If you have always loved dogs and animals in general, consider becoming a dog groomer.
Ohio will offer you many work opportunities, but first, you should know more about the requirements.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Ohio
In Ohio, the main requirement for becoming a dog groomer is to be willing to work with dogs.
You will generally have many job responsibilities to finish every day, and these 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
Your duties will also include:
- 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
Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Ohio
While being a dog groomer generally involves working with dogs, you will also have to work with cats.
So, you should also learn more about cats’ behavior.
As a dog groomer, you should also have some particular skills.
You should be a good communicator and know how to keep the animal relaxed.
A dog groomer should also be able to answer any questions related to the job and the grooming process.
It is also important to have some patience and empathy as you may need to handle more difficult animals.
Physical strength is needed when dealing with larger and stronger animals.
Given the nature of the job, a rabies vaccine might be mandatory.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Ohio
You are not required by law to get a certification, but you may need one anyway.
In Ohio, you will only need a certification if your employer is asking for it.
This usually happens if you work for a bigger pet grooming facility.
To receive a certification, you need to fulfill a few requirements.
Dog Groomers’ Education in Ohio
You will first need to enroll in a training program and complete it.
The training programs for dog groomers are offered by many schools in Ohio.
After you finish the training program, you will be able to take an exam.
After passing the exam, you can get the certification you need to get hired.
The classes for dog groomers feature 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
You will get to attend theory hours, but also more practice that will help you get the experience you need.
Dog Groomers’ Certification in Ohio
The dog groomer certification is the only one you will need to work for a company.
You will however need to apply for a commercial license instead if you want to start your own business.
First, you have to learn the laws at the federal and state level.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Ohio
There are many dog grooming companies you can work for once you have a certification.
Some of these are:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
The bigger the city or area you live in, the more chances for a higher salary than the average.
Your salary will also depend on your experience and education.
Generally, you will also earn a higher annual salary if you work for yourself instead of being employed.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Ohio
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Columbus | $35,401 |
| Cleveland | $35,501 |
| Cincinnati | $35,101 |
| Toledo | $34,701 |
| Akron | $34,401 |
| Dayton | $34,901 |
| Middletown | $34,701 |
| Youngstown | $34,101 |
| Canton | $34,401 |
| Lorain | $34,901 |
Regional Salary in Ohio
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron, OH | 550 | $30,720 | $14.77 | $46,910 | $21,990 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | 240 | $29,650 | $14.25 | $36,260 | $22,330 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | 2,430 | $32,940 | $15.84 | $49,040 | $22,780 |
| Cleveland-Elyria, OH | 1,540 | $32,430 | $15.59 | $46,500 | $22,600 |
| Columbus, OH | 2,130 | $33,380 | $16.05 | $54,750 | $23,090 |
| Dayton, OH | 520 | $30,380 | $14.61 | $39,200 | $22,090 |
| Lima, OH | 70 | $29,950 | $14.4 | $41,600 | $21,010 |
| Mansfield, OH | 50 | $29,730 | $14.3 | $45,130 | $21,010 |
| Springfield, OH | 110 | $29,280 | $14.08 | $37,070 | $21,860 |
| Toledo, OH | 560 | $34,560 | $16.62 | $62,310 | $22,560 |
| Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA | 390 | $27,820 | $13.38 | $35,850 | $21,010 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Ohio
You may need some additional resources to stay updated with the dog grooming industry changes.
This could also be the case for certification requirements.
The following resources could be helpful to you:
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
- Friendly Paws Pets Supplies and Grooming
- Humane Society of Ohio Valley
- Stark County Humane Society
- Pawsabilities
Keep in mind that the most important part of becoming a dog groomer is to attend a training program.
Once you complete it and get your certification, it will be easy for you to find a job right away.
