If you live in Rhode Island, love animals, and are in need of a job, perhaps you could become a dog groomer.
These professionals help animals be in top shape and have rewarding occupations!
Read this guide to find out what it takes to become a pet groomer in this state!
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Rhode Island
The job description and duties are not always clear, especially for those who know close to nothing about being a dog stylist.
These are the activities related to grooming dogs, that you’ll be in charge of:
- 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 next activities will help you perform your job at the highest level:
- 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
Of course, when taking care of a pet, you’ll use several activities, not just one.
Dog Groomer Job Requirements in Rhode Island
Every job has requirements that a possible employee has to meet.
Almost everyone knows that working with animals is difficult, and the best results are achieved by a kind, patient, and empathetic person.
With these traits, you’ll also be able to deal better with more difficult pet owners.
You should keep in mind that not all animals stay calm in the salon, therefore those qualities will be rather useful.
Because when working with animals you face the risk of getting bitten, you might have to get the rabies vaccine.
Dog groomers need to strong to be able to pick up the animals that are scared to get on the styling table.
Depending on the place you apply for a job at, you might need to meet additional requirements, such as related to age or education.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Rhode Island
As far as the minimum education needed by a pet stylist goes, a high school diploma or GED is enough.
However, those who undergo some specialized training for a dog groomer career will have more hiring chances.
Dog Groomers’ Education
The most common education for a future dog groomer is the training program from the National Dog Grooming Association of America (or NDGAA).
Such a program can be found both in-person at an accredited school or training center, or online.
Training won’t last for more than two months.
The practice part should be a big part of the program, given the nature of this job.
Should be noted that each school may have its own enrollment requirements too.
These are the topics of study for this profession:
- 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
Cats are popular pets in the grooming salon, therefore pet stylists need to know the cat grooming techniques as well.
Dog Groomers’ Certification
All training programs will issue a certificate or diploma to those who graduate and pass the exam.
The process of taking the test may involve registration, a fee, as well as some other documents.
There are 2 parts forming the exam, the written part, and the practice part.
Oftentimes, the diploma must be renewed by submitting an application and an additional fee.
Dog groomers can earn other credentials through seminars and other special courses.
Those interested in working on their own will need a business license that has its own set of rules to adhere to.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Rhode Island
If you don’t want to run a pet grooming salon, it’s time to find a job.
Here is where you can commonly find a position:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
In Rhode Island, you can expect to earn a median salary of $37,000 per year.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Rhode Island
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Providence | $37,701 |
| Warwick | $37,701 |
| Cranston | $37,701 |
| Pawtucket | $37,701 |
| East Providence | $37,701 |
| Woonsocket | $37,601 |
| Coventry | $37,601 |
| North Providence | $37,701 |
| Cumberland | $37,701 |
| West Warwick | $37,701 |
Regional Salary in Rhode Island
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | 1,330 | $35,710 | $17.17 | $44,980 | $29,110 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Working on your own or as a part-timer means you may earn less than that.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Rhode Island
Here are some associations that can help you in your new career:
- Rhode Island Dog Groomers
- Rhode Island Mobile Dog Groomers
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- NDGAA
