{"id":12272,"date":"2021-01-20T07:00:52","date_gmt":"2021-01-20T12:00:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.doggroomingcourse.com\/?p=12272"},"modified":"2021-01-20T07:00:52","modified_gmt":"2021-01-20T12:00:52","slug":"qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan","title":{"rendered":"Graduate Feature: April Costigan"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12320&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]<strong>Name: <\/strong>April Costigan<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: <\/strong>Centennial, Colorado<\/p>\n<p><strong>QC Pet Studies Courses you&#8217;ve taken:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.doggroomingcourse.com\/online-courses\/dog-grooming\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Dog Grooming<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.doggroomingcourse.com\/online-courses\/first-aid-for-groomers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">First Aid for Groomers<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Your website: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sparklingdogs.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/www.sparklingdogs.com\/<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Tell_us_a_little_bit_about_yourself\" >Tell us a little bit about yourself!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#How_did_you_know_that_grooming_would_become_more_than_just_a_hobby\" >How did you know that grooming would become more than just a hobby?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Why_did_you_choose_to_enroll_in_an_online_dog_grooming_school_rather_than_brick-and-mortar_classes\" >Why did you choose to enroll in an online dog grooming school, rather than brick-and-mortar classes?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#How_did_you_learn_about_QC_Pet_Studies_Why_else_would_you_recommend_this_school_to_aspiring_dog_groomers\" >How\u00a0did\u00a0you learn about QC Pet Studies? Why else would you recommend this school to aspiring dog groomers?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Prior_to_your_professional_training_how_much_knowledge_and_experience_did_you_have_with_grooming\" >Prior to your professional training, how much knowledge and experience did you have with grooming?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#You_enrolled_with_QC_Pet_Studies_completed_your_courses_and_graduated_%E2%80%93_all_in_2020_Why_did_you_choose_to_embark_on_this_journey_during_the_COVID-19_pandemic_and_how_do_you_feel_QCs_flexible_online_learning_environment_made_it_possible_for_you_to_achieve_your_goals\" >You enrolled with QC Pet Studies, completed your courses, and graduated \u2013 all in 2020! Why did you choose to embark on this journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how do you feel QC\u2019s flexible online learning environment made it possible for you to achieve your goals?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#What_was_the_most_difficult_technique_to_learn_from_QC_Pet_Studies_Dog_Grooming_Course_What_was_the_most_fun_technique_to_learn\" >What was the most difficult technique to learn from QC Pet Studies&#8217; Dog Grooming Course? What was the most fun technique to learn?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#You_also_completed_the_First_Aid_for_Groomers_Course_In_your_opinion_why_is_First_Aid_training_essential_for_a_professional_groomer\" >You also completed the First Aid for Groomers Course. In your opinion, why is First Aid training essential for a professional groomer?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Whats_your_favorite_dog_breed_that_you_love_to_groom\" >What\u2019s your favorite dog breed that you love to groom?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Is_there_a_particular_technique_or_skill_youre_currently_working_on_mastering_right_now\" >Is there a particular technique or skill you\u2019re currently working on mastering right now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Do_you_have_any_advice_for_students_of_dog_grooming_classes_who_are_struggling_to_find_dogs_to_practice_on_Where_should_they_be_looking_How_can_they_assure_the_owners_that_theyre_going_to_take_care_of_the_dog\" >Do you have any advice for students of dog grooming classes who are struggling to find dogs to practice on? Where should they be looking? How can they assure the owners that they\u2019re going to take care of the dog?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#For_Practicum_Unit_2_Grooming_a_Natural_Breed_you_groomed_a_Sheltie_to_its_breed_standard_in_which_you_focused_on_enhancing_the_dogs_natural_appearance_Looking_back_on_your_work_now_with_your_experienced_eye_is_there_anything_you_would_have_done_differently\" >For Practicum Unit 2: Grooming a Natural Breed, you groomed a Sheltie to its breed standard, in which you focused on enhancing the dog\u2019s natural appearance. Looking back on your work now, with your experienced eye, is there anything you would have done differently?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#Overall_how_do_you_think_QC_Pet_Studies_Dog_Grooming_and_First_Aid_for_Groomers_courses_have_prepared_you_to_work_in_the_professional_field\" >Overall, how do you think QC Pet Studies&#8217; Dog Grooming and First Aid for Groomers courses have prepared you to work in the professional field?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\/#What_are_your_career_goals_as_a_groomer_for_2021_and_beyond\" >What are your career goals as a groomer for 2021 and beyond?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tell_us_a_little_bit_about_yourself\"><\/span>Tell us a little bit about yourself!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]I\u2019ve been working with dogs for the past 11 years in the capacity of fostering, training, rescuing, and (now) grooming. I simply love dogs and have a deep respect for them. I&#8217;m now <a href=\"\/online-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">formally trained<\/a> by QC Pet Studies to groom all coat types and breeds.<\/p>\n<p>I specialize in practical cuts for the everyday dog, but I can also provide specialty cuts as well. I am smart, friendly, and imaginative. Dogs really seem to like me! I like to bring a little whimsy to my work, as well as a sense of humor.<\/p>\n<p>After my clients drop off their dogs, I often text them fun photos throughout the grooming process. I really love the time I spend with each dog. It just tickles me pink when I\u2019m brushing them out, or trimming around their faces, and they stick their little tongues out to give me a quick kiss on the cheek. To me, that is the highest form of a compliment.<\/p>\n<p>I have also been working in an animal shelter for nearly 2 years now. Nothing gives me more pleasure than grooming a dog that has been lost on the streets or lived a life of neglect. Being able to transform that dog from a miserable state to a clean, comfortable, and happy dog is the greatest reward.<\/p>\n<p>I work full-time at this animal shelter and groom 3 days a week in my own private studio. I absolutely love it![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][nectar_image_comparison image_url=&#8221;12323&#8243; image_2_url=&#8221;12326&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_did_you_know_that_grooming_would_become_more_than_just_a_hobby\"><\/span>How did you know that grooming would become more than just a hobby?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]When I first took the position of Kennel Manager at <a href=\"https:\/\/maxfund.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MaxFund No-Kill Animal Shelter<\/a> in Denver, Colorado, I had no idea the impact I would personally have on homeless animals. I knew that keeping the dogs clean, fed, warm, and comfortable was an important mission. But I didn\u2019t fully understand how much basic grooming could really make a difference in these dogs&#8217; lives until I experienced it first-hand!<\/p>\n<p>After a while, providing basic grooming simply wasn\u2019t enough. I needed to know more because I wanted to give more back. My compassion for these animals grew every day, and I just felt like this was my personal mission. I was driven by the need to do better.<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;m happier now that I ever was when I had a high-level corporate job. <a href=\"\/your-dog-grooming-career\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">This career<\/a> has more meaning.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_did_you_choose_to_enroll_in_an_online_dog_grooming_school_rather_than_brick-and-mortar_classes\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Why did you choose to enroll in an online dog grooming school, rather than brick-and-mortar classes?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]I worked full-time and could not attend in-person classes. So, I did a lot of research for online courses and that&#8217;s when I found <a href=\"\/about\/#main\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">QC Pet Studies<\/a>. This school offered exactly what I wanted!<\/p>\n<p>There were lots of instructional videos that I could watch over and over again. I would have lifetime access to my course materials, in case I ever wanted to refer back to them in the future. The practical assignments offered hands-on training. I like that I had the flexibility of choosing the dog I wanted to work with for each assignment.<\/p>\n<p>The valuable tutor feedback I received throughout the course was the most important thing to me. I wanted individual comments about <em>my<\/em> specific work &#8211; not what the whole class would working on, if in a physical classroom.<\/p>\n<p>It was critical that I had an instructor I could truly connect with. I got just that from <a href=\"\/tutors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Lisa Day<\/a>! She gave me terrific insights in all my audio feedback files. The QC Pet Studies website doesn\u2019t tell you this, but Lisa Day and Paddy Gaffney are\u00a0<em>really<\/em> funny. They make the distribution of important information fun and entertaining! They really connect with their students on a higher level.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][nectar_image_comparison image_url=&#8221;12331&#8243; image_2_url=&#8221;12332&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_did_you_learn_about_QC_Pet_Studies_Why_else_would_you_recommend_this_school_to_aspiring_dog_groomers\"><\/span>How\u00a0<em>did\u00a0<\/em>you learn about QC Pet Studies? Why else would you recommend this school to aspiring dog groomers?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Research, research, research! I think I googled and read every single <a href=\"\/2020\/05\/beware-these-6-shady-signs-when-looking-into-an-online-dog-grooming-school\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">online grooming course curriculum<\/a> available. Ultimately, though, I found that I got more \u201cbang for my buck\u201d with QC Pet Studies than I would&#8217;ve with any other institution.<\/p>\n<p>I really liked that I had to video my work and upload it for grading, rather than simply taking open-book tests. Anyone can do that, but that doesn\u2019t mean anyone can groom a dog. By submitting my actual work and receiving feedback, I felt like I really learned what I did well and what I could do better.<\/p>\n<p>Best of all, I could do it when it was convenient for me. Yes, I did my assignments during the day. But I could do the actual coursework in the evening &#8211; or in some cases, very late at night. I loved the flexibility![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prior_to_your_professional_training_how_much_knowledge_and_experience_did_you_have_with_grooming\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Prior to your professional training, how much knowledge and experience did you have with grooming?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]My previous experience with grooming dogs was fairly basic. I could trim nails, give baths, bush out coats (but not properly), and clumsily cut out unsightly mats. I also have dogs of my own, and I was able to keep them neat and tidy. But I was never able to give them stylized haircuts. I had very <a href=\"\/2020\/12\/is-dog-grooming-hard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">basic skills<\/a>.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][nectar_image_comparison image_url=&#8221;12336&#8243; image_2_url=&#8221;12337&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_enrolled_with_QC_Pet_Studies_completed_your_courses_and_graduated_%E2%80%93_all_in_2020_Why_did_you_choose_to_embark_on_this_journey_during_the_COVID-19_pandemic_and_how_do_you_feel_QCs_flexible_online_learning_environment_made_it_possible_for_you_to_achieve_your_goals\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">You enrolled with QC Pet Studies, completed your courses, and graduated \u2013 all in 2020! Why did you choose to embark on this journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how do you feel QC\u2019s flexible online learning environment made it possible for you to achieve your goals? <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]The pandemic wasn\u2019t really a thing until after I had enrolled, so it didn\u2019t really play a role in <em>why<\/em> I chose to enroll. I enrolled because I really wanted to be able to own and operate <a href=\"\/2018\/11\/dog-grooming-business-salon-home-pet-grooming\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">my own business<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>I will likely always work for the animal shelter because there are dogs out there that don\u2019t have access to a professional groomer, but really need one. However, having my own business &#8211; with my own clients &#8211; really allows me to connect with dogs on a deeper level. By having my own clientele, I get to build lasting relationships with wonderful dogs and wonderful people.<\/p>\n<p>QC\u2019s flexible, online learning environment allowed me to achieve my goals because I could do the work whenever I wanted. I didn\u2019t have to wait for a classroom to complete an assignment. Rather, I could move forward as quickly as I wanted and at a pace that suited me. I&#8217;m a driven individual and I ate up the coursework like it was candy. I loved every minute of it![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_was_the_most_difficult_technique_to_learn_from_QC_Pet_Studies_Dog_Grooming_Course_What_was_the_most_fun_technique_to_learn\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">What was the most difficult technique to learn from QC Pet Studies&#8217; Dog Grooming Course? What was the most fun technique to learn?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Shaving <a href=\"\/2021\/01\/how-to-groom-a-poodle-a-crash-course\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">a poodle\u2019s face<\/a> was the most difficult technique for me. At first, I was hesitant about shaving the face all the way. I have more confidence now, but it was tricky for me in the beginning.<\/p>\n<p>The most fun technique to learn was creating a round face, such as a Westie or Teddy Bear cut. I love working with a dog that can barely see at the beginning, thanks to all the fuzzy fur on their face. It allows me to create a beautiful, rounded look that shows off the dog&#8217;s big, bright eyes.<\/p>\n<p>I love the reaction I get from my human clients when they pick up their dog. Their pup no longer looks like a mop! Instead, they&#8217;ve become a bright and intelligent creature; begging for cookies with great big, brown eyes.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][nectar_image_comparison image_url=&#8221;12339&#8243; image_2_url=&#8221;12340&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_also_completed_the_First_Aid_for_Groomers_Course_In_your_opinion_why_is_First_Aid_training_essential_for_a_professional_groomer\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">You also completed the First Aid for Groomers Course. In your opinion, why is First Aid training essential for a professional groomer?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]This is an excellent question. I think First Aid should actually be the <em>first<\/em> part of the course &#8211; and an <a href=\"\/2020\/05\/why-first-aid-training-is-essential-in-dog-grooming-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">absolute requirement<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Many dogs that I&#8217;ve worked with have underlying health issues that are not always apparent. Being able to identify odd behaviors as a prelude to something happening is key. A groomer must be able to identify risk factors in a dog and stop grooming immediately, so they can assess the situation and take action, if needed.<\/p>\n<p>I realize that stress can trigger events. Therefore, I do whatever I can to keep a dog calm and comfortable. If I see stress levels rising, I take a break or do something else. Sometimes, switching gears is all that&#8217;s needed to reduce anxiety and allow the dog to regroup.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_your_favorite_dog_breed_that_you_love_to_groom\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">What\u2019s your favorite dog breed that you love to groom?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]\n<div class=\"gmail_default\">\n<p>The Westie is my favorite. I actually have 3 Westie clients and I love all of them! One of my clients never had her Westie cut to actually\u00a0<em>look<\/em>\u00a0like a Westie before she came to me.<\/p>\n<p>Another allowed me to\u00a0<a href=\"\/online-courses\/dog-grooming\/every-dog-breed-dog-grooming-school\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">use her Westie<\/a>\u00a0in one of my video assignments for QC Pet Studies. I followed the instructions offered in the instructional video and created the cutest dog ever. My client loved\u00a0the look of her dog!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>My tutor said that my Westie had a <em>perfect<\/em> Westie head and that I&#8217;d done a great job. That made my day![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12334&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_there_a_particular_technique_or_skill_youre_currently_working_on_mastering_right_now\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Is there a particular technique or skill you\u2019re currently working on mastering right now?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]I firmly believe that there is always room for improvement in everything I do, that each dog is different. The thing I&#8217;m working on mastering at the moment is the ability to change my technique if a dog is becoming stressed out.<\/p>\n<p>For example, <a href=\"\/2020\/07\/dog-grooming-training-the-importance-of-prep-work-before-styling-part-1\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">nail trims<\/a> for some dogs are no big deal. However, on other dogs, it can be a whole production. If they hate it, they might want to squirm away. You can spend 15 minutes on a stubborn dog, just trimming the nails.<\/p>\n<p>So, changing the way I hold the foot might make a difference. Clipping them with a different type of trimmer might make a difference. Maybe using a grinder is the answer. Personally, I do not like using a grinder because I feel it takes too long. However, for some dogs, this might be what they need.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_you_have_any_advice_for_students_of_dog_grooming_classes_who_are_struggling_to_find_dogs_to_practice_on_Where_should_they_be_looking_How_can_they_assure_the_owners_that_theyre_going_to_take_care_of_the_dog\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Do you have any advice for students of dog grooming classes who are struggling to find dogs to practice on? Where should they be looking? How can they assure the owners that they\u2019re going to take care of the dog?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Go to your local animal shelter and sign up to be a volunteer. Walk some dogs and get to know a wide variety of dog personalities. Once you have built up your confidence in handling dogs, start looking for opportunities to groom them.<\/p>\n<p>A particular breed might not be needed for an assignment. But if there&#8217;s a dog desperately in need of grooming, help him out. It&#8217;s still experience! Plus, you might learn something that is <em>not<\/em> included in any course curriculum.<\/p>\n<p>Before you know it, the dog you need for your assignment will present himself. When that time comes, you\u2019ll know exactly how to take care of him. Not only will you excel in your coursework &#8211; you\u2019ll excel as a human being as well![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"For_Practicum_Unit_2_Grooming_a_Natural_Breed_you_groomed_a_Sheltie_to_its_breed_standard_in_which_you_focused_on_enhancing_the_dogs_natural_appearance_Looking_back_on_your_work_now_with_your_experienced_eye_is_there_anything_you_would_have_done_differently\"><\/span>For <em>Practicum Unit 2: Grooming a Natural Breed<\/em>, you groomed a Sheltie to its breed standard, in which you focused on enhancing the dog\u2019s natural appearance. Looking back on your work now, with your experienced eye, is there anything you would have done differently?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Looking back on my work with this Sheltie, I think I would have liked to have brushed her tail out more. I think there was an opportunity to make the tail look even prettier. That dog was incredibly sweet! I believe she would have allowed me to spend more time on her tail, making sure that it was tangle-free.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h5>Before the Groom<\/h5>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_video link=&#8221;https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=gOIXTO7yGa4&amp;feature=youtu.be&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h5>After the Groom<\/h5>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_video link=&#8221;https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1r2itlJLecA&amp;feature=youtu.be&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Overall_how_do_you_think_QC_Pet_Studies_Dog_Grooming_and_First_Aid_for_Groomers_courses_have_prepared_you_to_work_in_the_professional_field\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">Overall, how do you think QC Pet Studies&#8217; Dog Grooming and First Aid for Groomers courses have prepared you to work in the professional field? <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]I don\u2019t think I could be where I am today without QC Pet Studies. The Dog Grooming and First Aid courses are fantastic. I <a href=\"\/learning-online\/how-it-works\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">learned so much<\/a> from Lisa Day and Paddy Gaffney. I often wish there was an <em>additional<\/em> QC course I could enroll in![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_your_career_goals_as_a_groomer_for_2021_and_beyond\"><\/span><span lang=\"EN-US\">What are your career goals as a groomer for 2021 and beyond?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]I&#8217;ve officially started my own business, <em>Sparkling Dog Grooming<\/em>. I&#8217;ve constructed an entire professional grooming studio in my basement and have started building a very nice client list. I&#8217;m looking to <a href=\"\/2020\/04\/5-ways-to-get-more-clients-for-your-dog-grooming-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">grow it more<\/a> in 2021! I would also love for my granddaughter to join me in a few years, as my assistant. I&#8217;d love to teach her everything I know about dog grooming.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12342&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3><strong>Ready to begin your own journey? <a href=\"https:\/\/enroll.doggroomingcourse.com\/course.php?c%5B%5D=dg&amp;c%5B%5D=fa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Enroll with QC Pet Studies<\/a> and earn a double certification in less than a year!<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221;&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":12321,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[30],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[349],"class_list":{"0":"post-12272","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-student-features"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.8 (Yoast SEO v26.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Graduate Feature: April Costigan - Sniffin&#039; Around<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"QC Pet Studies graduate, April Costigan, discusses her dog grooming career, why she recommends QC, and how she has found so much success!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Graduate Feature: April Costigan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"QC Pet Studies graduate, April Costigan, discusses her dog grooming career, why she recommends QC, and how she has found so much success!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.qcpetstudies.com\/blog\/2021\/01\/qc-pet-studies-graduate-feature-april-costigan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Sniffin&#039; 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