Are you interested in starting a new career in the dog grooming field?
If so, all you need to do is read our guide in order to learn more about dog groomers in Illinois.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Illinois
Dog groomers have numerous job responsibilities that need to be finished every day.
You can read below about some of the duties:
- 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 duties 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 Ilinois
If you plan to have a career in this field, one of the most important aspects is enjoying working with dogs and other animals.
You will also need to develop certain skills that will help you find a good job.
It is important to have good communication skills and so you can talk to the dog owners.
Some other needed skills for dog groomers are patience and compassion.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Ilinois
Dog groomers in this state are not required to get any certification to work.
However, most employers do ask for certification or at least some experience in the industry.
Dog Groomers’ Education in Ilinois
In this state, you first need to find a trade school that offers dog grooming programs.
The program you choose should also be accredited.
The program will feature some hours of theory, although the real focus will be on clinical practice.
The programs feature the following topics:
- 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
Dog groomers have to be able to offer services to cats and other animals too.
Dog Groomers’ Certification in Ilinois
After your training program is done, you have to take a certification exam.
After the test, you will get your new license in a few weeks.
If you plan on getting hired by a company, you will not have to get any other license.
But, you need a commercial license if you are considering starting your own dog grooming business.
commercial licenses work differently compared to the regular ones, so remember to read the laws at the federal and state level.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Ilinois
In this state, you can look for a dog grooming job in a facility servicing animals.
Some of these facilities are:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
The yearly salary for a dog groomer depends on where you work and how much experience you have with animals.
Generally, higher salaries are encountered in big cities.
Dog groomers who have certification are also more likely to earn a better salary.
If you run a dog grooming business, your profits will also be higher.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Illinois
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Chicago | $38,001 |
| Rockford | $35,301 |
| Aurora | $37,701 |
| Naperville | $37,401 |
| Peoria | $34,601 |
| Springfield | $33,101 |
| Joliet | $37,101 |
| Elgin | $37,401 |
| Waukegan | $35,901 |
| Cicero | $38,001 |
Regional Salary in Illinois
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomington, IL | 230 | $32,560 | $15.66 | $44,870 | $27,040 |
| Carbondale-Marion, IL | 130 | $30,630 | $14.72 | $36,710 | $27,040 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | 170 | $32,690 | $15.72 | $42,100 | $27,090 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | 8,370 | $36,600 | $17.6 | $50,280 | $28,550 |
| Decatur, IL | 80 | $29,680 | $14.27 | $35,320 | $27,040 |
| Kankakee, IL | 70 | $33,860 | $16.28 | $46,260 | $27,040 |
| Peoria, IL | 270 | $31,030 | $14.92 | $36,900 | $27,040 |
| Rockford, IL | 210 | $32,720 | $15.73 | $45,340 | $27,130 |
| Springfield, IL | 150 | $32,710 | $15.73 | $45,640 | $27,300 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
In this state, if you cannot work full time, you can also apply for a part-time job.
Just keep in mind that a part-time job usually pays less than a full-time position.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Ilinois
The dog grooming industry is changing from time to time, and you should stay updated with these changes.
To help you with that, you should consider checking out the below resources:
- Ilinois Dog Groomers Jobs
- Illinois Humane Society
- STARelief and Pet Assistance
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
The most important aspect in getting your first job as a dog groomer is to attend a training program.
After you get certified, you will be able to build a solid career in an industry you love.
