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The job of a dog groomer is perfect for someone who loves working with animals, especially with dogs.
If you live in Alaska and you want to know what you need to do to enter this trade, continue reading this guide.
Article Table of Contents
Job Description and Duties
A dog groomer doesn’t only work with dogs.
Quite often, they might have to work with cats as well, and in some situations, they might have to work with other animals as well.
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The purpose of the job is to help to maintain the health of the animal, not just improving its appearance.
No matter which type of animal you have to take care of, you’ll have to know:
- The correct procedures to perform: bathing, styling, nail cutting, ear cleaning
- How to control the animal at all times
- How to deal with the various problems it might have, such as matted fur
Requirements
One of the main requirements to become a dog or pet groomer, in general, is to obtain a diploma at the end of a training program.
Depending on the institution organizing these training programs, you’ll have to meet different conditions before enrolling.
One of the most common ones is being at least 18 years old, and you could be eligible for signing up with whatever education you accumulated.
There are quite a few personality traits that indicate an ideal candidate for this job, besides loving animals.
These are:
- Good communication skills
- Being able to stand for long periods
- Being patient
- Having compassion
- Detail-oriented
Education and Licensing
In Alaska, dog groomers don’t need to be licensed.
However, it is a good idea to earn a certification, as most employers will prefer certified personnel.
One of the best programs to attend is the Pet Grooming Certificate program that can be completed online in about two months.
The classes offered through this program of studies will prepare you for dealing with dogs and cats.
This training program will teach you everything you need to know about this occupation.
Future pet groomers will learn about:
- Introduction to pet grooming
- Basic knowledge about cats and dogs
- Pre-grooming procedures
- How to properly give a neat and tidy appearance to each dog breed
- Dog personality based on their breed
- Practices for grooming businesses
There are fewer classes reserved for cats, as fewer cats are being groomed compared to dogs.
In some areas, people prefer certain dog breeds over others, due to their resistance to the weather.
Getting as familiar as possible with these breeds can be a good idea.
Most training programs end with a test that evaluates your skills.
Salary Information
Once you received your certification, you have better chances of getting hired by:
- An Alaskan humane society,
- Vet clinics,
- Pet stores
In Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbanks, you can probably earn the most as a dog and pet groomer.
How much you’ll earn also depends on the competition you have and the experience you accumulated.
Currently, the average salary in this field in Alaska is $38,896 per year.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Anchorage | $38,626 |
| Juneau | $38,248 |
| Fairbanks | $38,556 |
| Wasilla | $38,105 |
| Sitka | $37,727 |
| Ketchikan | $37,727 |
| Kenai | $38,105 |
| Palmer | $38,105 |
| Bethel | $38,105 |
| Kodiak | $38,105 |
Regional Salary in Alaska
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage, AK | 360 | $35,360 | $17 | $47,840 | $26,790 |
| Fairbanks, AK | 60 | $38,170 | $18.35 | $51,000 | $27,520 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information
The advantage of being a dog groomer is that this occupation can turn into a career.
Many dog groomers even run their own business.
That means you can be your boss and have a second source of income.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dog / Pet Groomer
Dog Grooming by State