The Dog Stop Academy
Are you looking for a new career?
Then look no further, here at The Dog Stop Academy we hold over 10 years’ experience in the dog grooming industry, and over 21 years’ experience in the wider pet industry.
We offer accredited courses through OCN NI, such as:
- OCN Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming & Salon Management
- OCN Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming, Animal Welfare & Salon Management
- OCN Stand Alone Canine First Aid & CPR Training
- OCN Fast Track qualification for existing groomers
- Taster Day’s
- Dog Grooming Tuition Days
With our small class sizes, you’ll enjoy individualized attention and support throughout your training. Our all-encompassing curriculum includes grooming techniques, handling, relevant legislation, salon management, canine health and behaviour, first aid.
We also provide continued support after you qualify, including career guidance, salon start-up support, follow-up sessions and tuition days.
Available Courses
OCN NI Level 3 Diploma in Commercial Dog Grooming, Animal Welfare & Salon Management
This course is delivered over 30 days, with 29 days in-house practical and 1 day canine first aid & CPR training.
Over the 30-day period, students will groom a minimum of 10 different breeds to ensure a thorough understanding of a variety of different coat types, sizes and temperaments.
There are no pre-requisites to starting this course, meaning that our courses are suitable for beginners as well as established groomers wanting a recognised qualification to back their expertise.
Students are required to attend a minimum of 2 days per week with flexible scheduling options to accommodate both your lifestyle and or existing work-based commitments.
Skills you will learn:
- Bathing and drying techniques
- Clipping and scissoring skills
- Both breed-specific and pet styling
- Health and Safety in the workplace
- Salon and business management
- Client communications
OCN NI Level 3 Fast Track Qualification in Dog Grooming
For skilled and experienced dog groomers who are eager to earn an accredited qualification swiftly and effectively. This course is suitable for groomers with a minimum of 2 years practical grooming experience. Completed over 12 months in your own salon and at your own pace.
OCN NI Stand Alone Canine First Aid & CPR Course (1 Day)
Our 1-day Canine First Aid & CPR training course is ideal for both pet owners and professionals who want to be ready to provide emergency care and treatment should a pet face difficulty.
Our course covers a wide range of canine needs, to include CPR, how to respond and treat for injury, allergic reactions, seizures, chokes, what should be included in a Canine First Aid kit just to list a few…
We provide a combination of both practical and theory tasks and aim to fully prepare you with the knowledge required should you ever find yourself in an emergency situation.
Upon completion of this course, you will receive a recognised certificate of learning.
Taster Days
Curious about dog grooming?
Our Taster Days are an excellent chance to get a first hand look at what it’s like to work in a genuine dog grooming salon before you decide to commit to a full course.
Whether you’re thinking about a career change, checking out your options, or simply curious to find out if grooming suits you, this session will give you practical experience in a welcoming, professional environment.
What to expect?
During your 5–6-hour session, you’ll step into the groomer’s role, working with real dogs, using actual tools and following authentic salon procedures. This session is more than just watching; you’ll receive hands on experience and guidance to really understand what the profession entails.
Tuition Days
Our Dog Grooming Tuition Days are ideal for both new groomers needing extra help and support to boost their confidence as well as former students who want to refine or refresh their skills.
Our Tuition days allow for both an opportunity to concentrate on styling and advancing your grooming methods.