Pet groomers do not need to be licensed or certified. There is no certification authority in New Mexico or other states. Here in Albuquerque, NM we need to be inspected by the Animal Services Department for safety and cleanliness. But there is nothing overseeing the handling of the animals as in grooming.
There are independant organization who certify groomers. These groomers have fulfilled their training requirements, usually information on sanitation, tool care, breed trims, and many other fundamental aspects of caring for your pet during a grooming session. Shop cleanliness and organization are also a part of the curriculums. These certifications vary in the breadth of knowledge required. And it is voluntary to get these certifications. Some certifications can be obtained through the internet without ever having handled a dog. So it is important to receive certification through a respected Organization.
Pretty Pets has chosen to certify through International Professional Groomers, Inc. or IPG. At a recent convention, I was able to speak to the founder of IPG and was very impressed with her philosophy about pet care. The code of Ethics for IPG includes: "Treat humanely all animals entrusted in my care and place their welfare above all else, to exhibit compassion and integrity when dealing with these pets, ensuring their safety and health." Among several others that can be found at http://www.ipgicmg.com/default.html.
We have started studying for our certification and both the salon and groomers will all be certified through IPG.
Some facts about Pretty Pets:
•We never leave a dog on a table or in the tub unsupervised.
•Pets are dried by hand. We don't use cage dryers.
•We use shampoos with natural and organic ingredients.
•Your pets have orthopedic fleece to lay on in the kennels.
•Your pets have access to water during their stay.
•All kennels are solid bottom.
•We have over 25 years of experience grooming pets between us.
Please feel free to ask questions and share your concerns. We are here to help.
Thank you, Marilyn
Pretty Pets 293-1600