{"id":1003,"date":"2020-08-28T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2020-08-28T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/"},"modified":"2025-10-23T15:28:02","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T15:28:02","slug":"pet-certifications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional"},"content":{"rendered":"<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><div class=\"d-none d-lg-block\" style=\"height:35px\"><\/div><div class=\"d-lg-none\" style=\"height:17.5px\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p> <\/p>\n<h2><b>Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>Are you a dog fanatic? Would you love to spend every day working with them? It\u2019s easier than you might think.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>There are a ton of great <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesprucepets.com\/top-careers-for-dog-lovers-1118377\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>careers for dog lovers<\/span><\/a><span>! In fact, you might have already started a side-gig as a pet sitter or a dog walker. It\u2019s easy to get started, and it\u2019s fun.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>While just about anybody can do some of the more basic pet-related jobs, those who are serious about making a career of it often choose to pursue pet certifications.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>What is a pet care certification? Why would you need one? And what does it take to get one?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Keep reading to find out everything you need to know!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/petcert1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"pet certifications\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>What is a Pet Certification?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>When someone refers to a \u201cpet certification,\u201d they are most likely talking about becoming a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/paccert.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>Certified Professional Animal Care Provider<\/span><\/a><span> (CPACP). This certification shows that you\u2019ve met the qualifications and have the required knowledge to be an industry expert when it comes to pet handling and care. It\u2019s administered by an independent testing body and requires both a financial and a time commitment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>A \u201cpet care provider\u201d is someone who is responsible for overseeing every aspect of an animal\u2019s wellbeing while it\u2019s in their care. This includes, but isn\u2019t limited to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Pet boarding facilities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Doggie daycares<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Dog walkers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Groomers \/ bathers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Pet sitters<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Pet trainers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>Certifications show that you have both the knowledge an a clear understanding of animal health and behavior, safety, and customer service.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>While CPACP is one of the most common certifications, it\u2019s not the only one. Animal professionals can also get certified in pet sitting, dog grooming, animal training, and more.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>But why would you spend your time getting any of these certifications in the first place? Stick with us as we explore the possibilities! <\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/petcert2.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"pet certifications\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Why Do You Need Pet Certifications?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>Taking the time to get an animal care certification shows that you\u2019re a true professional in your industry. It\u2019s also an indication that you\u2019re serious about your work.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>If you\u2019re thinking about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.123petsoftware.com\/start-dog-grooming-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>starting a dog grooming business<\/span><\/a><span> or other pet-related business that you\u2019ll own, you\u2019ll gain trust with potential customers much faster. You may also find that you\u2019re able to charge more for your services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Even if you don\u2019t want to own a pet-related business of your own, it may be a good idea to get your certification. For example, if you\u2019re applying for jobs in the pet care industry, you may find that having your certifications will give you an edge over other job candidates. In some states or cities, you may also be required to hold certifications and\/or licenses to work in certain positions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.daysmartpet.com\/packages\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"318\" src=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/DaySmart-Pet-Free-Trial.png\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"DaySmart Pet Free Trial\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b>How to Get Your Pet Certifications<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>To receive a CPACP certification, you must have a minimum of 500 hours or 90 days of hands-on experience. You\u2019ll also need two completed attestation forms (recommendations).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>If you work in a pet care facility, you\u2019ll need one attestation from a previous employer or client and one from a manager. If you\u2019re a solo provider, like a trainer, dog walker or pet sitter, then you\u2019ll need one letter from a client and one from an industry professional, like a veterinarian.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>The exam lasts for 2.5 hours and consists of 125 in-depth questions. It covers topics including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Health issues (first aid, CPR, administering medications, cleaning and disinfecting)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Fights and bites<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Documentation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Profile, play, behavior, and temperament<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Animal management<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Facility safety requirements and chemical usage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Escape prevention, recovery, and owner notification<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Death<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Extreme weather\/disaster preparedness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight:400\"><span>Staff management expectations<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>You can find a full list of the examination content by checking out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/paccert.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>CPAP Handbook for Candidates<\/span><\/a><span>. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>The CPACP certification is good for three years. During this time, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education units (CPUs). If you haven\u2019t obtained your CPUs within the required three-year time period, you\u2019ll need to re-take your certification.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/petcert3.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"pet certifications\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Other Animal Certifications<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>Depending on the career you\u2019re interested in, you may decide to choose other certifications instead of (or in addition to) the CPACP. For example, the National <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/petsitters.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>Association of Professional Pet Sitters<\/span><\/a><span> (NAPPS) provides an at-home study course to become a certified pet sitter. Pet sitters can also join Pet Sitters International (PSI) and sit for their pet sitter certification program.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Dog groomers may want to see certification through the National Dog Groomers Association (NDGAA). This requires both a written test and practical skills demonstration. There are three separate exams, for terriers, sporting, and non-sporting breeds. Once you\u2019ve passed all three exams, you can also sit for a master exam.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>The International Boarding and Pet Services Administration (IBPSA) offers two separate levels of certifications. Specialties include canine, feline, and small mammals and exotic. They are also adding courses for reptiles and birds soon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Trainers may decide to pursue certification through the Certification <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ccpdt.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span>Council for Professional Dog Trainers<\/span><\/a><span> (CCPDT). This involves two levels of certification. The first involves a knowledge assessment while the second assess skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>To maintain these certifications, you must complete continuing education credits every three years.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Start Your New Career Today<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span>Once you\u2019ve got your pet certification under your belt you\u2019re one step closer to being ready to start your own business. Now, you\u2019ll need some tools to help it succeed! We are always trying to find ways to further support the pet industry, if there is a certification you would like to suggest we include into this article please send your suggestion to info@123petsoftware.com. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>A great software program will help you streamline this process and run your facility more efficiently. Take a look at our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daysmartpet.com\/daycare\/\">cloud packages<\/a>, then sign up for our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.123petsoftware.com\/package-comparison\/\"><span>14-day free trial<\/span><\/a><span> today!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><div class=\"d-none d-lg-block\" style=\"height:35px\"><\/div><div class=\"d-lg-none\" style=\"height:17.5px\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"blog-single__related_posts post-tiles_three-columns  align wp-block-acf-related-posts\" id=\"related-posts-block_d3a642bb4523f17c80d2b477e1b6064c\">\n\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__title\">Related Posts<\/h2>\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/\" class=\"related-posts__link\">View all posts <\/a>\n\t\n<div id=\"blog-tiles-single-1003\"\n     class=\"post-tiles post-tiles_ post-tiles_type-post\"\n     data-load-more=\"component\"\n     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more\t\t<\/span>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t    <\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional Are you a dog fanatic? Would you love to spend every day &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":1002,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1003","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blogs"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>DaySmart | Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming &amp; boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, &amp; so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for\u2026\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming &amp; boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, &amp; so much more. Try DaySmart Pet free for 14-days!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"DaySmart Pet\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2020-08-28T00:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-10-23T15:28:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/10\/dog-grooming-software-pet-boarding-software.jpg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"markdressman\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"markdressman\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"markdressman\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/#\/schema\/person\/75ecd81d93bba79fd49b6d80a181f93b\"},\"headline\":\"Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-08-28T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-23T15:28:02+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\"},\"wordCount\":973,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/Petcertsprim_2023-09-20-14-58-26.jpg?wsr\",\"articleSection\":[\"Blogs\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/\",\"name\":\"DaySmart | Guide to Becoming a Certified Pet Care Professional\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/blog\/pet-certifications\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.daysmart.com\/pet\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/09\/Petcertsprim_2023-09-20-14-58-26.jpg?wsr\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-08-28T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-23T15:28:02+00:00\",\"description\":\"Thousands of pet pros use DaySmart Pet grooming & boarding software to manage appointments, schedule staff, & so much more. 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