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Cat Groomer, Dog Groomer, Groomer
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
| Starting | $16.08 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $18.09 |
| Top | $21.81 |
Interest in comparing information to monitor and document animal behaviour, and to prepare food and feed animals, fish and birds at scheduled intervals
Interest in assisting scientists and researchers in conducting laboratory tests with animals; and in using equipment for grooming animals
Interest in handling and nurturing animals when grooming and when assisting breeders; and in training dogs to obey commands and perform specific duties in response to signals
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Duties vary from one position to another but, in general, pet groomers:
Pet groomers sometimes use special shampoos to destroy external parasites. They also may order grooming supplies and advise customers regarding pet grooming.
This is physically demanding work that may involve:
The work also involves:
Pet groomers work indoors. Some evening or weekend work may be required to cater to the needs of pet owners. Self-employed pet groomers often work long hours.
Pet groomers need:
Pet groomers should not be allergic to or afraid of dogs or cats. They should enjoy having clear rules and guidelines for their work and caring for animals.
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 17 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Dec 26, 2020 and Jul 20, 2021.
Review these skills to learn:
| Bathing/shampooing | 14 |
|---|---|
| Pet clipping and styling | 12 |
| Nail clipping | 11 |
| Ear cleaning | 11 |
| Animal Specializations: Domestic animals/pets (cats, kittens, puppies, dogs, etc.) | 9 |
| Flea baths | 9 |
| Personal Suitability: Team player | 8 |
| Personal Suitability: Dependability | 8 |
| Personal Suitability: Reliability | 8 |
| Personal Suitability: Flexibility | 8 |
There are no minimum education requirements for pet groomers. However, pet groomers need:
Previous animal care experience is an asset.
Some salons provide private lessons or group training for pet groomers and some train newly hired groomers on the job. Prospective pet groomers are strongly advised to discuss their education options with several practicing pet groomers before enrolling in a training program.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Pet groomers work in grooming salons, veterinary clinics and kennels. Some are self-employed and work from their own homes. Those employed in salons may be required to supply their own equipment.
One way to get started in this field is to obtain part-time or full-time work as a bather and dryer during busy times. For example, during the spring and summer or holiday periods, many employers require additional staff.
Advancement opportunities are limited. With experience and small business management skills, pet groomers may become salon managers or start their own businesses.
Pet groomers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 6563: Pet groomers and animal care workers. In Alberta, 85% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 6563: Pet groomers and animal care workers occupational group is expected to have an above-average annual growth of 2.3% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 96 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Pet groomers’ earnings vary considerably. Experienced groomers may work on commission so their incomes depend on their reputation for good work, their business and customer service skills, and the number of pets they can groom in a day.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $15.00 | $20.43 | $16.08 | $15.00 |
| Overall | $15.00 | $31.00 | $18.09 | $16.00 |
| Top | $15.00 | $40.87 | $21.81 | $18.00 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $29,278 |
|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $28,231 |
| Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related) | $27,548 |
Updated Mar 31, 2017. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.