COURSE DESCRIPTION
Unit 1
Introduction to Pet Grooming & The Working Breeds
This unit includes orientation which covers: school policies and procedures, basic study skills, the use and maintenance of student’s equipment as well as the school’s equipment and sanitation procedures. Topics included are: canine anatomy, the American Kennel Club (AKC) purpose and functions, the AKC Working Breed standards, grooming procedures, canine behavior and handling.
LAB: Introduction to practical pet grooming skills. Practical application on “Brushables” (Smooth, short, long and longhaired part coated breeds).
Unit 2
The Mixed Breeds
Mixed Breeds and modified trims for purebreds are the focus for this unit, including clipping and scissoring techniques. Topics included are: styles of Mixed Breed and modified trims, external parasites, insecticides and parasite
control.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of “Brushable” breeds. Introduction to mixed breed grooming.
Unit 3
The Herding Breeds
Herding Breed standards and grooming procedures are the focus of this unit. Topics included are: common skin problems (their recognition and care), internal parasites and basic canine nutrition.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of modified and mixed breeds with greater emphasis on scissoring skills.
Unit 4
The Non-Sporting Breeds
Non-Sporting Breeds are the focus of this unit. Special attention is given to the grooming of the Poodle, Bichon Frise and other scissored breeds. Topics included are: canine heart disease, basic canine first aid procedures, CPR for animals and making and applying bows.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in mixed breed grooming. Introduction to grooming the Poodle and Bichon.
Unit 5
The Toy Breeds
Toy Breed standards and grooming procedures are the focus of this unit. Topics included are: Poodle patterns, canine reproduction, reproductive problems and musculoskeletal problems (such as hip dysplasia).
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of scissored breeds. Special emphasis will be placed on developing hand-scissoring skills and corrective grooming.
Unit 6
The Sporting Breed
Sporting Breed standards and grooming procedures are the focus of this unit. Special attention is given to the grooming of Spaniels and Setters. Topics included are: geriatric care (handling and grooming techniques for the older dog), epilepsy, eye problems and ear problems.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of scissored breeds. Introduction to the grooming of Spaniels and Setters. Emphasis will be places on carding and thinning techniques.
Unit 7
The Hounds & Miscellaneous Breed
Hounds and Miscellaneous Breed standards and grooming procedures are the focus of this unit. Topics included are: canine gastrointestinal problems, with a focus on acute gastric dilation (bloat) and gastric torsion.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of Spaniels and Setters.
Unit 8
The Terrier Breeds
Terrier Breed standards and grooming procedures are the focus of this unit. Topics included are: vaccinations (the diseases for which dogs are commonly vaccinated and the basics of canine immunization) and multi-system problems.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of Spaniels and Setters. Introduction to grooming the Terriers including hand stripping techniques.
Unit 9
Cat Grooming Techniques & Product Study and Retailing
Cat grooming Procedures will be introduced, as well as feline behavior, handling techniques and diseases. Comprehensive study of products and their use in the grooming practice including pesticides and licensing, shampoos, conditioners, gels, mousses, texturizers, cleaning products, etc. Retailing basics will be covered.
LAB: Continuation of practical skills in the grooming of Terriers.
Unit 10
Spaniel Breeds
In depth study and evaluation of Spaniel structure and grooming patterns.
LAB: Continuation of grooming Spaniels, Terriers and scissored breeds.
Unit 11
Terrier Patterns
In depth study and evaluation of Terrier structure and grooming patterns.
LAB: Continuation of grooming Spaniels, Terriers and scissored breeds.
Unit 12
Review and Final Exam
LAB: Continuation of grooming Spaniels, Terriers and scissored breeds.
Unit 13
Training the Receptionist
Topics of study will include projecting a professional image and developing interpersonal skills, telephone techniques, client relations, office procedures/record keeping and introduction to pricing.
LAB: Introduction to time management and organization of grooming projects. Continuation of skill development in all breeds.
Unit 14
Seeking Employment
This unit focuses on seeking employment, what to look for in a shop, tools of the trade, what questions to ask future employers and what employers expect of you. Resume writing and interviewing techniques will be discussed.
LAB: Students will practice acquired skills by performing all functions in the reception area while continuing to develop all breed grooming skills and time management.
Unit 15
Problem Solving
Emphasis is placed on problem solving, handling customer complaints and emergency situations. Continued development and practice of all office functions.
LAB: Continuation of skill development in all breeds and time management and organization.
Unit 16
Continuing Education
Topics include completion of record keeping and pricing. Professional organizations and affiliations as well as continuing education sources for employees, owner and managers will be covered.
LAB: Completion of hands-on projects.
