In July 2024, Joybound People & Pets launched the Engelstad Dog Grooming Academy, thanks to the generous support of the Engelstad Foundation. This academy, located on Joybound’s Walnut Creek campus, is more than just a grooming salon; it is a comprehensive career-training program designed to open doors for individuals facing barriers to employment.
Now fully operational, the Grooming Academy welcomes the public to bring their dogs—of all sizes, shapes, breeds, and ages—for quality grooming services. These include professional nail services, baths, brushing, and full styling, all provided by students in training under the close supervision of experienced instructors and groomers. What sets the academy apart is not only the quality of care offered, but the academy’s unique role as both a learning environment and a service provider.
The Academy’s program is rigorous and hands-on, consisting of a four-week, 150-hour curriculum. Students spend 25 percent of their time in the classroom, learning essential grooming techniques and industry knowledge, while 75 percent is devoted to practical, hands-on training with real pets. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped to step into entry-level positions such as bather/brusher in grooming salons. The programs offered are foundational in the journey toward becoming professional, licensed groomers and pet stylists. Graduates can also pursue careers in a variety of settings, including doggy daycare centers, boarding facilities, and retail pet supply stores. With the pet care industry continuing to grow, there are many opportunities, and these in-demand jobs are abundant.
Joybound’s shelter dogs also play a key role in the academy, serving as the primary clients for students’ hands-on training. These dogs receive regular grooming, which is vital for their health and happiness as they prepare for adoption. In addition, Joybound staff and volunteers bring their own pets to the academy, giving students the chance to work with a diverse range of family pets and service dogs, further enhancing their practical experience.
“The vision behind Joybound Dog Grooming Academy was to create a vocational school that removes barriers to employment, providing free education and career guidance to those who need it most,” explained Bernadette (Bernie) Machado, Director of the Joybound Dog Grooming Academy. Machado, a seasoned expert in animal welfare with a successful dog grooming business in San Francisco since 1989, has brought her wealth of knowledge and passion to the academy. “We wanted to offer people a chance to find work they truly love, and that’s how the academy was born—an amazing partnership that combines our dedication to serving the community with the financial and expert resources necessary to bring this vision to life.”
The Joybound Dog Grooming Academy is not just about grooming pets; it is about preparing people for a future in the animal wellness sector. By providing accessible, high-quality training, Joybound is helping individuals turn their passion for animals into a viable and rewarding career. This initiative underscores Joybound’s commitment to fostering the human-animal bond and making a positive community impact that extends far beyond the walls of the grooming salon.
Whether you are looking to have your pet pampered or are seeking a new career in a growing industry, the Joybound Dog Grooming Academy is ready to welcome you. Join us in celebrating this new chapter of opportunity and service in our community!
For more information, visit https://joybound.org/services/grooming-academy/