Policies and Procedures

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Sudsy Paws Dog Grooming - Policies & Procedures

This document outlines all operational policies for Sudsy Paws Dog Grooming.

All Clients are required to view and sign our grooming policies before their first appointment 

Pricing Policy

At Sudsy Paws, we understand that every pet is unique — and so are their grooming needs. All pricing provided in advance (via phone, email, or online) is an estimate only. Final pricing is determined at the time of the appointment based on the following factors:

Pricing is Based On:

- Breed and size of pet

- Coat length, type, and condition

- Behavior and temperament during grooming

- Time required to complete the service

- Frequency of grooming and level of maintenance

Additional Charges May Apply For:

- Severely matted or impacted coats

- Flea infestations

- Medical or behavioral needs that require extended handling time

Dematting Policy

We do not perform excessive dematting as it is a painful and stressful experience for the pet. Comfort clips may be recommended.

Final Price

Prices are finalized at pick-up once the groom has been completed and your pet has been fully assessed.

Agreement

By booking with Sudsy Paws Dog Grooming, you agree to these terms and acknowledge that your pet’s final price may vary based on their individual needs and condition at the time of service.

Appointment Policy

Sudsy Paws operates by appointment only to ensure that each pet receives individualized care in a calm, one-on-one environment.

Appointment Timing

- Arrive on time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, your appointment may be canceled and subject to a no-show fee.

- Contact us as soon as possible if running late.

- Each appointment is timed to allow for calm, focused grooming with no overlaps.

Booking & Communication

- Appointments can be booked through our online booking system, text, or email.

- Reminder notifications are sent 24 hours before your appointment — please review date and time carefully.

Cancellation & No-Show

Cancellations

- Must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

- Late cancellations are subject to a 50% cancellation fee.

No-Shows Policy

- A 100% no-show fee will be charged for missed appointments without notice.

- Fee must be paid before booking future services.

- Three no-shows may result in removal from our client list.

Late Arrivals 

Clients arriving more than 15 minutes late may be considered a no-show.

Reminders

Automated reminders are sent 24 hours prior. Please ensure your contact info is current.

Payment Policy

Accepted Methods

- Cash

- Debit

- Credit

- E-transfer

Terms

- Payment is due in full at time of service.

- For mobile nail trims, exact cash is appreciated.

- Outstanding balances must be cleared before future bookings.

Senior Pet Grooming Policy

Comfort Over Vanity

Senior pets are groomed for comfort and safety, not aesthetics. Services may be modified to reduce stress.

Common Risks

- Arthritis and joint pain

- Heart or respiratory conditions

- Lumps or cysts

- Sensitivity to touch

- Long-lasting seizures or collapse

Emergency Protocol

If immediate emergency care is needed, the groom will stop, and we will direct or meet you at the nearest veterinary clinic. Costs are the owner’s responsibility.

Medical Disclaimer

I am certified in canine first aid but am not a veterinarian and cannot provide medical diagnosis or treatment.

Fear-Free Grooming Policy

Our Approach

- Appointments move at the dog’s pace.

- We use positive reinforcement and calm techniques.

- Breaks are given as needed.

- Multiple appointments may be needed to build trust.

Time Commitment

Fear-free grooming can require longer sessions and reduces the number of pets we can serve in a day.

Reversal of Progress

If a pet is exposed to force-based handling elsewhere, progress may be undone. Additional handling fees may apply.

Aggressive & Special Needs Dog Policy

Meet & Treat Requirement

All dogs with known aggression, fear, or medical needs must complete an intake session before a full groom.

Safety First

- Grooming may be stopped, modified, or rescheduled if safety is compromised.

- Sedation or vet grooming may be recommended in extreme cases.

Full Disclosure

Clients must disclose behavioral history. Failure to do so may result in service refusal.

Handling Fees

Additional fees apply based on behavior and extra time or tools needed.

Mobile Nail Trim Service Policy

Scheduling

- Appointments are set by area/route — exact time requests cannot be accommodated.

- Arrival windows are sent the day before service.

- Booking closes the Wednesday before each route or when full.

Booking Process

- Send a text or email with name, address, pet info, and contact preference.

Payment

- Cash, debit, credit, or e-transfer accepted.

- Payment is due at time of service.

Emergency Procedure Policy

When Emergencies Happen

If your pet experiences a serious health issue during grooming, we will contact you and seek immediate care if necessary.

Examples Include

- Long-lasting seizure

- Uncontrollable bleeding

- Sudden collapse

- Signs of heart distress

Costs

All emergency-related expenses are the responsibility of the pet owner.

Medical Disclaimer

I am trained in canine first aid but am not qualified to diagnose or treat medical issues.

Dematting Policy

We do not perform dematting due to the pain, stress, and potential skin injury it can cause.

Alternative

Severely matted pets will receive a comfort clip to allow the coat to regrow healthily.

Owner Responsibility

Regular grooming and at-home maintenance are essential to prevent matting.

Puppy Introduction Policy

What to Expect

- Short, gentle sessions focused on desensitization

- Includes nail trim, brushing, bath if appropriate, and noise exposure

- Plenty of treats and praise

Requirements

- Puppies must be at least 10 weeks old

- Minimum age-appropriate vaccinations required

Client Code of Conduct

Respect & Communication

- Treat staff with kindness and professionalism

- Arrive on time and respond promptly

- Understand each pet’s grooming needs are different

Zero Tolerance

- No aggressive or disrespectful behavior

- Repeated no-shows or unpaid services may result in termination of services

Home-Based Grooming Policy

Sudsy Paws Dog Grooming is proudly operated from a private, home-based salon located in Trenton, Ontario. This cozy and professional space has been thoughtfully designed to provide your pet with a calm, one-on-one grooming experience — without the stress of a busy commercial salon.

What to Expect

- All grooming services are by appointment only

- Only one pet (or family of pets) is present at a time

- The environment is clean, secure, and designed for low-stress handling

- Clients will be greeted at the designated entrance and asked to remain outside or in their vehicle unless otherwise instructed

House Rules

- Arrive on time for drop-off and pick-up

- Do not knock or enter the home unless instructed — use doorbell or text system

- Children and extra visitors must remain in the vehicle

- If you are early or running late, please text to notify

- Please potty your pet before arrival

- Clients are responsible for cleaning up after their pets — waste bags available upon request

Important Notes

- This is a private residence. Access is limited main entrance only

- Parking is available in the driveway

- Pets must be leashed or secured when transferring to/from the vehicle

Agreement

By booking with Sudsy Paws, you acknowledge and agree to respect all home-based salon policies. These guidelines are in place to protect pets, clients, and the groomer — and to maintain a peaceful, professional environment for everyone.

Client Acknowledgment & Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to all policies outlined in this document. I understand that these policies are in place to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of my pet and the groomer. I agree to adhere to all policies and communicate openly with Sudsy Paws Dog Grooming regarding any concerns or updates about my pet.