Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions we get about the AKC S.A.F.E Grooming Program. If you have other questions not covered in this FAQ, please contact AKC Groomer Education at groomer@akc.org.
What does S.A.F.E. stand for?
S.A.F.E. stands for Safety, Assurance, Fundamentals, Education.
How long is the AKC Safety in the Salon course?
The AKC Safety in the Salon course take a about 3-4 hours to complete whether you take it online or in-person. The online course is made up of 8 parts. The in-person course, which covers the same material, is spread over three sections.
What does the course cover?
AKC Safety in the Salon course topics include:
- Best practices for individual groomer as well as grooming facility safety
- Techniques for safely handling animal and providing grooming services
- Methods for safely handing health challenges and contagious diseases
Do I have to take all parts of the course at the same time?
No, you can take Safety in the Salon online course at your own pace. Your stopping point will be saved, and you can pick back up where you left off.
Is there a test associated with Safety in the Salon course?
Yes, there is a comprehensive exam at the end of the course to ensure you have a firm understanding of the content covered.
Can I retake the exam if I don’t pass?
Yes, you can retake the exam multiple times for up to 30 days at no additional charge.
When will my course completion certificate arrive?
Certificates are processed weekly. Please allow 7-10 business days for your course completion certificate to arrive.
What are the requirements for becoming an AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer?
To become an AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer:
- Complete the Safety in the Salon course and pass the associated exam with a score of 70 or higher
- Submit the S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer application that includes information about your grooming experience and training
- Certify to follow the AKC S.A.F.E Certified Groomer/Salon Oath
What is the turn-around time for AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer applications?
Please allow 1 week for processing of AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer applications.
What are the requirements for becoming an AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salon?
To become an AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salon:
- Select one of the program packages (Basic or Premium)
- Complete the Safety in the Salon course and pass the associated exam with a score of 70 or higher
- Submit the S.A.F.E. Certified Salon application that includes basic salon information, submission of pictures verifying safe practices and submission of your facility’s disaster/emergency plan
- Certify to follow the AKC S.A.F.E Certified Groomer/Salon Oath
- Note: AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salon must have at least one AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Groomer on-site all times
What benefits do I receive for being an AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salon?
AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salons receive valuable marketing support from the AKC, including a frameable certificate, POS materials, and an online profile on AKC GroomerFinder. On AKC GroomerFinder, salons get S.A.F.E. badge recognition and priority ranking in the search results.
AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salons receive online course access for 2-4 employees, which enables them to meet the program requirement of having an AKC S.A.F.E Certified Groomer on-site all times.
What is the turn-around time for Salon applications?
Please allow 2-4 weeks for processing of AKC S.A.F.E. Certified Salon applications.
If I purchase the Basic or Premium Salon package, when will I receive my codes for additional employee course access?
Please allow 48 hours for codes to be processed and sent out. You will receive them via the email you used to sign up for the course.
Do you offer discounts for large organizations?
Yes, we are happy to work with larger salons and dog care facilities to create a program that meets their business needs. Contact groomer@akc.org for more information.