Business Details
19 Years
experience
Professional Pet Styling Education in Erie, PA
Just Four Paws Academy of Pet Styling has been dedicated to professional pet styling education since 2007. Our Pennsylvania State-Licensed grooming school provides hands-on instruction from day one, teaching students to care for, bathe, and style dogs and cats. With a maximum of five students per session, we ensure personalized attention from experienced instructors. Our graduates have successfully entered careers in pet salons, mobile grooming, and independent businesses across the tri-state area.Located in Erie, PA, we offer flexible session start dates and comprehensive training programs designed to prepare students for industry demands. We are approved for veterans' education benefits through the Pennsylvania State Approving Agency and maintain strong partnerships with local businesses seeking our graduates. Our curriculum emphasizes practical skills, animal behavior, and business management to support diverse career paths in the pet care industry.
Services
Pet Grooming Training
Dog Styling Certification
Cat Grooming Instruction
Salon Management Courses
Mobile Grooming Preparation
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Small class sizes with maximum 5 students per session
- Hands-on instruction from industry professionals since 2007
- Veteran education benefits through GI Bill approval
- 98% graduate employment rate in pet styling careers
- Comprehensive curriculum covering dog and cat grooming techniques
Associations and certifications
- Pennsylvania Department of Education
- Pennsylvania State Approving Agency
What people say
Successful pet styling career
Hands-on instruction
Small class sizes
Job placement support
Experienced instructors
Services
Professional Dog Styling Program
Our 300-hour program teaches essential dog grooming skills including bathing, clipping, and breed-specific styling. Students learn safety techniques, tool maintenance, and customer service fundamentals. Graduates receive a diploma and enter the workforce as entry-level pet stylists within two months of completion.
Advanced Pet Styling Program
This 600-hour comprehensive program covers advanced dog grooming techniques and specialized cat grooming skills. Includes animal behavior courses, CPR certification, and salon management training. Graduates receive dual certifications and are prepared for leadership roles in pet care businesses.
People
Carynn Van Epps
Head Instructor
Professional pet stylist since 2016 with experience in corporate and private salons. Trained at Petco and specializes in Airedale Terrier grooming techniques. Passionate about teaching next-generation groomers.
Kara Bell
Vice President - Director
Education administrator since 2005 with Master's in Secondary School Counseling. Specializes in student support for pet styling programs. Manages admissions and graduate employment services.
Robert Tuznik
Founder - Director
Veteran business owner with 30 years in healthcare management. Founded Paws n Claws Pet Resort and Just Four Paws Academy. Expert in pet care business operations and safety standards.
Questions
How long does the pet styling program take to complete?
The 300-hour program takes 2 months full-time, while the 600-hour advanced program requires 4 months of full-time study.
What career opportunities exist after graduation?
Graduates work in pet salons, mobile grooming services, veterinary clinics, and pet boarding facilities. Many start their own grooming businesses.
Is certification included in the program?
We issue diplomas upon completion. While not mandatory, we assist graduates in obtaining industry certifications through organizations like NDGAA.
What financing options are available?
Options include cash, credit, veterans benefits, personal loans, and home equity financing. We also support crowdfunding and vocational rehabilitation programs.
What tools are included in the training kit?
Kit includes professional shears, clippers, grooming loop, nail clippers, dremel tool, carrying case, and all required textbooks.
