A Different Approach to Professional Education
The Holistic Grooming Academy was built around the belief that every groomer should understand not only how to perform a groom, but why dogs behave the way they do.
Our education combines subjects including:
Canine behaviour and learning theory
Stress recognition and emotional wellbeing
Low-stress handling concepts and dog bite prevention
Pain and welfare awareness and risk-assessment
Evidence-informed practice and ethical decision-making
Professional reflection and continual development
By understanding the individual dog in front of us, we can make better decisions, create safer grooming experiences and ultimately improve welfare across the profession.
Supporting the Future of the Industry
This award also reflects the wider direction our work is taking.
To find our award listing visit the Corporate Vision website due to be published the week commencing Aug 3rd 2026.
Alongside the Academy, we continue developing the Applied Behaviour and Welfare Grooming Framework (ABWGF) - an initiative designed to help establish a practical, science-backed code of conduct that supports groomers, educators and the wider animal care community.
Our aim has never been to suggest there is only one “right” way to groom.
Instead, we hope to encourage thoughtful, reflective practice that places the dog’s welfare at the centre of every professional decision.
A thank you
No achievement like this happens in isolation.
To every student who has trusted us with their education…
To every graduate who continues to advocate for compassionate, welfare-focused grooming…
To every professional who has supported our work, shared ideas and challenged us to continue improving…
Thank you.
Your passion for improving the lives of dogs continues to inspire everything we do.
Looking ahead
Recognition is always appreciated, but it is not the goal.
It is simply another milestone on a much bigger, meaningful journey.
We remain committed to:
continuing to develop evidence-informed education
supporting groomers through meaningful, professional development
advancing behaviour and welfare knowledge within the grooming profession
contributing to research that helps shape the future of canine care and beyond
There is still much work to do, and we are excited about what lies ahead.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
Whether you are a visitor, member, student, graduate, supporter or someone only just discovering the HGA, thank you for being here and following our journey.
Together, we can continue raising standards and creating a future where every grooming experience is safer, kinder and better informed - for both dogs and the professionals who care for them.
Stephanie Zikmann
Founder
The Holistic Grooming Academy Ltd