Aspiring dog groomers in Michigan would be glad to know that the state is home to numerous high-quality dog grooming. Moreover, dog groomers here are in extremely high demand and are well-rewarded for their efforts.
This article explores everything a future dog groomer in Michigan must know to not only begin their careers but also begin their careers optimally.
Among other things, we discuss the steps involved in the entire process, the certification and licensing requirements, top training schools in the state, and the potential salary range to expect at various stages of a dog grooming career in Michigan.
Steps to Become a Dog Groomer in Michigan
Becoming a dog groomer in Michigan involves the following steps:
Step 1: Preparing for the Journey
One of the ways to prepare for a journey as a future dog groomer in Michigan is to be physically fit. Candidates may also become familiar with dog breeds and develop a patient attitude while working with dogs.
While some training schools ask for a high school diploma or GED as an essential educational requirement, this isn’t mandatory, and it is indeed possible to start a dog grooming career without a certificate.
Step 2: Hands-On and Real-World Training
Hands-on training is vital for a future dog groomer, so candidates should enroll in a dog grooming school before starting their careers.
As most dog grooming academies belong to actual pet salons with numerous customers, students commonly have worked in real-world dog grooming environments before they graduate.
Step 3: Certification
Certification is essential for a future dog groomer in Michigan but is not mandatory. Despite its optionality, most professionals in the state pursue one anyway because it allows them to validate their skills to employers and possible customers.
Below, we examine some of Michigan’s most popular nationally and internationally recognized certifications for dog groomers.
Step 4: Securing Employment
Naturally, after receiving training, real-world experience, and certification, an aspiring dog groomer’s next step is to seek employment. Luckily, there are a lot of establishments in need of dog groomers in Michigan, so the job is usually straightforward.
Additionally, candidates may branch out independently and start their own business.
Consider exploring trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Through the National Dog Groomers Association of America, freshly graduated dog groomers in Michigan may validate their skills and stand out among competitors.
The association offers workshops and training sessions leading up to skills assessment. Candidates who pass their assessment test will qualify for the National Certified Master Groomer credential, valid nationwide.
Another popular alternative for dog grooming certification is the one offered by the International Professional Groomers, Inc.
Top Dog Grooming Schools in Michigan
Below are Michigan’s most prominent destinations for top-class dog grooming training.
Michigan School of Canine Cosmetology
Michigan School of Canine Cosmetology has offered an artistic dog grooming program since 1986. According to the program website, professionals teach classes by combining hands-on and classroom learning approaches.
The school also boasts state-of-the-art equipment and job placement assistance, with a minimum 97% graduate placement rate.
Paragon School of Pet Grooming
Paragon School of Pet Grooming is another high-quality destination to receive dog grooming training in Michigan. The school offers a Groom Tech foundation course on pet psychology, handling, brushing, bathing, drying, clipper handling, and sanitation.
Candidates may also enroll in pet grooming, styling, and advanced courses.
Bingo Institute of Grooming
Bingo Institute of Grooming’s dog grooming program offers a certificate and job placement assistance. The school also provides financial aid through partnerships with local credit unions and public services.
Accepted applicants will receive rigorous hands-on training as well as theoretical instructions.
Consider exploring dog groomer schools in neighboring states:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary for dog groomers in Michigan – as revealed by a survey of more than 200 dog groomers in the state - is $47,131.
The survey also revealed that dog groomers who earn the most in Michigan earn an annual average salary of up to $75,664, while those who make the least enjoy an average yearly salary of $29,357.
While several factors influence how much a dog groomer will earn in Michigan, the most critical factors include experience, location, certification, and business arrangement.
Concerning location, the highest paying cities for dog groomers in Michigan include Ann Arbor, with an annual average salary of $59,136, Ferndale with an average yearly salary of $56,059, and Royal Oak, with an average annual wage of $51,987.
Dog groomers in Detroit and Grand Rapids earn annual average salaries of $47,520, and $42,315 respectively.
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