AKC Acquires Professional Grooming Credential From World Pet Association

The American Kennel Club has acquired the Professional Grooming Credential from the World Pet Association.

The PGC measures foundational knowledge, safety and technical skills of groomers and is the only nationwide grooming industry credential, according to a press release.

“Integrating the PGC within the already robust AKC grooming certifications will continue to strengthen the grooming industry,” said Dennis Sprung, president and CEO of the AKC. “This will ensure the credential is available to workforce development programs and community colleges around the country.”

WPA founded the program in 2020.

“At WPA we are continually reinvesting in the pet and service industry. The idea that we can offer groomers a way to define their business and reinforce their expertise with their clients was a valuable path for us,” said Vic Mason, president of WPA.

Learn more about AKC’s grooming certifications here. To learn more about the PGC, click here.