Pet grooming association working on clearer standards, certification framework by mid-2026

“This industry has never, ever been regulated to an extent where groomers should be doing this and that. We have that for pet boarding (and) pet trainers, but never for pet grooming, except for the code of conduct,” he noted.

The Code of Animal Welfare currently sets baseline expectations for pet groomers through “minimum standards” and “best practices”, such as using body-support harnesses instead of neck restraints.

“Raising standards means not making things exceptionally difficult for the groomers, because it’s their livelihood after all. But minimum standards to make sure that they are protected,” Mr Low added.

Beyond accreditation, he stressed that public education will also play a key role in safeguarding animal welfare.

In response to CNA’s queries, Ms Jessica Kwok, group director for industry standards and regulatory at NParks’ Animal and Veterinary Service, said the agency supports initiatives that raise animal health and welfare standards in the pet sector.

“We will continue to engage the Pet Grooming Association of Singapore and support their development of a pet grooming framework,” she added.