Maybe you want to become a dog groomer but don’t know where to start.
If that’s the case, you should read our guide below.
It will give you more info on what you need to do to start a successful career in the industry.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Connecticut
As a dog groomer, you will have many job duties to complete daily.
Others will not need to be finished on a day-to-day basis.
The most common job duties include:
- Cutting, clipping, and styling a dog’s coat
- Bathing dogs
- Clipping a dog’s nails
- Interacting with dog owners
- Knowing the hygienic care for each dog breed
- Teeth brushing
- Knowing how to restrain animals
- Calming the dogs
- Identify problem areas
Other job responsibilities include:
- Cleaning and maintenance of your workplace
- Cleaning and maintaining your tools
- Knowing which tools to use for what task
- Safely operating the tools
- Staying updated with styling trends
- Staying informed on the industry changes
Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Connecticut
To have a successful career in the field, you need to be compassionate with animals and like dogs.
Dog groomers also need to have or develop some skills before getting hired.
For example, you need to have good communication skills and be able to talk to the dog owner.
You should also be able to put the owner and the animal at ease, keep them calm and relaxed.
You will need to give them advice and tips on keeping their dog clean and keep up with grooming.
A dog groomer also needs to have empathy and patience.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Connecticut
If you want to become a dog groomer in this state, you will not need any specific training and certification.
But, there are many advantages benefits to obtaining a dog grooming certification.
As most employers prefer dog groomers who have experience, you can choose to get certified.
Dog Groomers’ Education in Connecticut
In Connecticut, the first step you need to take is to find a suitable school.
The school you choose should be accredited and should offer dog grooming training programs.
While training, you will attend classes of theory but also clinical practice.
The focus, however, will be on clinical practice as you need some hands-on experience in the field.
The training programs for a dog groomer usually cover the next subjects:
- Introduction to Pet Grooming
- Introduction to Dogs and Cats
- Pre-Grooming Procedures
- Dog Grooming, Part 1
- Dog Grooming, Part 2
- Dog Grooming, Part 3
- Dog Personalities and Behavior
- Cat Grooming
- Business Practices
Keep in mind that you will not only groom dogs but also cats.
This means that you should also be aware of cat behavior and know how to interact with these animals.
Dog Groomers’ Certification in Connecticut
After you finish your training program, you will have to take an exam.
Once you pass this exam, your new dog groomer certification will be issued to you in a few weeks.
This is the only license you need to work as a dog groomer.
But, if you don’t want to work for a company and want to start a business instead, you have to get a commercial license.
This license has other requirements, so you will have to learn the laws at the federal and state level first.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Connecticut
In Connecticut, you can pretty much work in any dog grooming facility after you get your certification.
Some of these facilities include but are not limited to:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
How much you make as a dog groomer varies based on many factors.
For instance, you will earn more if you live in a large city or populated region.
You will also earn more if you have a dog grooming certification and some hands-on experience in the field.
Dog groomers who run their own business generally earn a higher salary compared to employed dog groomers.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Connecticut
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Bridgeport | $40,701 |
| New Haven | $38,901 |
| Hartford | $38,501 |
| Stamford | $41,301 |
| Waterbury | $38,701 |
| Norwalk | $41,301 |
| Danbury | $39,801 |
| New Britain | $38,701 |
| West Hartford | $38,501 |
| Greenwich | $41,301 |
Regional Salary in Connecticut
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT | 850 | $37,290 | $17.93 | $45,240 | $30,530 |
| Danbury, CT | 160 | $35,170 | $16.91 | $44,340 | $29,720 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | 970 | $35,470 | $17.05 | $44,610 | $29,290 |
| New Haven, CT | 430 | $36,460 | $17.53 | $45,030 | $30,070 |
| Norwich-New London-Westerly, CT-RI | 250 | $35,080 | $16.86 | $43,890 | $29,120 |
| Waterbury, CT | 70 | $35,460 | $17.05 | $41,220 | $30,140 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
You can also get a part-time job as a dog groomer.
But, this means you will make less money than those who work full time.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Connecticut
You may need to keep updated with news about the industry and any changes that take place.
If so, check out the following resources:
- Connecticut Dog Groomers Jobs
- Connecticut Humane Society
- STARelief and Pet Assistance
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
