In this post
From Retail Manager to Dog Groomer: An Inside Look into the Animal Care Industry
The Animal Care industry has become extremely popular and in demand in the past 10 years, due to both population growth and dog ownership growth.
There are approximately 24 million pets owned by Australians, with Australians having the highest rate of pet ownership in the world. That equates to lots of jobs for animal lovers.
With 4.1 million of those animals being dogs and only around 4,000 dog groomers, it’s no wonder there’s a national shortage of senior-level dog groomers.
Macarla Muscat spent eight years working in retail before a life changing accident forced her to pursue a new career. An opportunity arose for Carla to purchase a dog grooming business and having had prior experience in dog training and horse grooming, it seemed too perfect to turn down.
Big Paws, Little Paws has been Carla’s baby for the past eight years and has become her full-time career. She now also competes in dog grooming competitions, where she puts her incredible pamper skills to the ultimate test.
What is ‘Dog Grooming’?
Dog Grooming is the process of maintaining, cleaning and cutting a dog’s hair to both enhance their appearance and for general care of the dog.
The usual responsibilities of a dog groomer include:
- Washing dogs with special shampoo and conditioner
- Blow drying dogs
- Trimming the dog’s coat and undercoat so it is tidy
- Nail trimming
- Spraying them with dog-specific cologne
- General pooch styling
Dog Grooming is quickly becoming a popular industry due to the flexibility, opportunity to work with dogs and the good hours involved as well as the ability to be portable.
You can undertake a number of different dog grooming courses here; it is also recommended that you get some industry training with a professional first as well.
Discover more about the role of a dog groomer
Find out why our career survey respondents rated this career 4/5 for overall job satisfaction.
Dog groomer salary in Australia
$51,200
Median yearly salary for a dog groomer
The average salary is projected to increase by 19% by 2027.
Carla and ‘Big Paws, Little Paws’ Dog Grooming
Carla loved her job, but an unfortunate motorbike accident left her in a wheelchair and unable to work. Upon returning to work, her employer believed it was too risky for her to continue working and therefore, forced her to resign.
Before beginning her career in dog grooming services and starting up Big Paws, Little Paws, Carla undertook a dog grooming course to learn how to properly control and groom different dog breeds.
She originally had reservations about beginning her new career.
Firstly she was nervous about her medical condition and she was also unsure of the different breed styles and their coat types. The course helped her gain more confidence and knowledge about the processes and styles that are required for pet grooming.
Carla believes it’s very important to undertake a course as there’s so much that can go wrong in the dog grooming process.
Unfortunately, it’s not a regulated industry, so even if you don’t have a grooming qualification you can still pursue it as a business. This can cause a lot of damage to people’s pets and can leave them traumatised, which is why Carla recommends everyone undertake a course.
At Big Paws, Little Paws, Carla’s day consists of around 10 appointments per day. As her grooming practice is quite fancy and consists of more than just a chop with clippers, she takes a little longer than usual and puts in a lot more care as she’s considered a professional dog groomer.
She has an open salon policy meaning she allows the dogs to roam free while they wait for their appointment, rather than being locked in a cage all day. This also means the dogs are able to get a good amount of socialisation and play time with other dogs as well.
Carla’s aim for the future is to hopefully compete more in dog grooming competitions and eventually travel overseas to compete internationally.
The role of a dog groomer
Dog grooming doesn’t involve playing with dogs all day. It’s a highly technical role which takes focus, attention to detail, and precision.
The start of the grooming process is one of the most important stages. You need to assess the dog on your grooming table. There’s no one-size-fits-all for grooming — each dog will need different care, different tools, and present different challenges. Your technical knowledge and experience will help you decide on the best technique for their breed and condition.
Some of the routine tasks in dog grooming include:
- Brushing out coat
- Washing and drying the coat
- Cutting the coat and removing matting if necessary
- Cutting the dog’s nails
- Cleaning ears
- Giving tick and worming treatments
You’ll also need a calm disposition in this role. Some dogs can be skittish or even aggressive, but will likely respond well if you’re calm. You’ll also need skills in taming and calming these kinds of dogs.
A calm disposition comes in handy when talking to owners as well. It’s not uncommon to see cases of neglect as a dog groomer. But it’s crucial that you approach these situations with a calm, kind attitude so you can educate those owners on how to care for their dogs at home (or at least convince them to book in regular grooming appointments). You may also need to inform people if their dogs are overweight or underweight, or have conversations about general dog health.
Perks of being a dog groomer
Low barriers to starting your career
Dog grooming training and qualifications are really accessible. They’re usually quite short, low cost (especially compared to a university degree), and there are heaps of them around.
You'll make a genuine difference
Proper grooming makes a big difference to a dog’s quality of life. Without proper grooming, dogs can become matted; this causes bruising, circulatory problems, restricted movement and pain. Being in a position to help dogs stay happy and healthy is incredibly rewarding.
There's lot of demand for your expertise
4.1 million pet dogs in Australia equals a lot of work for dog groomers. People are increasingly recognising the value of professional grooming, and are happy to spend the money to give their fur babies the best quality care. You’ll have plenty of clients — and if you run your own dog grooming business, that means plenty of profits.
No two days are the same
Each dog comes with its own personality, challenges and delights. The work you do will vary daily, so you’ll never be bored in this role. There are also many ways to upskill and broaden your services as a dog groomer, so once you’ve mastered a skill you can begin learning the next.
Education Background
Education
Although Carla already had prior experience, she made sure to undertake a Dog Grooming course before pursuing it as a full-time career. There are many Animal Care courses available whether that be in Animal Training, Zoology, Wildlife Conservation, Vet Assistant and even Animal Behaviour. A career with animals is only a click away!
Zoology: Complete Career Guide + Salary | How to Become a Zoologist
Reptiles, birds, mammals and more – discover the ways you could work with these incredibly beautiful and diverse creatures through a career in zoology.
Featured Provider
Explore the animal world with Learning Online, and equip yourself with the best professional skills to harness your passion and become an animal care expert!
At Learning Online, we deliver comprehensive animal care certificates, developed by industry professionals, to help people get a head-start and build exciting careers.
Courses found:
Certificate III in Community Services (Sunshine Coast Only) CHC32015
Prepare yourself to work in a range of community service areas such as Aged Care, Disability, Youth Work and more. The social and community services sector is predicted to experience strong growth over the next 5 years with an excess of 50,000 job open...
Certificate IV in Ageing Support (Sunshine Coast Only) CHC43015
Take your passion for caring to the next level and upgrade your career! The health and aged care sector are experiencing strong growth, with the Australian Government expecting more than 50,000 job openings in the industry over the next five years. Thi...
Certificate III in Individual Support (Sunshine Coast Only) CHC33015
Become a valued and integral part of the health and community services industry with this qualification. You will learn how to support independence and wellbeing, gain a range of technical skills, and develop a range of transferable skills from communi...
Certificate II in Horticulture (Sunshine Coast Only) AHC20416
AHC20416 Certificate II in Horticulture is currently available as part of a school-based traineeship. The Certificate II in Horticulture will teach you the fundamentals of planting, potting and maintaining trees, shrubs and plants, how to recognize pla...
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (Geelong Only) CPC50220
Are you pursuing your builders registration, or looking for supervising or contract administration roles? The Diploma of Building and Construction course will help you achieve this goal. You will learn about the latest building industry skills required...
Diploma of Work Health and Safety (VIC ONLY) BSB51315
Are you currently working in a Work Health and Safety role, and would like to extend your skills and knowledge? This qualification is suitable for people who coordinate and maintain the Work Health and Safety (WHS) program in an organisation. It reflec...
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (Geelong Only) SHB50115
This nationally recognised, Free TAFE course, is very highly regarded in the industry with our graduates achieving a 100% employment rate for the last two years! Advance into the next level of your beauty therapy career, expanding on your foundational...
Diploma of Engineering – Technical (Geelong Only) MEM50212
Are you looking to develop your engineering career, or gain practical engineering experience before undertaking a university degree? This course is designed for those wanting to work as an engineering technician, carrying out tasks such as engineering...
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) (Geelong Only) CPC40110
If you are looking to move into estimating/supervision roles within the domestic building industry this course will prove to be a valuable tool. During this course, currently run using MBAV resources and support, you will learn estimating principles, ...
Certificate II in Building and Construction (Carpentry) Pre-apprenticeship (Geelong Only) 22216VIC
Are you looking to enter the construction industry, or get a taste for the carpentry trade before undertaking an apprenticeship? This pre-apprenticeship course is designed for you.
Diploma of Graphic Design (VIC ONLY) CUA50715
This nationally recognised course gives you an immediate qualification to work in a creative, diverse, constantly evolving industry. Advance your natural technical and creative abilities, and learn about corporate branding, commercial printing and free...
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Geelong Only) ICT40118
This nationally recognised TAFE course is for all the future IT whizzes out there ready to step up in their careers. If you’re already dabbling in IT and ready for more responsibility, a fatter pay check, or a promotion, this course is your secre...
Certificate IV in Visual Arts (VIC ONLY) CUA41315
This nationally recognised course, will enhance your creativity and launch your artistic career in the thriving arts world. Find your niche, and learn the techniques of drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, jewellery making, photo digital imaging,...
Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Geelong Only) MSL50118
This nationally recognised, Free TAFE course is tailored for individuals seeking to advance their career in modern science. If you hold a certificate in lab techniques, have a profound love for science, a thirst for understanding how things operate, an...
Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques (Geelong Only) MSL40118
This nationally recognized, Free TAFE course is perfect for individuals who have a genuine passion for science, a curiosity about how the world functions, and a penchant for variety. If you’re also someone who leans towards meticulous planning an...
Certificate II in Animal Care (VIC ONLY) ACM20117
Calling all animal lovers! This free, nationally recognised TAFE course is for those with a heart full of love for our furry friends, offering a paw-some start in the animal care world. Opening doors for a career such as: Animal Care Attendant Animal S...
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (SE Melb Only) CPC40120
The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120) is designed to meet the needs of people working in the building industry and who aim to be builders and managers of small to medium-sized building projects. This nationally recognised qualifica...
Certificate III in Process Manufacturing (Perth Only) MSM30116
Advance your knowledge, gain more skills in Process Manufacturing. This course is tailored to students interested in advanced production work utilising a range of different support functions related to producing products. You will gain skills across va...
Certificate III in Business (QLD Only) BSB30120
Get the practical skills to succeed in business. This course introduces you to business processes, tools and technology, and is packed with practical real-life activities. Whether you are working in the business environment or hoping to kickstart your...
Certificate II in Electrotechnology Studies (Pre-vocational) (Geelong Only) 22261VIC
Are you looking to enter the electrical industry, or get a taste for the trade before undertaking an apprenticeship? This pre-apprenticeship course is designed to give you the core skills and knowledge for the industry, and increase your opportunities...
Online courses also available
Keen on sharing your career change or ‘industry insider’ story?
Get in touch here.
Latest Articles
Your Ultimate Guide to a Successful Career in Bookkeeping
Embarking on a career in bookkeeping is not just about dealing with numbers, it’s about playin...
How to Grow Your Bookkeeping Career in 5 Simple Steps
Financial literacy and accountability for decision-making are key to the success of many small to me...
Xero vs MYOB: Which Course is Right For You?
When it comes to bookkeeping and accounting software, the debate often boils down to Xero vs MYOB. B...
Want to read more?
Infographic: Highest Paying Call Centre & Customer Service Jobs In Australia
The average customer service representative salary in Australia sits at $59,091, but if you work you...
The Booming Industry of Celebrancy – An Inside Look
Celebrancy has quickly become one of the most popular industries and one of the most popular courses...
The 4 Types of Data Analytics that Benefit Business
Discover which 4 types of data analytics are guaranteed to benefit business intelligence, and learn...