ANIMAL loving school leavers are being encouraged to consider a career in dog grooming as the industry deals with a surge in demand.

Pet pampering services have seen an increase in custom since the boom in dog ownership during lockdown.

Scott Learmouth, who runs the Bone Idol Training Academy in Hove and the Bone Idol Salon in St James Street, Brighton, says dog grooming is the perfect career choice for an entrepreneurial student.

The Argus: Ben Thorpe with a poodle at Bone IdolBen Thorpe with a poodle at Bone Idol

He said: "Any GCSE or A-level leaver who would like to be an entrepreneur or start their own business in the future should be looking at dog grooming as an industry of interest right now.

"The salon has been packed out with bookings ever since it was allowed to reopen, and the iPET Network qualifications offered by the training academy have seen a record number of sign-ups."

Grooming salons have been struggling to keep up with demand.

Training provider iPet Network, which offers dog grooming qualifications, is appealing for would-be groomers to sign up and become part of the growth industry.

The Argus: Groomer Sofie at Bone IdolGroomer Sofie at Bone Idol

Scott added: “The pandemic has been so tough, but coming out the other side it is all the more clear that we have a growth industry on our hands.

“We have seen so many different types of people, from former cabin crew to armed forces veterans and office workers signing up to take the iPET Network courses.

“People have had the opportunity to reassess their lives, or have lost jobs, and dog grooming is a fun and creative new start for them.

“Likewise at the salon it is safe to say that it has been packed! It’s wonderful to be back, but it’s clear that the industry needs to expand to keep up with demand.

“It is a really exciting time for dog grooming.”

Sarah Mackay, director at iPet Network says with many people considering a complete change of career and outlook following the pandemic, working with animals in a flexible way is an attractive option.

She said: “The demand for dog grooming has never been stronger, and these millions of new puppy parents need to be reassured that the groomer they choose holds a nationally recognised qualification.

“Sadly, because of the pandemic lockdowns some grooming businesses in the UK have not survived. That coupled with the giant demand the remaining ones are experiencing means only one thing; We need more qualified groomers.”

To find out more about studying at the Bone Idol Academy go to www.boneidol.co.uk/academy

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