Are you interested in building a new and exciting career in a field you love?
If you like animals and dogs, in particular, you can easily become a dog groomer.
So, take a look at the article below that will give you more info on the subject.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Minnesota
The main ob of a dog stylist is to ensure the animal looks good and that there are no threats to its health.
The following is a list of actions through which you’ll achieve that goal:
- 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
Your duties will also 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 Minnesota
In order to have a successful career, the most important aspect is to enjoy being around dogs daily.
You should also like working with cats and be ready to learn more about them, as some pet facilities offer cat services.
There is also a range of skills you should develop.
For instance, you need good communication skills and be able to talk to the dog owners.
You also need to keep the animal relaxed and calm while grooming it.
Some other skills you need include patience and empathy, as you might have to handle all kinds of animals.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Minnesota
You do not need any certification to become a dog groomer in this state.
But, most reputable dog grooming facilities do not hire people who are not certified.
So, you need to know what the steps are in order to get licensed.
Dog Groomers’ Education
To get certified, you first have to pick a suitable school and training program.
There are several such schools in Minnesota.
Remember that the program you decide to join should have accreditation.
The training programs for a dog groomer generally cover these 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
While training, you will join theory classes but also hands-on practice.
The lab hours will help you get used to working in a clinical setting.
Dog Groomers’ Certification
In order to be issued a dog grooming certification, you have to first pass an exam.
You don’t need any other certification or exam if you want to work for an employer.
However, the requirements change if you want to start your own company,
In that case, you need to be aware of the laws at the federal and state level for dog grooming businesses.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Minnesota
Once you pass your exam and receive the dog grooming certification, it will be easy to find your first job.
You can apply for an entry-level position in any of the following facilities:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
If you are wondering how much you will earn, you should know that running your own business brings the highest salary.
You will also be paid above average if you have enough experience or work for a big pet facility.
Living in a big city also gives you the chance to have better career opportunities and the possibility of higher pay.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Minnesota
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $38,601 |
| St. Paul | $38,601 |
| Duluth | $34,401 |
| Rochester | $35,101 |
| Alberta | $34,101 |
| Bemidji | $32,401 |
| Chaska | $38,401 |
| Elk River | $36,601 |
| Donaldson | $31,401 |
| Burnsville | $38,501 |
Regional Salary in Minnesota
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duluth, MN-WI | 160 | $31,190 | $14.99 | $37,440 | $22,830 |
| Mankato-North Mankato, MN | 60 | $31,920 | $15.35 | $35,690 | $24,280 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | 2,990 | $35,270 | $16.96 | $44,660 | $26,930 |
| Rochester, MN | 180 | $34,760 | $16.71 | $39,320 | $29,510 |
| St. Cloud, MN | 150 | $31,740 | $15.26 | $38,720 | $24,770 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
If you are too busy to have a full-time job, you can also work as a part-time dog stylist.
The only aspect to keep in mind is that you will get paid less.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Minnesota
Maybe you need to keep in touch with the industry changes.
In that case, check out the following resources for more information:
- Minnesota Dog Trainer Website
- Minnesota Veterinary Hospital
- National Dog Groomer Association of America
- Minnesota Humane Society
Remember that the most important step in becoming a dog groomer is to join a training program and get certified.
