A free pet grooming course will be offered at TAFE NSW Mudgee for the first time in 2022 to help meet a growing demand for skilled workers.

The Statement of Attainment in Dog Grooming is being launched following an explosion in pet ownership during COVID-19, attributed in part to the increased need for companionship during lockdown.

Australia now has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world according to Animal Medicines Australia, with approximately 61% of households owning domestic pets.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Animal Services in Mudgee, Michelle Bond, said the Animal Care and Management Industry Reference Committee has identified pet grooming as one of the top five occupations in demand within the animal services sector.

“TAFE NSW is responding to the needs of industry in the Central West and helping to develop a pipeline of skilled workers who can hit the ground running,” Ms Bond said.

“This free short course will help people break into the industry and become assistant grooming attendants, stylist assistants, or trainee groomers. All you need to get started is patience and a genuine empathy for animals.”

The Statement of Attainment in Dog Grooming will teach practical skills in bathing, brushing, trimming and other basic grooming services for domestic pets as well as salon reception and housekeeping duties.

“The course is for business owners who want to upskill staff or for people keen to start their own business or mobile salon,” Ms Bond said.

“There has never been a better time to join the animal services industry and having access to free training at TAFE NSW provides an excellent opportunity for people to get the training they need for the jobs they want.”

The free Statement of Attainment in Dog Grooming begins on 24 January 2022. For more information, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Terra Sword, Communications Specialist. Phone: 6623 0325. Email: terra.sword@tafensw.edu.au.