A post-secondary educational institution created by animal enthusiasts for those seeking to build or develop new career skills in the pet industry.
Our Whole Pet Grooming Academy philosophy centers on treating animals with the utmost respect and kindness, prioritizing their needs above all else. This guiding principle informs our courses and programs, enabling our students to develop a deep understanding of animal health and well-being while fostering a compassionate approach to client care. Upon completing our rigorous training, our students emerge as knowledgeable experts who share our commitment to upholding high standards in the field.
Our Values
Holistic Care for All Pets
Taking a holistic approach means caring for the overall health and well-being of your pet, by considering their physical, mental, and emotional needs. This involves utilizing natural and non-invasive techniques that promote health and healing.
United We Grow
The value of unity holds significant importance in every community, and it is particularly crucial for our pet grooming community. By uniting and extending support to each other, we can establish a more robust and lively community capable of fulfilling the requirements of our clients and their pets.
Ethical Education
We believe in maintaining superior standards of animal care and professionalism by abiding by animal welfare laws and regulations. We also aim to cultivate empathy and kindness towards pets to treat them with the utmost respect and compassion.
Empowerment
If you work as a pet stylist, you have a special chance to positively affect the lives of pets and their owners. We urge you to take on this responsibility with kindness and commitment.
We are a post-secondary career school. Attending our school is a unique experience that involves a structured academic environment with specific guidelines that ensure a conducive learning atmosphere.
Why choose WPGA?
Attending trade shows, conferences, workshops, lectures, and seminars are all part of professional development. These events are an excellent way to learn and enhance skills, but they do not provide highly specialized content.
We specialize in Continuing Education, which means we offer post-secondary educational programs approved by the Department of Education for individuals who want to pursue a higher education and stay up-to-date in their field.
Educators & Administration Team
Click the images below to learn more about each instructor.
At WPGA, we provide a unique learning experience beyond traditional grooming education. Our educators are accomplished pet groomers recognized by the Department of Education for their teaching skills. Learning from various educators with diverse skills and experiences equips our students for success in the industry. We believe education is key to becoming a skilled professional and look forward to your journey.
Meet the Founder
Dara Forleo is the founder of two entrepreneurial businesses
and loves sharing her experiences through education and mentorship.
info@wholepetnh.com | Linked In Bio Link
Having experienced firsthand how being a successful business owner can give life to your dreams with her Come What May Racing passion, Dara Forleo is uniquely suited to help any entrepreneur do the same.
The Whole Pet Grooming Academy, an arts and sciences school specializing in providing training for professional pet stylists, was established in 2015. She and her husband, Lee, created Come What May Racing, a Thoroughbred racehorse stable operation in 2019.
Dara has been recognized as Educator of the Year, Emerging Business Leader, and a Pet Age Icon Awards honoree for her experience and long-term contributions to the pet industry. She recently was top in her Executive Education Women’s Leadership Program class at Yale University and a B.A. in Business from Ottawa University. Her insights have been featured in multiple publications, and she often shares her expertise, speaking at conferences nationwide.
Dara has honed her education and experience over the last two decades, culminating in her mentor program for business owners nationwide.
Dara Forleo
Get in Touch
Connect With Us:
(603) 801-5584
Location
2800 Lafayette Rd Unit 16
Portsmouth, New Hampshire 03801
Email
info@wholepetnh.com