Just 4 Paws has become the first dog grooming salon and courses in Nottinghamshire to achieve the new Quality Assurance Standard for Groomers. Designed to help cat and dog owners find a reputable groomer, the Quality Assurance Standard was launched by the Pet Industry Federation in 2013, in association with Dogs Trust and PDSA.

Quality Assured Groomers have to pass a rigorous inspection and testing process to ensure their knowledge, health and safety procedures, business practices and animal welfare policies are up to scratch. Participating businesses are also given a star rating, which is based on the qualifications and experience of the staff.

‘Grooming is unregulated, which means that anyone can set up in business, no matter what their qualifications or experience,’ said Nigel Baker, Chief Executive of the Pet Industry Federation. ‘Sadly, there have been incidents of injuries to animals – or worse – in grooming salons. Whilst these incidents are few and far between, the general public may not know where to turn to find a cat or dog groomer they can trust. Specialists from national charities Dogs Trust and PDSA and the British Dog Grooming Association have launched this scheme to provide peace of mind. Quality Assured Groomers have demonstrated that they operate to best practice guidelines and put animal welfare first.’

‘We are delighted that Amy English, proprietor of Just 4 Paws, has had the courage and enthusiasm to take on the challenge of achieving the Quality Assurance Standard,’ said Nigel. ‘Our inspectors were impressed with the salon and, due to the qualifications of their staff, Just 4 Paws receives the top star rating. This is in addition to their status as a Premier Satellite Centre with the Pet Industry Federation, training the next generation of dog groomers.’