dog and Cat Trimming Practices 
• Acquire practical skills in the methodologies of dog and cat trimming. This includes mastering various cutting techniques, understanding the anatomy of pets to avoid injuries, and adapting grooming styles to fit the needs and preferences of both pets and their owners.

• Oral Hygiene Evaluation and Care
• : Learn the importance of oral hygiene in pets, including how to conduct evaluations of dental health, recognize signs of dental issues, and implement effective care routines. This topic also covers techniques for cleaning teeth and maintaining overall oral hygiene in dogs and cats.

• Externship 
• Participate in an externship program that allows for hands-on experience in a real-world grooming environment. This component provides the opportunity to apply learned skills in professional settings, receive mentorship, and gain insights into day-to-day operations in a grooming business.

To qualify, candidates must complete a minimum of twelve months of practical, hands-on educational experience in the field. This experience should encompass a variety of activities related to dog handling and breed-specific knowledge.

Additionally, candidates must obtain a passing endorsement for each of the following breed-specific training modules, demonstrating their expertise and understanding in these areas:

• Non-Sporting Breeds This module covers the characteristics, care, and training of breeds that do not fit into traditional sporting classifications. 

• Sporting Breeds This module focuses on breeds commonly used for hunting and field activities, including their unique training requirements and behavior traits.

• -Terrier Breeds This segment provides in-depth information about terrier breeds, emphasizing their distinct traits, handling techniques, and socialization needs.

• Mixed Breeds: This module addresses the diverse characteristics and training approaches associated with mixed-breed dogs, ensuring candidates are equipped to work with various dog types.

Successful completion of these modules and obtaining the necessary endorsements is essential for advancing in this field.