Just curious. I commute far now to work for a decent wage and am wondering if the pay cut would be worth the time/gas saved. I have 3 Pekingese of my own that I currently groom myself and have considered a career change. Thanks.
Dragonfry
Favorite Answer
Most places that offer grooming do it by a commission basis. Meaning if you’re a good groomer and do lots of work you get paid well. If your clients fail to show, stiff you or talk you into grooming for less then you lose money. Most grooming shops offer 50% for professional groomers, with experience. Groomers that can handle cats can garnish a little more as cats are more dangerous then dogs and more difficult to groom.
Also Pekes are not the bulk of any groom shop. You need to learn cocker cuts, shih tzus, poodles, bichons, and terriers. Bathing, brushing, nail trimming, ear plucking and anal glands are all required of groomers. Different breeds have different shampoos and tools needed to groom them.
I own about $800 in equipment that I have acquired over 8 years grooming. Not to mention the cost of blade sharpening, new clippers when your old ones go bad and other sundries.
Not to mention that groomers get bit, scratched, drooled on, peed on, pooped on and come in contact with fleas, ticks and mites. Its not a job for sissies and groomers are not spending all day playing with puppies. Nothing cutesie about this under rated job. Most groomers should ask for and get combat pay.
joanplus4dogs
It varies too much to be accurate. It depends on the shop, area, skill of your grooming etc. Groomers usually get a commission of the charges. Right now business is slow since many ppl are cutting out expenses. It will takes months just to learn the basics of grooming.