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Anyone who enjoys working with dogs and other pets may be interested in pursuing a career is a professional pet groomer. Pet grooming can be a very rewarding career that involves taking caring of different types of animals by giving them a bath, giving the pet a haircut, and preparing dogs and other pets for a competition by clipping their nails and brushing their hair. In order to become a professional pet groomer, candidates will need to complete training at a professional pet grooming school and gain experience by working in a pet grooming center or other animal care facility. A dog grooming career can lead to a variety of opportunities for traveling to shows, building a business and meeting new people; a groomer may also be able to build his or her skills in order to maintain a steady client list for their own pet grooming salon.
What is a Pet Grooming School?
Pet grooming school allows prospective
pet groomers to learn the key techniques and skills needed for
a successful career as a pet groomer. Pet grooming schools and
academies may offer accelerated programs that can be completed
in less than twelve weeks or even completed online. On-site
pet grooming academies provide the hands-on experience and
guided training needed to learn the basic skills, concepts and
training for a successful dog grooming career or becoming a
professional pet caretaker.
Dog grooming schools offer specialized
training classes in pet care and pet management, and may offer
classes in caring for rare breeds of dogs and education for
preparing dogs for competitive events. Dog grooming schools
incorporate the standard pet care curriculum into the class
itinerary, and some may offers students a chance to gain
experience while working in a dog grooming salon.
Dog Grooming Career Options
Pet groomers are in high demand as more pet owners look for professional care and maintenance for their pet's health and well-being. Pet groomers can find work in a variety of fields including inside a pet shop, with a kennel operator, or even working with pet training schools and trainers. Dog groomers and pet professionals can explore a variety of career options within their field, including:
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Working at expos for conventions and
pet
competitions
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Creating their own pet
grooming salon
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Working with kennel operators and
trainers
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Offering pet grooming services within a
pet store
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Working in an
animal hospital
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Offering services through a pet
boutique
Some pet groomers prefer to work as independent contractors and offer services to select clients, while others work as employees of a pet grooming salon.
Dog Grooming Courses and Educational Programs
Individuals interested in attending dog
grooming schools or becoming trained in pet grooming do not
need a formal degree to get started, but any classes completed
in the areas of public relations, communications and customer
service can help the individual excel in their career. Many
pet grooming salons offer their own formalized pet grooming
training, allowing individuals to learn the basic skills and
proper handling procedures for managing different types of
pets.
Dog grooming courses and pet/animal education
may include:
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First
Aid and CPR for Dogs and Pets
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Understanding
and Taking Care of a Cat
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Understanding
and Taking Care of a Horse
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Understanding
and Taking Care of a Dog
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Form
and Function of Dogs as Pets
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Grooming
Basics for Pets
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Styling
Basics for Dogs and Cats
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Salon
Training for Dogs and Cats
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Bathing
Systems
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Nail
Trimming and Sanitation
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Using
Air Dryers
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Handling
and Holding Techniques for Grooming
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Rare
Breed Grooming
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Protocol
for Handling Tools and Equipment
Pet Grooming Training -
Costs and Financing Options
Tuition for pet grooming training programs can be broken down by class or credit hour, and some pet grooming courses are available online. Students may elect to obtain a personal loan, apply for financial aid or pay for their credit fees out-of-pocket. A pet grooming school typically offers its own diploma or certification program, and these will vary by state and region. Dog grooming training programs offered by independent training institutions or academies may also have their own fee schedule and payment options.
Where to Pursue Dog Grooming Training
Pet and dog grooming training academies provide hands-on training opportunities, professional internship programs and career opportunities after completing training for any candidates interested in making a career out of pet grooming. Experienced pet groomers often host seminars or classes in metro cities, and attending these events can be a valuable first step for any prospective pet groomer. Joining a local groomer's association is another option for prospective dog groomers or pet care professionals; these groups can provide training and education for a variety of disciplines and help build up the skill set needed for a successful career in the industry.
Online pet grooming and training courses can supplement an existing training program, or provide comprehensive training for certification or a diploma.
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