Interpret canine, feline and other small animal body language so as to handle, house and groom animals appropriately.

Explain the cycles of hair and nail growth in a variety of dog breeds and other small animals.

Apply knowledge of anatomical skin structure and physical skin appearance in animals so as to be able to suggest skin and coat abnormalities.

Outline potential causes of hair loss and how to deal with them if evident in the grooming facility.

Explain the correct uses of equipment used in the grooming facility and the appropriate maintenance of such equipment.

Use information sources, including dog owner, examination and observations of dog, to plan the grooming process including brushing and de-matting, nail and ear care, bathing, drying and clipping, hand stripping and or cutting as appropriate.

Exercise appropriate handling and restraining of animals during the grooming process.

Select suitable products and equipment for a variety of animals with differing skin and hair types.

Use a variety of grooming equipment including grooming table, dryers, brushes, combs, clippers and others, following best practice.

Exercise initiative to aid the efficient and effective running of the grooming facility.

Deal appropriately with the public and their animals.

Obtain the details required from an owner prior to assuming responsibility for their animal.

Maintain personal and professional health and safety requirements of a grooming facility including personal protective equipment, safe handling and housing of animals, prevention of transmission of disease and safety, health and hygiene of facility for the benefit of the public.

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Naturalist

Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.

Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.