Speaking Engagements with Stephanie Zikmann
Inspiring talks on Holistic Grooming, Co-operative Care & Canine Wellbeing
Evidence-Informed, Welfare-First Speaking for the Canine Care Industry
I deliver powerful, evidence-informed talks that challenge outdated grooming practices and champion a welfare-first approach to canine care. My speaking engagements cover holistic grooming, behaviour-led handling, co-operative care, and the emotional wellbeing of both dogs and the professionals who care for them.
Whether I’m addressing dog guardians, professional groomers, veterinary teams, or industry organisations, my mission remains the same: to elevate standards, improve outcomes, and create a kinder, more informed future for dogs in our care.
My talks inspire clarity, confidence, and meaningful change.
Why Book Stephanie Zikmann?
I’m an award-winning educator, number one best-selling author, and industry advocate with a reputation for challenging the status quo whilst offering practical, compassionate solutions.
As Director of The Holistic Grooming Academy and a committee member of the British Dog Groomers Association (BDGA), I bring years of experience training professionals, developing accredited curriculum, and leading conversations on welfare reform. My talks blend behavioural science, real-world insight, and a deep respect for the animals at the heart of the work.
Audiences leave my sessions with clarity, confidence, and actionable strategies they can implement immediately. Whether I’m speaking to seasoned professionals or concerned guardians,
My talks don’t just inform, they inspire meaningful change. I equip my audiences to think critically, act ethically, and advocate confidently for the welfare of the dogs in their care.
I had the pleasure of having Stephanie Zikmann speak at The BIG Festoon in 2022.
Her talk, Barking Up The Right Tree, was informative, engaging, and thought-provoking, and she built an instant connection with the audience.
Stephanie is a respected voice in welfare-first, low-stress grooming, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.
Previous Speaking Engagements & Media Features
I’ve been invited to speak by leading organisations, industry events, and educational platforms around the world and I continue to contribute to conversations shaping the future of the professional grooming industry, specifically when it comes to industry regulation and standards.
• Walking Through Winter – Barket Place
• Do No Harm Dog Training Community
• Bee Inspired, Manchester
• The Dog’s Trust – Canine Emotional Wellbeing Conference for Professionals
• Puppy Summit
• The Paw Post Podcast
• Puptalk Podcast
• ISCP
• The Holistic Pet Care Conference
Stephanie educates us on the best ways to support our dogs
“Stephanie has been an invaluable resource for our community, sharing her expertise on ethical dog grooming and educating us on the best ways to support our dogs.
We deeply appreciate the time she has dedicated to joining us for live chats and creating recorded videos for our courses.”
Caroline Wilkinson – Barket Place
Topics I speak on
Holistic Grooming: Beyond Aesthetics
An introduction to holistic grooming philosophy, exploring how physical, emotional, and physiological, and social needs intersect in the grooming environment, and why addressing all layers matters for lasting welfare.
Co-operative Care: Building Trust, Not Compliance
A deep dive into consent-based handling, desensitisation, and creating choice for dogs during grooming and husbandry procedures. Learn how co-operation transforms the experience for both dog and handler.
Behaviour-Led Handling: Reading the Dog in Front of You
Understanding canine communication, stress signals, and individual thresholds. This talk equips professionals and guardians to respond with empathy and skill, reducing fear and building confidence.
The Emotional Wellbeing of Dogs in Professional Care
Exploring the psychological impact of grooming, the importance of emotional safety, and how small changes in approach can create profound shifts in a dog’s experience and long-term relationship with care.
Reforming the Industry: Ethics, Education and Accountability
A candid discussion on the current state of the grooming industry, the need for regulation, professional standards, and why education and not ego must lead the way forward.
Groomer Wellbeing: Preventing Burnout and Building Sustainable Careers
Addressing the physical and emotional toll of grooming work, this talk explores self-care, boundaries, pricing for sustainability, and creating a career that supports both you and the dogs you serve.
Bridging the Gap: Collaboration Between Groomers, Trainers, Vets and Guardians
How synchronised care between all stakeholders improves outcomes for dogs. This talk encourages cross-industry communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for canine welfare.
Wild Wisdom – How Primitive Grooming Heals and Connects Us All.
An eye-opening exploration of grooming as an ancient, instinctive behaviour. Learn how wild-inspired practices can transform grooming into a calmer, more connected, and deeply therapeutic experience for dogs and humans.
Stephanie helps educate so many people with passion, understanding and empathy
“Stephanie is absolutely incredible. She has presented training to our community, the Pet Professional Network, several times. Her training has always been so insightful and so important to our community. I’m proud to recommend Stephanie and love all the work she does.
She’s a huge advocate for our four legged friends and helps educate so many people with passion, understanding and empathy. Thank you! “
Helen Motteram, Pet Professional Network
Book Stephanie for Your Event
If you’re looking for a speaker who will challenge, inspire, and empower your audience with evidence-based, welfare-focused insight, I’d love to hear from you.
Whether it’s a conference, workshop, webinar, or panel discussion, I tailor each talk to meet the needs of your audience.
Get in touch to discuss availability and topics.
