How to Become a Dog Groomer in Montana

Many people who love animals in Montana become dog groomers.

This profession will allow you to spend time with animals and care for their needs.

If you need to learn more, check out the following article for information on licensing, salaries, and education.

Job Description and Duties

Before starting to look for a job, you should be aware of your daily responsibilities.

These include:

• Check the dog’s skin, ears, and nails for any signs of infection
• Style and wash the dog’s fur
• Color its coat if required
• Clean the animal’s ears, claws, and coat
• Work with the appropriate tools to fulfill the job duties

Job Requirements in Montana

In order to get hired, you need to have some specific skills.

Some of these skills include the following:

• You have a calm personality and are patient
• You know how to communicate effectively
• You enjoy spending your time with animals
• You are a sociable person

If you need to groom a cat instead of a dog, the requirements are similar and include:

• Styling and washing the cat’s coat as needed
• Cleaning the cat’s ears, fur, and claws
• Make sure the cat is relaxed

After each appointment, you will have to clean up your workspace.

Education and Licensing in Montana

In Montana, you will not need a license to practice, but having one will increase your chances of getting a job.

The best way to train is by enrolling in a training program through a trade school.

You can also easily find an online program if you don’t have the time to attend one in person.

The training programs for dog groomers last for 2 months or less.

Of course, you can choose to get a specialization or pursue a degree.

In that case, you will probably need to study for half a year to a year.

At the end of the program, you also have to take some exams.

These exams cover both theory and practice you studied during your classes.

If you pass the exam, your license will be issued shortly after.

To get into a training program you need to be 18 years old and have a high-school diploma.

You may also have to pass a background check.

The theory part of the program will include subjects as:

• Introduction to Pet Grooming
• Introduction to Dogs and Cats
• Pre-Grooming Procedures
• Dog Grooming
• Dog Personalities and Behavior
• Cat Grooming
• Business Practices

Salary Information in Montana

The average salaries for dog groomers in Montana are lower compared to other states.

An entry-level position generally makes about $20,473 a year.

Once you have some experience in the field, you can earn about $31,498 a year or more.

Regional Salary in Montana

The best jobs can be found in vet clinics, large pet stores, and dog grooming salons.

If you choose to work in a larger region of the state, you have better chances to find a job that pays more.

You can also start your own business, which will allow you to set your own hours.

Dog Grooming Schools in Montana

Additional Information

Some of the associations you can reach out to for info include:

• National Dog Groomers Association of America
• Human Society of Western Montana
• Humane Society of Northwest Montana
• Lewis and Clark Humane Society

Dog Grooming by State