Enhancing Your Journey in Pet Care
We’re the only DOE-approved grooming school helping professionals like you earn recognition, confidence, and community.
"The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled." - Plutarch
Our Mission & Vision
Groomers deserve to be seen as true professionals. We raise the bar with DOE-approved standards so your credentials carry weight, respect, and credibility across the industry..
You’re not on this journey alone. At The WPGA, you’ll find a supportive network of mentors, peers, and alumni who celebrate your growth and walk beside you every step of the way.
We believe real education goes beyond skills. Our programs give you confidence, recognition, and the chance to discover what makes you unique as a professional.
Our Values
At The Whole Pet Grooming Academy, our mission is simple: to raise the standard in pet care education so you can discover what makes you unique and be recognized as the professional you are. We’re here to support your journey, build your confidence, and give you the training and community you need to thrive. Every course and program is designed with your growth in mind, because when you succeed, the whole industry moves forward.
Meet the Team
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Chrissy Neumyer Smith, MGBS, MCS, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, CPG, FFCP
Dean of Academics Certified Master Grooming Expert
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Dara Forleo
WPGA Owner and Founder, Pet Industry Business Coach
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Jennifer Thurston, MGBS, PCS
Dean Of Students
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Vickie Hart-Zwart
Student Recruitment & Engagement
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Kristi Lowenthal, Col, USAF (ret)
School Certifying Official
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Bullet Brown, MTPAe
Pet Esthetics Specialist & Certification Program Developer
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Latifa Meena, PAC
Animal Communication Specialist
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Dave Campanella
Product Specialist
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Lisa Herbold, MGBS, MCS, MPAe, ICMG
Pet Health & Safety Specialist
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Robert Wylie
Personal Awareness & Safety Specialist
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Kara Richardson, MGBS
Feline & Geriatric Pet Care Specialist
Real Story from The WPGA Community
Every student’s journey is unique, but one thing stays the same: the recognition and support they find at The WPGA.
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![Jenny Salyers, Professional Animal Communicator]()
"The support from The Whole Pet Grooming Academy was unparalleled, and I felt guided and encouraged every step of the way."
Jenny Salyers, Professional Animal Communicator
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![Kaileen Donahue, Professional Canine Stylist]()
"The whole staff was incredible, supportive, and beyond talented. I learned so many skills and gained knowledge during my time here."
Kaileen Donahue, Professional Canine Stylist
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![Jessie Ray, Professional Canine Stylist]()
"The team at The WPGA is a positive, supportive group that goes above and beyond to provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed."
Jessie Ray, Professional Canine Stylist
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![Liz Leonard, Course Graduate]()
"Learning from the top educators was a 20/10 experience. Grooming is a craft, and mastering the 'how and why' really elevates our profession."
Liz Leonard, Course Graduate
Our Journey Since 2006
From one small classroom to a global, DOE-approved career school, WPGA has always been about raising the standard in pet care education.
2006 → Founded in New Hampshire with the vision to bring professionalism to grooming.
2015 → Became a Department of Education–licensed grooming school.
2015–2020 → Expanded online programs, welcoming students nationwide.
Today → Alumni across the U.S. and internationally, continuing to raise the bar in modern pet care.
Our history isn’t just about us; it’s about every student who has joined the journey. And your story could be next.
Ready to Shape Your Future in Pet Care?
Join Us Today!
Join a community that’s raising the standard in grooming and discover what makes you unique as a professional. Recognition, confidence, and credibility start here.
