Becoming A Pet Groomer
Ever think working with animals all day would be the perfect job? Well if you’re anything like me then your answer would be yes, however, I never had the desire to go to any extra school to become a veterinarian. Lucky for you, there are more options than just that. Another possibility would be to become a pet groomer. Although this does require some schooling to get the necessary certification, it doesn’t require the same work as becoming a licensed veterinarian. As a side note to pet owners, you should avoid taking your pet to be groomed by someone who is not certified to do so.
The important thing when considering becoming a pet groomer is to really understand what all goes into the job. It is not just about bathing dogs and presenting the dog owner with a clean pup. Although that would be nice, you also have to trim nails, brush out matted and dirty coats, brush teeth, clean ears, accessorize a dog, etc. If it were as simple as scrubbing up and rinsing off, I bet more of us would get into that profession.
Generally, when getting certified to becoming a pet groomer, often times you will be taught basic business sense. While the basic foundation of all businesses is the same (to generate revenue to sustain your business and life), the business of pet grooming can have different details and dynamics you really have to understand in order to be successful. Other people that have been in the business can guide you in the right direction on how to find your clientele, how to expand your business, where to locate yourself, and how to market yourself properly.
Speaking of where to locate yourself…you have a few options. You can go work at a pet daycare or salon, out of your house, or in a mobile vehicle equipped with all the proper tools. Not one option is better than another, but if you choose to do it out of a mobile vehicle, such as a large van, you will want to come off as very professional. The benefits of working out of a van, or at the least, offering to be mobile, is that many times people like when you can come to them to groom their pet. Not everyone has the time, money or patience to leave work or find time after 5 o’clock to get their dog in to look good. People will appreciate the time you take in coming to their attention.
