Curriculum
Policies
Library BSDG has an extensive library dating from as far back as the early 1920's through the present. The library is accessible to all students throughout the entire ten week semester.
Visitation The school welcomes all visitation. Please call collect for an appointment or to have any further questions answered.
Equipment The groomer's equipment kit pictured below includes clippers and blades as well as other items pictured. [image to be added]
Boarding Facilities Reasonable boarding accommodations can easily be arranged for all our out-of-town applicants. We can make available a clean living environment for a modest weekly fee which includes cooking privileges, towels and linen, and all utilities. The weekly fee is paid in advance with the enrollment to assure a reservation of this convenient facility.
Shopping A newly constructed shopping complex is located just one half block away from BSDG and the boarding facilities.
Clothing Comfort is important. Jeans, a smock to protect your clothing, and rubber soled shoes should be sufficient.
Career Opportunites Qualified groomers are in demand. Although the school does not officially offer job placement or salary guarantees as part of our services, we will be happy to provide the student with its listing of requests for trained groomer employees received. This listing is available to students in the last weeks of the term.
Entrance Requirements
  • Successful completion of a written and oral entrance evaluation is required.
  • BSDG has the right to evaluate or ask for references as deemed desirable.
  • A moderate degree of proficiency in the English Language is required.
  • BSDG asks each student to make a statement regarding the commitment to working with animals and interest in grooming.
  • Credit is not given for previous experience.
Attendance/Absence Policy Unexcused absences exceeding three (3) days per class will be cause for interruption of training and possible dismissal. No more than 5 days excused absences per class are allowed. Class cuts and tardiness are not permitted. Arriving tardy one time is equal to one reported absence. All absences are to be reported on or before the date of absence by calling and notifying school personnel. The student is solely responsible for missed work.
Leave Policy A leave of absence, up to six (6) months, may be granted to a student because of illness or serious established need. This must be done in writing. The student may re-enter at the same point of advancement previously attained prior to his/her leave, in the next available class.
Graduation Requirements

In order to qualify for graduation a student shall meet the following conditions:

  • Achievement of minimum average of 70% in every area of the curriculum tested, both 8 written and 8 practical. An absolute grading system, not a class curve, is used. Tests are graded when given. A test can be retaken only once. No probation period is given.
  • Fulfillment of attendance requirements as listed above.
  • Fulfillment of all financial obligations to the school.
Student Conduct and Termination A student can be dropped from the program for unsatisfactory progress, excessive absences, non-payment of tuition, or failure to abide by the rules or policies. Possession or use of drugs or alcohol is not permitted. Students engaging in abusive conduct will not be tolerated. Either is cause for dismissal.
Grievances Should any student be in disagreement of a policy, action, or decision of BSDG, he/she must clearly identify that disagreement in writing. A conference will be scheduled to discuss the disagreement. If the disagreement is not resolved, BSDG will provide a written explanation for its decision. If the explanation is not accepted, the complaint can be brought to the Maryland System of Higher Education.
School Holidays BSDG is closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day following, Christmas Day. Snow days will be announced.

Tuition Refund Policy

In the event of student withdrawal, the Registration Fee will be retained unless the applicant requests cancellation within seven days after completion of the Enrollment Agreement. Such requests must be in writing and provided to school personnel. In the event of student withdrawal after classes have started, refunds are based on the following schedule.

Percentage of Total Course, or Program Taught, by Date of Withdrawal
Tuition Refund
Less than 10%
10% to 19%
20% to 29%
30% to 39%
40% to 50%
More than 50%
90% Refund
80% Refund
60% Refund
40% Refund
20% Refund
No Refund
  • Equipment and sales tax are non-refundable.
  • Any refund due any student will be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of withdrawal.
  • In the event the School cancels, closes or discontinues a course or program, the student shall receive full refund. The School reserves the right to cancel a class due to insufficient enrollment.
  • Class are small — one instructor to ten students.