Many people decide to switch careers but it's not always easy to find something that fits the bill. Well, if you have a love of dogs, a Dog Grooming business may be just down your street!

In Oswestry, we are fortunate to have one of the country's leading Dog Grooming trainers - Debby Knight.

Recently I asked Debby her advice for anyone considering a move into Dog Grooming and what would be the best courses to take.

Over to Debby...

THE INTERVIEW

Q/ Hi Debby, if someone is considering being a Dog Groomer, either part or full-time, what would be your advice to them?

To anyone considering being a groomer, I would suggest you do your homework when it comes to your training school. make sure your tutor is qualified and experienced and their grooming knowledge and techniques are up to date. Make sure your tutor only has 2 or 3 students at a time so you get plenty of personal tuition. Also make sure you have support from your tutor when you are out on your own. Try a day at your choice of training school, just to make sure you like your tutor and actually enjoy the grooming.

Q/ As a provider of one of the country's leading Dog Grooming Training courses, what is so special about the courses you offer?

I believe I can offer the latest techniques with the best quality grooming equipment. I give one to one tuition as I only have a maximum of 2 students at a time. My students learn in a relaxed atmosphere and I give a lifetime support.

Q/ You provide a range of different courses for people with different requirements - is there an ideal sequence for doing the courses?

I offer different courses for different requirements. A day course may be sufficient to learn to groom your pet , but a 16 day course is needed to start up a grooming business. Those already grooming may just need a refresher, or learn to groom a specific breed in more detail. I try and cater for all groomer training needs.

Q/ What makes a great Dog Groomer?

Dedication and a willingness to work hard and not be put off by dog hair in your cup of tea!!

Q/ Once someone has completed a course, what do they receive in terms of certification and support?

When a student has successfully completed their course with me, I give a diploma for the relevant course. If the student wants an accredited qualification, for example a City and Guilds qualification, I can arrange for them to take the appropriate exams and assessments. This is done externally and fees are additional to the training courses.  I have had many students go on to take these exams and to date have a 100% student pass rate. Accreditation is not nessessary to start up a grooming business, or to work within it.

I give unlimited support when their course is finished, as I am only a phone call or email away.

For more information on Dog Grooming Courses provided by Debby at The Bristles.