Do you want to become a dog groomer in Maryland?
It is not difficult to start a career in this industry, but first, you need to develop your skills and be aware of the requirements.
Take the first step and check out the article below for more info.
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Dog Groomer Job Description and Duties in Maryland
Pet groomers have many job duties they have to complete every single day.
Some are more common than others and include, but are not limited to:
- 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 tasks 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 Maryland
It is important to know how to handle dogs and keep them calm while being groomed.
You should also know how to groom cats and learn their behavior.
Most importantly, you should have solid communication skills.
Another ability you should develop is empathy and patience for animals.
Dog Groomers’ Education and Certification in Maryland
In Maryland, you are not required to obtain any certification to work as a dog groomer.
But, keep in mind that a lot of companies you may want to work for do ask for a certification.
At the minimum, you should have some experience with animals.
Dog Groomers’ Education
First of all, make sure you look for a dog grooming program that suits your needs.
Remember that the program should be accredited.
Most often, these programs will include hours of theory but also hands-on practice.
The practical part of the course will provide the experience you need to get hired.
Some of the classes you will attend 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
The first step you should take after getting your diploma is to register for the certification exam.
This exam is required if you want to have a dog grooming license.
After you pass this test, you will be able to start applying for jobs.
This license will be enough to have if you want to work for a company.
However, some dog groomers prefer to start their own business.
In that case, you will need to comply with different requirements.
You will also have to be aware of the laws at the state and federal levels.
Dog Groomers’ Employment and Salary in Maryland
In Maryland, a dog grooming license will allow you to work in a dog grooming facility of your choice.
Some of these facilities could include:
- Dog rescues
- Veterinary clinics
- Pet grooming salons
- Pet shops
- Dog daycare centers
Of course, you may also want to know how much you will earn after you get hired as a dog groomer.
Several factors will weigh in when considering this.
For example, dog groomers earn more if they work in a big city.
You will also make more money if you have good credentials and if you start your own business.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Dog Groomers in Maryland
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Baltimore | $36,901 |
| Frederick | $38,501 |
| Gaithersburg | $39,801 |
| Bowie | $39,801 |
| Rockville | $39,901 |
| Hagerstown | $36,401 |
| Annapolis | $38,001 |
| College Park | $39,901 |
| Salisbury | $38,201 |
| Cumberland | $32,901 |
Regional Salary in Maryland
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | 2,460 | $34,400 | $16.54 | $45,500 | $27,180 |
| California-Lexington Park, MD | 110 | $36,380 | $17.49 | $47,800 | $27,280 |
| Cumberland, MD-WV | 60 | $26,560 | $12.77 | $30,910 | $22,300 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | 170 | $29,300 | $14.09 | $36,260 | $23,590 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | 300 | $30,830 | $14.82 | $44,090 | $23,320 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Sometimes, you may not be able to work full time, and you can still get hired part-time.
But, your salary will be lower for a part-time job compared to full-time employment.
Additional Information for Dog Groomers in Maryland
You should always be aware of the industry changes that could affect you.
To keep updated with the dog grooming industry, you can visit the next resources:
- Maryland Dog Groomers Jobs
- Maryland Humane Society
- STARelief and Pet Assistance
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
- National Dog Groomers Association of America
As you can see, you will be able to build a successful career once you have a certification.
So, all you need to do is check your options and find a suitable dog grooming training program for you.
