Raising grooming standards in the pet care industry

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Professional groomer bathing a corgi
Pet grooming is at the heart of pet care, but its true importance often flies under the radar. While most pet owners prioritise feeding, exercise, and vet visits, one key aspect is often overlooked: the health of their pet’s skin and coat. For pet care professionals, this is an opportunity to not only educate owners but also raise the bar for the entire industry.

 

Grooming: It’s more than just a haircut

Groomers aren’t just giving pets a fresh trim to keep them looking cute; they’re an essential part of animal health and wellbeing. Groomers are often the first to spot early signs of skin infections, parasites, or stress behaviours and can teach owners how to properly care for their pet’s coat. Groomers are on the front lines of preventative care, making a real difference in pets’ lives.

But here’s the problem: Did you know the UK pet grooming industry remains completely unregulated? This means anyone can call themselves a groomer, regardless of training or experience. The result? Pets are at risk. From botched haircuts to injuries – or worse – unqualified groomers can cause more harm than good, leaving owners to deal with costly consequences.
Female pet groomer cuts the fur of cute black dog standing on a grooming table

 

Why unregulated grooming puts pets at risk

Most pet groomers are skilled professionals who care deeply about their craft. But here’s the problem: with little regulation, anyone can open a grooming salon. This can leave pets in the hands of unprepared individuals, leading to poor grooming, accidents, and unsafe environments.

And with grooming becoming a booming industry, more people are jumping in to cash out on the trend, often without proper training. Grooming is a highly skilled profession that demands knowledge of breed standards, anatomy, and safety, not to mention the ability to handle nervous animals with care.

 

4 ways to raise grooming standards in the industry

Calling all pet care professionals – it’s time to set a new standard and elevate the industry. Here’s how you can lead the way:

  1. Invest in qualifications and training
    A skilled groomer isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. Organisations like The Groomers Spotlight recognise only the best: professionals with a City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma or equivalent. These qualifications ensure groomers understand health, safety, and breed-specific standards.

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  2. Build trust through transparency
    Pet parents want to know their furry family members are in capable, trustworthy hands. Be open about your qualifications, certifications, and any relevant experience that highlights your expertise.

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  3. Make safety the priority
    Safety isn’t optional, it’s everything. Make sure your business is fully covered with pet business insurance. From accidental nicks to unexpected injuries, insurance protects your team, your clients, and, most importantly, the pets in your care. Think of it as peace of mind for everyone involved.

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  4. Communicate the value of quality
    Many customers balk at the cost of a dog’s haircut, often comparing it to their own. Educate your clients on what goes into professional grooming: the skills, expertise, equipment, and care needed to keep their pets happy and safe.

 

Join the movement for safer, smarter grooming practices

Join the movement to raise grooming standards! Visit thegroomersspotlight.com today to find qualified groomers and advocate for safer pet care.

by Stuart Simons
Stuart Simons, owner of Groom Dog City and co-founder of The Groomers Spotlight, is a master-certified groomer and respected judge of international grooming competitions.