Virginia School of Pet Grooming Training Program in Manassas
The Virginia School of Pet Grooming in Manassas, VA, has been teaching professional pet grooming for over 30 years. Learn more about the programs we offer by reviewing the program descriptions below.
History of the Dog
A study of the evolution of the canine. Each AKC breed will be studied according to breed group and students will gain the ability to identify each breed individually as well as become familiar with the backgrounds and standards of each.
Animal Psychology and Behavior
Discussion of the canine as a pack animal and relating these instincts to canine behavior in pets. An understanding of this behavior will aid the student in the handling of dogs during the grooming process. We will also cover the application of humane restraining techniques for a variety of situations.
First Aid and CPR for Dog, Cat (Video)
Administration of first aid for a dog or cat in life-threatening situations, prevention of further complications/injury, and sustaining life until professional help can be obtained. Pet first aid will include how to administer to a dog or cat bite until professional help can be obtained (The feline section will be omitted for those programs not including training with cats).
Selection of Equipment: Safety, Care, and Sanitation
The various types of grooming equipment available and the importance of proper selection are discussed. Instruction on the correct application and handling of basic equipment will be given to the student. Safety precautions followed in the grooming salon and the importance of properly disinfecting equipment to prevent the transmission of parasites and diseases will be covered and applied daily. Students will be required to clean and disinfect their own equipment and work area during the practical portion of this program.
Diseases/Parasites: Identification and Sanitation
An overview of contagious disease in the canine and feline. Students are instructed on how to communicate to the client regarding suspected illness and the importance of recommending veterinary attention when indicated. Students will be taught to recognize the parasites that commonly host the internal and external anatomy of the dog and cat. Symptoms, life cycles, yard control, and prevention are stressed.
Foundation for Grooming Skills
The student will be introduced to the proper techniques and equipment used in basic grooming functions. He will be taught to trim nails, clean eyes, and ears, and care for feet, pads, and teeth. Essentials such as clipping feet and tail and preliminary body trimming are also covered.
Skin Disorders and Nutrition in the Dog and Cat
Common skin problems and their symptoms will be discussed, with emphasis on when veterinary attention should be sought. Proper nutritional requirements for dogs and cats of different ages, sexes, and health with be studied. Students will be expected to know the essential nutrients consisting of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Brushing, Combing and Dematting
Students will be instructed on how to handle the various types of coats and the problems that some will present. They will learn how to recognize blown coats and how they should be stripped, as well as how to properly remove mats.
Shop Management
The student will be allowed to learn the basics of shop management through exposure to actual shop conditions. He will have an opportunity to develop time management skills through proper scheduling of duties and workflow. He will learn how to operate a shop on a professional level through actual exposure to good retail practices and customer service techniques. Shop setup/design and essential records are covered.
Public Relations
Promoting and maintaining good relations with business associates such as veterinarians, customers, employees/employers, and other groomers. Trade journals and professional associations will be discussed. Advertising techniques we have had success with will be covered. The main emphasis here will be on customer relations for your future business success.
Cat Grooming
We will cover the various breeds of long and short-haired cats, specific feline diseases, and special nutritional needs. Basic differences between dog and cat grooming such as equipment, restraint, nail clipping, dematting, bathing, and finishing will be discussed. (This section will be omitted in programs that do not train in cats).
Practical Experience
This is an integral part of the program, with an emphasis on skill and speed to enable the student to perform well in a professional atmosphere. In order to assure volume confidence, you will be required to increase the amount of pets you will work on throughout the program. A student plan will be given to each student on the first day of class, reflecting the stages of training that each student will go through. Finishing techniques will be discussed and demonstrated by the instructor and then applied by the student. Emphasis will be placed on making each dog a proper representation of its breed. The student will also learn how to translate a client’s wishes and needs into a professional and suitable clip. The professional pet groomer will see a lot of mixed breeds in his career. The student will learn how to groom these pets so that they look their best and their owners will be pleased.
**Students that take the Poodle and/or Mixed Breed Program will direct all practical time to the breed or the category specified in the program description.
Instructional Texts and Tapes on School Premises
In addition to hands-on training, the Virginia School of Pet Grooming in Manassas, VA uses the following educational videos and reference books to supplement your pet grooming education. We also provide you with a list of equipment and supplies you will need for your pet groomer classes.
Poodles
Schnauzers
Bichons
Maltese
Long-legged terriers
Terrier Videos
Cocker Spaniels
Cat and dog first aide
Snap-on combs
Forced air drying
Bathing and drying
Pet Handling
Reference Books
The Art and Business of Professional Grooming by Dorothy Walin
Standard Book of Dog Grooming by Fenger & Steinle
Clipping and Grooming Your Poodle by Kalston
Schnauzer clipping Made Easy by Migliorney
Clipping and Grooming Terriers by Arco
Clipping and Grooming Your Spaniels and Setters by Stone & Migliorney