Published on January 6, 20253 min read

How to Become a Certified Pet Care Professional

Becoming a pet care professional is more than just caring for pets. You need to learn about pet allergies, dietary habits, pet first aid, and more. To help you learn this knowledge, you will need to take classes and become a certified pet professional. There are a variety of courses you can take in order to become a certified professional and continue your education.

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How much does a pet caregiver make?

The average salary for a pet caregiver in the United States is $35,635. Annual salaries for pet caregivers typically range from $26,000 to $48,000. The average hourly wage for a pet caregiver is $17.13.

Pet caregiver salaries are affected by location, education, and experience. The average salary for pet caregivers is highest in Oregon.

Today, we will share with you a list of pet care certifications so that you can choose one or several certifications that you would like to take courses for and get certified in. (https://www.zippia.com/salaries/pet-care-associate/)

Course Description

CPS-DW Courses

The CPS  -DW (Certified Pet Sitter - Dog Walker) course is offered online through Certified Pet Specialists. This certification consists of 49 video, audio, and text lessons that teach all the fundamentals that professional pet sitters and dog walkers need to know in order to safely and effectively care for pets in their clients’ homes.

Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers ( CCPDT) offers two certifications for dog trainers. They offer the CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessment) and the CPDT-KSA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge and Skills Assessment). These exams cost $400 each, plus a $100 extension application fee. The CPDT-KSA is earned after taking the CPDT-KA exam.

International Boarding and Pet Services Association

The International Boarding and Pet Services Association ( IBPSA) offers a variety of courses for its members to obtain certification in specific species, such as canines, felines, small mammals, and exotics. Each certification costs $99, plus a $50 exam fee. Retesting is required every three years.

National Dog Groomers Association of America

The National Dog Groomers Association of America (NGDAA) is unique in that they offer in-person seminars that are designed to provide groomers with the opportunity to improve their skills and keep up with industry trends. The Non-Sporting, Sporting, and Terrier breed exams are currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. Each breed group requires a written exam to become certified.

National Association of Professional Pet Sitters

The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) offers in-home courses that you can take at your own pace. You'll learn about pet care, pet health and nutrition, animal behavior, first aid skills, and business tips.

Pet Sitters International

Pet Sitters International (PSI) offers the CPPS Certified Professional Pet Sitter exam, which will teach you general pet care, animal and health nutrition, business strategies, and more.

Do Your Best

We wish you the best in your pet care career! Use this article as a guide to decide which pet care certifications you need to continue your education and become a certified pet care professional. Invest in yourself to continue your education and become the best professional you can be.

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