About the Expert: Billy Rafferty

Billy kissing Zeke"Unlike many people I encountered growing up, animals always responded positively to me. They loved and understood me even though I was different from other kids. Animals, and dogs in particular, brought happiness into my otherwise gloomy childhood. I longed to return the favor and bring joy into their lives. Deep in my heart, I understood that animals were my true love, and I knew that I wanted to be surrounded by them, help them and work with them. And now I want to help you improve your dog's life."

Billy Rafferty has been a dog care professional for 25 years. Billy is the owner and principal stylist at Doogy Dooz in Chicago, where he has acquired a reputation as the go-to groomer for dogs of every variety and his current wait list has over 300 names. Billy's expertise extends beyond keeping a dog looking good and his clients rely on him for advice on all aspects of dog care. Billy's impressive credentials and education combined with his vast real life experience caring for dogs make him a unique voice in the animal world. Billy's clients include celebrities, politicians and even a Broadway producer. 

Billy professional credentials and accolades include: 

  • MPS, Master Pet Stylist through the prestigious International Society of Canine Cosmetologists. This rigorous course of study covers the practical side of grooming all breeds to standard and is the advanced certification following Dermatech Specialist.  Few groomers have successfully earned this certification due to the exceptionally challenging course content.   
  • CMG, Certified Master Groomer certification through the International Professional Groomers Association.  The certification includes rigorous testing of written and practical skills and focuses on knowledge of all breeds and breed characteristics, breed standard clips and trims and coat maintenance.  
  • DTS, Dermatech Specialist certification through the International Society of Canine Cosmetologists.  This certification involves an intensive course of study covering skin and coat, animal first aid, anatomy and topical conditioning.  Few groomers have successfully earned this certification due to the exceptionally challenging course content. 
  • CAH, Companion Animal Hygienist certification from the World Wide Pet Supply Association.  This demanding course of study includes: proper handling of skin and coat and maintaining different coat types and textures.   
  • Highly regarded speaker, lecturer and frequent judge at prestigious grooming competitions throughout the United States and in the show ring. 
  • Designated by the United Show Managers Alliance as a Sanctioned Grooming Show Judge.  Billy has also handled dogs in the show ring.
  • Recipient of numerous awards at national and state grooming competitions.

Photo by: Michael Vistia, Vistia Designs