FOUNDING MEMBERSHIP
A new global standard for
dog grooming.
The International Association for Integrative & Holistic Dog Grooming — uniting educators, practitioners, and advocates around trauma-aware care.
IHDG exists to transform dog grooming from a technical, appearance-based service into a healing practice — one that protects canine well-being, prevents professional burnout, and restores harmony in the human–dog relationship.
We are building this association with the people who are ready to lead that shift.
Which best describes you?
Membership is tiered to reflect the three communities within the grooming ecosystem.
School Member
$1000-2,000 / YR
Grooming schools, academies, training centers.
Professional Member
$200 / YR
Groomers, trainers, independent professionals
Pet Parent / Advocate Member
$50 / YR
Dog owners, advocates, volunteers
Fees may be adjusted after initial launch to align with program costs and demand.
MISSION & VISION
Trauma-aware. Integrative. Global.
The mission of IHDG is to advance a new global standard for dog grooming that integrates trauma awareness, physiological science, and ethical responsibility. We envision a world where every grooming professional is educated, supported, and certified to practice with compassion and scientific integrity — where members find professional renewal, and dogs experience safety and trust.
Membership StructurE
Three communities. One standard.
Membership is not automatic. Admission and renewal are designed to uphold quality, ensure alignment with the Association's values, and recognize members who demonstrate ongoing professional growth.
School Member
Grooming schools, academies, training centers
$1,000–
2,000
per year (based on size)
- Recognized accreditation with the Association
- Curriculum review & integrative resources
- Listing in the global IHDG directory
- Voting rights on educational standards
Professional Member
Practicing groomers, instructors, owners
$200
per year
- Eligibility for IHDG certification levels
- Annual structured education module
- Publication in the IHDG online journal
- Member-only events & gatherings
Pet Parent / Advocate
Dog owners, advocates, volunteers
$50
per year
- Access to humane education library
- Advocacy campaigns & community events
- Member newsletter & journal access
- Support a global, mission-driven movement
Fees may be adjusted after initial launch to align with program costs and demand.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A meaningful threshold.
To preserve credibility and ensure meaningful participation, every applicant must demonstrate professional integrity and alignment with IHDG principles.
- Agree to the Code of Ethics & Canine-Centered Care Commitment
- Submit a membership application with background and intent statement
- Provide one professional reference or written reflection on integrative grooming
- Complete at least one educational module or orientation before activation
- Schools: demonstrate active program operation and humane curriculum
- Professionals: minimum one year of grooming experience or formal training
- Professionals: achieve initial certification within the first year
Certification
Earned. Renewed. Respected.
Certification is separate from membership, available to Professional and School members in good standing. It reflects increasing experience, responsibility, and professional contribution.
- LEVEL I
Certified Integrative & Holistic Dog Grooming Professional
The foundational certification — proof of trauma-aware competency and active engagement with the Association's standards.
- LEVEL II
Advanced Practitioner
Recognizes deepened expertise in handling, physiological care, and published professional reflection.
- LEVEL III
Distinguished Educator
For members shaping the next generation through teaching, publishing, and leading workshops worldwide.
Annual Gathering
Once a year, the field meets.
The Association hosts an annual gathering for members to share research, recognize contributions, advance certification standards, and strengthen the global community of integrative grooming practitioners.
- Inaugural Gathering · 2026
Global Scope
Built international from day one.
IHDG operates with a unified global mission, with regional chapters developing over time to address local standards, education systems, and regulatory environments.
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Taiwan
- European Union
- Asia–Pacific
- Latin America
Watch Below For The Next Steps
- Code of Ethics
"All members adhere to a Code reflecting canine-centered care, professional integrity, transparency, and respect for animal welfare — in every act of grooming, education, and public representation."
Sections
Mission
Membership
Certification
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