Apprentice Pet Stylist Program

Objective:         A 640-hour course designed for training in the                                   
topical conditioning, bathing, drying and styling of dogs and cats in                          
preparation for an entry-level position as an Apprentice Pet Stylist.

Subjects:            Occupational Safety and Health
                       Canine/Feline Breed ID. Coat Type and Characteristics
                       Canine/Feline Anatomy and Health
                       Animal Behavior and Management
                       Common Ectoparasites, Insecticides and their Safe Use
                       Preparation of Canine and Felines for the Bath
                       Basic Canine/Feline Bathing Techniques
                       Topical Conditioning of the Canine/Feline Skin and Hair
                       Apprentice Pet Stylist Program
                       Equipment Selection and Maintenance
                       The Mechanics and Art of Pet Styling
                       Speed Trimming and Techniques
                       Salon Management and Human Relations
                       Finishing Techniques
                          Advanced Pet Stylist Program

Prerequisite :  Graduation from a State Licensed Pet Styling School or 1 year of Pet Styling experience.

Objective: Advanced continuing education for experienced Pet  Stylists wishing to stay abreast of the latest industry trends, styling
techniques and innovations.

Subjects:   Practical skill Sessions designed to provide intensive, personalized coaching incorporating the latest industry trends,
innovations and techniques. Emphasis is on continuing education and advancement of Pet Styling skills.

Elective Subjects are:  Topical Conditioning of Canine/Feline Skin Hair
How much do you really know and understand about canine skin and hair? Yet as a petcare professional, it's  your business to know. In
Fact, clients seek you out for expert advice and topical conditioning of their dog or cat's coat. This course will not only help you
understand skin and coat but will also bring you up-to-date with the latest dermatological information designed for the maintenance of
healthy canine and feline skin and coat.

Animal Behavior Handling Techniques including:    A comprehensive course designed to increase your awareness of
canine behavior and handling techniques. Included is understanding animal behavior, conditioning and counter conditioning,
techniques used to facilitate table training and good dog behaviors, how to talk  to the animals, rehabilitation of problem dogs, fear
biting, phobic behaviors, client consultations and much more.

The Mechanics of Pet Styling:   A dynamic course designed to teach proven techniques intended to improve the quality and
speed of your clipper, scissors, thinning shears and/or handstripping  techniques.

The Art of Pet Styling:  In-depth instruction in the art of creating "ideal" breed profiles. This course includes the understanding
and usage of focal points, outlining, Pivot Point  Scissoring and Geometrics in Canine Design to facilitate transforming imperfect
canines into "Ideal" examples of their breed. Breeds of your choice and supply are used for the hands-on sessions.
                            LaBest Academy of Animal Arts
The campus of LaBest Academy of Animal Arts is located in the growing area of Edwardsville, IL.  It is within easy access of major interstates and
thoroughfares.

The professional grooming school has set high standards for pet styling in the industry.  It offers a highly sought after educational facility for those
wishing a career in pet styling.

The academy was established on September 8, 2004.  It's comprehensive curriculum has been approved by both the Illinois State Board of Education
and the International Society of Canine Cosmetologists.

The Apprentice Pet Stylist is the premier program that combines 81 hours of theory and 559 hours of lab work.  A certificate as a DermaTech Specialist is
awarded at the successful completion of the 16 week course.  Seminars are also offered through out the year for additional pet styling expertise.