If you’re a dog lover, don’t mind getting dirty or working hard, and the potential for an 
occasional nip doesn’t scare you, training to become a dog groomer in Nebraska may be an amazing career option. It is not as simple as purchasing the right tools and turning on your “OPEN” sign; but, this is a career that can be attained by anyone with the proper training, physical ability, demeanor, and patience. Turn your passion for canines into career success.
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What to Expect at Work
Many times, a dog groomer is the first line of defense (before the veterinarian) in the health of a dog. Owners may notice slight temperament changes; however, the intimate closeness of the groomer with the animal (brushing, bathing, massaging, etc.) can help find other issues, such as skin bumps, lesions, or pest infestations, that the owner may otherwise overlook. The dog groomer will report these findings to the owner, who can then schedule a vet appointment depending on the severity of the findings.
While the main goal of the groomer is to beautify the pet, these sessions are therapeutic for the animal if performed correctly. Touch is a sensation to which all animals respond. Proper handling techniques can create a lasting bond between owner and pet; even between groomer and pet.
How Climate Can Affect Dog Grooming Techniques in Nebraska
Nebraska’s weather varies greatly from season to season, which requires different types of grooming depending on the time of year. Heavy-coated breeds, such as the Pekingese, and long-haired breeds, such as the Lhasa Apso, require different brushing techniques than, for instance, a Chihuahua or other short-haired breed. The heavy-coated and long haired breeds will certainly shed much more during Nebraska’s warm, summer months, with temperatures soaring into the high 80s at the peak of the season.
Due to the various breeds of canine you may have as clientele, you will require an assortment of grooming tools to cater to each type, such as a shedding blade and standing dryers. Shedding blades help the groomer rid the dog of excess fur during warm months, taking care of any stray hairs that can be left behind which can cause matting.
Salary Expectations and Pay Ranges
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for non-farm animal caretakers, including dog groomers, is expected to grow 15% from 2012 to 2022. Nebraska’s salaries for dog groomers are relatively competitive, with the median hourly wage for a dog groomer around $9.40 per hour, with a starting wage of $7.81 per hour and top wages of $14.56 per hour. Annual median salary for a dog groomer in Nebraska is $19,550, with an annual starting salary of $16,240 and a top annual salary of $30,270.
Requirements
All states have different requirements for becoming a non-farm animal caretaker. In some states, all that is required is a high school diploma or general education certificate. To become a dog groomer in Nebraska, you must either earn a certificate from an accredited school or an associate’s degree from an accredited institution. It is not a bad idea to also become a member with certification from a dog grooming association, such as National Dog Groomers Association of America.