Becoming a dog groomer can be a rewarding profession, especially if you love animals.
But, before you can look for a job, you should make sure you know enough about training and licensing.
For that, read the guide below for more info.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Maine
In order to become a dog groomer, you first need to know what job duties you will have.
Most of these need to be completed on a daily basis and 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
Other job duties 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 Maine
You should be able to work well with animals and dogs in particular.
In addition to having knowledge about dogs, you should also learn about cats.
Here are some of the traits of a good pet groomer:
- Good communication skills
- Empathetic
- Patient
- Detail-oriented
- Ability to stand for a few hours at a time
- Physically strong
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Maine
Maine laws do not require any specific certification for dog groomers.
Even so, most of the employers require certification or at least some experience with animals.
Dog Groomers’ Education
The first step in getting a certification is to find a suitable training program for dog groomers.
Keep in mind that the program should be accredited.
Generally, these programs will have hours of theory but the focus will be on hands-on practice.
This will give you the experience you need in order to land your first dog grooming job.
Some of the classes you will take are:
- 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 in Maine
So, what do you need to do after you finish your training program?
The next step is to register for the certification exam.
Once you pass the exam, you will soon get your license and be able to look for a job.
This will be the only license you need if you plan on working for a company.
But, if you want to start a business in the dog grooming field, then you need a commercial license.
You will need to meet different criteria for a commercial license, so make sure to read the laws at the federal and state level.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Maine
In Maine, after you have a license, you can work for almost any pet grooming facility in your area.
Some of these facilities could be:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
Maybe you are also wondering what your salary will be, once you find a job.
This depends based on your past experience, credentials but also on where you live.
As you can expect, your annual salary will be higher if you work for a famous company or in a big area.
If you run your own company, you can also expect to earn a better wage compared to being employed.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Maine
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Portland | $35,001 |
| Lewiston | $34,701 |
| Bangor | $32,801 |
| South Portland | $35,001 |
| Auburn | $34,701 |
| Brunswick | $34,701 |
| Biddeford | $34,901 |
| Sanford | $35,901 |
| Augusta | $33,601 |
| Scarborough | $35,001 |
Regional Salary in Maine
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangor, ME | 160 | $32,480 | $15.62 | $35,900 | $28,500 |
| Lewiston-Auburn, ME | 50 | $33,890 | $16.29 | $41,730 | $28,590 |
| Portland-South Portland, ME | 430 | $36,650 | $17.62 | $47,410 | $29,580 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Keep in mind that you can get hired even if you cannot hold a full-time position.
Part-time dog grooming jobs are also available, but they pay less.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Maine
The dog grooming industry keeps on evolving and changing.
As a dog groomer, you should keep in touch with the latest changes and developments.
To be able to do that, you could easily check the resources below:
- Maine Dog Groomers Jobs
- Maine Humane Society
- STARelief and Pet Assistance
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
If being a dog groomer is your ideal career, all you need to do is complete a training program.
This will bring you the career opportunities you have always dreamed of.
