ZEN PAWS PET SPA
CLIENT POLICIES, RELEASES & SERVICE AGREEMENTS
Mind • Body • Spirit • Paw
The Kirkpatrick's LLC DBA Zen Paws Pet Spa
1127 North Avenue, Suite 10
Burlington, Vermont 05408
(802) 862-5334
FrontDesk@ZenPawsBTV.com
www.ZenPawsBTV.Love
WELCOME
Thank you for choosing Zen Paws Pet Spa.
Our mission is to provide a safe, compassionate, low-stress grooming experience centered around your pet's health, comfort, and well-being.
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, we believe grooming is healthcare. Routine grooming supports skin health, coat condition, nail maintenance, mobility, comfort, hygiene, and overall wellness.
The following policies, procedures, releases, and expectations have been established to help ensure the safety of your pet, other pets in our care, our clients, and our staff. More importantly, they were created to educate and empower you as your pet's advocate.
The best grooming outcomes occur when pet owners and groomers work together as a team. While we are committed to providing professional care during your pet's appointment, the care your pet receives at home between visits is equally important.
Our goal is not only to groom your pet, but to educate, support, and empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your pet's health, comfort, and well-being.
Please take a few moments to carefully review this handbook before signing. Thank you for trusting us with your pet's care.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Appointment Scheduling & Communication
Grooming Frequency Requirements
Credit Card & Payment Policy
Cancellation, No-Show & Late Arrival Policy
Grooming Duration & Behavior Expectations
Grooming Expectations & Professional Discretion
Groom Satisfaction & Correction Policy
(Additional sections continue in Part 2 and Part 3)
SECTION 1
APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING & COMMUNICATION
Why This Matters
Consistent communication and proper scheduling help us provide the highest quality care while ensuring adequate time is reserved for every pet.
Appointment Confirmations
• You will receive a text message and/or email confirmation immediately after scheduling.
• If you do not receive a confirmation, you do not have an appointment.
• Zen Paws Pet Spa often schedules appointments four (4) to eight (8) weeks in advance.
• Rebooking at checkout is strongly recommended to maintain your preferred schedule and grooming frequency.
Communication Expectations
Clients are responsible for ensuring that all contact information remains current and accurate.
This includes:
• Mobile phone number
• Email address
• Emergency contact information
Zen Paws Pet Spa is not responsible for missed reminders, confirmations, or communications due to outdated contact information.
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SECTION 2
GROOMING FREQUENCY REQUIREMENTS
Why This Matters
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, grooming is considered an essential part of your pet's overall health and wellness. Regular grooming helps prevent matting, skin problems, overgrown nails, discomfort, and behavioral challenges during grooming appointments.
Recommended Grooming Schedule
Service
Required Frequency
The Style
Every 4–6 Weeks
The Poodle
Every 4–6 Weeks
The Dood
Every 4–6 Weeks
The Refresh
Every 6–8 Weeks
The Contour
Every 6–8 Weeks
The Bath & Blow
Every 6–8 Weeks
Paw'dicure (Nail Trim)
Every 4 Weeks
Get Paw'd
Every 4 Weeks
Nail Care Exception for Senior Pets
Senior pets may be permitted to extend Paw'dicure and Get Paw'd services up to six (6) weeks between appointments when medically necessary or recommended due to age-related health, mobility, or stress-related concerns.
Long Coat Maintenance Requirement
Pets maintained at one inch (1") in coat length or longer must be groomed every four (4) weeks.
This requirement helps:
• Prevent matting
• Maintain coat integrity
• Reduce discomfort
• Promote healthy skin
• Ensure safe grooming conditions
Important Notice
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not accept once-per-year grooming appointments.
Owners agree to maintain their pet on an appropriate recurring grooming schedule based upon service type, coat condition, coat length, and grooming needs.
Failure to maintain recommended grooming intervals may result in:
• Additional grooming fees
• Dematting fees
• Shave-downs
• Limited styling options
• Additional handling time
• Denial of future services
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SECTION 3
CREDIT CARD & PAYMENT POLICY
Why This Matters
Appointment times are reserved specifically for your pet. Maintaining a valid payment method on file helps ensure fairness and accountability for all clients.
Credit Card Requirement
A valid credit card is required to remain on file for all clients.
Cards may be charged for:
• Late cancellations
• No-shows
• Dematting fees
• Behavioral fees
• Handling fees
• Muzzle fees
• Additional approved service-related charges
Credit Card Statements Charges will appear as:
THE KIRKPATRICK'S LLC
Stop Payments
A $40.00 administrative fee will be assessed for any stop payment issued through your financial institution.
If a stop payment is placed on a completed service, the fee will be added to your account and must be paid before future services can be scheduled.
Payment Responsibility
All services rendered must be paid in full upon completion of the appointment unless prior arrangements have been approved by management.
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SECTION 4
CANCELLATION, NO-SHOW & LATE ARRIVAL POLICY
Why This Matters
Appointment times are reserved specifically for your pet. Last-minute cancellations and missed appointments prevent us from serving other clients and impact the livelihood of our team.
Cancellation Policy
Appointment times are reserved specifically for your pet. Because grooming appointments often require several hours of dedicated time, last-minute cancellations make it difficult to fill that appointment space and may prevent another pet from receiving services.
As a courtesy, Zen Paws Pet Spa sends appointment reminders approximately forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled appointment. This reminder provides clients with adequate time to confirm, reschedule, or cancel their appointment without incurring a fee.
Clients may cancel or reschedule their appointment without penalty provided that notice is given more than twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled appointment time.
Late Cancellation Fee
Appointments canceled twenty-four (24) hours or less before the scheduled appointment time will be charged one hundred percent (100%) of the estimated grooming fee.
By providing appointment reminders approximately forty-eight (48) hours in advance and allowing cancellations up to twenty-four (24) hours prior to the appointment, Zen Paws Pet Spa believes this policy provides reasonable notice and opportunity to avoid cancellation fees.
No-Show Fee
Clients who fail to appear for a scheduled appointment without notice will be charged one hundred percent (100%) of the estimated grooming fee.
Habitual Violations
After three (3) late cancellations and/or no-shows within a twelve (12) month period, client privileges may be suspended or terminated.
Late Arrival Policy
Clients arriving twenty (20) minutes or more late may be unable to be accommodated and may be required to reschedule.
Because grooming appointments are scheduled throughout the day and often require several hours to complete, late arrivals may impact the schedule for other pets and clients.
Appointments that cannot be accommodated due to late arrival may be treated as a late cancellation and charged accordingly.
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SECTION 5
GROOMING DURATION & BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
Why This Matters
Every pet is unique. Grooming times vary based on coat condition, grooming history, behavior, health, age, and individual needs.
Average Grooming Time
The average grooming appointment for a routinely groomed, cooperative pet is approximately three (3) hours.
Additional time may be required due to:
• Coat condition
• Matting
• Age
• Anxiety
• Health concerns
• Behavioral challenges
• Additional services
• Salon scheduling requirements
Our Philosophy
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not force pets through grooming.
We provide:
• Rest breaks
• Reassurance
• Individualized handling
• Comfort accommodations whenever possible
Our goal is for your pet to view grooming as a positive experience and a place they feel safe returning to.
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SECTION 6
GROOMING EXPECTATIONS & PROFESSIONAL DISCRETION
When instructions are unclear, incomplete, unsafe, unrealistic, or unsuitable for the pet's coat condition, health, age, temperament, or behavior, Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to use professional judgment to complete a safe, sanitary, humane, and appropriate groom.
Grooms may be modified due to:
• Matting
• Coat condition
• Skin condition
• Health concerns
• Age-related limitations
• Behavioral concerns
• Safety concerns
• Humane handling requirements
• Time limitations required for the pet's physical or emotional well-being
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, we practice a Humanity Over Vanity philosophy. This means your pet's comfort, health, safety, and emotional well-being will always take precedence over achieving a specific haircut, style, or cosmetic outcome.
While we strive to accommodate client preferences whenever possible, the final grooming result may differ from the requested style when necessary to ensure the safety and welfare of the pet.
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to alter, shorten, modify, postpone, or discontinue any grooming service if continuing would compromise the health, comfort, safety, or well-being of the pet, staff, or equipment.
The groomer's professional judgment regarding humane handling and safety shall be considered final.
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SECTION 7
GROOM SATISFACTION & CORRECTION POLICY
Why This Matters
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, we take pride in providing professional, compassionate, and high-quality grooming services. Open communication helps ensure the best possible experience for both pets and their owners.
Correction Policy
If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of your pet's groom, Zen Paws Pet Spa must be notified within twenty-four (24) hours of the completed service.
Clients must contact the salon within this twenty-four (24) hour period so that any concerns may be reviewed and a correction appointment scheduled if appropriate.
Correction appointments are intended to address:
• Areas unintentionally missed
• Minor adjustments to the completed groom
• Reasonable modifications based upon the original instructions provided
Correction appointments do not include:
• Requesting a completely different haircut than originally requested
• Changes resulting from coat condition, matting, pet behavior, health concerns, or safety limitations
• Coat growth occurring after the appointment
• Changes in preference after leaving the salon
Failure to Notify
Failure to notify Zen Paws Pet Spa within twenty-four (24) hours will constitute acceptance of the completed groom.
Any future grooming modifications may be subject to additional grooming charges.
Our Goal
We encourage clients to contact us promptly with any concerns so that we can work together to provide the best possible grooming experience.
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SECTION 8
HUMANITY OVER VANITY POLICY
Why This Matters
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, the health, comfort, safety, and emotional well-being of the pet always come before cosmetic appearance.
Our Humanity Over Vanity philosophy guides every grooming decision we make.
While we understand that owners often have a preferred haircut or style in mind, there are times when achieving that style is not possible without causing discomfort, pain, stress, or unnecessary risk to the pet.
Humanity Over Vanity
Pet comfort and safety will always take precedence over cosmetic appearance.
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to:
• Modify a requested haircut
• Recommend a shorter length
• Shave a matted coat
• Shorten grooming sessions
• Reschedule services
• Discontinue services when necessary
These decisions may be based upon:
• Coat condition
• Matting
• Health concerns
• Behavioral concerns
• Senior age
• Physical limitations
• Stress level
• Humane handling requirements
The groomer's professional judgment regarding humane handling and safety shall be considered final.
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SECTION 9
MATTED PET RELEASE
Understanding Matting
Matting is more than a cosmetic issue. Severe matting can cause pain, discomfort, skin damage, restricted movement, circulation issues, infections, and significant health concerns.
When a pet arrives with matting, our priority is humanity over vanity.
What Matting Can Cause
Matting may contribute to:
• Skin irritation
• Redness and inflammation
• Bruising and tenderness
• Hot spots
• Moist dermatitis
• Trapped moisture
• Bacterial infections
• Fungal infections
• Restricted airflow to the skin
• Parasites
• Circulation problems
• Hematomas
• Skin tearing
• Pain during movement
• Restricted mobility
• Vision impairment
• Difficulty defecating
• Loss of blood flow in severe cases
Dematting Limitations
Zen Paws Pet Spa will not perform excessive dematting.
We will not demat a pet for more than twenty (20) minutes total.
When excessive matting is present, the coat will be clipped to the safest and most humane length.
Risks of Shave-Downs
Owners understand that shaving a severely matted coat may reveal pre-existing conditions that were hidden beneath the matting.
Potential risks include:
• Nicks or cuts
• Skin irritation
• Razor burn
• Clipper irritation
• Skin tears
• Bruising
• Hematomas
• Tenderness
• Itching
• Behavioral sensitivity
• Uneven coat regrowth
Post-Groom Expectations Following removal of severe matting:
• Skin may appear pink, irritated, or inflamed
• Pets may scratch, lick, or chew at exposed areas
• Coat may regrow unevenly
• Previously hidden skin conditions may become visible
• Veterinary treatment may be required
Owner Acknowledgment
I understand that matting is a preventable condition and that removal of severe matting may expose underlying skin conditions or create temporary irritation despite appropriate care and handling.
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SECTION 10
MEDICATION & HANDLING POLICY
Why This Matters
The safety of your pet and our staff depends upon pets being physically and mentally capable of safely participating in grooming services.
Allowed Calming Support
The following are permitted:
• CBD products
• Natural calming supplements
• Daily veterinarian-prescribed behavioral medications
Examples include:
• Prozac (Fluoxetine)
• Clomicalm
• Zylkene
• Other veterinarian-prescribed maintenance medications
Not Allowed
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not groom pets that have been given single-use sedatives or tranquilizers specifically for grooming appointments.
Examples include:
• Trazodone
• Single-dose Gabapentin
• Acepromazine
• Other situational sedatives
These medications may affect balance, coordination, awareness, and overall safety.
Handling Fees
Additional fees may apply when pets require:
• Muzzling
• Additional restraint
• Specialized handling
• Additional staff assistance
• Repeated breaks due to behavior
• Extended grooming time due to resistance
The safety of the pet and groomer will always take precedence over completing the groom.
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SECTION 11
BEHAVIORAL & SAFETY POLICY
Why This Matters
The safety of pets, clients, and staff is our highest priority. Grooming requires close physical contact, sharp equipment, elevated surfaces, bathing systems, dryers, and handling procedures that can become dangerous when a pet is fearful, resistant, or aggressive.
Safety First
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to refuse, modify, postpone, shorten, or discontinue any service if a pet's behavior presents a safety concern.
Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Biting or attempted biting
• Aggression toward staff or other pets
• Excessive struggling or resistance
• Alligator rolling
• Thrashing
• Pulling away repeatedly
• Jumping from grooming equipment
• Panic responses
• Excessive barking that disrupts the salon
• Excessive urine marking within the facility
Behavioral Fees
Additional fees may apply when a pet requires:
• Additional handling
• Additional grooming time
• Multiple staff members
• Specialized restraint equipment
• Frequent breaks
• Safety modifications
Training & Alternative Grooming Options
When appropriate, Zen Paws Pet Spa may recommend:
• Behavior modification training
• Veterinary evaluation
• Mobile grooming
• Veterinary-supervised grooming
• Sedated grooming performed by a veterinarian
Clients who are unwilling to address ongoing safety concerns may be denied future services.
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SECTION 12
SCOPE OF SERVICES & PROFESSIONAL LIMITATIONS
Why This Matters
Zen Paws Pet Spa provides professional grooming, hygiene, and coat maintenance services.
While groomers often identify concerns that may require further attention, groomers are not veterinarians and do not diagnose or treat medical conditions.
Professional Limitations
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not provide:
• Veterinary diagnosis
• Medical treatment
• Prescription recommendations
• Behavioral diagnosis
• Behavioral treatment plans
We may bring attention to concerns such as:
• Lumps or bumps
• Skin irritation
• Ear concerns
• Parasites
• Mobility issues
• Coat abnormalities
• Behavioral changes
When concerns are identified, owners will be encouraged to seek evaluation from the appropriate veterinary professional.
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SECTION 13
PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS DISCLOSURE
Owner Responsibility
Owners are responsible for disclosing any known medical, behavioral, physical, or age-related conditions that may affect grooming.
Examples include:
• Heart disease
• Respiratory conditions
• Seizure disorders
• Arthritis
• Mobility limitations
• Blindness
• Hearing impairment
• Anxiety disorders
• Aggression history
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Recent injuries
• Recent surgeries
Failure to disclose known conditions may increase risks to both the pet and grooming staff.
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SECTION 14
EAR CARE, ANAL GLANDS & SANITARY CARE
Why This Matters
Zen Paws Pet Spa follows current continuing education recommendations and modern veterinary guidance regarding ear care and anal gland maintenance.
Ear Hair Policy
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not routinely pluck ear hair.
Current veterinary recommendations suggest that unnecessary ear hair plucking may contribute to:
• Irritation
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Micro-trauma within the ear canal
Ear hair removal should be performed only when medically indicated and directed by a veterinarian.
Ear Maintenance
As part of routine grooming services, Zen Paws Pet Spa may:
• Clean ears
• Remove visible debris
• Trim hair around the ear opening
• Shave hair inside the ear leather when appropriate
Anal Gland Policy
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not express anal glands.
Improper anal gland expression may contribute to:
• Injury
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Impaction
• Long-term gland dysfunction
Anal gland concerns should be addressed by a veterinarian.
Sanitary Care
Zen Paws Pet Spa performs sanitary trims to help maintain cleanliness and hygiene around the genital and rectal areas.
Sanitary trims are not a substitute for veterinary care.
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SECTION 15
NAIL CARE RECOMMENDATIONS
Why This Matters
Proper nail maintenance contributes to healthy posture, movement, balance, and comfort.
Overgrown nails may contribute to:
• Pain
• Altered gait
• Joint strain
• Mobility issues
• Injury
Recommended Frequency
Most pets benefit from nail care every two (2) to six (6) weeks.
Many pets benefit from monthly nail maintenance every four (4) weeks.
Regular nail maintenance allows the quick to gradually recede, helping achieve a healthier nail length over time.
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SECTION 16
FLEA, TICK & PARASITE POLICY
Why This Matters
The health and safety of all pets in our care is extremely important. Fleas, ticks, mites, and other parasites can spread quickly within a grooming environment and may pose risks to other pets, clients, and the salon environment.
Active Flea Infestations
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not accept pets with an active flea infestation.
If fleas have been discovered prior to your appointment, your pet must be treated for a minimum of three (3) days prior to the appointment and show no signs of active fleas upon arrival.
Owners are responsible for ensuring appropriate flea treatment has been administered and that the infestation is under control before presenting their pet for grooming services.
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to refuse or reschedule services if active fleas are observed upon arrival.
Undiscovered Fleas
If a pet arrives for grooming and live fleas are discovered during the grooming process, the pet will receive a flea bath at the owner's expense.
The flea bath is necessary to help reduce contamination within the salon and protect other pets in our care.
By signing this agreement, the owner authorizes Zen Paws Pet Spa to perform a flea bath if live fleas are discovered during the grooming process and agrees to pay all associated fees related to the flea treatment, additional grooming time, and any necessary sanitation procedures.
Additional Charges
Additional fees may apply for:
• Flea bath services
• Additional grooming time
• Excessive flea debris removal
• Additional sanitation procedures required as a result of parasite contamination
Zen Paws Pet Spa is not responsible for reinfestation occurring after the pet leaves the salon. Effective flea control requires treatment of the pet, the home environment, bedding, yard (when applicable), and all animals within the household.
While a flea bath may help remove live fleas present during the grooming appointment, it does not eliminate fleas, flea eggs, larvae, or pupae that may exist within the pet's environment. Ongoing flea prevention and environmental treatment remain the responsibility of the owner.
Ticks & Other Parasites
If ticks, mites, or other parasites are discovered, Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to recommend veterinary evaluation and may modify, postpone, or discontinue services if necessary for the health and safety of the pet or salon environment.
Owner Responsibility
Owners are responsible for maintaining appropriate parasite prevention between grooming appointments.
Failure to maintain adequate parasite prevention may affect future service eligibility.
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SECTION 17
INJURY, ILLNESS & HEALTH DISCLOSURE POLICY
Owner Responsibility
Owners agree to disclose any known injuries, illnesses, wounds, surgeries, skin conditions, hot spots, mobility limitations, or health concerns prior to grooming.
Examples include:
• Recent surgeries
• Open wounds
• Skin infections
• Hot spots
• Sprains
• Orthopedic injuries
• Healing incisions
• Chronic pain conditions
Pre-existing Conditions
Zen Paws Pet Spa is not responsible for complications resulting from undisclosed pre-existing conditions.
Owners understand that grooming may reveal previously hidden conditions or aggravate existing conditions despite reasonable care and handling.
Health Requirement
All pets presented for grooming must be healthy enough to safely participate in grooming services.
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to refuse services for pets displaying signs of contagious illness, severe distress, or medical instability.
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SECTION 18
CLIENT CONDUCT & COMMUNICATION POLICY
Why This Matters
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, we are committed to maintaining a calm, respectful, professional, and safe environment for our clients, staff, and pets.
Respectful Communication
We require all client interactions to be conducted with courtesy, kindness, professionalism, and mutual respect.
This applies to:
• In-person interactions
• Telephone conversations
• Text messages
• Email communications
• Social media interactions
• Online reviews
Unacceptable Conduct
Zen Paws Pet Spa does not tolerate:
• Hostility
• Aggressive behavior
• Harassment
• Threats
• Intimidation
• Raised voices
• Disrespectful language
• Abusive communication
• Profanity directed at staff
• Repeated policy violations
• Demanding or entitled behavior
Client Accountability
Clients are responsible for their words, actions, tone, and behavior while interacting with staff.
While disagreements may occasionally occur, they must be handled respectfully and professionally.
Right to Refuse Service
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to:
• Refuse service
• Discontinue service
• End an interaction
• Dismiss a client permanently
if behavior is determined to be inappropriate, disruptive, hostile, or unsafe.
Respect is a two-way responsibility and is essential to maintaining the environment we strive to provide.
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SECTION 19
CLIENT EDUCATION ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Why This Matters
Zen Paws Pet Spa is committed to educating pet owners regarding proper grooming maintenance, coat care, skin health, nail care, hygiene, behavior, and overall wellness.
Educational Recommendations
Owners may receive recommendations regarding:
• Grooming frequency
• Brushing techniques
• Coat maintenance
• Nail trimming schedules
• Skin care
• Dental care
• Nutrition
• Behavioral support
• Veterinary referrals
Owner Responsibility
Owners acknowledge that educational recommendations are intended to support the health and well-being of their pet between appointments.
Failure to follow recommended maintenance may affect:
• Grooming results
• Coat condition
• Appointment length
• Service availability
• Future grooming options
Owners understand that grooming outcomes are directly impacted by the care provided between appointments.
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SECTION 20
DROP-OFF & PICK-UP ETIQUETTE
Why This Matters
A calm, structured grooming environment reduces stress and promotes safety for pets and staff.
Pre-Groom Preparation
All dogs must arrive having had an opportunity to:
• Exercise
• Urinate
• Defecate
A well-exercised dog is generally calmer, safer, and more comfortable during grooming.
Drop-Off Expectations
Owners must:
• Keep pets properly leashed or secured in a carrier
• Provide accurate contact information
• Inform staff of any changes in health or behavior
Pick-Up Expectations
Owners agree not to enter the salon prior to receiving a Ready Notification that their pet is ready unless specifically instructed by staff.
Early arrivals may:
• Excite pets
• Increase anxiety
• Delay completion of grooming
• Create safety concerns
• Compromise the quality and safety of the grooming process
Many pets become highly excited, overstimulated, or anxious when they see, hear, or smell their owner before grooming has been completed. This excitement can make it unsafe to continue working around sensitive areas such as the face, eyes, ears, feet, and sanitary areas.
If an owner arrives before receiving a Ready Notification and their pet becomes too excited, overstimulated, anxious, or unsafe to continue grooming, Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to immediately stop grooming services and release the pet in its current condition, regardless of whether the groom has been fully completed.
Owners understand that partial or unfinished grooming services resulting from early arrival and pet overstimulation shall not qualify for refunds, discounts, complimentary correction appointments, or completion of the groom at a later date without additional charges.
Ready Notification
A Ready Notification will be sent once grooming has been completed and the pet is ready for pickup.
Notifications may be sent by text message, email, automated system notification, phone call, or other communication methods utilized by Zen Paws Pet Spa.
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SECTION 21
PHOTO & DOCUMENTATION AUTHORIZATION
Why This Matters
Accurate documentation helps protect pets, owners, and staff.
Authorization
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to photograph and document:
• Coat condition
• Matting
• Skin conditions
• Parasites
• Injuries
• Behavioral concerns
• Grooming results
Photographs and records may be maintained as part of the pet's permanent grooming record.
Use of Documentation
Documentation may be used to:
• Record pre-existing conditions
• Support grooming recommendations
• Explain grooming limitations
• Address concerns regarding services provided
Privacy
Photographs containing personally identifiable client information will not be publicly shared without separate authorization.
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SECTION 22
EMERGENCY VETERINARY AUTHORIZATION
Emergency Care
In the event of a medical emergency, illness, injury, or other condition requiring immediate veterinary attention, Zen Paws Pet Spa is authorized to seek veterinary care on behalf of the owner if the owner cannot be reached.
Communication
Reasonable efforts will be made to contact the owner prior to treatment whenever circumstances permit.
Financial Responsibility
The owner agrees to assume responsibility for all veterinary expenses incurred.
Emergency Contact
Owners agree to provide at least one emergency contact capable of making decisions regarding their pet if the owner cannot be reached.
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SECTION 23
SENIOR PET RELEASE
Why This Matters
As pets age, grooming often becomes more physically and emotionally demanding. Senior pets may experience health conditions, mobility limitations, sensory changes, anxiety, fatigue, or age-related behavioral changes that can affect the grooming process.
At Zen Paws Pet Spa, our priority is always the comfort, safety, and well-being of your pet. We understand that senior pets often require additional time, breaks, accommodations, and patience throughout the grooming experience.
Definition of a Senior Pet
For the purposes of grooming services at Zen Paws Pet Spa, pets are generally considered seniors beginning at seven (7) years of age, although age-related health concerns may be present earlier or later depending upon breed, size, and individual health status.
Additional Accommodations
Senior pets often require additional support throughout the grooming process due to age-related physical and behavioral changes.
Senior pets may require:
• Additional grooming time
• More frequent rest periods
• Additional comfort breaks
• Assistance with standing and balance
• Modified handling techniques
• Extra patience and reassurance throughout the grooming process
Appointment Length
The average grooming appointment for a healthy, routinely groomed pet is approximately three (3) hours.
Senior pets often require additional time and are typically in the salon for approximately four (4) hours or longer depending upon:
• Health status
• Grooming frequency
• Temperament
• Mobility limitations
• Coat condition
• Stress level
• Cooperation during grooming
Owners understand and acknowledge that senior pet grooming appointments generally take longer than standard grooming appointments due to the additional accommodations, assistance, and breaks required to safely and comfortably complete the grooming process.
Health Risks
Owners acknowledge that grooming may aggravate, reveal, or trigger underlying medical conditions including but not limited to:
• Heart conditions
• Respiratory conditions
• Seizure disorders
• Arthritis
• Mobility limitations
• Neurological conditions
• Other age-related health concerns
While every reasonable precaution is taken, these conditions may occur despite appropriate care and handling.
Right to Modify or Discontinue Services
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to modify, postpone, reschedule, or discontinue grooming services if continuing would not be in the best interest of the pet's health, safety, comfort, or overall well-being.
In some cases, a groom may need to be completed over multiple appointments if a senior pet is unable to safely tolerate the grooming process in a single visit.
Acknowledgment of Risk
By signing this agreement, I acknowledge the increased risks associated with grooming senior pets and understand that Zen Paws Pet Spa will take reasonable precautions but cannot guarantee against complications resulting from age-related or pre-existing conditions.
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SECTION 24
RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
Zen Paws Pet Spa reserves the right to modify policies, procedures, fees, service offerings, grooming requirements, scheduling requirements, and operational procedures at any time.
Updated policies shall supersede previous versions and become effective upon publication or communication to clients.
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FINAL CLIENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to all policies, procedures, releases, fees, risks, and expectations contained within this document.
I understand:
• Grooming involves inherent risks.
• Grooming results may vary based on coat condition, health, behavior, and owner maintenance.
• Pet comfort and safety take precedence over cosmetic appearance.
• Groom corrections must be requested within twenty-four (24) hours of the completed service.
• Zen Paws Pet Spa may photograph and document my pet's condition.
• Services may be modified, shortened, postponed, or discontinued when necessary for safety or humane handling.
• I am responsible for maintaining my pet according to recommended grooming intervals.
• I am financially responsible for veterinary expenses incurred during emergency treatment.
By signing electronically through Gingr, I acknowledge and agree to all policies, procedures, releases, acknowledgments, and disclosures contained within this document.
Owner Name: ____________________________________
Pet Name(s): ____________________________________
Date: __________________________________________
Electronic Signature Completed Through Gingr
END OF CLIENT POLICIES, RELEASES & SERVICE AGREEMENTS HANDBOOK
Zen Paws Pet Spa
Mind • Body • Spirit • Paw