Two industry-specific educational programs being introduced this fall by the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council Canada (Ottawa, Ontario) are designed to help Canadian pet retailers raise animal care standards and compete more effectively.
The first program, a distance-learning version of the established Canine Specialist Certification course, offers canine care and husbandry training materials online (at www.pijaccanada.com) as well as via CD-ROM so store employees can study at their own pace at work or at home. The new format, representing an evolution in the association’s certification program, makes staff training easier and more affordable, according to Louis McCann, executive director of PIJAC Canada.
The Boost Your Business training program, developed specifically for pet retailers, consists of separate modules for store owners/managers and staff members and covers topics such as advanced sales techniques, cross-selling, inventory control and marketing.
“For years, Canadian pet retailers have been searching for more affordable and varied training for their staff, and until now there has been very little available which speaks directly to pet industry businesses,” McCann said. “PIJAC Canada is delighted to meet that demand by offering these two programs, which are convenient, cost-effective and relevant to all pet-related businesses in Canada.”