iPET Network Ltd

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iPET Network was formed by dog lovers, just like you. Fern Gresty and Sarah Mackay, Founders and Directors of iPET Network are qualified dog groomers and educators, still working hands on when the call comes in. Owning a number of salons and training schools, they realised a gap in the grooming industry market where only 1 regulated qualification existed. However, this qualification didn’t recognise cross breeds, new equipment or current practices and the availability of breed standard dogs in their salons made it time consuming and costly to get their own groomers qualified. 

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What was the solution? 

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Create a new qualification that held the prestige of being Ofqual regulated on the national framework but that was more reflective of the modern groomers client base, demanding all techniques and safety were covered whilst acknowledging freestyle grooming.

 

This new qualification had to be attractive to new potential employers and dog owners so it developed skills in customer service, had canine first aid as a mandatory unit and still cover all the core knowledge that every groomer should know (those parasites have not changed in a while!) Version 1 of the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management was launched in 2020 and has seen iPET Network grow into a leading Awarding Organisation for the Animal Care & Veterinary Science sector. Their values continue to guide and inspire new generations of dog groomers. Not bad for the girls who spend their days pampering pups!

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Dog Grooming Qualifications

Although the dog grooming industry remains unregulated, the industry recognises that qualified and competent dog groomers are required for the public to have trust in the profession. Qualification builds a standard and sets a benchmark for skills, knowledge and behaviours that employers and customers can relate to.

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iPET Network now has a portfolio of dog and cat grooming qualifications that meet the individual needs of learners, taking them from novice to advanced groomers with opportunity to upskill and further develop. Unlike other routes, iPET Network has no entry requirements for the Level 3 Diploma meaning learners can save time and expense achieving the most recognised industry standard. Qualifications are regularly reviewed to ensure they meet sector requirements meaning learners stay up to date with best practice, new developments and trends.

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