What does an animal groomer do?

1 Skills and qualifications

To be a successful animal groomer, you need to have both technical and soft skills. Technical skills include knowledge of animal anatomy, behavior, health, and hygiene, as well as the ability to use different grooming tools and techniques. Soft skills include communication, customer service, patience, and compassion, as well as the ability to handle stress, noise, and possible bites or scratches. Animal groomers may also need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and a certification from a reputable grooming school or organization.

2 Duties and responsibilities

Animal groomers are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness, comfort, and attractiveness of the pets they groom. This includes consulting with pet owners to understand their expectations and preferences, as well as checking for any signs of illness, injury, or parasites. Grooming procedures such as brushing, combing, detangling, shaving, washing with shampoo and conditioner, and drying must be completed. Afterwards, cutting, clipping, or styling fur according to the owners' requests or breed standards is necessary. Additionally, trimming nails, cleaning ears and teeth, applying cologne or deodorant to enhance appearance, cleaning and sanitizing grooming equipment and work area, recording pet information and grooming history, and handling payments are all within the scope of an animal groomer's duties.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?