Dog Grooming Policies
Current Vaccination - Veterinarian Information
Owners verify that there pets are vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus virus. Proof of vaccination shall be provided to Dakota’s pawfection upon request. Special circumstances will be taken into consideration.
Aggressive or Dangerous Pets
Owners MUST inform Dakota’s pawfection if your pets bite, has bitten, or is aggressive to people, other pets or to grooming procedures. Muzzles may be used if necessary, Muzzling will not harm your pet and protects both the pet and the groomer. Dakota’s pawfection reserves the right to refuse/stop services for such pet(s) at any time before or during the grooming process.
Health, Medical Problems and Senior Pets
Grooming procedures can sometimes be stressful, especially for senior pets or pets with health issues it can expose hidden medical problems or aggravate a current one during or after the groom because of this there is a greater chance of injury. These pets will be groomed for cleanliness and comfort. In the best interest of your pet this signed document will give Dakota’s pawfection permission to obtain immediate veterinary treatment for your pet should it be deemed necessary. We will do our best to contact you first, then take your pet to your authorised veterinarian. It is agreed that all expenses for veterinary care will be covered by the pets owner upon signing of this agreement.
Mat Removal
Pets with matted coats need extra attention during their grooming session. Mats left in a pets coat only get tighter and can strangle the pets skin, or eventually tear it open. Dakota’s pawfection does not wish to cause serious or undue stress to your pet and, will not continually de-Mat your pets coat for you. Mats can be very difficult to remove and may require the pet to be shaved. When necessary removing a heavily matted coat includes risks of nicks, cuts or abrasions due to warts, moles or skin folds trapped in the matts. Heavy matting can also trap moisture and urine near the pets skin allowing mould, fungus and bacteria to grow, causing skin irritations that existed prior to that grooming process. Torn skin can also harbour maggots. After effects of Mat removal procedures can include itchiness, skin redness, self-inflicted irritations or abrasions and failure of the hair to regrow. Shaved pets are also prone to sunburn and should be kept out of the sun until the hair grows sufficiently to protect the skin. In some cases pets may exhibit behavioural changes, prevention is the best defence against matting by scheduling regular grooming appointments. There is an extra charge of £10-£20 for all matted pets.
Puppy’s first haircut
The first grooming experience for a puppy (or any age dog) requires patience and understanding. More time may be necessary to work with younger. Gradually adding steps to the grooming process on a regular basis will help to minimise any potential stress. Owners can help their pets accept grooming by regular massaging pets paws as well as brushing and combing their coats. Frequent handling of paws can help pets better accept nail clipping or trimming around the feet. Puppies should have completed all vaccinations before their first groom.
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Accidents
There is always the possibility an accident could occur. Grooming equipment is sharp, even though we use extreme caution and care in all situations, possible problems could occur including cuts, nicks, scratches, quicking of nails etc. in most cases this can happen when a pet is wriggling or moving around, we have all the first aid equipment on site to stop any small bleeds on nails, we will always inform you of any accidents that happen while your dog is in our care.
Parasites
If you suspect your pet has fleas or ticks, prompt and thorough action on YOUR part will be needed. Flea infestation can lead to tapeworm and other health problems. The veterinary surgeon act 1996 states that only a registered veterinary surgeon can provide treatment. An additional charge of £10 will be charged for all pets found to have fleas or ticks. If ticks are found we strongly recommend your pet is tested for Lyme disease or other tick borne illnesses, please note that parasites are a health hazard for your pet as well as humans.
Late pick ups / drop off
Please be on time to pick up and drop off your pets, we work by appointment and do not have the staff or facilities for your pet to stay after the groom has been completed. Late drop off can then cause a ricochet effect on the rest of the day, To enforce this policy up to £10 fee may be applied to your total groom cost.
No shows and late cancellations
No shows, last minute cancellations (less than 24 hours) or continual re scheduling are subject to a £20 fee per pet, which will need to be paid before the next appointment can be booked via BACS, we understand there are emergency situations, and will work with you, please be respectful of our time as we are a by appointment only business, and another client could have taken your appointment if we knew.
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Hold harmless agreement - This agreement will be presented and need to be signed before any services will take place.
By signing this agreement you (or your agent) agree to hold Dakota’s pawfection its owners and employees harmless, damage, loss or claim arising from any condition of the undersigned pet, either known or unknown to Dakota’s pawfection, it is also further understood and agreed the terms of this agreement can change at any time without notice, and will overwrite any and all prior signed contracts or releases.