⭐️ Groomer Spotlight
September 29, 2023

3 Classes Every Groomer Must Take to Become an Award Winning Groomer

The best groomers are lifelong learners

Alex Martin

Hello fellow grooming enthusiasts! Welcome to The Daily Groomer, where we bring you insightful conversations with industry experts. In last week’s episode, we had the absolute honor of interviewing the rock star herself, Mary Oquendo. Mary, with her wealth of knowledge and experience, shared some invaluable insights that every groomer should note. From understanding animal behavior to mastering skin and coat care, here are the 3 classes she recommends every groomer to take. 

Class 1: Behavior and Handling

Mary shed light on the significance of understanding the mechanics of an animal's skin and how they move in behavior and handling classes. She highlighted the impact of Chrissy Newmeyer Smith's classes, which broaden the scope to various animals, not just dogs. It's crucial to pay attention to warning signs from animals before being bitten, underscoring the need to comprehend physiology and anatomy. By honing these skills, groomers can provide a safe and stress-free grooming experience for their furry clients.

Class 2: Bathing Essentials

First things first, everyone should take classes on how to bathe a dog. Terry Di Marino and Angie Coates, renowned professionals in the industry, offer classes at trade shows (like Barkleighs) and online at PawsitiveEd. These classes equip aspiring groomers with the foundational skills required to provide a clean and hygienic bathing service. Investing in these courses allows groomers to ensure optimum care and well-being for the dogs in their care.

Class 3: Skin and Coat Care

For groomers looking to specialize in skin and coat care, Chris Pearson and Michelle Knowles offer comprehensive classes with different levels of intensity. These classes explore the intricacies of skin types, coat conditions, and effective grooming techniques. By mastering skin and coat care, groomers can elevate the aesthetic beauty of their clients while simultaneously promoting their overall health and well-being.

Listening to Mary Oquendo's insights certainly expanded my understanding of what it truly means to be a lifelong learner. Whether you're just starting or have been in the industry for years, these 3 classes are vital to your grooming journey. Remember, attending trade shows is an excellent starting point to gain knowledge, network with fellow groomers, and stay updated with the latest trends and innovations.

So, why not take action now and subscribe to our newsletter? By doing so, you'll receive exclusive content, interviews, and recommendations to nourish your grooming skills. Let's embark on this transformative journey together and unleash the grooming expert within you!

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes of The Daily Groomer, where we'll continue to bring you expert insights from industry leaders. And until then, happy grooming!

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