A certain amount of training, either through classes or on-the-job experience, is required to become an animal groomer. Because some aspects of the job are best learned through direct contact with animals, hands-on practice under the supervision of an experienced animal groomer is frequently the only requirement for employment in this field. There are no formal requirements for schooling or training hours, and each employer is free to set their own standards for new groomers.
Although specific classes are not required to become an animal groomer, many countries, including the United States, insist on at least a high school diploma. Beyond that, no college or university education is required, though some employers prefer groomers who have studied biology, animal behavior, or psychology because an animal groomer must be able to read the animal’s mood and respond appropriately. Animal grooming degrees are available from trade schools and private institutions. Although a bachelor’s degree is not required to work as an animal groomer, it is frequently preferred.
Whether or not a person receives formal education prior to working as an animal groomer, a new groomer is typically expected to complete a short, informal apprenticeship. Inexperienced groomers with a vocational degree frequently intern for a short period of time, but it is rare for a newcomer to be given full responsibility for the animals on his first day. Working under the supervision of a more experienced groomer allows a new groomer to ask questions and learn more about the job and the animals. An internship is a paid position in many countries, though the pay may be lower than that of a professional groomer.
When a person is doing an internship or getting on-the-job training, they will most likely be given a few responsibilities at a time. A new groomer may be assigned to bathing, brushing, or cleaning out the kennels of the animals at first in order to gain experience, and then given the more difficult tasks of cutting, shaving, and clipping nails once they are more comfortable with the job. A new animal groomer is usually given full responsibility and allowed to take on new clients after a period of two to eight weeks.