Animal Groomer Job Profile

Animal Groomer Job Profile

Final Level of Education: From age 16 in France

Animal groomers are professionals specializing in pet hygiene, maintenance, and care. They ensure that animals are properly groomed, clean, and healthy. Groomers can also advise owners on pet care products, diet, and accessories, and some may manage grooming salons.

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Overview

Animal groomers are responsible for the hygiene and appearance of pets. They perform maintenance procedures based on the specific needs of different animal breeds and can provide specialized care for competitions or medical conditions.

Key skills include autonomy, attention to detail, patience, and the ability to adapt to different animal temperaments.

Main Responsibilities

Animal groomers carry out various tasks, including:

  • Providing hygiene and maintenance according to the needs and characteristics of each animal.
  • Offering advice on pet care products, accessories, and dietary needs.
  • Managing a grooming salon and customer appointments.
  • Ensuring compliance with animal welfare and health safety standards.
  • Handling and calming animals during the grooming process.

Training & Expertise

Becoming a professional groomer requires specialized training and certifications. Some of the most recognized programs include:

  • Canine Grooming Technical Certificate.
  • Brevet National de Toiletteur Canin (BNTC) - a state-approved level V certificate lasting two years for individuals aged 16 to 25.
  • Technical Certificate for Canine, Feline, and NAC (New Animal Companions) Groomers.
  • Certification as a Canine and Feline Groomer (CTM), awarded by the Assemblée Permanente des Chambres de Métiers et de l’Artisanat (APCMA) after training or on-the-job experience.

Work Environment

Groomers work in pet grooming salons, veterinary clinics, pet shops, and mobile grooming services. Their work conditions involve:

  • Operating in noisy environments with various grooming tools and dryers.
  • Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, helmets, and hearing protection.
  • Standing for prolonged periods while handling animals.
  • Carrying and maneuvering heavy or cumbersome loads.
  • Traveling for business or at-home pet grooming services.
  • Being up to date on anti-rabies and anti-tetanus vaccinations.
  • Ensuring no allergies to pet hair or grooming products.

Salary & Special Features

Approximately 80% of animal groomers earn a gross monthly salary between €1,747 and €1,940. Salaries may increase based on experience, location, and specialization.

Groomers can work as private-sector employees (permanent or fixed-term contracts) or as self-employed professionals running their own grooming salons.