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Animal Grooming


Overview

Programs in animal grooming prepare people to work with pets and other animals who perform in races, competitions, shows, zoos, or circuses.

Programs in animal grooming and training teach people grooming and styling techniques for pets and other animals that perform. In grooming programs, students learn to clip nails, shampoo, blow dry, brush, and comb animals. In training programs, students learn how to teach special behaviors to animals.

Animal grooming programs include topics such as:

Most classes include hands-on experience working with animals.

Schools

Very few community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in animal grooming. Some schools may offer courses within their programs in animal science or equestrian studies.

A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program of study by getting your high school diploma or GED.

You can volunteer or work part time at a veterinarian's office or zoo to gain skills. In that experience, you may develop clients of your own.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Things to Know

Many people learn on the job by working as helpers to animal groomers or trainers. Grooming requires practice and skill.

Internships or supervised work experience may lead to employment or better job prospects and recommendations. Volunteering at local animal shelters or veterinary offices provides good experience for entry-level employment.

Work as an animal groomer is also good experience if you decide later to go to veterinary school.

For information about local educational programs in animal grooming, check with veterinary offices, your county's extension service office, the Humane Society, and zoos or marine exhibits.

Schools

King-Snohomish Area

Maser's Academy of Fine Grooming

Mission Farrier School

Northwest School of Animal Massage

Vancouver Area

Professional Grooming Academy