Scheduling dog grooming and policies

Scheduling and Cancellations

All dogs are required to be on a 4-6 week maintenance schedule. This is to build trust and predictability for your dog and me. This also supports the low-stress experience by ensuring that painful dematting and or excessive drying and grooming times are never necessary.

Many clients book their appointments out for the year.

Depending on your dog’s coat and temperament, going overdue on maintenance could require a service that no longer fits on my schedule. I use top-of-the-line, precise, quiet equipment that is not suitable for heavy, dirty, or matted coats. I cannot accommodate occasional grooming schedules.

If you are unable to keep an appointment, a 48-hour notice is required so that I have time to refill your spot. Rescheduling can be tricky, but I will do my best to make it happen in the case of an emergency. Last-minute cancellations and or frequent rescheduling will result in removing you from the schedule.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up

All dogs must be dropped off and picked up on time. In order to achieve the lowest stress environment possible and keep appointments from overlapping, my schedule must run smoothly. If you arrive early for either drop-off or pick up, please wait until the correct time to come to the door as this could be another dog’s appointment or I might be finishing your dog. Interruptions can cause accidents and delay finishing due to excited dogs.

The Right Fit and Behavior

I am only able to safely handle and groom small to medium-sized dogs. I use minimal restraint at HeartSpace Salon, which works well for most dogs. Your dog’s comfort and safety will always be my priority. If at any time your dog becomes stressed, agitated, or overly silly, I will stop the groom and work on gaining confidence and cooperation before proceeding. This avoids accidents with sharp objects, possible trauma, and sets us up for success in the future. This could be at the expense of haircut perfection but will pay off in trust and the perfect ‘do in the future.

Some dogs benefit from two pairs of hands and I reserve the right to stop any grooming and refer these dogs to a salon with staff. I will not groom aggressive dogs or stressed dogs that could harm themselves or me. Also, some dogs with certain health issues should be groomed under a veterinarian’s care.

Pricing

By offering private appointments, time is dedicated solely to your pet. I strive to offer each client the best experience possible. This is a premium service that limits the volume of dogs I groom. This is reflected in my prices. Services start at $75/ hour and an hour is the most common time required for a small dog. Additional time is added at approximately $1 a minute, but once we know each other this is rarely necessary.

Thanks!

Thank you for understanding and respecting how my business operates and the need for these policies. I am not the right fit for everyone, but the right fits thrive here, and are pleased to have this type of premium holistic grooming available. I am dedicated to the health and happiness of your dog. I believe you and your dog will truly value and appreciate my services.