Policies | Grooming Arts Northwest

Client Policy & Service Agreement

At Grooming Arts Northwest, our goal is to provide high-quality, compassionate grooming in a calm and respectful environment for pets, clients, and staff. By booking services with us, you agree to the following policies.

Appointments, Cancellations & No-Shows

We are an appointment-based business. Your scheduled time is reserved specifically for your pet(s).

Cancellations or rescheduling 48 hours or more in advance: No fee.
Cancellations or rescheduling less than 48 hours before the appointment: 50% of the scheduled groom fee per pet.
Same-day cancellations, rescheduling or no-shows: 100% of the scheduled groom fee per pet.

These fees apply per pet, not per appointment.
Example: If two dogs are scheduled and the appointment is canceled late or missed, fees apply to each dog.

Clients with repeated late cancellations or no-shows may have their scheduling privileges limited or discontinued. We reserve the right to refuse future services at our discretion.

We understand emergencies happen and may consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Policies

On-Time Arrival
Clients are expected to arrive on time for their scheduled appointment.

Late drop-offs (more than 15 minutes):
- Acceptance of the pet is at our discretion.
- If we are able to proceed, we may offer a shortened service.
- A late fee may still apply.
- If we are unable to safely or reasonably accommodate the delay, the appointment may be treated as a late cancellation or no-show, and the applicable fee will apply.

Pick-Up Times
We will provide an estimated pick-up window and confirm 30 minutes before completion via text. Pets must be picked up promptly after completion.

A 30-minute grace period is provided after service completion.
After the grace period, a late pickup fee of $30 per hour (or portion of an hour) will apply.

Late pickup fees are based solely on how late the pet is picked up and are not related to the scheduled groom length.

Safety & Handling Policy

The safety and well-being of your pet are our top priorities.

We use a patient, gentle, and humane approach at all times.
We do not force dogs through grooming procedures.
If a dog becomes overly stressed, anxious, or unsafe to groom, we may stop or modify the service.
Some grooms may need to be completed over multiple visits to maintain safety and comfort.

We are groomers, not trainers. If behavioral challenges persist, we may recommend working with a professional trainer.

Excessive Vocalization Policy

Due to residential neighbors and our commitment to maintaining a calm environment for all pets, we cannot accommodate excessive vocalization.

This includes persistent:

Barking
Whining
Crying
Howling

If a pet becomes disruptive, we will make reasonable efforts to help them acclimate. If excessive vocalization continues and becomes a nuisance, the service may be stopped, shortened, or the pet may be referred out for future grooming.

Pet Health & Vaccinations

Pets must be healthy enough to be groomed. Grooming elderly or infirm pets is done at the owner’s risk.
Grooming may expose pre-existing health or skin conditions, for which we cannot be held liable.
Rabies vaccinations must be current as required by law unless otherwise discussed.
Pets must be free of parasites and active infestations.

Matting, Shaving & Coat Conditions

Severely matted coats may require shaving for the pet’s comfort and safety. Shaving may expose pre-existing skin or health issues, for which Grooming Arts Northwest cannot be held liable.

Emergency Authorization

In the event of a medical emergency, Grooming Arts Northwest is authorized to contact a veterinarian and approve necessary treatment at the owner’s expense if the owner cannot be reached.

Payments & Fees

Payment is due at the time of service.
We accept cash, check, credit card, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Returned checks will incur a $35 fee.
Pricing is based on breed, size, coat condition, behavior, time required, and other factors.

Client Conduct

We expect all clients to communicate respectfully with our staff.

Abusive, aggressive, or disrespectful behavior toward staff will not be tolerated and may result in refusal of service.

Right to Refuse Service

Grooming Arts Northwest reserves the right to refuse or discontinue service to any pet or client at any time, for any reason, including safety, behavior, scheduling issues, or policy violations.

By booking services with Grooming Arts Northwest, you acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined above. Policies are subject to change with notice.