This guide is for those who want to become dog groomers in Missouri.
We collected the information on the process you must follow, requirements to meet, as well as possible salaries, so read on!
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Missouri
Even if you want to become a pet stylist, it doesn’t mean you actually know what this job is all about.
This is a list of the pet-related activities this professional completes:
- 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
The following tasks improve the quality of service he or she provides:
- Cleaning and maintenance of the 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
As far as animals go, these groomers will mainly service dogs, though cats and other pets may occasionally visit the establishment as well.
Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Missouri
Of course, pet groomers are also expected to meet some standards.
They mostly need skills that will help them perform a better job.
For instance, being detail-oriented and patient means you can better see if there’s anything wrong with the animals when inspecting them.
This will also help you be more careful with a more sensitive pet.
Pet owners may like to talk ow may need to ask questions.
With some good communication skills, you can easily interact with them and with other people such as co-workers, bosses, or suppliers.
You’ll be spending quite a lot of time standing so make sure you’re prepared and able to do it.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Missouri
There’s no specific requirement in Missouri related to training and certification.
It’s best to already have a high school diploma or a GED though.
Undergoing training as described below will turn you into a better candidate for the job.
Dog Groomers’ Education
The National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) accredits the best training course in the country for dog groomers.
The Association also awards a certification with national recognition.
The programs are offered at various institutions across the state, but you can attend any such program if you’re not interested in a national diploma.
Expect to spend some two months training and to pay under $1000 for the course.
Dog groomers study the following 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
Dog Groomers’ Certification
While you don’t need a certification to get employed as a pet stylist in Missouri, attending a training program will end with an exam.
Those who pass the written and the practice part of the test will receive a diploma.
Enrolling for the exam, the exam itself, as well as the certificate may require additional fees that need to be paid in advance.
It’s highly possible for the certification to need renewal, for which you’ll need at least an application and a renewal fee.
Individuals can participate in extra classes or workshops to obtain more diplomas.
Those interested in running a pet grooming business will need a special license from the state, usually obtained if they pass the jurisprudence exam.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Missouri
Here are the main establishments where you can apply for a job:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
The average salary for a dog groomer in Missouri is $33,482 per year, and here is the breakdown of average salaries in the major cities of this state.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Missouri
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $35,201 |
| St. Louis | $35,301 |
| Springfield | $33,901 |
| Independence | $35,101 |
| Columbia | $34,901 |
| St. Joseph | $34,901 |
| Lee's Summit | $35,001 |
| St. Charles | $35,101 |
| St. Peters | $35,001 |
| Florissant | $35,301 |
Regional Salary in Missouri
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | 110 | $28,690 | $13.79 | $34,510 | $24,960 |
| Columbia, MO | 270 | $30,250 | $14.54 | $37,740 | $24,960 |
| Jefferson City, MO | 160 | $33,800 | $16.25 | $42,910 | $24,960 |
| Joplin, MO | 170 | $30,120 | $14.48 | $34,870 | $25,840 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | 2,790 | $30,220 | $14.53 | $37,390 | $22,720 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | 90 | $31,120 | $14.96 | $36,380 | $26,560 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | 3,740 | $31,420 | $15.11 | $36,870 | $27,040 |
| Springfield, MO | 450 | $29,630 | $14.25 | $36,300 | $24,960 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
The following factors will definitely influence how much you’ll earn once you start working:
- Your experience
- Your location
- The number of credentials and diplomas you have
- The type of employment you have
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Missouri
For more information on classes and available position check with these associations:
- Humane Society of Missouri
- Pet groomer Ads
- Dog Groomers Missouri
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
