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Pet Groomer

Other names for this job

  • Cat Groomer
  • Dog Groomer
  • Groomer

Word Meanings

Do you see red words on this page? Click or tap these words to learn what they mean. Or visit the Easy Reading Dictionary.

What do pet groomers do?

Pet groomers shampoo and clip dogs, cats and other pets. They make animals look good and feel good. Pet groomers work in grooming businesses, vet clinics, large pet stores or kennels.

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Meet a pet groomer

Ann is a pet groomer. She works for a pet grooming business.

Here are things that Ann does:

  • She makes appointments with pet owners.
  • She talks to the pet owners. She asks questions about each pet. She answers their questions.
  • She decides how to groom each pet.
  • She bathes pets. She chooses the best shampoo for each pet.
  • She cuts, combs and blow-dries the pets’ fur.
  • She cleans pets’ ears. She trims their nails.
  • She takes care of her scissors, clippers and other equipment.
  • Strength Required Lift up to 20 kg

What is a pet groomer’s work like?

Ann works part time. Sometimes she works evenings and weekends.

Each pet has an appointment. Ann has to finish each appointment on time. Then she has to get ready for the next pet.

Ann has to be strong. She has to lift and carry pets and cages. The pets may weigh up to 20 kilograms (about 45 pounds). Sometimes a pet bites or scratches her.

Ann uses her hands and arms when she grooms the pets. Sometimes her hands and arms get very tired. Ann often gets dirty and wet.

Sometimes she finds insects on the pets. For example, fleas. Sometimes the pets smell bad, too.

Do you want to be a pet groomer?

  • You need to be healthy and strong. You must be fit. For example, you have to lift and carry animals and cages.
  • You must not be allergic to dogs and cats.
  • You must like working with animals. You must be gentle and patient. You must not be afraid of them.
  • You need to be quick. For example, a dog may try to bite you.
  • You have to talk to the pet owners. You must be polite.
  • You must follow rules. For example, rules about how to clean equipment.
  • You should have experience with animals. You should know about different kinds of animals. You should know about taking care of them.

What education do pet groomers need?

Most pet groomers learn on the job. They don’t need a high school diploma. Some people start by bathing animals at a grooming business. Then they may become pet groomers.

Some people take courses. They may get a certificate.

What can pet groomers do in the future?

Pet groomers can work in grooming businesses, vet clinics, large pet stores or kennels.

Some pet groomers start their own business. Some groom pets at their own home. Some travel to customers’ homes.

How much does a pet groomer make?

As of June 26, 2019, the minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour for most workers. For more information, see Minimum Wage.

Other jobs to think about

Do you want more information?

Do you want more information? You can ask your career advisor or tutor for help.

You will see some red words on this page. Click or tap these words to learn what they mean. Or visit the Easy Reading Dictionary.

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Updated Oct 16, 2024. The information contained in this profile is current as of the date shown.

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