How to Become a Dog Groomer in Kentucky

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Perhaps you are interested in a career as a dog groomer in Kentucky.

In order to build a successful career in the field, there are some requirements you should adhere to.

Check out the article below to find out more!

Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Kentucky

There are many job duties a dog groomer has to complete on a daily basis.

Some of the most common daily job tasks are:

  • 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 Kentucky

In order to have a rewarding career in the field, an important aspect is to love dogs.

In addition, you also have skills related to dogs and other animals.

For instance, you should develop communication and patience.

Some other abilities you should have as a dog groomer include patience and empathy.

Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Kentucky

You will not need a specific license in order to be able to get a job in this state.

Keep in mind that even if the law does not require it, a lot of facilities prefer to hire certified dog groomers.

Dog Groomers’ Education

If you wish to get a certification, you need to find a school that has a dog grooming program you can enroll in.

The program should be accredited.

The dog grooming training program will feature hours of theory and clinical practice.

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 should also have some knowledge about cats, as you will have to offer cat services too.

Dog Groomers’ Certification

Once you complete your dog grooming training program, the next step is getting a certification.

For that, you first need to take and pass an exam.

After the exam is completed, the license will be available in a couple of weeks.

If you choose to get hired in a facility, you don’t need another certification.

Those who wish to run their own animal grooming company need to apply for a commercial license.

These licenses have other requirements, so remember to check out the laws at the federal and state level.

Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Kentucky

In Kentucky, you can easily land a dog grooming job in any facility in your area.

Some of these facilities could be:

  • Dog rescues
  • Veterinary clinics
  • Pet grooming salons
  • Pet shops
  • Dog daycare centers

The salary you will receive as a dog groomer varies.

You will have a better salary if you reside in a large city or if you have good credentials.

Experience with dogs and animals, in general, is also important.

If you get hired for a big company, you have higher chances for a better salary and job opportunities.

Those who choose to start their own dog grooming company will also earn a higher annual salary.

Annual Salary Range:
$27K
$33K
$42K

Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Kentucky

City NameSalary
Lexington-Fayette$33,801
Louisville$33,801
Owensboro$33,701
Bowling Green$32,501
Covington$35,101
Hopkinsville$32,301
Frankfort$32,801
Henderson$33,901
Richmond$33,401
Jeffersontown$33,501
* Salary information last updated 2024

Regional Salary in Kentucky

RegionEmployedAvg. Annual SalaryAvg. Hourly PayTop 10% Annual SalaryBottom 10% Annual Salary
Bowling Green, KY190$29,390$14.13$42,660$21,490
Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, KY140$27,620$13.28$36,720$19,670
Lexington-Fayette, KY2,560$31,460$15.13$37,350$22,200
Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN2,270$31,120$14.96$42,890$22,090
Owensboro, KY90$27,730$13.33$39,620$20,430
* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Animal Caretakers, OCC Code 39-2021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

In this state, you can choose to get employed part-time if you already have another job or are studying.

But, keep in mind that you will earn a lower salary this way.

Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Kentucky

From time to time, you may need to check and make sure you are staying updated with the industry changes.

To do so, here are some resources that might help you:

  • Kentucky Dog Groomers Jobs
  • Kentucky Humane Society
  • STARelief and Pet Assistance
  • American Kennel Club (AKC)
  • National Dog Groomers Association of America

Remember that you will easily land a good job in a dog grooming facility you like once you are certified.

This way, you will be able to do something you love and have a stable career.

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