Leading pet industry organisations have launched a comprehensive new set of guidelines for professional dog and cat groomers.
The Guidelines for Dog and Cat Groomers, developed by the Canine & Feline Sector Group (CFSG) in partnership with the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and the British Isles Grooming Association (BIGA), sets out clear standards designed to protect animal welfare and help pet owners make informed choices about grooming services.
The new guidelines provide both groomers and pet owners with clear expectations around professional standards, safety protocols, and animal welfare requirements, including professional qualifications and insurance requirements, emergency procedures, hygiene protocols, and specific handling techniques for anxious pets. The document aims to address the current lack of formal regulation in the pet grooming sector by establishing industry-leading best practices.
Rob Quest, chairman of CFSG, said: “These guidelines represent a significant step forward for the pet grooming industry. By establishing clear benchmarks for everything from training to emergency procedures, we’re giving pet owners the tools they need to choose groomers who will keep their beloved companions safe and comfortable.”
PIF chief executive Nigel Baker added: “These guidelines demonstrate the pet grooming sector’s commitment to continuous improvement and professional excellence. By setting these standards voluntarily, our industry is showing responsibility and leadership in animal welfare.
“We’re particularly pleased that the guidelines address the individual needs of different pets, recognising that a nervous rescue dog requires very different handling from a show-trained poodle, and that cats have completely different requirements from dogs. We encourage all groomers to adopt these guidelines and help raise the bar across the entire sector.”
