The Ministry of Labor in Taiwan has announced the commencement of a new certification program for pet grooming, starting from August 29. This initiative comes in response to the rising trend of pet ownership among Taiwanese citizens, who are increasingly opting for pets over children. It is estimated that there are millions of pets in the country, leading to a significant demand for professional grooming services, yet there has been a lack of official certification for practitioners in this field.
Details of the Certification Program
After discussions between the Ministry of Labor and the Council of Agriculture, it was decided to establish a "Level C Pet Grooming" certification to enhance the quality of service provided by pet groomers. Registration for the certification will begin on August 29 and is open to individuals aged 15 and older. While obtaining this certification is not mandatory for practicing as a groomer, it offers a competitive advantage in the industry.
Growing Demand for Pet Services
With over a million dogs and cats in Taiwan, there is a burgeoning market for pet-related services including grooming, breeding, and retail products. The pet grooming sector is particularly thriving due to its low capital requirements and accessible entry points for new businesses.
Examination Requirements
According to Lin Shiling, a certified groomer with international KCT credentials, the practical examination will cover various skills such as bathing, hair trimming, ear cleaning, drying, and styling pets with accessories like bows. Candidates are required to bring their own model dogs for the practical test. Specific regulations include:
- The model dog must be registered according to animal protection laws.
- The dog should belong to specific breeds (e.g., Poodle, Maltese) with a minimum coat length of 4 cm.
- The dog must be at least 10 months old.
- Female dogs in heat must not disrupt other candidates during the examination.
Certification Timeline
The registration period runs from August 29 to September 7. The theoretical examination will take place on November 5, while practical tests are scheduled between January and March of the following year.
Conclusion
This new certification aims to uplift the standards within Taiwan's pet grooming industry and ensure that service providers are well-equipped with essential skills and knowledge.