Are you looking to make a change in your career, or are you about to finish high school and you’re not sure what to do next? Many animal lovers are looking into careers in animal grooming. With the business rapidly expanding, you too can get involved and start a fulfilling and rewarding career in the field.
If you want to do this though, do you need formal qualifications? Here’s everything you need to know before you get started.
The Basics of Pet Grooming
If you want to become a pet groomer, you’re going to need a high school diploma or GED at the minimum to get started. Other than that, there are no qualifications that you are required to have to get started in your new career.
Before you head out there with your clippers though, be aware that there are voluntary training schemes you can undergo first. These are usually a very good idea, as competition is fierce. You want to ensure that you have what it takes to become one of the best groomers in your area.
Voluntary Certification Schemes
As a groomer, you can undergo voluntary certification schemes. These show that you’re highly skilled at what you do and that you put animals’ needs first. The NDGAA, or National Dog Groomers Association of America, offer its own certification, for example. To undergo testing for this, you’ll need to complete written tests as well as practical grooming tests.
With this scheme, you’ll show that you have the right know how to groom animals correctly. For example, you’ll be able to show your knowledge of different grooming styles, dependent on the breed of dog you’re working with. It’s a great qualification to have on display when you’re working with animals. It shows customers that you know your stuff, and you care about doing your job right.
Internships
You may not want to go the academic route, so an internship could be best for you. These typically last around six months and are a fantastic way to get hands-on experience in the role. You’ll learn everything that regular groomers do in their roles, such as nail clipping, mat removal, care of equipment, and more. These skills are all vital when you strike out on your own as a groomer.
To find an internship, the best thing to do is reach out to local groomers or animal shelters. Ask around and look for groomers offering internships in your area. There are many organizations that will be glad of the extra help, in return for teaching you their skills.
Undergoing Formal Training
You may not officially need a formal qualification, but getting a qualification in animal grooming is becoming more and more important in the field. As with any aspect of animal care, you need to have a good background in the theory behind it, as well as experience in the practice under the guidance of experts.
It’s easy to find pet grooming classes in your area if you want to start looking into them. Here at Merryfield School Of Pet Grooming for example, we have courses that are designed to suit everybody. Try attending open days, or talk to current and past students to get a feel for a school when you’re looking around.
Training With Us
If you’re serious about getting a pet grooming certification, come train with us at Merryfield School Of Pet Grooming. We have expert tutors who can guide you through the process of becoming a groomer yourself, meaning you’ll graduate knowledgeable and confident in your new craft.
You’ll be guided through the theory of proper pet grooming in class, as well as given hands-on experience in grooming. As long as you have a high school diploma or GED, we’ll be able to teach you all you need to know for your new career.
You’ll be able to start on the first Monday of any month, so you won’t need to wait long to get learning. There are lots of options for class times too, so you can pick a time that suits you.
If you want to become a pet groomer, the best way is to learn with us. We work with you to give you everything you need to be a successful groomer.
Sign up for
Free Career Report
"*" indicates required fields
