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:
- Grooming techniques
- Basic animal handling
- Animal behavior
- Health and safety
- Basic business skills, including client relations and budgeting
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
- Animal Caretakers
- Animal Control Workers
- Veterinary Assistants
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
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:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Animal Science
- Biology
- Community Health
- Physical Education
- Physical Science
- Psychology
- Safety and First Aid
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Bathing and Grooming Techniques
- Client Relations
- Computer Business Applications
- Farrier Science
- Show Procedures
- Using and Caring for Hand Tools
- Word Processing
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
- Groomer Advancement
- Ten-Day Vocational Pet Grooming Introductory Class
- Vocational Pet Grooming
Mission Farrier School
- Basic Farrier Education Course
Northwest School of Animal Massage
- FUNdamentals of Massage Workshop
Vancouver Area
Professional Grooming Academy
- Groomer Assistant
- Professional Groomer