How to Become a Dog Groomer in New Mexico

Pet owners in New Mexico, just like everywhere else, want their companions to look and feel their best.

An animal groomer is someone who makes this happen.

If you love working with animals, perhaps you’ll consider becoming a dog groomer in New Mexico.

This guide is here to help you get started.

Dog Groomer Requirements in New Mexico

There are no educational requirements to become a dog groomer in New Mexico like there are for many other occupations.

Those who want to improve their chances of getting hired and getting paid more should consider enrolling in a training program and earn a certification.

The ideal candidate is comfortable:

• Working with a variety of animals, including cats
• Interacting with people
• Standing
• Using both hands at the same time

Don’t worry if you’re not able to stand for long because you can still enter this field.

In this case, you’ll just need to have a customized workspace to allow you to sit if you need to.

Compassion and patience are some important personality traits you’ll need for this position.

Those who work in the beauty industry also must be tidy and detail-oriented.

Dog Groomer Duties and Responsibilities

Grooming pets is not an occupation without duties and responsibilities.

The first step of the grooming process is to inspect the animal to see if there is anything wrong with it.

This way you can be sure you’ll be using the correct products and tools, minimizing the risk of accidents, allergy triggers, or irritations.

You’ll also be able to notice if the dog may be showing early signs of illnesses.

Should this be the case, you must inform its owner, so they’ll go to the vet and have better chances of curing their companion.

Keeping the pet calm throughout the event is also your responsibility, though you can receive some help from the owner should they offer it.

Animal grooming is done in a set order and with set tools based on what you need to do.

Not all the dogs visiting your salon will require the same beautifying process.

Some will need just a bath, which will include fur drying and styling, and occasionally eyes and ears cleaning.

It’s highly likely to be asked to use a dog perfume as a finishing touch, or not to use any fragrant product on the dog.

Training and Certification

Certification is not mandatory in New Mexico but it is required by many employers.

Those who want a career in the pet grooming industry also seek certification.

The best one to get is issued by the National Dog Groomers Association of America.

To obtain it, just like with many other certifications, you’ll have to pass an exam.

In this state, there are many dog grooming training programs to choose from.

They generally last for some 50 hours.

Many individuals prefer to enter the field through an apprenticeship program because this way they develop their skills the best.

You’re supposed to learn:

• Preparatory procedures
• How to groom various breeds of dogs
• Cat grooming
• Running a pet grooming business

Salary Information

The median salary in New Mexico is $31,758 per year, though many factors are having an influence on how you’ll earn.

In Farmington, you can earn the highest median income for this occupation, $36,682 per year.

Regional Salary in New Mexico

Dog Grooming Schools in New Mexico

Additional Information

You should start looking for a position while you are still training.

If you want to start freelancing as a pet groomer, make sure you obtain the appropriate licenses and permits.

Dog Grooming by State