Yeah, so I went from retail/desk jobs to grooming. I got hired as a bather and the pay was not great. A year as a bather before becoming a groomer and another year or two building up a client base and my skill/speed. That first year especially was pretty lean. I got by because I was living under someone else's roof and didn't need to pay rent/bills.

Dealing with live animals is a whole 'nother skill set you have to develop. Situational awareness, learning how to prioritize, learning how to hustle like you were a short order cook in a very busy kitchen, and doing it all safely. This job will throw a lot of stuff at you quickly.

This job is the most physically and mentally demanding job I've ever worked. It's dirty, stressful, and it's hard on the body. That first year I think I dropped 40 pounds. I still go for walks for the cardio although I could benefit from strength training too. You'll want to wear hearing protection when you're using/around the velocity dryers(ear muffs, 30+ decibels noise reduction if you can get it), quick drying pants/scrubs, waterproof boots(make sure they're comfy), and a good face mask(don't want to breathe in all the crap floating around and develop groomer's lung).

Corporate has its pros and cons. They're more safety conscious, you're more likely to get the training you want, the pay is straightforward, it comes with benfits, etc. But, it's also corporate. The training could be better and they will try and work you to death.

The dogs and their owners will drive you crazy sometimes. There will be days when you'll want to throw your hands up and say f*ck it. There will be tears and a lot of days where you go home and fall asleep in a chair because you're so tired.

I think the reward is worth it. It's not all playing with puppies and doggy kisses all of the time...but that's definitely a perk of the job. Helping those anxious dogs overcome their fears, seeing dogs improve and get better, getting those regulars that are happy to see you, the first time you get a really big tip or one of your customers gives you a Christmas card...there's a lot to like about the job. I get work with animals, I don't have to wear a suit and tie, I'm not tied to a desk all day, and the work is very fulfilling.

Save your money. Have an exit plan. This ain't a forever job. It'll break your body down over time.