Train for a Career Working With Pets
Build practical grooming skills, confidence, and career momentum at Rio Grooming School in Hastings, Minnesota.
Why Future Groomers Choose Rio
Choosing a grooming school is personal. Rio is built for students who want hands-on practice, close instructor guidance, and a clearer path into professional pet styling.
Small class sizes
Learn in a setting where instructors can get to know your goals, your questions, and the skills you are building.
Hands-on learning
Practice the craft of grooming in a real pet care environment instead of only studying it from a distance.
Instructor guidance
Build confidence with experienced grooming educators nearby to demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and coach your progress.
Career-focused support
Prepare for opportunities in salons, mobile grooming, kennels, veterinary settings, and other pet care businesses.
Financing conversations
Talk with the admissions team about current tuition, tool kit needs, and available financing information before you enroll.
Housing resources
Ask about student housing options if you are considering Rio from outside the Hastings area.
Industry exposure
Study inside a grooming-focused campus with salon activity, pet care services, and a community built around the trade.
What Training at Rio Looks Like
At Rio Grooming School, our goal is to give every student a well-rounded, hands-on, and inspiring education. Since 2009, we have taken a leadership role with each student, guiding them to develop the skills, confidence, and genuine passion that professional grooming requires.
Our students learn professional grooming in both theory and practice, along with client communication, creative expression, and the fundamentals of building a business. The best next step is to request information or schedule a tour to see the facility, meet the instructors, and ask your questions.
Schedule a Tour
Picture Yourself Learning Here
Before You Request Information
Is Rio Grooming School for beginners?
Yes. The school is designed for aspiring pet stylists who want to build grooming skills through guided, hands-on education. If you are unsure whether grooming is the right fit, requesting information or scheduling a tour is a good first step.
Can I visit before applying?
Yes. A tour is the best way to see the grooming school environment, ask questions, and understand whether Rio feels like the right place for your goals.
What kind of training should I expect?
Rio focuses on practical grooming education, including hands-on learning, instructor guidance, professional habits, and preparation for work in the pet care industry.
Are financing or housing options available?
Rio lists financial aid and student housing options as part of the admissions conversation. Because details can change, prospective students should request current information directly from the school team.
Where is the school located?
Rio Grooming School is located at Riverside Pet Resort, 12260 Margo Avenue in Hastings, Minnesota.
What should I do next if I am interested?
Start with Request Information if you want details sent to you, or Schedule a Tour if you are ready to see the school and talk through questions in person.
Guided by Grooming Experience
Rio Grooming School is led by Amy Ericson, President and Dean of Students. Amy has been part of Rio since age five and graduated from the program herself in 2009, carrying forward the school's commitment to hands-on grooming education in Hastings.
For prospective students, that leadership shows up in the day-to-day experience: small class sizes, the skill and quality of our instructors, clear expectations, and a school environment focused on helping new groomers build real confidence.
Schedule a Tour
