Terms and Conditions

Pet Grooming and Related Services Agreement

This Pet Grooming and Related Services Agreement is made between Four Paws Spa & Salons LLC and Pet Owner.

1. Services Provided: The Groomer agrees to provide the following grooming services ("Services") for Client's pet(s):

Bathing and drying
Nail trimming
Ear cleaning Haircut/styling
Other services as requested

2. Appointment and Cancellation Policy:

Appointments must be scheduled in advance.

Cancellations (including rescheduled appointments) must be made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled appointment time. Refunds of any fees will not include any service fees paid to third parties.

Being a one owner groomer service, Groomer is limited in its ability to fill a canceled appointment with short notice. Therefore, the Client agrees to pay a $40 cancellation fee per pet if the cancellation is within 48 hours of the scheduled appointment and Groomer is unable to fill the appointment time slot.

For subscription cancellations, the applicable cancellation fees are agreed to be 80% of the unused portion of the subscription as long as no appointments have been made. If an appointment is made and not canceled in time the cancellation fee above applies for that one appointment.

Late or No Pick-Ups: Please be on time to pick-up your pet(s). We work by Appointment and do not have the staff or facilities for your pet to stay after the groom has been completed. To enforce this policy, a $50 kennel fee may be added to your invoice. By signing below, you are that if you fail to pick up your pet within 24 hours of the conclusion of our services Four Paws Spa And Salons, L.L.C. is authorized to deliver the animal to a shelter.

No-show fees are $25.00.

3. Pet Health and Safety:

Client certifies that their pet is free from fleas, ticks, and contagious diseases and is up to date with their vaccinations.

Groomer reserves the right to refuse service if the pet is deemed aggressive or unhealthy.

4. Client Responsibilities:

Client agrees to provide accurate information about their pet’s health and behavior.

Client acknowledges that they are responsible for their pet’s actions while on the Groomer’s premises.

5. Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks:

Every animal has a unique personality and disposition. Each individual animal also has unique needs. Because of this, every animal needs to be groomed differently. Grooming a pet is inherently dangerous due to the combination of sharp equipment needed to groom your pet and sudden, unexpected movement pets can make. Therefore, Client acknowledges that there are inherent risks associated with pet grooming and related activities. These risks may include, but are not limited to, injuries caused by bucking, biting, stumbling, rearing, trampling, scratching, pecking, falling, or butting. Pets may react unpredictably to conditions, including sudden movements, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or the introduction of unfamiliar persons, animals, or objects. Pets may also react in a dangerous manner when a condition or treatment is considered hazardous to their welfare, or if a collision occurs with an object or another animal.

Client understands and agrees that they are assuming the risk of participating in pet grooming activities. Under applicable law, there is no liability for an injury to or the death of a participant in pet grooming activities resulting from the inherent risks of such activities.

6. Release of Liability:

Client hereby releases and holds harmless Groomer, its employees, agents, and representatives from any and all claims, demands, damages, rights of action, or causes of action, present or future, whether known or unknown, anticipated or unanticipated, resulting from or arising out of Client's participation in pet grooming and/or related activities.

The Client assumes all liabilities, financial and otherwise, for the behavior and health of their pet. In consideration of the services rendered by Groomer, the Client waives any and all claims, actions, or demands of any nature, foreseen or unforeseen, against Groomer relating to the care, control, health, and/or safety of the Client’s pet arising during or after services are performed by Groomer. Groomer is not responsible for the escape or loss of any pet(s). The Client understands it is possible to even for vaccinated pets to become ill with an infectious disease despite being vaccinated, and this is not due to any circumstance or condition related to Groomer.

Groomer is not responsible for any allergic reactions resulting from the use of any products. The Client also agrees to disclose the use or application of any chemical products (such as flea & tick treatments) on the pet before the time of service. The Client understands that Groomer has the right to refuse service at any time for any reason. The Client understands that if their pet has a history of, or repeatedly demonstrates aggression or biting of humans or other animals, they are required to notify Groomer before services are rendered. To ensure the safety of the groomer and prevent a pet from injuring themselves, a muzzle may be used if deemed necessary by the groomer. If a pet injures the groomer with a vicious or aggressive bite or attack, the Client agrees to take full responsibility and will be held liable for the expenses related to the treatment of the groomer’s injuries. The Client also understands that all bites will be reported to the local authorities as required by law. If at any time during the grooming process the groomer determines for any reason the grooming process should be discontinued, the Client agrees to pay all charges.

The Client grants permission for Groomer, to obtain medical treatment for their pet(s), should it become necessary. This treatment may occur at any veterinary clinic selected by Groomer. The Client agrees to pay all costs associated with emergency medical treatment. The Client also agrees to allow Groomer, to treat minor cuts, nicks, burns, or injuries at the time of the occurrence if those injuries are determined by the groomer to not require special vet care. The groomer is not a veterinarian. All advice given is strictly personal opinion.

The Client is aware that if the coat on their pet(s) is in a matted condition, the pet(s) may not be able to receive the style of cut the Client is requesting. If the matting is severe, brushing the coat out may be too stressful and painful for the pet. In this case, a shave down may be required. The Client is aware that many skin conditions (including but not limited to bruising, lesions, open sores, maggot or other parasite infestations, scabbing, hair loss, fungal infections, hot spots, etc.) are the result of a matted coat, and it is impossible for any groomer to know what condition the skin may be in underneath a matted coat. If a condition is discovered during the grooming process, the groomer will make the Client aware of this condition at the conclusion of the service. The Client will not hold the groomer or Groomer is liable for any condition or injury related to a matted coat, or the removal of such. The Client understands a matted pet(s) is at greater risk of injury during the grooming process.

The Client agrees Groomer is not responsible for skin changes or coat re-growth or changes after the grooming service. The groomer and Groomer advises against shaving a double coat due to the risk of poor or no re-growth, as well as coat quality changes and other unknown issues.

The Client agrees the process of grooming may become stressful for their pet, both physically and mentally, especially in pets with known or unknown medical conditions. The stress of grooming may cause latent, unknown, active or inactive conditions to become active or inflamed and can result in illness, seizures, or the death of their pet. Although Groomer will take responsible care in the grooming of their pet(s); the Client acknowledges that the stress of grooming may initiate or exacerbate medical problems in their pet. The Client agrees not to hold the groomer or Groomer responsible for any reactions their pet(s) may have to the grooming process. Groomer is not responsible for any pre-existing medical conditions, known or unknown, or the aggravation of those conditions.

The Client agrees they are legally able to make decisions on behalf of the pet(s) being serviced by Groomer.

The pet(s) must not have been exposed to distemper, rabies, or parvovirus within thirty (30) days preceding any services received, and each pet has been inoculated as required by California State Law. The Client agrees to present proof of vaccination upon request. This agreement applies to all current, past and future services provided by Groomer. This agreement applies to any and all pets associated with the undersigned Client. The Client agrees to bring any known new behavioral or medical conditions to the attention of Groomer before the time of service.

Any photograph(s) or video(s) taken by or sent to Groomer or their associates are considered to be the property of Groomer and can be used and/or reproduced in marketing and other materials without any further consent or authorization and the Client will not be entitled to any compensation for their use.

Aggressive or Dangerous Pets: Owners MUST inform Groomer if your pet(s) bite, has bitten, or is aggressive to people, other pets or specific grooming procedures. Muzzles may be used if necessary. Muzzling will not harm your pet and protects both the pet and the groomer. Groomer reserves the right to refuse/stop services for such pet(s) at any time before or during the grooming process, and charge a handling fee for Aggressive Pets in addition to the regular grooming charge. If the pet should bite, the owner agrees to be responsible for any and all related medical bills, recovery costs, loss of income and equipment damage.

Health, Medical Problems & Senior Pets: Grooming procedures can sometimes be stressful, especially for a senior or ill pet or pet and can expose hidden medical problems or aggravate a current one during or after the groom. Because these pets have a greater chance of injury, these pets will be groomed for cleanliness and comfort. In the best interest of your pet, this contract/agreement will give Groomer 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 authorized Veterinarian. It is agreed that all expenses for Veterinary care will be covered by the pet’s owner upon agreeing with this contract/agreement.

Mat Removal: Pets with matted coats need extra attention during their grooming session. Mats left in a pet’s coat only grow tighter and can strangle the pet’s skin, or eventually tear it open. Groomer does not wish to cause serious or undue stress to your pet and will not continually de- mat your pet 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 mats. Heavy matting can also trap moisture and urine near the pet’s skin allowing mold, fungus or bacteria to grow, causing skin irritations that existed prior to the grooming process. Torn skin from mats can also harbor maggots. After effects of mat removal procedures can include itchiness, skin redness, self-inflicted irritations or abrasions and failure of the hair to re-grow. 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 also exhibit brief behavioral changes. Prevention is the best defense against matting by scheduling regular grooming appointments. There is an extra charge for dematting.

Undersigned Client agrees to any additional charges for dematting.

Puppy’s first Haircut: The first grooming experience for a puppy (or any age pet) requires patience and understanding. More time may be necessary to work with younger pets. Gradually adding steps to the grooming process on a regular basis will help to minimize any potential stress. Owners can help their pets accept grooming by regularly massaging pet’s paws as well as brushing & combing their coats.

Frequent handling of paws can help pets better accept nail clipping or trimming around the feet.

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 wiggling or moving around. If you arrive to pick up your pet and they are still being groomed, please do NOT talk to them or allow him/her to see you. Every effort will be made to ensure your pet is groomed as safely as possible, but an excited pet can be dangerous to continue to work on. If you insist on talking to your pet, or the groomer, we reserve the right to end the grooming session, even if the groom is not completed, and the full grooming price will be charged.

Parasites: If you suspect your pet has fleas or ticks, prompt and thorough action on YOUR part will be needed. Flea infestations can lead to tapeworm and other health problems. We do offer effective products and can apply treatment if requested. If fleas or ticks are found during the grooming process, your pet will receive a flea bath to kill the parasites, and an extra charge will be applied. Ticks found will be removed and an additional charge may be applied. If ticks are found, we strongly suggest you have your pet tested for Lyme Disease or other tick-borne illnesses. Please note that parasites are a health hazard to your pet as well as to humans.

7. Compliance with Regulations:

Groomer agrees to comply with all applicable regulations regarding sanitation, disease control, and humane treatment of animals, as well as the protection of public safety. Groomer shall maintain a valid license to operate the grooming facility as required by law.

8. Abandonment of Pets:

Any pet placed in the custody of Groomer shall be deemed abandoned if not reclaimed within ten days after the term of any agreement for grooming services has expired, and after written notice has been given to the owner by registered or certified mail. Groomer may turn over an abandoned pet to the municipal or county animal control center for disposal.

9. Payment of Services:

All payments are non-refundable. If the total amount paid exceeds the Services used for a period, the overage will remain as a credit with Company for a period of twelve (12) months and can be used for future Services. The Company accepts all major credit and debit cards. Payment is due upon completion of services.

Client agrees to pay all reasonable charges for grooming services rendered to the pet while in the custody of Groomer. This includes any additional charges incurred due to the abandonment of the pet.

Payment must be made at the time of service. All returned checks will be assessed all associated fees with a minimum fee of $50 plus any bank fees and the undersigned agrees to be responsible.

If action is instituted to recover any fees due under this agreement, the undersigned client agrees to be responsible for any collection costs including any legal fees and costs spent to collect.

10. Dispute Resolution:

If a dispute arises out of or relates to this contract, or the breach thereof, the parties agree to first attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation. Either party may initiate the mediation process by providing written notice to the other party. The mediation shall be conducted by a mediator mutually agreed upon by the parties. If the parties cannot agree on a mediator, the mediator shall be appointed by the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The mediation shall take place within thirty (30) days of the written notice. The costs of mediation shall be shared equally by the parties.

If the dispute is not resolved through mediation within thirty (30) days from the date of the mediation notice, the dispute shall be resolved by arbitration. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the AAA. The arbitration shall be binding and the decision of the arbitrator shall be final and enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction. The arbitration shall take place in San Francisco, CA, and the costs of arbitration shall be borne as determined by the arbitrator.

11. Governing Law:

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

12. Entire Agreement:

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements, understandings, and representations, whether oral or written.